Shizuoka Prefecture unveils an array of attractions, including the Lake Hamana Flower Expo 2024 and the DAIDOGEI World Cup. A new restaurant at Mt. Komuro and unique one-day private tours add to the region’s allure. Travelers can also explore Zen calligraphy culture in Shizuoka’s latest experience.

Shizuoka, Japan – Shizuoka Prefecture, an increasingly popular destination for travelers to Japan, continues to captivate visitors with its accessibility and diverse offerings. Just one hour away from Tokyo by bullet train, Shizuoka has unveiled a range of exciting attractions, upcoming events, newly introduced tours and experiences, and a host of delectable dining options for locals and tourists alike.

Tickets Now Available for Lake Hamana Flower Expo 2024

In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Lake Hamana Flower Expo, which drew over 5 million visitors, the Lake Hamana Flower Expo 2024 is set to blossom next spring, with tickets available for purchase starting from September 1.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Hamana, this vibrant event will span nearly two months across two venues: Hamamatsu Flower Park from March 23 to June 16 and Hamanako Garden Park from April 6 to June 2.

Visitors will have the opportunity to wander through stunning gardens, including the ‘Cherry Blossom and Tulip Garden,’ renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful, as well as gardens crafted by internationally acclaimed garden designers like Kazuyuki Ishihara, a 12-time gold medalist at the Chelsea Flower Show, and praised as the ‘gardening magician’ by the late Queen Elizabeth.

Moreover, exclusive gardens designed specifically for the expo will feature alongside cutting-edge attractions, including interactive digital installations and Japan’s largest nighttime projection mapping. For more information, visit here.

DAIDOGEI World Cup to Thrill Audiences in November

The four-day DAIDOGEI World Cup, dedicated to street performance artistry, is slated to take place from November 2 to November 5 in Shizuoka City.

Celebrating over 30 years under the moniker ‘The City is a Theatre,’ this international event stands as one of Asia’s premier street performance festivals, gathering the most talented street performers from around the globe. For additional details, please visit Daidogei World Cup official website.

New Culinary Destination at Mt. Komuro

Nestled on the picturesque Izu Peninsula, Mt. Komuro is renowned for its breathtaking azalea blooms from mid-April to early May and the scenic “MISORA” ridge walk. In 2021, the latter opened as a loop-shaped promenade at the mountain’s summit, offering visitors awe-inspiring views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting).

Recently unveiled, Kitchen 218, a new restaurant at the base of Mt. Komuro, provides a perfect opportunity for travelers to rejuvenate after exploring the area. Designed to reflect Mt. Komuro’s rich history, the restaurant serves specialties from the Izu Peninsula, including Yogan-yaki (steak grilled on lava stone) and an array of fresh seafood.

Introducing the ‘Classic Shizuoka 1-Day Private Tour’

Ideal for travelers eager to explore Shizuoka’s treasures in a single day, the new ‘Classic Shizuoka 1-Day Private Tour’ offers a comprehensive experience. The tour guide meets participants at Shizuoka Station, conveniently served by the bullet train and only an hour from Tokyo. The journey includes a local bus ride to Nihondaira Plateau, boasting panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and tea plantations. A ropeway ascent to Kunozan Toshogu, a shrine dedicated to shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and a National Treasure, is also part of the itinerary.

The tour continues with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Miho-no-Matsubara, a breathtaking coastal area famous for its expansive pine trees and captivating views of Mt. Fuji across the bay, which has inspired numerous works of art and poetry. Prices for this unforgettable experience start at JPY 60,000 (approximately £323) per person.

Embark on a New Calligraphy Journey

For those seeking to delve into Japanese Zen calligraphy culture and tap into their inner calligrapher, the newly launched ‘Experience Authentic Japanese Zen Calligraphy Culture’ is the perfect choice. The 1.5-hour session begins with an informative overview of calligraphy history and essential details, followed by a technique demonstration.

Participants will have the opportunity to write their names in Japanese Kanji characters, creating a memorable souvenir to frame as a memento of their visit to Shizuoka. This enriching experience starts at JPY 13,000 (approximately £70) per person.

Shizuoka, Japan Prefecture invites travelers to explore its vibrant offerings, from cultural experiences to natural beauty, ensuring unforgettable memories for all who visit.

Photography courtesy of Tourism Shizuoka Japan.