Dramatic Scenery and Seasonal Cuisine in Shizuoka

The western region of Shizuoka Prefecture is conveniently accessible from Chubu Centrair International Airport. This area is home to many iconic Japanese attractions, including Hamamatsu Castle often referred to as the “Castle of Success” (出世城, Shusse-jō). Visitors can also enjoy seasonal activities like fruit picking at one of Japan’s largest fruit parks or savoring fresh oysters during the winter months.

Admire the cherry blossoms at a castle steeped in Japanese history

Around 450 years ago, Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Shogunate, renovated the original Hikuma Castle and renamed it. Known as the “Castle of Success,” it earned its reputation because many individuals who later held key positions in the shogunate had ties to this castle. The surrounding area features lush parks, including a Japanese garden and a central lawn plaza, where visitors can enjoy seasonal plants. The castle is especially famous for its cherry blossoms, with around 330 trees, including Somei Yoshino and wild cherry varieties, creating a stunning display. From late March to early April, the blossoms are illuminated at night.

An elegant coffee break among the sights of Hamamatsu Castle

The global coffee shop Starbucks has a unique location within Hamamatsu Castle Park. Built around the themes of “community,” “culture,” and “nature,” this Starbucks offers a space where visitors can connect with the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Hamamatsu. From its outdoor seating, you can enjoy the lush greenery of the park and catch glimpses of Hamamatsu Castle’s tower through the trees. Why not take a relaxing coffee break while exploring the park’s scenic surroundings?

Sweets to remember

“Unagi Pie” (eel pie) is a beloved local specialty of Hamamatsu that has been enjoyed for generations. In 2021, Shunkado, a well-known confectionery brand with a loyal following across Japan, opened Sweets Bank, a one-of-a-kind facility designed with a dining table motif. The building’s exterior, resembling a dining table at 13 times its normal size, is a striking feature. Stepping under the oversized table, visitors are welcomed by the enticing aroma of freshly baked treats and a vibrant selection of sweets and gifts.

Address: 553 Kamidamachi, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu City 432-8047

Beautiful flowers and birds welcome you

Kakegawa Kachoen is a unique theme park where visitors can interact with both flowers and birds. Home to around 700 birds from 100 different species, as well as vibrant flowers in full bloom, the park offers a memorable experience for all ages. Its large all-weather glasshouse ensures a comfortable visit year-round, even on rainy days. The park is also fully barrier-free, making it accessible for seniors, wheelchair users, and families with strollers. Birds roam freely throughout the park, allowing you to feed them and take photos up close. Don’t miss the impressive bird show, a highlight of the visit.

A fruit theme park where you can play and eat to your heart’s content

Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika is one of Japan’s largest fruit parks, offering fruit-picking experiences throughout the year. From winter to spring, you can pick seasonal fruits like mandarin oranges, strawberries, and Japanese plums, while summer to autumn brings peaches, grapes, and pears. In total, visitors can enjoy harvesting around 15 different types of fruit annually. The park also features fun play areas for children, including fruit-shaped adventure trails and dinosaur-themed attractions, making it a favorite destination for families.

The station where flocks of black-headed gulls fly by

From December to March, large flocks of black-headed gulls gather along the northern shore of Lake Hamana near a small unmanned station. The peak season, from late January to early February, sees an impressive 700 to 800 birds. Watching a train pass as the flock soars across the sky is a truly spectacular sight. This is a rare opportunity to observe black-headed gulls up close and witness their graceful movements in a unique setting.

A Lake Hamana specialty – taste the best oysters

Lake Hamana, spanning the cities of Hamamatsu and Kosai, is a unique brackish lake where fresh and saltwater mix. A winter specialty of the area is the “Purimaru” brand oysters from Arai Town in Kosai City, cultivated using a method that takes full advantage of the local environment. These oysters, grown in the brackish waters, have a perfect balance of saltiness and a rich, refined flavor, even when grilled without seasoning. True to their name, the oysters are firm and plump, with a texture described as “puri” in Japanese. Available only from December to March, these seasonal delicacies are a must-try if you visit during the winter months.

Address: Imagire Craft Workshop, Kaikokan
Arai Kanyumubanchi, Arai-cho, Kosai City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 431-0302

The torii gates bathed in the setting sun will leave you in awe

Bentenjima Seaside Park offers lovely views of Lake Hamana, the blue sea, and the iconic red torii gate rising from the water. Known as a rich fishing spot, the types of fish available change with the seasons, making it a favorite destination for anglers. Visitors can also enjoy activities like a 30-minute sightseeing cruise on a fishing boat-style vessel around South Lake Hamana or renting bicycles to explore the park. Around the winter solstice (approximately December 21st), for about a month before and after, the setting sun aligns beautifully with the red torii gate, creating a mystical and unforgettable scene.

Address: 3775-2 Maisaka, Maisaka-cho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 431-0214

Relax in the hot springs while taking in the view of Lake Hamana

Kanzanji Onsen is a hot spring resort town overlooking Lake Hamana, named after the Soto Zen temple Kanzanji, located in Tateyama to the north. The hot spring waters, rich in salt, are said to help alleviate neuralgia and rheumatism. The town also hosts traditional events, such as the Fire Festival on December 15th and the Hand-Held Fireworks on January 1st, to pray for safety and good health.

The town features a variety of ryokans, including the popular Tokiwasure Kaikatei, which offers stunning panoramic views of Lake Hamana from its guest rooms. Guests can relax in seven different types of baths, including a spacious garden-style open-air bath and a reclining bath. Unwind in the soothing hot springs and enjoy a refreshing escape from the everyday.