Things To Do
in Shimizu
Shimizu is a coastal town in northern Japan known for its rugged shoreline and vibrant seafood culture. The working harbor and daily markets bring an authentic sense of maritime life, from dawn auctions to sashimi bowls. Narrow lanes lead to quiet shrines, galleries, and lookout points with sweeping ocean views.
Visitors can savor fresh seafood, stroll along the quay at sunset, and use nearby nature trails as gateways to the outdoors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Shimizu Port, where the fresh ocean breeze fills the air. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, taking in the stunning views of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Visit the nearby fish market to savor local delicacies and pick up some souvenirs.
Head to the Shimizu Fish Market if you haven't already, and enjoy a delicious sushi lunch at one of the many stalls. After, embark on a boat tour around the port area to appreciate the vibrant marine life and scenic coastline. Don't forget your camera, as this trip offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant that overlooks the harbor to enjoy a dinner featuring fresh seafood. The ambiance of the evening paired with the sound of waves will enhance your dining experience. After the meal, take a peaceful walk along the promenade as the city lights twinkle in the distance.
Visit Sumpu Castle Park, where the ruins of the historic castle provide a glimpse into Shimizu's rich past. Spend the morning exploring the gardens and monuments scattered throughout the park. Engage with the historical displays to learn about the significance of the castle during Japan's feudal era.
Grab lunch at a local cafe and then continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Shizuoka City Museum of Art, which features both contemporary and traditional Japanese art. Spend some time wandering the galleries, soaking in the creative atmosphere. Don’t miss the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape from the museum’s terrace.
Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, immersing your senses in the exquisite flavors of seasonal dishes. With each course artfully presented, this meal will allow you to experience the depth of Japanese cuisine. End your evening with a relaxing soak in an onsen, allowing the day’s adventures to drift away.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍣Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $1.50-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal cuisine
- Compact, walkable town with easy harbor access
- Friendly locals and efficient public transport
- Accessible nature trails and scenic viewpoints
- Limited nightlife outside peak seasons
- Some areas rely on seasonal fishing industry and may be quiet off-season
- Language barriers possible in rural spots
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Hai / Iie" - Yes / No
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please
- "Ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Oishii desu" - Delicious
- "Doko desu ka? Tasukete kudasai" - Where is it? Please help me
Places to Visit in Shimizu
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over fishing boats as the market opens, with mist over the water.
Quiet lanes with wooden storefronts, stone stairways, and reflective water in the early morning.
Panoramic ocean views framed by pines and windswept coastline—great for wide-angle shots.
Long shadows, gentle waves, and distant lights along the quay for moody evening photography.
Food in Shimizu
Shimizu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vibrant seafood rice bowl featuring the day’s freshest sashimi, often best enjoyed at the harbor market restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh squid grilled with a soy glaze, a staple along the waterfront.
Creamy sea urchin atop seasoned rice or nigiri, a seasonal coastal delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls selling live fish, shellfish, pickles, and ready-to-eat bowls.
Row of small eateries offering grilled scallops, crab miso soup, and other seaside snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow or nod politely when greeting; remove shoes before entering homes or certain traditional spaces; speak softly in public to maintain harmony.
Line up for trains and elevators; avoid talking loudly on public transport; handle money and change with both hands when possible.
Do not point with fingers; respect shrine and temple rules, such as cleansing rituals and photography restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Shimizu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected and included in pricing. A small gesture is rarely required.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets. Credit cards are common in urban shops and larger restaurants; many places also accept IC cards and mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming coastal flora; occasional rain. Great for city walks and harbor photography without crowds.
Warm, humid days with refreshing sea breezes; expect festivals and seafood events; typhoon risk exists—check local forecasts.
Crisp air and clear skies; vibrant autumn foliage on hillsides; excellent light for photography and strolls.
Cold with potential snowfall along the coast; quieter streets and dramatic sea mist; dress in layers and expect shorter days.
Shimizu at Night
Hiking in Shimizu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate coastal hike along cliffside paths with stunning sea views and occasional wildlife.
A forested route with gentle elevation gains, suitable for a half-day hike and photo stops.
Climbs to a high vantage point offering panoramic sunset views over the water and town.
Airports
How to reach Shimizu by plane.
Major international gateway to northern Japan; frequent trains and buses connect to Sapporo and other destinations in Hokkaido.
Regional hub with domestic flights; convenient for eastern Hokkaido travelers.
Coastal airport serving southern Hokkaido; good for access to seasonal ferry routes and city exploration.
Smaller regional airport serving the coastal northeast; useful for accessing remote coastal areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese residents with a mix of elderly and working-age populations; a small number of seasonal and long-term visitors.
Domestic travelers and international visitors attracted by seafood, coastlines, and nature trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Japan with local youth leagues and community games.
Winter coastal climate supports nearby ski areas and winter sports.
Local clubs and public fields host regular matches and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimizu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes center on seafood or broth made with fish; to eat vegetarian, ask for no dashi (fish stock), no meat, and look for tofu or vegetable-focused meals.