tourist spot in hamamatsu japan

Top Things to Do in Hamamatsu, Japan

Places to visit in hamamatsu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hamamatsu.

Kamakura Custom Full Day Tour

Soy sauce making experience tour

Experience tea picking with a tea farmer, and tempura lunch with picked tea leaves

Explore Holy Mt Horaiji Private Tour

Shizuoka Tea Picking Private Experience

Sightseeing around Shimizu Port for cruise ship passengers

Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only

Lake Tanuki, Shiraito Falls, Sengen Shrine from Shimizu Port

Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle

Small Group Japanese Green Tea Tasting in Shizuoka

Top attractions in hamamatsu.

Other Top Attractions around Hamamatsu

What travellers are saying

• Hamamatsu Air Park
• Hamamatsu Flower Park
• Hamanako Garden Park
• Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments
• Ryugashido Cavern
• Nakatajima Sand Dunes
• Akihasan Hongu Akiha-jinja Shrine
• Suzuki Plaza

Top Things to Do in Hamamatsu

Things to do in hamamatsu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hamamatsu.

Kamakura Custom Full Day Tour

Soy sauce making experience tour

Experience tea picking with a tea farmer, and tempura lunch with picked tea leaves

Explore Holy Mt Horaiji Private Tour

Shizuoka Tea Picking Private Experience

Sightseeing around Shimizu Port for cruise ship passengers

Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only

Lake Tanuki, Shiraito Falls, Sengen Shrine from Shimizu Port

Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle

Small Group Japanese Green Tea Tasting in Shizuoka

Top attractions in hamamatsu.

Other Top Attractions around Hamamatsu

What travelers are saying

• Hamamatsu Air Park
• Hamamatsu Flower Park
• Hamanako Garden Park
• Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments
• Ryugashido Cavern
• Nakatajima Sand Dunes
• Akihasan Hongu Akiha-jinja Shrine
• Suzuki Plaza

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Explore Hamamatsu in Two Days! Must-Visit Spots and Local Specialties

Hamamatsu is easily accessible from Tokyo and Nagoya by shinkansen. The city is full of wonderful places to visit - from the splendid Hamamatsu Flower Park to the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments. Learn how to enjoy your time in Hamamatsu and savor specialties like eel and gyoza!

Tokyo, Japan

Hamamatsu: A City of Musical Instruments, History, and Gyoza

Hamamatsu is a major city in Shizuoka Prefecture that is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo and Nagoya. Once you’ve arrived, venture out to sightseeing attractions by train or bus!

Reserving a rental car is also a great option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace.

Hamamatsu is home to many places connected to nature, history, music, and technology. Be sure not to miss out on local specialties like Hamamatsu gyoza (potstickers)!

We'll introduce a two-day sightseeing guide around Hamamatsu, the city of musical instruments and pan-fried dumplings.

Table of Contents

Access to hamamatsu from tokyo and nagoya.

Here are the details on travel to Hamamatsu from Tokyo or Nagoya.

The Tokaido Shinkansen line connects Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station to Hamamatsu Station. Fares are the same regardless of the station you board from. The shortest travel time is about 1 hour and 24 minutes.

From Nagoya

Hamamatsu Station is also accessible from Nagoya on the Tokaido Shinkansen. The minimum travel time is 30 minutes.

*An adult is a person 12 years of age or older. *A child is a person between the ages of 6 to 11. (*Elementary school students will be charged a child fare even if they are 12 years old.) *Fares for reserved seats and the first-class "Green Car" will slightly increase during peak seasons. *The shinkansen can be ridden without any extra fees using the JAPAN RAIL PASS . *The regular JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used to board the Green Cars.

Day One: Sightseeing Around the Lake Hamana Area

On your first day in Hamamatsu, we suggest sightseeing around the Lake Hamana area. Leave your luggage at the hotel when you arrive in Hamamatsu.

Return to Hamamatsu Station and take the Route 30 bus bound for “Kanzanji Onsen” at Bus Terminal Platform 1. To return home, you'll be taking the same bus route.

View Lovely Flowers at Hamamatsu Flower Park

Our first destination is Hamamatsu Flower Park .

