9 Best Things to Do in Shizuoka in Winter (December to February)

Shizuoka Prefecture is known for its mild climate, but it has a unique beauty and charm in winter. The drop in temperature reveals stunning landscapes, delightful winter cuisine, and heartwarming illumination spots. This article will detail how to enjoy winter in Shizuoka Prefecture.

※Please note that the dates for the events introduced may change. Please check the official website of each facility for the schedule.

About Winter in Shizuoka Prefecture

Features and Attractions

Although Shizuoka Prefecture is characterized by its mild climate, you can still enjoy the unique beauty of winter. For instance, you can admire the snow-capped “Mount Fuji,” the blooming daffodils by the seaside, and flocks of black-headed gulls soaring in the sky. Additionally, Shizuoka is famous for its hot springs, making it a great place to warm up during the cold winter months.

Climate and Clothing

Winter in Shizuoka Prefecture is relatively mild, but there are significant temperature fluctuations, so layering is essential. During the day, a light coat or jacket is usually sufficient, but at night or in higher altitudes, a warm coat, scarf, and gloves are necessary. Since it can also be windy, windproof clothing is recommended.

Scenic Winter Spots

Shizuoka Prefecture has many beautiful scenic spots that are especially captivating in winter. Here are three highly recommended spots.

“Tsumekizaki” (Shimoda City)

Located in Shimoda City in southern Izu, “Tsumekizaki” is a place where daffodils bloom from mid-December to March. Especially in January, three million daffodils spread across the area, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. The “Narcissus Festival” is also held, attracting many tourists. The beauty of daffodils blooming in winter is worth seeing.

“Kirameki no Oka” (Numazu City)

“Kirameki no Oka,” located in the Ida district of Numazu City, is a scenic spot where the sea surface sparkles depending on the position of the sun. In winter, you can enjoy breathtaking views of “Mount Fuji” covered in snow and the deep blue Suruga Bay. The view overlooking the small village is also charming.

Red Torii Gate at “Bentenjima” (Hamamatsu City)

The 18-meter-high red torii gate standing on the “Ikari-se” in Lake Hamana is a scenic spot where you can see the sunset through the torii gate around the winter solstice. This period attracts many photography enthusiasts who come to enjoy the magical scenery. The sunset viewed through the clear winter air has a special beauty.

Illumination Spots

Illuminations that brighten winter nights are one of the pleasures of winter in Shizuoka Prefecture. Here are some recommended illumination spots.

“Izu Granpal Park” (Ito City)

At “Izu Granpal Park,” the “Izu Kogen Gran Illumi” is held at night. You can enjoy night attractions such as “Walk on the Illumi” and “Zipline – Ryusei,” where you walk over the illuminations. You can actively experience the fantastic world of lights.

“Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika” (Gotemba City)

The “Hikari no Sumika” at “Gotemba Kogen Tokinosumika” is a pioneer of illuminations in Shizuoka Prefecture and attracts many visitors every year. In the paid area, you can also enjoy the “Fountain Laser Show.”

“Aoba Symbol Road” (Shizuoka City)

In the central downtown area of Shizuoka City, the “Crystal Illumination” is held along “Aoba Symbol Road.” About 500 meters of tree-lined roads are beautifully decorated in ice blue, creating a photogenic space. There is also an ice skating rink, allowing you to enjoy the winter night.

Winter Cuisine

One of the highlights of winter in Shizuoka Prefecture is the delicious cuisine. Here are some recommended winter dishes.

“Shizuoka Oden”

One of the staple winter dishes in Shizuoka Prefecture is “Shizuoka Oden,” which features unique ingredients like black hanpen (a type of fish cake), beef tendon, and daikon radish. The distinct sweet and spicy miso sauce makes this dish perfect for the cold winter. There are many “oden” stalls in Shizuoka City where you can enjoy this dish while walking around.

“Unagi” (Eel)

Hamamatsu City is famous for its eel. Winter is the season when eel is at its fattest and most delicious. In many specialized eel restaurants in Hamamatsu City, you can enjoy fluffy grilled eel. The eel grilled over charcoal is particularly exquisite.

“Mikan” (Mandarins)

Shizuoka Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading producers of mandarins. In winter, mandarins with high sugar content and juiciness are widely available. Especially, the “Mikkabi Mikan” is famous nationwide for its sweetness and deliciousness. Be sure to taste these mandarins grown in the mild climate.