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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔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.
A riverside vantage point offering gentle water reflections with foothill scenery and possible Mount Fuji glimpses on clear days.
A hilltop spot along a forest trail that frames the town and distant mountains, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
A seasonally lovely tree-lined stretch along a quiet road near town, perfect for soft pink blooms and local life photography.
Food in Susono
Susono Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tempura made with tiny sakura shrimp from Suruga Bay, offering a delicate seafood flavor and a crisp finish.
Must-Try!
A dessert featuring strong matcha flavor, often paired with adzuki beans or whipped cream.
A tofu-skin hot pot showcasing yuba (tofu skin) simmered with vegetables and light broth.
A bowl of whitebait over rice, a popular choice near Shizuoka’s coastal areas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering seasonal produce, fresh fish and seafood snacks, and small grill stalls during peak market days.
A compact street-side market area where you can try quick bites such as grilled seafood and seasonal snacks while strolling.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite language, quiet conversations, and orderly queues are valued. Bowing is common for greetings and thanks.
In some traditional venues, shoes are removed before entering certain rooms; follow local signs and staff guidance.
Eating while walking is generally discouraged in many areas; enjoy meals seated when possible and avoid loud phone conversations on public transit.
A simple 'arigatou' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me) go a long way; when in doubt, observe local cues and ask politely.
Safety
Tipping in Susono
Ensure a smooth experience
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.
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...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; great for city-walks and market visits. Expect possibility of rain showers.
Warm to hot days; humidity can be high. Carry water, seek shaded trails, and enjoy early morning or late evening activities.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; foliage creates scenic backdrops for hikes and viewpoints.
Cool to cold, with occasional frosts and mountain visibility depending on weather. Layered clothing recommended; hot springs nearby are popular.
Susono at Night
Hiking in Susono
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hills with forested sections and scenic lookout points suitable for a half-day hike.
A longer route that weaves through rural landscapes, offering farm and mountain views.
A viewpoint route in the broader region that provides sweeping views of Fuji on clear days.
Airports
How to reach Susono by plane.
Regional airport in Shizuoka Prefecture, serving domestic and limited international flights; convenient to Susono by road or rail connections.
Major Tokyo airport with extensive domestic and international flights; accessible by rail or highway from Susono via express routes.
Large international gateway nearTokyo; typically used for longer international trips and onward connections to regional Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents travel to nearby industrial and agricultural areas; daytime town activity centers around markets and schools.
Parks, schools, and community events attract families and residents seeking a quiet, safe environment.
A number of long-term residents enjoy a slower pace and local cultural activities.
Students from nearby areas and travelers exploring Shizuoka often pass through for day trips and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools and local clubs; arenas and fields can be found in nearby towns.
Local teams and pickup games in community parks; good for watching or joining a casual match.
Popular on scenic country roads and gentle mountain routes around Susono.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susono.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
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.
Soy-based sauces and broths can contain gluten; opt for plain rice dishes, grilled vegetables, and ask for gluten-free preparation when available.