Things To Do
in Susono

Susono is a city in Shizuoka Prefecture perched at the foothills of the mountains, offering easy access to scenic countryside and viewpoints of Mount Fuji. The town blends green rice fields and forests with a quiet local rhythm, making it a relaxed base for exploring the region. It serves as a convenient gateway to hot springs, tea plantations, and panoramic drives through scenic rural Japan.

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy markets, seasonal festivals, and approachable cuisine rooted in the Shizuoka area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Mount Fuji
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike on the trails of Mount Fuji, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Early morning light paints the mountain in golden hues, making it a photographer's paradise. Don't forget to pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints.

afternoon
:

As the sun climbs higher, visit the Fuji Five Lakes area to engage in activities like paddle boating or simply relaxing by the water. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a lakeside café while taking in the breathtaking reflections of Mount Fuji. Capture some memorable moments as you explore the quaint villages nestled around the lakes.

evening
:

Head back to Susono and indulge in a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya. Experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality while trying various dishes, like fresh sashimi and grilled yakitori. After dinner, take a serene evening stroll, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this charming town.

day 2
Cultural Immersion in Susono
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Susono City Museum, where you can discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase local art and artifacts, providing a deep appreciation of the area's traditions. End your morning with a visit to one of the nearby shrines for a moment of reflection.

afternoon
:

After a cultural morning, head to the bustling Suzukawa Town to explore its vibrant shops and unique local products. Grab lunch at a café that serves locally sourced ingredients to fuel your afternoon adventures. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with the friendly locals who can share stories about the area.

evening
:

As night falls, join a cooking class that focuses on traditional Japanese cuisine, allowing you to bring a taste of Japan back home. Experience the communal aspect of cooking with others and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a cozy dining setting. Finish the day with a relaxing soak in an onsen, allowing you to unwind and reflect on your experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-25
🏨Hotel room per night$40-100
🚆Public transportation day pass$6-12
Coffee or tea at cafe$3-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to Mount Fuji viewpoints and scenic nature
  • Calm, walkable town center with easy day trips to hot springs and tea fields
  • Genuine regional cuisine and fresh produce from Shizuoka
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
  • Some services cater primarily to locals, so English assistance can be limited in rural areas
  • Public transit can be less frequent on weekends in rural segments
  • "こんにちは" - Hello / Good afternoon
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?
  • "駅はどこですか?" - Where is the station?
  • "お願いします" - Please / I would like
  • "これをください" - This, please
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Susono

Visit one of these nice places.

Kano River Overlook

A riverside vantage point offering gentle water reflections with foothill scenery and possible Mount Fuji glimpses on clear days.

Foothill Ridge Viewpoint

A hilltop spot along a forest trail that frames the town and distant mountains, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.

Riverside Cherry Blossom Lane

A seasonally lovely tree-lined stretch along a quiet road near town, perfect for soft pink blooms and local life photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Susono

Susono draws on Shizuoka’s culinary strengths—fresh produce, green tea, tofu-based dishes, and seafood from nearby bays—delivered in straightforward, satisfying preparations. Expect seasonal vegetables, light dashi, and grilled or simmered preparations that highlight regional ingredients.

Susono Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sakura Ebi Tempura

Tempura made with tiny sakura shrimp from Suruga Bay, offering a delicate seafood flavor and a crisp finish.

Must-Try!

Green Tea Ice Cream / Matcha Parfait

A dessert featuring strong matcha flavor, often paired with adzuki beans or whipped cream.

Yuba Hot Pot

A tofu-skin hot pot showcasing yuba (tofu skin) simmered with vegetables and light broth.

Shirasu Don

A bowl of whitebait over rice, a popular choice near Shizuoka’s coastal areas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Susono Central Market

A local market offering seasonal produce, fresh fish and seafood snacks, and small grill stalls during peak market days.

Suruga Bay Market Street

A compact street-side market area where you can try quick bites such as grilled seafood and seasonal snacks while strolling.

