Why Shizuoka, Japan, deserves to be on your bucket list

10 February 2026

Shizuoka is one of those places that quietly delivers on everything people love about Japan, without the intensity that often comes with it. Perfectly placed on the Golden Route between Tokyo and Kyoto, it’s easy to reach yet rarely feels overrun. This is a region where everyday life and travel experiences blend naturally, giving you space to explore at your own pace, whether that’s over a long weekend or as part of a wider journey across the country.

Why Shizuoka, Japan, deserves to be on your bucket list

Living in Mount Fuji’s shadow

Few places offer such consistent, close-up views of Mount Fuji. In Shizuoka, the mountain is part of the backdrop to daily life, visible from coastal roads, lakes, tea fields, and quiet viewpoints. Seeing Fuji from here feels more personal, especially away from the usual hotspots. Add in walking routes along the Izu Peninsula, wide beaches and dramatic shoreline paths, and it’s a destination that encourages you to spend time outdoors, rather than rushing between sights.

Japan’s onsen capital

Shizuoka is home to the highest number of onsen accommodations in Japan, and bathing in natural hot springs is woven into the region’s life. From ocean-facing baths to inland retreats surrounded by hills, the variety is impressive. Staying in a traditional ryokan adds another layer, with tatami rooms, seasonal meals, and an unhurried approach to hospitality that makes slowing down feel effortless.

A region shaped by food and drink

This is a part of Japan that eats exceptionally well. Shizuoka leads the country in green tea production, with plantations stretching across the landscape, while its clear mountain waters support some of Japan’s best wasabi. Along the coast, fresh seafood defines local menus, from tuna landed at Shimizu Port to eel from Lake Hamana. Local sake, beer, and whisky round things off, giving the region a strong sense of place through flavour.

See cherry blossoms earlier than everyone else

Spring arrives sooner in Shizuoka, particularly on the Izu Peninsula, where the Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom from early February. Their deep pink colour lines rivers and walking paths weeks before blossoms appear elsewhere in Japan. Combined with historic routes like the old Tokaido Road, long-standing shrines and towns shaped by centuries of travel and trade, Shizuoka reveals itself slowly, rewarding those who take the time to look beyond the obvious.

Want to explore Shizuoka in 2026? Contact your Travel Counsellor today

A modern take on Kyoto tradition at Capella Kyoto

09 February 2026

Kyoto’s Gion district is well-known for its heritage and character. Capella Kyoto places guests right in the heart of this cultural scene, surrounded by genuine traditions and the real rhythm of Kyoto life. With celebrated landmarks on all sides - Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo, where geiko and maiko keep age-old performing arts alive, Kenninji Temple, a peaceful retreat and the city’s oldest Zen Buddhist temple, and Ebisu Shrine for good fortune - every walk from the hotel gives you an immediate sense of the history of this part of Japan.

A family-friendly way to experience Mount Fuji

09 February 2026

Japan has a way of rewarding travellers who slow down, and Hanz Outdoor Resort is especially well suited to families looking for space and ease. Set in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, it offers clear views of Mount Fuji while remaining straightforward to reach from Tokyo. Rather than packing days with long journeys, families can settle into one place and let the mountain become part of daily life, from relaxed mornings to evenings spent outdoors together. It’s a base that works just as well for first visits to Japan as it does for families returning to explore further.

Travel Counsellors explore the best of Japan

09 February 2026

A destination that consistently captures the imagination of travellers is Japan. Recently, a group of eight Travel Counsellors embarked on an unforgettable journey through Tokyo, Nagoya, and Kansai, immersing themselves in the country’s culture, history, and stunning seasonal beauty. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Nara, the group experienced a thoughtfully balanced itinerary that combined guided tours, hands-on cultural activities, and free time to explore. This trip not only deepened their understanding of Japan’s unique charm but also equipped them with invaluable insights to craft personalised, meaningful itineraries for you. Here’s how their trip unfolded.