Disembark at the Flower Park bus stop. It takes about 40 minutes to reach from Hamamatsu Station and the fare costs 570 yen.

Hamamatsu Flower Park is a botanical garden located on the border of Lake Hamana. The park has over 3,000 varieties of plants and flowers, allowing visitors to enjoy flora year-round.

A large pond can be found in front of the Crystal Palace, which is a large greenhouse within the park. Every half hour, a fountain show takes place in the pond!

Taking a relaxing stroll while admiring the flowers is a wonderful way to enjoy the scenery. We also recommend boarding the Flower Train for a guided tour around the premises.

Picture courtesy of Hamamatsu City

Many of the flowers in the park are in full bloom between mid-March and mid-June. This period coincides with the Lake Hamana Flower Festa held annually at the Flower Park.

Cherry blossoms and colorful tulips are the main attraction from late March to mid-April. Visitors can also enjoy the illuminated night blossoms every evening.

Wisteria flowers bloom from late April until early May. It’s quite stunning to see a 150-meter-long wisteria trellis covered with purple flowers!

During the Flower Festa, visitors can enjoy the peak season for plum blossoms, roses, irises, azaleas, and hydrangeas.

Mosaiculture sculptures created from flowers and vegetation are located in front of the Crystal Palace. The theme of these garden art works is “Friends of the Forest.”

You can see the sculptures' massive scale compared to the person in the photo!

The Crystal Palace is divided into several smaller areas. These include the Bali Garden, featuring flora from Bali, the cacti-filled Mexican Garden, and many more.

The greenhouse's central display changes seasonally. At the time of writing, the December theme was Christmas!

Hamamatsu Flower Park

↑ Jump to Table of Contents

Cross the Lake on the Kanzanji Ropeway

Next, let's enjoy the view of Lake Hamana from the ropeway.

Take the bus from the Flower Park and get off four stops later at the Hamanako Palpal bus stop. The ride takes about five minutes and costs 210 yen.

If you’re taking the bus from Hamamatsu Station, it takes about 43 minutes and costs 620 yen.

Kanzanji Ropeway is Japan’s only ropeway spanning a lake. The platform is located next to HAMANAKO PALPAL, a resort-style amusement park.

The ropeway’s final stop is the summit of Mt. Okusa, which towers over the northern shore of Lake Hamana.

The Hamanako Orgel Museum, a sightseeing spot near the summit, is a great place to stop by. This museum has every type of music box imaginable, and offers music-box-making workshops.

The museum’s rooftop serves as an observation deck, surveying Lake Hamana. You can see as far as downtown Hamamatsu and the Pacific Ocean! In the evenings, the sunset over the lake is a must-see.

Kanzanji Ropeway

Order Unaju Boxes at Kanzanjien

For lunch, let’s head to a famous unagi restaurant in Hamamatsu. A ten-minute walk from Kanzanji Ropeway, Unagi Kohan Shokubo Kanzanjien serves locally caught eel.

The restaurant is right by Lake Hamana. On sunny days, you should try dining out on the terrace and admiring the scenery.

You can see the Kanzanji Ropeway from the terrace. After a while, you might also catch sight of sightseeing boats cruising across the lake.

The restaurant has plenty of filling unagi dishes from unadon (unagi rice bowl; 2,700 yen before tax) to unagi teishoku (a set meal; 5,100 yen before tax). The menu also has pictures of the dishes, so you don't need to worry about ordering in Japanese.

We ordered the unaju (broiled eel over rice in a lacquered box; 3,700 yen before tax). This set comes with a small serving of wild vegetables, kimosui (a clear soup with eel liver), and almond jelly for dessert.

Oysters are in season from November to March. During this time, kaki kabadon (oysters cooked kabayaki-style over rice; 1,600 yen before tax) is a local specialty served at Kanzanjien. The oysters are covered in a sweet-savory sauce that’s so delicious, you won’t be able to stop eating!

Other meal options include a fried shrimp set menu, karaage (fried chicken) set menu, and sashimi (sliced raw fish) set menu.

Pray for Love at Kanzanji Temple

After replenishing your energy with unaju, head over to our next destination: Kanzanji Temple . Near the entrance of Kanzanjien are stairs leading up to the temple.

