Things To Do
in Shimizuchō
Shimizuchō sits along a gentle river in Shizuoka Prefecture, blending rural charm with a touch of coastal influence. The town is known for its calm streets, cedar-lined lanes, and seasonal markets that spill into the waterfront. Visitors can taste the freshness of the sea and mountains in small dishes prepared in neighborhood eateries.
With nearby tea fields and scenic viewpoints, Shimizuchō offers a relaxed snapshot of everyday rural Japan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Shimizu Fish Market, where you can witness the bustling atmosphere of local vendors selling fresh seafood. As you stroll through the market, indulge in a delicious sushi breakfast made from the catch of the day. Take in the sights and sounds of the market, filled with the aroma of grilled fish and the chatter of enthusiastic locals.
After breakfast, head to the historic Shimizu Castle, where you can explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the castle's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the castle grounds, taking in the views of Mount Fuji in the distance. Visit the small museum inside the castle to gain insight into the samurai culture that once thrived in this region.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront promenade for a serene evening stroll. Stop by one of the charming cafés along the way to sip on a cup of matcha tea while watching the boats glide by. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local izakaya, savoring traditional Japanese dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Kick off your day at Shimizu Beach, where the soft sand and gentle waves invite you to relax or engage in beach activities. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore the beautiful coastline and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. Don’t forget to take a few moments to bask in the sun before the afternoon heat sets in.
In the afternoon, join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant underwater life just off the coast. Swim alongside colorful fish and explore coral reefs, creating unforgettable memories of your time in the water. After your adventure, unwind on the beach with a refreshing drink from a nearby beach bar.
As evening approaches, gather around a beach bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers. The sound of waves crashing against the shore sets the perfect ambiance for relaxation. Enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner featuring freshly grilled seafood while watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🍱Bento lunch | $8-14 |
| 🛏️One night in a budget hotel | $60-110 |
| 🧁Matcha dessert or specialty tea | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, scenic setting with easy access to nature
- Fresh seafood and notable green tea traditions
- Walkable town center with charming traditional streets
- Safe, friendly environment for solo travelers
- Limited nightlife and late-evening entertainment
- Public transit can be sparse after the evening hours
- Some facilities and restaurants may primarily advertise in Japanese
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "お願いします" - Please
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "トイレはどこですか？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "おすすめはありますか？" - Do you have any recommendations?
- "これは何ですか？" - What is this?
- "写真を撮ってもいいですか？" - May I take photos?
- "英語のメニューはありますか？" - Is there an English menu?
- "助けてください" - Help me, please
Places to Visit in Shimizuchō
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waters, fishing boats, and pastel skies create a tranquil harbor scene perfect for early-morning shots.
Narrow lanes lined with traditional lanterns and wooden storefronts offer atmospheric night photography.
Gentle terraces and distant hills provide a classic rural-Japan panorama, especially in spring and autumn.
Stone staircases framed by trees and a shrine torii make a dramatic, contemplative photo spot.
Food in Shimizuchō
Shimizuchō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A light, salty regional favorite served atop a bowl of steamed rice at the port markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy glaze, often accompanied by pickles and miso soup at seaside eateries.
Preserved mackerel on vinegared rice, commonly found in seasonal markets and casual restaurants.
Desserts and sweets made with local Shizuoka matcha, widely available in cafes and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small-market cluster by the harbor where fresh seafood and seasonal produce are showcased.
Yakitori, dango, takoyaki, and taiyaki line the riverfront during busy weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow slightly when greeting; keep voices low in public spaces and transportation.
Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional venues.
Wash before entering the hot spring, do not wear swimsuits in most traditional onsens, and respect tattoo policies where enforced.
Safety
Tipping in Shimizuchō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; most service charges are included. If you receive exceptional service, a small thank-you in words is enough.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many shops in towns accept credit cards, but some rural spots may prefer cash or local cards. Mobile payment is growing but carry yen as a backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with cherry blossoms along the river. Ideal for strolls and cafe terrace seating.
Warm to hot and humid with a chance of typhoons. Go early in the day, stay hydrated, and seek shade by the river.
Cooler air and vibrant foliage. Great for hillside viewpoints, walks, and photography.
Cool to chilly with crisp days. Cozy cafes, tea ceremonies, and occasional frost on higher trails.
Shimizuchō at Night
Hiking in Shimizuchō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle riverside path with shaded sections and occasional viewpoints over the water.
A moderate forested loop with fern-filled floors and seasonal blooms, offering panoramic views on clear days.
A scenic circuit through nearby tea fields with learning stops about cultivation and production.
Airports
How to reach Shimizuchō by plane.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; approximately 60–90 minutes by car or rail to Shimizuchō.
Major international gateway with frequent connections; reachable via rail from Tokyo followed by local transit to the town.
Mid-sized hub offering domestic and some international flights; access to Shimizuchō via rail connections and local transit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly aging families and long-time residents with strong ties to fishing, farming, and local crafts.
People traveling to nearby towns for work or study; some younger residents attending regional schools.
A steady stream of domestic and some international travelers, especially in spring and autumn.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played and watched sport across the region, with youth and adult leagues.
Local clubs and pickup games are common, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shimizuchō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Japan, vegetarian options may require careful asking about dashi (fish-based broth). Look for tofu dishes, tempura without seafood, and ask for 'dashi-nuki' (no dashi) where possible.