9 Best Things to Do in Shizuoka in spring (March to May)

Spring in Shizuoka Prefecture is a season of beautiful cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Known for its mild climate and rich nature, it captivates visitors. Here, we’ll introduce the characteristics and attractions of spring in Shizuoka, its climate and appropriate clothing, cherry blossom spots, hidden scenic spots, and spring gourmet delights.

*Please note that the event schedules mentioned may change. Please check the official websites of the facilities for the latest information.

About Spring in Shizuoka Prefecture

Characteristics and Attractions

Spring in Shizuoka Prefecture is marked by the beauty of cherry blossoms, canola flowers, and fresh greenery, along with its mild climate. Particularly, the sight of cherry blossoms blooming against the backdrop of “Mount Fuji” is breathtaking and leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Shizuoka is also known as a major tea-producing region, and during the new tea season, the tea fields are a sight to behold. Additionally, the prefecture has many hot spring areas, allowing visitors to relax while feeling the arrival of spring.

Climate and Clothing

Spring in Shizuoka Prefecture, from March to May, is characterized by mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. While the daytime is comfortable, mornings and evenings can be a bit chilly. It is advisable to wear light jackets or cardigans and to dress in layers for temperature adjustments. Since the weather can be unpredictable, having rain gear on hand is also recommended.

Cherry Blossom Spots

Shizuoka Prefecture boasts numerous cherry blossom spots, attracting many tourists during the spring. Here, we introduce three particularly recommended cherry blossom spots.

Kanogawa Sakura Park (Izu no Kuni City)

“Kanogawa Sakura Park” is located along the embankment of the Kano River between Nirayama Station and Izu-Nagaoka Station, featuring a 450m stretch of cherry trees. During the season, you can enjoy the collaboration of the snow-capped “Mount Fuji” and the fully bloomed Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms. The wide riverbank offers parking, making it a great spot to explore after cherry blossom viewing and visiting historical spots related to the Hojo clan.

Mishima Taisha (Mishima City)

“Mishima Taisha” is a historic shrine revered as the top shrine of Izunokuni and has deep connections with Minamoto no Yoritomo. The shrine grounds are home to 200 cherry trees of 15 varieties, including Somei Yoshino, Mishima cherry, and weeping cherry trees. Enjoy a stroll along the spring paths while admiring the beautiful cherry blossoms.

Iwamotoyama Park (Fuji City)

“Iwamotoyama Park” is located at an altitude of 193m, offering panoramic views of “Mount Fuji,” the Fuji River, and Suruga Bay. In spring, 500 cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning scene with “Mount Fuji.” At night, the cherry blossoms are illuminated, providing a beautiful night view.

Hidden Scenic Spots

Shizuoka Prefecture has many hidden spots where you can enjoy quiet and beautiful natural landscapes. Here, we introduce three particularly recommended spots.

Ikadaba Wasabi Fields (Izu City)

“Ikadaba Wasabi Fields” are located in an area where only clean, cool water can support wasabi cultivation. The sight of wasabi fields spreading out amidst the sounds of clear streams is breathtaking. In spring, the new wasabi leaves flourish, offering a beautiful green landscape.

Fujioka District (Fuji City)

The “Fujioka District” is a tranquil rural area with rice fields spreading out against the backdrop of “Mount Fuji.” In April, the rice fields are covered with blooming Chinese milk vetch, turning the entire area into a soft purple hue, a hallmark of spring. The sight of the Shinkansen speeding through this picturesque landscape is also popular among photography enthusiasts.

Makinohara Tea Fields (Makinohara City and Shimada City)

The “Makinohara Tea Fields” span a vast area of 5,000 hectares. In spring, the new tea leaves sprout all at once, creating a beautiful scene of fresh green under the blue sky. Enjoy the unique landscape of Shizuoka Prefecture while being enveloped in the aroma of tea.

Spring Gourmet

Shizuoka Prefecture’s spring offers a wealth of gourmet delights made from fresh ingredients. Here, we introduce three particularly recommended spring gourmet dishes.

Sakura Shrimp

“Sakura shrimp” is a specialty of Shizuoka Prefecture, and the fishing season in Suruga Bay begins in spring. Sakura shrimp rice bowls and tempura are exquisite, offering a fresh taste. Be sure to try sakura shrimp, which is in season with the arrival of spring.

Shirasu

Shizuoka Prefecture’s “shirasu” also comes into season in spring. Fresh shirasu is used in various dishes such as rice bowls, pasta, and salads. Especially the raw shirasu, with its plump texture, is popular as a local specialty.

Shincha (New Tea)

Shizuoka Prefecture is famous for its tea production, and spring marks the beginning of the “shincha” (new tea) season. Shincha is characterized by its soft and aromatic flavor. Visiting tea fields in Shizuoka and joining a tour to enjoy shincha is highly recommended.