Once you've climbed up the steps, you'll see the main hall. Kanzanji Temple has been patronized by locals for centuries since its construction in 810.

Left of the main hall, there's a small hall where the Matchmaking Jizo has been enshrined since the Meiji Period .

Printed on the ema (wooden prayer plaque) are the Japanese characters for heart and mind, along with the image of a keyhole. Visitors typically write their wishes on this ema and pray for luck in finding a romantic partner.

Ema and omamori (good luck charms) can be purchased at the temple office to the right of the main hall. Some protective charms feature the same imagery as the prayer plaques.

About eight minutes from the main hall, you’ll spot a 16-meter-tall statue of Kannon Bodhisattva, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Once you've asked the Kannon Bodhisattva for safe travels, head back down the mountain.

Tateyama Temple

Take a Short Break at KUSHITANI CAFE

Want to take a short break before boarding the bus? KUSHITANI CAFE Kanzanji is run by KUSHITANI, a motorcycle accessory brand.

This cafe is a haven for motorcyclists. Of course, non-riders are welcome to come, too!

Renovated from an old store, the cafe has a stylish ambience that blends nostalgia and novelty.

The counter for ordering food and drinks is on the first floor. Original merchandise—including mugs, tumblers, tote bags, and leather wallets—are sold next to the counter.

The titanium cups, pictured bottom right, are made with the same technology used to weld motorcycle mufflers!

Iced Royal Milk Tea (480 yen before tax)

Drinks include coffee, hot chocolate, Japanese tea, black tea (hot or iced), and smoothies.

The cafe is located in a commercial facility called HAMANAKO ENGINE. You can also rent bicycles here, and explore the area on wheels.

KUSHITANI CAFE Kanzanji store

Shibuki Bridge: Lake Hamana’s Signature Red Bridge

We still have a few photogenic spots left to introduce!

This red bridge at the far end of HAMANAKO ENGINE is Shibuki Bridge . On the day we visited, a group of motorcyclists parked their bikes and were taking photos here.

Shibuki Bridge

Nukumori no Mori: A Village Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Next, we'll head to a village that looks just like a scene from a picture book.

Take the bus from Kanzanji Onsen and disembark at the Sujikai-bashi bus stop. Travel time is about ten minutes, and the fare is 260 yen. Cross the intersection and keep walking until you reach an entrance sign on your left.

If you’re taking the bus from Hamamatsu Station, it will be a 35-minute ride and cost 490 yen.

The moment you take a step into Lake Hamana Nukumori no Mori , it’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a fairy tale village!

There are tiny, uniquely-shaped homes lining both sides of a small path. Inside each of these homes are general stores selling handmade products.

The village is also home to restaurants and sweets shops.

Are you an animal lover? Head to the village lodge Fukumori . You'll find adorable owls, hedgehogs, and chinchillas awaiting you. Fukumori has a 1,000 yen entrance fee, but there's no time limit.

Once you're ready to leave this fairy tale world, it’s time to head home to Hamamatsu. Similar to the previous route, take the bus from the Sujikai-bashi bus stop to the Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal. The travel time is about 38 minutes and the fare is 490 yen.

Warmth forest

Watch a Sunset Through Benten Island’s Torii

On your first day in Hamamatsu, we suggest watching the beautiful sunset you can only enjoy here.

Take the JR Tokaido Line from Hamamatsu Station and get off at Bentenjima Station. The ride takes about 12 minutes and costs 240 yen.

Every year between November 20 and January 20, sightseers can watch the sunset descend between the pillars of the island’s torii gate. This can be seen from Seaside Park on Benten Island in Lake Hamana.

Bentenjima Seaside Park

Head to Hamataro for Famous Hamamatsu Gyoza

Gyoza (potstickers) are another specialty of Hamamatsu. Along with Utsunomiya in Tochigi Prefecture, Hamamatsu is one of the two famous dumpling cities in Japan.

From Hamamatsu Station, it's a five-minute walk to renowned gyoza restaurant Hamataro .

Their specialty dish is Hamamatsu Gyoza (12 pieces for 760 yen before tax). The dish is beautifully arranged in a circle and garnished with beansprouts—a signature of Hamamatsu Gyoza.