Climate Guide

Weather

Susono experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with humidity, while winters are cool and occasionally cold. Rain is common in the spring and early summer due to the climate, with typhoon activity possible. The area enjoys clear days in autumn and spring, making it a good time for outdoor activities and scenic photography.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect in Public Spaces

Polite language, quiet conversations, and orderly queues are valued. Bowing is common for greetings and thanks.

Shoes and Etiquette in Establishments

In some traditional venues, shoes are removed before entering certain rooms; follow local signs and staff guidance.

Food and Drink

Eating while walking is generally discouraged in many areas; enjoy meals seated when possible and avoid loud phone conversations on public transit.

Language and Manners

A simple 'arigatou' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me) go a long way; when in doubt, observe local cues and ask politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

General travel safety is good, with typical urban and rural precautions. Be mindful of earthquakes, weather-related hazards, and occasional seasonal flora or wildlife along hiking trails. Carry basic emergency information, especially if venturing into foothill areas, and keep valuables secure in crowded markets. Practice water safety around rivers and beaches, and follow local guidance during weather events or trail closures.

Tipping in Susono

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan and is often declined with appreciation. A polite thank-you or small round-up is usually sufficient if offered.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many shops and restaurants also take credit cards. IC cards (e.g., Suica, PASMO) and mobile payments are increasingly common in larger towns and transit hubs.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; great for city-walks and market visits. Expect possibility of rain showers.

Summer

Warm to hot days; humidity can be high. Carry water, seek shaded trails, and enjoy early morning or late evening activities.

Autumn

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; foliage creates scenic backdrops for hikes and viewpoints.

Winter

Cool to cold, with occasional frosts and mountain visibility depending on weather. Layered clothing recommended; hot springs nearby are popular.

Nightlife Guide

Susono at Night

Susono’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared with major cities. Expect a number of cozy izakayas, casual bars, and cafes that stay open into the evening. In nearby towns, hot spring resorts and small entertainment streets offer relaxed evening options, seasonal events, and live music opportunities. For a livelier scene, day trips to larger cities or hot spring towns will provide more choices.

Hiking in Susono

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Susono Foothills Trail

Gentle hills with forested sections and scenic lookout points suitable for a half-day hike.

Shizuoka Greenway Route

A longer route that weaves through rural landscapes, offering farm and mountain views.

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Approach

A viewpoint route in the broader region that provides sweeping views of Fuji on clear days.

Airports

How to reach Susono by plane.

Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ)

Regional airport in Shizuoka Prefecture, serving domestic and limited international flights; convenient to Susono by road or rail connections.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Major Tokyo airport with extensive domestic and international flights; accessible by rail or highway from Susono via express routes.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Large international gateway nearTokyo; typically used for longer international trips and onward connections to regional Japan.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most attractions reachable on foot. Some hillside trails and viewpoints involve gentle to moderate incline, so a light fitness level helps. Public transit and taxi options are available for longer legs of your day.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local commuters

Many residents travel to nearby industrial and agricultural areas; daytime town activity centers around markets and schools.

Families

Parks, schools, and community events attract families and residents seeking a quiet, safe environment.

Retirees

A number of long-term residents enjoy a slower pace and local cultural activities.

Students and visitors

Students from nearby areas and travelers exploring Shizuoka often pass through for day trips and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A widely played sport in schools and local clubs; arenas and fields can be found in nearby towns.

Soccer

Local teams and pickup games in community parks; good for watching or joining a casual match.

Cycling

Popular on scenic country roads and gentle mountain routes around Susono.

Transportation

Traffic

Susono relies on a combination of local roads, JR Gotemba Line trains, and regional buses. Traffic is generally light outside peak commuting hours, with occasional congestion near popular market days or during festival times. Parking is available in town centers and at some trailheads, though some streets can be narrow on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Susono.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes use dashi or fish-based broths; look for tofu, vegetable tempura, simmered greens, and rice bowls labeled as vegetarian, and ask for no dashi when needed.

Gluten-Free

Soy-based sauces and broths can contain gluten; opt for plain rice dishes, grilled vegetables, and ask for gluten-free preparation when available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic medical services are available in Susono through local clinics and hospitals. For more specialized care or English-speaking staff, you may need to travel to larger nearby cities. Travel insurance with coverage for medical needs is advised, and keep your health insurance information handy.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

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