Shizuoka Living Guide: Best Cities & Attractions

Shizuoka Prefecture, located in central Japan along the Pacific coast, is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a balance of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and easy access to Tokyo. With its beautiful coastlines, stunning views of Mt. Fuji, and welcoming atmosphere, Shizuoka offers a unique experience that combines convenience and tranquility. Whether you’re planning to live here or simply explore, Shizuoka has something for everyone.

Best Cities to Live in Shizuoka

Shizuoka – The Heart of the Region

As the capital of the prefecture, Shizuoka-shi is a perfect blend of modern city life and natural beauty. Offering a variety of parks, cultural attractions, and top-notch facilities, it’s a great choice for expats and digital nomads. With a growing international community and easy access to Tokyo, this city provides both work-life balance and recreational opportunities. Shizuoka Prefecture is also Japan’s leading producer of high-quality green tea, making it a great place for green tea lovers to explore traditional tea culture.

Key attractions: Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, Nihondaira, Izu Peninsula

Hamamatsu – A Hub for Business and Innovation

Hamamatsu, known as the "City of Music," is renowned for its technology and innovation sectors. As home to major international companies like Yamaha and Suzuki, it’s an excellent choice for professionals and digital nomads who want to be close to the action while enjoying a relaxed lifestyle. The city offers affordable living with easy access to both nature and urban amenities. Hamana Lake is also famous for its delicious eel (unagi), making it a must-visit spot for food lovers.

Key attractions: Hamamatsu Castle, Hamanako Lake, Nakatajima Sand Dunes

Atami – Coastal Living with Onsen Retreats

For those seeking a coastal lifestyle with easy access to Tokyo, Atami is a perfect option. Famous for its hot springs (onsen) and beautiful beaches, this city offers a relaxed atmosphere while still being connected to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo via a short train ride. Atami is an excellent location for expats looking for a peaceful, yet vibrant place to live.

Key attractions: Atami Onsen, Atami Castle, MOA Museum of Art

Ito – A Tranquil Beach Town

Ito is a small, tranquil town along the Izu Peninsula, offering a relaxed pace of life with beautiful beaches and hot springs. For those seeking a slower lifestyle, this town offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and comfort. With affordable living and easy train access to larger cities, Ito is a great spot for those looking to escape the city while staying connected.

Key attractions: Ito Onsen, Izu Kogen Highlands, Jogasaki Coast

Numazu – Gateway to Mount Fuji

Located near the Izu Peninsula, Numazu is known for its fresh seafood, scenic views, and easy access to nature. Expats and digital nomads who enjoy an active lifestyle will appreciate the wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports. The city’s proximity to both Mt. Fuji and the ocean makes it an attractive destination for nature enthusiasts.

Key attractions: Numazu Fish Market, Mount Fuji, Izu Peninsula

Shimoda – A Coastal Gem with Rich History

Shimoda is a charming coastal town on the Izu Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches and rich natural surroundings. With a mild climate and a relaxed atmosphere, the area offers plenty of opportunities for marine sports and hot spring retreats. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at local markets and explore the picturesque streets of Perry Road. Shimoda is an ideal destination for those seeking a laid-back seaside lifestyle or a peaceful environment for remote work as a digital nomad.

Key attractions: Perry Road, Shimoda Aquarium

How to Get to Shizuoka from Tokyo

Shizuoka is easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a great choice for commuters and travelers alike.

By Trains

Direct access to Shizuoka City and Hamamatsu, with travel times of approximately 1-1.5 hour. The Tokaido Line connects Shizuoka with Tokyo, making it easy to reach any part of the prefecture.

By Car

The Tomei Expressway connects Tokyo to Shizuoka in about 2 hours by car, making it convenient for road trips.

Must-See Attractions in Shizuoka

Mt. Fuji

Japan’s iconic peak, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
>> What You Need to Know before Climbing Mt. Fuji

Izu Peninsula

A coastal paradise known for its beaches, hot springs, and scenic views.

Shizuoka Sengen Shrine

A historic and cultural site in the heart of Shizuoka City.
>> Shizuoka Sengen Shrine

Atami Onsen (Hot springs)

Famous hot springs offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
>> Discovering Atami

Numazu Fish Market

Fresh seafood and local delicacies in a vibrant market atmosphere.
>> Numazu Fish Market

Shizuoka Tea Plantations

Scenic tea fields where visitors can experience Japan’s renowned green tea culture.
>> Shizuoka Green Tea Tour Desk

Why People Love Shizuoka

Perfect Balance of City & Nature

Shizuoka offers both vibrant city life and access to nature, including beaches, mountains, and hot springs, providing the perfect environment for expats and digital nomads.

Affordable Living

Compared to Tokyo, living in Shizuoka can be more affordable, especially in cities like Hamamatsu and Ito, which offer excellent value for money.

Easy Access to Tokyo

With quick train connections to Tokyo, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—quiet living in Shizuoka and the excitement of Tokyo.

International Community

Shizuoka has a growing international community with various services for expats, making it an easy place to settle. Home of Japan’s Best Green Tea: Shizuoka is known for producing some of the finest green tea in Japan, offering visitors and residents a chance to enjoy fresh, locally grown tea.

>> Assistance Center for Foreign Residents CAMELLIA

 

Conclusion: A Great Place to Live & Explore

Shizuoka Prefecture offers a perfect combination of scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and a welcoming atmosphere for expats, digital nomads, and families. Whether you're looking for a relaxing coastal lifestyle, a city with great business opportunities, or a place to enjoy nature while staying connected to Tokyo, Shizuoka has something to offer. Its accessibility, affordability, and quality of life make it an excellent choice for those considering moving to Japan or simply exploring the region.