Pictured behind the Hamamatsu Gyoza are coriander potstickers (6 pieces for 380 yen before tax). These pan-fried dumplings are flavored with a Thai-style sauce that is sour, sweet, and salty all at once. It tastes absolutely delicious!

Hamamatsu dumplings Hamataro Hamamatsu station square store

Stay the Night at KITANONIWA THE KURETAKESO

Our accommodation for this trip is KITANONIWA THE KURETAKESO . Head for the north exit of Hamamatsu Station and you’ll see the front of the hotel. It's only a three minute walk from the station.

KITANONIWA THE KURETAKESO has a wide variety of guest rooms available.

The Modern Japanese Room, furnished with three beds, is popular with families. Since there are only three guest rooms of this type, make an early reservation if you’re interested!

Are you looking forward to some relaxation? Then we suggest booking the Executive Double Room for your trip. This room is fully equipped with a coffee maker, tea, and bathroom amenities.

There is also an extension cord that makes it convenient to charge your phone and camera at the same time!

The breakfast menu changes daily. Guests can choose from three hot pot dishes—Japanese, Western, or Thai.

The hot pot cooked by the hotel's Thai chef is full of authentic flavor.

North Garden THEKURETAKESO

Day Two: Enjoy Musical Instruments, Culture, and Fall Foliage

On our second day, let’s explore Japan's city of music, from historical sites to spectacular fall foliage in a temple garden.

Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments

The first place on our day-two itinerary is the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments . It’s about a ten-minute walk from Hamamatsu Station.

The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is Japan’s only municipally established public museum of musical instruments.

According to the museum, it operates on the concept of “exhibiting musical instruments from around the world equally and without bias, to explore human insight and sensitivity through instruments.” As many as 1,500 instruments from around the world are displayed here.

The Asian Musical Instruments Exhibition Room featuring bronze gamelan from Java and Bali and jegog (bamboo gamelan) from Bali

Instruments are not placed into glass cases. Instead, visitors are allowed to walk around the instruments on display.

This unique experience allows museum-goers to check out the details of the instruments, from materials to textures, at any angle.

Video installations also help guests understand what people around the world wear as they play their instruments. There's also a corner on B1F where you can touch the instruments and try playing them.

Events, concerts, and special exhibitions are held throughout the year.

Hamamatsu City Musical Instrument Museum

Experience Yamaha’s History at Yamaha Innovation Road

The next stop is Yamaha Innovation Road, where you can trace the history of Yamaha, a musical instrument manufacturer founded in Hamamatsu.

Take a train along the Enshu Railway from Shin-Hamamatsu Station and exit at Hachiman Station. The travel time is four minutes, and the ride costs 120 yen.

Hamamatsu is known as Japan's city of music . Moreover, it serves as a venue for domestic and international music competitions. It's no surprise that the city is home to numerous concert halls, music studios, and musical instrument retailers.

One of the reasons why Hamamatsu earned this reputation is that it's the birthplace of Yamaha, a world famous musical instrument manufacturer.

Yamaha Innovation Road is a museum-like facility where visitors can see Yamaha's history of instrument-making and the evolution of acoustic technology. Entry is free, but advance reservations (*) are required.

*For reservation inquiries, please dial this number: 053-460-2010 (English or Japanese)

This is the first organ manufactured by Yamaha in 1887, shortly after the company was founded. This also marks the start of production of Western instruments in Japan.

Visitors are allowed to touch and play the instruments marked with an inviting sign that reads “Try playing for yourself.” This is the perfect place for lovers of musical instruments.

The museum doesn’t only display musical instruments; you’ll also find an exhibition on Yamaha’s first motorcycle: the YA-1. Experience the allure of musical instruments and motorcycles with your own eyes and ears!

Yamaha Innovation Road

The Nature-Rich Hamamatsu Castle in Downtown

Next, we'll head to a historical spot that is the pride of Hamamatsu. Hamamatsu Castle is about a 20-minute walk from Hamamatsu Station.

If you're taking the bus, get on at the Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal Platform 1 and exit at City Hall South. The bus ride is about six minutes and costs 120 yen.

Picture courtesy of Hamamatsu City Hamamatsu Castle is known as Tokugawa Ieyasu's residence during his younger years. Ieyasu (1543-1616) is a figure who eventually became a shogun (general) after winning many victories in battle.

