9 Best Things to Do in Shizuoka in Autumn (September to November)

The autumn in Shizuoka Prefecture captivates visitors with its rich natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From renowned spots for autumn foliage to breathtaking scenic spots and unique seasonal gourmet, you can fully enjoy the charm of Shizuoka’s autumn. Here, we will introduce the characteristics and attractions of Shizuoka Prefecture, its autumn foliage spots, scenic spots, and autumn gourmet in detail.

*Please note that the events introduced may have their schedules changed. Please check the official website of the facilities for the latest schedule.*

About Autumn in Shizuoka Prefecture

Characteristics and Attractions

Shizuoka Prefecture is a region that attracts visitors with the natural beauty of “Mount Fuji”, the “Izu Peninsula”, and beautiful coastlines. Especially in autumn, the foliage turns beautifully, and the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls are enveloped in vibrant colors. Additionally, Shizuoka has many hot spring areas, so it is recommended to relax in hot springs after enjoying the autumn leaves. Furthermore, Shizuoka is also known for its richness in food, including tea and seafood.

Climate and Clothing

The autumn climate in Shizuoka Prefecture is relatively warm during the day, but it often gets cold in the mornings and evenings. Daytime temperatures are around 20 degrees Celsius, but at night, it can drop below 10 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is recommended to wear layers. Bring a light jacket or sweater, and adjust according to the temperature.

Autumn Foliage Spots

Shizuoka Prefecture has many spots where you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage. Here are some highly recommended autumn foliage spots.

“Atami Plum Garden”

Located in Atami City, the “Atami Plum Garden” is known as a famous spot where you can enjoy the “latest autumn foliage in Japan”. The garden has about 380 maple trees, and the best time to visit is from mid-November to early December. During the same period, the “Momiji Festival” is held, where you can enjoy illuminated autumn leaves and foot baths.

“Shuzenji Nature Park Momiji Forest”

Located in Izu City, the “Shuzenji Nature Park Momiji Forest” is famous for being the largest maple forest in the Izu region. About 1,000 maple trees turn vibrant colors, captivating visitors. The best time to visit is from mid-November to early December, and from Fujimidai, you can see the autumn-colored mountains and “Mount Fuji” in one view.

“Shiraito Falls”

Located in Fujinomiya City, “Shiraito Falls” is a beautiful waterfall where the pure snowmelt from “Mount Fuji” flows down from a height. In autumn, the foliage surrounding the waterfall turns red and yellow, creating a stunning contrast with the waterfall. The best time to visit is from mid to late November, attracting many tourists.

Autumn Scenic Spots

In addition to autumn foliage, Shizuoka Prefecture offers beautiful landscapes such as “Susuki” fields, terraced rice paddies, and tea fields. Here are some highly recommended scenic spots.

“Inatori Hosono Highlands”

Located in Higashiizu Town, the “Inatori Hosono Highlands” is a breathtaking spot with vast “Susuki” fields. From mid-October to early November, the “Susuki” turns golden, and its swaying in the wind is beautiful. There are also points where you can enjoy panoramic views of Sagami Bay and the “Izu Seven Islands”.

“Takenoshita Terraced Rice Fields”

Located in Oyama Town, the “Takenoshita Terraced Rice Fields” are characterized by beautiful terraced rice fields with “Mount Fuji” as the backdrop. From mid-October to early November, the golden rice plants spread out, giving you a sense of autumn’s arrival. The contrast between the terraced fields and “Mount Fuji” is stunning, making it perfect for photography.

“SL and Tea Fields”

In Shimada City, along the ‘Southern Alps Road’ and ‘Tea Road’, you can enjoy the scenery of a steam locomotive running through vast tea plantations along the Oi River. From early October to late November, the landscape of tea fields and the steam locomotive creates a unique Shizuoka atmosphere.

Autumn Gourmet

Shizuoka Prefecture is also rich in autumn flavors. You can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes featuring fresh seafood and mountain delicacies, as well as local specialties.

Fresh Seafood

Shizuoka Prefecture, facing Suruga Bay, is rich in fresh seafood. In autumn, shirasu, sakura shrimp, and horse mackerel are in season. Especially at the markets in Numazu Port and Yaizu Port, you can taste fresh seafood.

“Shizuoka Oden”

Known as a local specialty of Shizuoka Prefecture, “Shizuoka Oden” features ingredients like kuro-hampen (black fish cake) and konnyaku (konjac). In the cool autumn season, warm oden is perfect. You can enjoy it at many oden shops in Shizuoka City.

Mandarins

Shizuoka Prefecture is also famous as a production area for mandarins. From autumn to winter, mandarins are in season. The mandarins grown at the foot of “Mount Fuji” and on the “Izu Peninsula” are sweet and juicy. You can taste fresh mandarins at local direct sales stores and tourist farms.