I happen to live in a prefecture that lies right on the path of the Golden Route in Japan. The Golden Route, if you don't know, is the path that the majority of travelers take when visiting Japan- Tokyo to Osaka and Kyoto.
If you ever travel this route on the bullet train, you'll know you're passing through when you see Mt. Fuji- that is if he (she?) is behaving that day wants to show itself. Bonus tip: Winter is the best time to view Fuj (pronouned fooj, we're old pals..) in all of its glory, the summers get cloudy, rainy, and too hazy to see it most days.
Anywho, back to my story. Most people pass right through Shizuoka without a second glance. After two years of living in and exploring this prefecture, I can't recommend enough that you take a walk off the beaten path and explore more of what real Japan feels like.
My first recommendation comes in the form of a coastal town at the top of the prefecture and the first bullet train stop you'll hit in Shizuoka if you're coming from Tokyo.
Atami
You could definitely do Atami on a day trip from Tokyo, or stop for a few hours along your way. But, Atami is known for its natural hot springs (onsen), so a longer stay might be the relaxing break you need after the big city!
Arriving at Atami station, you'll be located close to the top of the town (check out the picture below to see how mountainous Atami is!). When you exit the station, you'll see the typical makings of every small Japanese city- the convenience stores, karaoke shops, and to your right, you'll see two shopping streets. Start down these streets, do some window shopping, and stop for some fresh sushi to fuel up before your journey, because Atami is hilly!
After the shopping streets, head down to the coast. What I love about this city are that there are so many little alleys and staircases, it's like a choose your own adventure, and I recommend just following wherever your eyes take you. If something catches your eye, go check it out! Your gut has a way of taking you towards the best discoveries. (This has become part of my travel mantra as I try to plan less and enjoy more).
Once you're at the coast, enjoy dipping your feet in the golden sand beach, take a boat ride, and take a stroll along the palm-tree lined promenade.
After your little break on the coast, start heading right- if you are facing the sea, turn right and just keep walking about ten/fifteen minutes. It will get quieter and less crowded, and you may think there's nothing over there, but you'll find the entrance to the ropeway.
The ropeway takes you up to what I personally think is one of the best spots in Shizuoka (If you like coastal views, you might agree too). The ropeway goes to Atami castle, a trick-eye museum, and, if you're up for it, an adult museum. It's pretty hilarious, but definitely not PG, so move along if you've got little ones.
The castle itself isn't anything spectacular as far as castles go, but the location is prime. Head up to the top floor of the castle for a view that will take your breath away. To the left you have a view of Atami city, to the right, Izu (a beautiful peninsula that should be on your list too), and in front, the blue sky and sea. If you're like me, you'll spend a good half hour just staring at the views, and could probably spend more if you bring snacks and headphones.
Another bonus of the castle is a foot bath on the first floor, accompanied by the view.
The trick-eye museum is fun- if you have friends and a camera. Take some funny pictures here to show your friends back home. It's kind of silly and a bit of a tourist trap, but it was pretty amusing and there were some puzzle games and interesting visual effects.
Bonus! If you come during February, you have to visit the Atami Plum Blossom (Ume) Garden! Cherry Blossoms are unpredictable, but these guys are reliable and smell AMAZING. I can walk down a street and know there is a plum blossom tree nearby. It's intoxicating and you should not miss this spot if you're here when they bloom!
I am excited to show you more of Japan! Follow me on instagram @travel.a.map for Japan travel inspiration- and many more countries!
-Jessie
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