Following Ieyasau's footsteps, many of the lords who lived in this castle advanced to higher positions in the shogunate. As a result, it was also known as Shusse Castle, or "The Castle of Success."

From the castle's observatory, you can enjoy a full 360-degree view of Hamamatsu. The castle grounds were also developed into Hamamatsu Castle Park. Today, the Japanese garden and large plaza serves as a place of relaxation for locals.

A statue of Ieyasu is erected in front of the castle's gate.

From late March to early April, the park's 300-plus cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.

Hamamatsu Castle

Sip Matcha Green Tea at Shointei

After a nice stroll, let’s take a short break at the teahouse located in a corner of Hamamatsu Castle Park.

Shointei is about a four-minute walk from Hamamatsu Castle.

You will sense tranquility when entering the grounds. It’s so silent, you’ll forget that you’re in the middle of a city surrounded by high-rise buildings.

A tea ceremony service called "teicha" is offered daily. While seated in chairs, visitors can observe the ceremonial preparation and casually enjoy a cup of tea.

The tea served will either be matcha or sencha (green tea), depending on the teacher assigned for that day. Tea and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) are served as a set for 400 yen. Advance reservation is not required.

The wagashi that accompanies the tea will be a seasonal treat. For example, the photo above is korogaki, a type of dried persimmon, that was served alongside our tea in autumn.

Hamamatsu City Tea Room Matsurintei

Feel Like a Pilot at Hamamatsu Air Park

After getting a taste of Japan’s history and culture with the castle visit and tea ceremony, head to Air Park JASDF Hamamatsu Air Base Museum . This spot is where you can learn all about Japan’s aviation technology.

Take the Route 51 bus from Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal Platform 14 and disembark at Izumi Yonchome bus stop. It takes about 23 minutes and costs 330 yen. From there, walk for roughly 10 minutes to arrive at the museum.

At the museum, you can tour aircraft actually used by the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). Admission is free.

The three-story museum exhibits materials related to the duties of the JASDF, equipment for the flight crew, and actual aircraft parts. A museum shop is also located inside.

There are 19 airplanes to see, some of which visitors are allowed to sit in the cockpit of! Get a taste of being a pilot in the flight simulator and board the museum's model cockpit.

Air Self-Defense Force Hamamatsu Public Relations Center Air Park

Elegant Gardens and Autumn Leaves at Ryotanji Temple

Our two-day trip comes to a close at Ryotanji Temple , which has a history spanning 1,000 years. The majestic main hall and beautiful gardens are the highlights here.

Take the Route 44 bus from Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal Platform 15, then disembark at the Iinoyagu-mae bus stop. It takes about 52 minutes and costs 680 yen. The temple is a three-minute walk from the bus stop.

You can also take the Route 45 bus and alight at the Jinguji bus stop. The temple is a 10 minute walk from this stop. Travel time on the bus will also be 52 minutes and costs 690 yen.

Pictured bottom right is the Ii Family Graveyard

Ryotanji Temple is heavily associated with the Ii family, a lineage of warlords that governed this area. Members of the family also appear prominently in Japanese history.

Walk down the corridor of the main hall and you’ll hear a loud squeaking sound. This is an architectural feature called uguisubari, or nightingale flooring, where the floor deliberately makes a noise similar to a nightingale’s call. It's meant to alert guards to enemy incursions.

The temple’s two gardens are also must-visit spots.

Most Japanese gardens are constructed with either a specific place or landscape in mind. Fudaraku Garden, the rock garden in front of the main hall, is inspired by Lake Hamana.

The temple’s other garden was landscaped by Kobori Enshu, a Japanese garden designer who created many excellent gardens across Japan. Cushions are laid out on the main hall’s veranda so that visitors can sit and admire the front of the garden.

From late November to early December, the grounds are ablaze with the palette of autumn. The fallen leaves make this garden even more alluring.

Ryotanji Temple

Choose Hamamatsu as Your Next Destination!

We’ve made full use of our two days in Hamamatsu. Now, it’s time to head home on the shinkansen from Hamamatsu Station, whether it be Tokyo, Nagoya, or Osaka.

