7 nightlife spots in Shizuoka

Shizuoka is located almost in the center of Japan and is characterized by its rich natural environment, including the sea, mountains, and lakes. It is home to Japan’s most famous tourist attraction, Mt. Fuji, and attracts many tourists from all over the world.
In this article, we will introduce 7 nightlife spots that you should definitely visit to enjoy Shizuoka at night.

Highlights and characteristics of Shizuoka at night

Shizuoka is home to Japan’s most famous tourist attraction, Mt. Fuji. As a result, there are many tourist spots where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji. In addition to Mt. Fuji, Shizuoka is also characterized by the fact that there are many other spots where you can experience the richness of nature.

On the other hand, Shizuoka cuisine is also attractive. There are various local delicacies such as “Unagi” (eel), “Shizuoka Oden”, “Fujinomiya Yakisoba”, “Hamamatsu Gyoza”, etc. As such, Shizuoka’s nightlife spots are characterized by the large number of spots where you can enjoy the natural scenery and attractive gourmet spots.

Nightlife spots in Shizuoka

Recommended #1: Nihondaira Yume Terrace

Nihondaira Yume Terrace is an observation facility located on a hill at an altitude of 307m. You can get a panoramic view of beautiful Mt. Fuji, Shimizu Port, the Izu Peninsula, the Southern Alps, and more. It also won first place in the “Japan’s Top 100 Tourist Attractions Contest.” It has also been certified as a “Japan Night View Heritage.” It can truly be said to be a tourist spot where you can enjoy the most spectacular views in Japan.

The observation facility is three stories tall and includes an observation floor and a cafe. The facility is open until 5pm Sunday through Friday and 9pm on Saturdays, so if you want to enjoy the night view, we recommend going on a Saturday night. Shizuoka is also known as a famous tea producing region. At the cafe on the second floor of the observation facility, you can elegantly enjoy the view while drinking delicious Shizuoka tea and eating Matcha sweets.

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Recommended #2: Kinomiya Shrine

Kinomiya Shrine is a shrine famous as a power spot. The symbol of Kinomiya Shrine is the “Ōkusu” (large camphor tree) that is said to be over 2100 years old. Due to its vitality, it is worshiped as a symbol of “eternal youth and longevity” and “good health and prosperity”, and it is said that walking around the trunk once will extend your life by one year. For that reason, many worshippers visit the shrine to pray for longevity and good health.

At night, the area is lit up to resemble the spirits that dwell in the trees and grass. Since there are fewer people around at night, you can enjoy a more mystical view of the tree. The tree is usually lit up until 11pm, so it’s great that you can visit even late at night.

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Recommended #3: Bamboo Forest Path

“Bamboo Forest Path” is a walking path in Shuzenji Onsen town. You can enjoy a stroll surrounded by bamboo forests. It is a popular tourist spot because you can feel the fantastic atmosphere and natural beauty.

After sunset, the bamboo forest is lit up, making it even more magical as you stroll through it. In the center of the forest, there is a circular bench made of bamboo that acts as an art spot where “Kirie” (Japanese paper cutting) are projected. The romantic atmosphere makes this a recommended tourist spot for couples.

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Recommended #4: Fujinokuni Tagonoura Minato Park

“Fujinokuni Tagonoura Minato Park” is a park where you can see the whole view of Mt. Fuji and the sea of ​​Suruga Bay. It is a popular tourist spot because of the magnificent view. It is also a popular park for families with children because it has athletic facilities and play equipment.

At night, you can see the glittering night view of Fuji City with the majestic Mt. Fuji in the background. In addition, there are many factories around Tagonoura Port, so you can enjoy the rare night view of Mt. Fuji and factories. Therefore, the night view of the factories from the observation deck in the park is a great photo spot.

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Recommended #5: Shizuoka Oden Street (Aoba Yokocho/Aoba Oden Street)

“Shizuoka Oden Street” is a gourmet spot lined with shops selling Shizuoka Oden, a local Shizuoka delicacy. There are two Oden streets, “Aoba Yokocho” and “Aoba Oden Street”, on either side of the road. The retro atmosphere of the rows of red lanterns makes it a great photo spot.

Shizuoka Oden is characterized by its pitch black soup. It is seasoned with soy sauce and simmered with beef tendon broth, which has been boiled repeatedly for many years, resulting in a deeper color. Each ingredient is skewered and eaten with green laver and Dashi powder. As it is a gourmet dish that represents Shizuoka, it is very popular not only with locals but also with tourists.

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Recommended #6: Atami Sun Beach

Atami Sun Beach has a resort-like atmosphere. At night, the sand is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Therefore, the beach and promenade are very popular spots for tourists and couples.

The lighting at Atami Sun Beach was designed by a world-renowned lighting designer. Furthermore, it is the first beach lighting in Japan. It is lit up every night until 10pm, so it is a recommended spot for an evening stroll.

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Recommended #7: Takebayashi Kurumaten

Takebayashi Kurumaten is a restaurant where you can eat eel, a Shizuoka specialty. With a reputation for its delicious eel dishes, the restaurant is popular with both locals and tourists. The menu includes classic eel dishes such as “Unajū” (eel rice in a Jūbako box) and “Unadon” (eel rice in a bowl).

Eel dishes are considered high-end cuisine in Japanese cuisine. Prices vary depending on the restaurant, but it can be said that the price is proportional to the taste. Cheaper eel dishes use imported ingredients and are inferior in taste. On the other hand, the eel dishes at “Takebayashi Kurumaten” are a little expensive, but are highly rated for being very delicious. Eel is a must-try when sightseeing in Shizuoka. Be sure to try some authentic eel dishes.

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