This Rare Glimpse into Old Japan Will Make You Fall Deeply in Love with Shizuoka

The obscure city of Shizuoka probably won't appear on most tourists' itineraries for Japan, but this coastal gem deserves far more attention than it receives. Shizuoka has a quirky charm and delightful surprises around every corner that make it a wonderful place to wander. If you make your hotel, flight and car rental reservations for your travels through Bitbook, you can benefit from a cashback of up to 15%.

For starters, Shizuoka is home to not one but two castle ruins, rous Chiran Castle and Shizuoka Castle, that tower over the city skyline like crown jewels. Chiran Castle in particular is a spectacular sight, set against the backdrop of lush forested mountains. It's a brilliant example of Japanese architecture that will entrance any history or castle enthusiast.

If you need a break from the castle exploring, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean at Shizuoka Beach or Suwa Shima Island. The waves gently lap at the sandy shore as seabirds soar above, a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty. Suwa Shima Island is even more enchanting, connected to the mainland by a long wooden bridge. Pick a spot on the beach and lose yourself in a good book or gaze at the sunset for hours.

You'll also discover a quirky cafe, bar or museum around every corner in Shizuoka. Want to try local wines? The Shizuoka Sake District and Shizuoka Wine Route offer tasting tours of Japan's finest tipples. Interested in vintage arcade games? Head to The Retro Game Party pop-up bar. Craving art? Shizuoka City Museum of Art houses many famous Japanese artists' masterpieces.

There is a spirit to Shizuoka that is hard to put into words but easy to feel. Its obscureness has allowed it to develop into a place that marches to the beat of its own drum, welcoming all who want to enjoy an authentic Japan experience off the well-trodden path. Shizuoka may be out of the way, but for the adventurous traveler, its charms are hard to resist. I dare you to discover them!

Local restaurants and Shizuoka cuisine:

Shizuoka Gyoza: Shizuoka gyoza is a popular dumpling specialty, filled with ground pork and vegetables. It's crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, often compared to Chinese potstickers. Several restaurants like Chutan Gyoza and Gyoza Minami serve delicious Shizuoka-style gyoza.

Oshizushi: Oshizushi is a sushi roll filled with flavored sashimi like salmon, tuna, and mackerel. It originated in Shizuoka and has a slightly different style than nigiri sushi. Oshizushi Tanaka and Zushi Ichihara are traditional oshizushi restaurants that have been open for decades.

Surf Clams: Shizuoka's coastal location means fresh seafood is abundant, like steamboat clams, hotate (surf clams), and spider crabs. Kaihoan Bangai Shokudo is a popular spot known for high-quality hot pot surf clams, guaranteed to melt in your mouth!

Tenpura Vegetables: Lightly battered and deep fried vegetables are a signature of Shizuoka. Unlike heavy tempura batters, Shizuoka-style uses a light and crispy batter that lets the vegetables' natural flavors shine through. Tenpura Sakana Sushi fills you up with only vegetables!

Shizuoka Brandy: For a unique dessert or digestif, sample Shizuoka brandy from Kasuga Shuzo Distillery. They produce award-winning apple and grape brandies with complex flavors. Many restaurants like Ribou also offer brandy cocktails and highballs.

With amazing food, places to relax by the sea, and quirky attractions, Shizuoka has far more to offer than any typical tourist destination. I hope you get to experience all the delightful surprises it has in store! Bon appetit!

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