In addition to being easily accessible, Hamamatsu is filled with sightseeing spots that can be enjoyed by all ages. On your next trip to Japan, don’t forget to add Hamamatsu to your travel itinerary!

Written by Tei Chayangkul Sponsored by Hamamatsu City

MATCHA's promotional account for corporate and local government advertising. We aim to provide useful information to our readers in an enjoyable manner.

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What To Do In Hamamatsu – The 10 Coolest Places You Should Visit

The industrial city of Hamamatsu is best known for its production of musical instruments and motorcycles, as well as being filled with manufacturing industries. Since the city isn’t usually listed as a tourist city, many miss out on the opportunity to take advantage of the unique and interesting places to see and visit. Luckily for you, this article lists out how to get to Hamamatsu, where to stay, and what to do while you’re there!

How To Get To Hamamatsu?

How To Get To Hamamatsu From Tokyo

To get to Hamamatsu from Tokyo , you’ll want to take the Tokaido Shinkansen Line – either Hikari or Kodama service – from Tokyo Station to Hamamatsu Station. You can also utilize the JR Tokaido Line as well. Regardless, travel by train shouldn’t take more than three hours to get form Tokyo to Hamamatsu.The JR Tomei Liner buses run from Tokyo to Hamamatsu station in about four to five hours, though you can always opt to drive yourself the 263 kilometer distance, which takes about three and a half hours.

How To Get To Hamamatsu From Osaka

You can also get to Hamamatsu from Osaka  via the Tokaido Shinkansen Line, which should take less than three hours in total for the trip. Night buses are readily available and take less than five hours one way. If you prefer to drive yourself, the 274 kilometer distance is easily transverse in a little over three hours depending on traffic.  

Where To Stay In Hamamatsu?

Guesthouse hamamatsu – 365base outdoor hostel.

Have you ever thought to yourself, “Man, I really wish that there was a rock climbing wall in my hotel”? If the answer is yes, than 365BASE Outdoor Hostel is perfect for you! Bringing the beauty of nature indoors, this hip hostel offers guests the use of a spacious living area with 150-inch projection screen, bouldering terrace, shared kitchen, shared tatami rom, and bike and car hire.  

Why Guests Love It : Guests are over the moon about 365BASE ’s cleanliness, attention to detail, and simple yet elegant interior stylings. The soft, welcoming ambience is hard to find anywhere else, and the open design allows guests to interact with one another and make lasting friendships and unique connections. If your Japanese is a bit rusty – or non-existent – don’t worry; the staff are able to communicate in your language!

Book It Now :  365BASE Outdoor Hostel

Hotel Hamamatsu – Hamamatsu Hotel

The soft sounds of a classical song played on a Yamaha grand piano drift across the lobby of this hotel during the day; after all, Hamamatsu is at the forefront of musical instrument engineering! The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet that includes vegetarian options – a real find for those traveling with dietary restrictions. The real gem of this hotel is the location, as it’s just a four minute walk away from Hamamatsu Station and less than half an hour away from Hamamatsu Castle and Lake Hamana.

Why Guests Love It : Those that book the Hamamatsu Hotel feel like they have a real peace of mind during their stay, mainly due to the safe and relaxing environment of the hotel and surrounding area. Staff are always at the ready to assist with requests for luggage store or massage services. Free video-on-demand programs can be viewed on flat-screen TVs available in every room, and nearby restaurants and onsite vending machines allow for comfortable access to food and beverages.

Book It Now : Hamamatsu Hotel

Ryokan Hamamatsu – Ryokan Nakaya

This ryokan has all the features of a traditional Japanese hotel: cultural decorations, tatami flooring, futon bedding, public baths, sliding paper screen doors, floor chairs, and hospitality that few countries can rival. Even with so many wonderful aspects of this ryokan, guests can’t get enough of the owner, who is a kindly grandfather figure that goes out of his way to make every stay a pleasant memory for his patrons.

Why Guests Love It : Being next to a gorgeous lake means waking up to beautiful reflective sunrises and watching stunningly golden sunsets. Each room has a private bathroom, and the ryokan is situated within driving distance to the Hamamatsu Train Station. Guests also have the option to rent bikes from Ryokan Nakaya , which many do to ride around the lake and enjoy the spectacular views.

Book It Now : Ryokan Nakaya

The 10 Best Things To Do In Hamamatsu

• Hamamatsu Castle
• Hamamatsu Flower Park
• Lake Hamana
• Nakatajima Sand Dunes
• Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika
• Ryotanji Temple
• Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments
• Ryugashido Cavern
• Hamamatsu Air Base Museum
• Hamanako Pal Pal

1. Hamamatsu Castle

Sometimes referred to as Shusse Castle, Hamamatsu Castle is a replica hirayama-style Japanese castle that sits in central Hamamatsu for all to see. Made of wood and stone and standing three stories tall, this lovely castle is surely a sight that needs to be seen. Even if you’re not one for ancient castles, a wonderful park that’s fit for visitors of any age!

Young couples, families with children, college students, elderly travelers, and just about anyone else who enjoys Japanese nature and beauty will enjoy a trip to Hamamatsu Castle and th Hamamatsu Castle Park. Thankfully for visitors, you can reach the castle easily by bus, taxi, or just by walking!

2. Hamamatsu Flower Park

This spectacular Japanese flower park is open to the public for free from July to September with prices as low as 1,000 yen in the spring and 500 yen in winter. Set on the edge of Lake Hamana, this park covers 30,000 square meters and have over 3,000 different species of plants. Though there are seasonal flowers that only bloom during certain times of the year, the park also has many plants that are at their peak throughout the year, and might be just as enjoyable to view!

The most popular time to come to the park every year is in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full swing. Other seasons provide just as many beautiful flowers and greenery to observe, however. During  Autumn in Japan you can admire amethyst sage, roses, and chrysanthemum. In winter in Japan , the park goes into a full winter mode and features illuminations, Christmas trees, and red flowers set against green background. No matter when you go, there will always be something beautiful to see!

3. Lake Hamana

Sizing up as Japan’s tenth largest lake, this large body of water was once a fresh water lake. Unfortunately, due to earthquakes and tsunamis the lake has become brackish, though it still allows for many fun activities and delicious seafood. The lake itself is actually known for the delectable eel and oysters it produces, as well as blowfish and pike conger; be sure to try some while you’re in the area!

Visitors enjoy a trip to the number of hot springs near the lake, though for some just the sight of the cool, calm waters is enough to make them feel relaxed and refreshed. You can also see a beautiful red torii in the lake like the one in Miyajima Island near Hiroshima .

4. Nakatajima Sand Dunes

Though the spot is often overlooked as an enjoyable place, many people find that visiting the Nakatajima Sand Dunes yields wild excitement, unbridled fun, and fond memories. You can enjoy a brisk walk along the dunes while the wind pushes at your back, slide down the sandy hills using a plastic sled or cardboard, and watch the native wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you might even see a Loggerhead turtle or some terrific kites!

Aside from the enjoyment spent on the dunes, visitors can also find relaxation in the naturally forming art on the dunes. When the wind blows over the large bodies of sand, they create special patters call ‘fumon’. These patters are said to look like works of art, and can be admired for quite some time. The area is so beautiful that film crews are often in the area to use it in a movie or promotional video. If you play your cards right, you just might appear in the background of one!

5. Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika

If you’re at all familiar with the size of Tokyo Dome, then you’ll understand just how big this park is; nine times the size of Tokyo Dome! This fruit-themed agricultural park allows visitors to choose between 15 different fruits throughout the year to pick by yourself! Due to the mild climate of Hamamatsu City, fruits can grow for longer than they would elsewhere in the country, allowing patrons an extended time frame to enjoy their favorite sweet foods!

There are also other activities to enjoy at the park, such as the winery for adults and dinosaur square for younger visitors. A large food court is perfect for digging into some of the fresh fruit you’ve just picked, as well as sampling other cuisine from the other. Make sure you come with an empty stomach, as you’ll likely fill it up on delicious hand-picked fruits!

6. Ryotanji Temple

If you’re thinking of sneaking into this temple, then think again! The floors were constructed using the “Ugisubari” method, meaning that the planks purposefully creak with each and every step to alert those who used to live inside to intruders. Another cool feature of this temple is the pond, Shinji Ike, found outside the temple that’s in the shape of the Chinese character for heart, or kokoro.

Though the inside of the temple is always entertaining and interesting to tour, the outside and surrounding areas can be just as intriguing to see. A garden outside displays rock formations that pay homage to those normally found in a Zen temple, and the garden changes its appearance every season. If you can come back more than once you’ll be surprised – it looks like a completely different place from one season to another!  

7. Museum of Musical Instruments

Not only does this museum feature one of the most important commodities produced in Hamamatsu, it’s also the first municipal museum of musical instruments in all of Japan! The hope of the museum is to allow everyone who visits and unbiased look at the history and advancement of musical instruments from around the world.

The museum also hopes that through learning about different musical instruments used by various cultures worldwide, those that visit the museum will gain a deeper understanding of those outside of their own countries and feel more connected to the rest of the world. It seems to be a big dream, but after visiting the museum yourself you’ll come to realize that that dream is one step closer to fruition!  

8. Ryugashido Cavern

This limestone cave is actually home to the largest stalactite in the entire Tokai region! The cavern itself stretches out for 1046 meters, but only 400 meters are available to the public to view. The main attraction of the cavern is a 30 meter high subterranean waterfall, Ogon no Otaki. After a long trek through the cavern, explores love to enjoy a Material Gelato from the nearby eatery. Make with local Inasa milk and seasonal fruits and vegetables, it’s as authentic as it is delicious!

No matter what season you decide to travel to Japan in, Ryugashido Cavern is always 18ºC, meaning that it’s comfortable in summer and warm in winter. If you’re feeling too hot while traveling through the cavern, you can always dip your feet into calcium rich waters at the free foot bathing station, or youkitadou!  

9. Hamamatsu Air Base Museum

This spot is a place where those who are really into aviation will find the most joy. The best part about the museum? Entry is absolutely free! Upon entering the building you’ll be greeted with an entire fleet of unique and interesting aircrafts. Along with airplanes, there are also helicopters and flight simulators that you can actually attempt to pilot!

One of the highlights of these museum has to be the costume rental! You can dress up like a real pilot and take a ton of photographs to commemorate the event. This is great for those traveling with children, as the costumes can fit children as young as three! You don’t have to leave out any family members when you explore this awesome museum and make great memories!

10. Hamanako Pal Pal

Last, but certainly not least, is the Hamanako Pal Pal Amusement Park! This resort-style amusement park has about 30 different attractions to choose from, and the location next to Lake Hamana provides for fun times as well as great sights! No matter how old you or members of your party are, there are plenty of rides and attractions to satisfy thrill seekers and small children alike!

Along with all the things that make a great amusement park, Hamanako Pal Pal also has later hour seasons where the park is open even longer and accompanied by beautiful and exciting fireworks displays! There’s also a sister park called Pal Pool that’s open during the summer as a water park. If you’re in Hamamatsu during the summer and want to beat the heat, Pal Pool is the place to be!

Although Hamamatsu doesn’t present itself as a tourist city, there’s plenty for travelers to see and enjoy while visiting this historic and memorable city! No matter where your interests lie – museums, amusement parks, gardens, natural formations, or Japanese foliage and flowers – there’s always a little something for everyone. So take a chance on a city that’s just waiting to be discovered and find out what Hamamatsu has in store for you!

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Things to do in Hamamatsu

With a focus on both industry and creativity, Hamamatsu has lots to offer visitors with time to explore.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: January 9, 2024

From the excellent museums, to the surrounding nature, there are plenty of things to see in Hamamatsu.

With easy access on the Shinkansen, here are some of the top reasons for why you should visit Hamamatsu:

Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments

Suzuki plaza, hamamatsu air park, hamamatsu science museum, hamamatsu castle, ryotanji temple, kanzanji temple, okuyama hokoji, hamamatsu flower park, hamamatsu fruit park, ryugashido cavern, nakatajima sand dunes, kanzanji onsen, kanzanji ropeway, lake cruise, nukumori no mori.

As I come out of the main train station at Hamamatsu, I spot a small crowd gathered in a corner of the plaza. Curious, I head over to see what’s happening.

It turns out there’s a boy band performing, with a simple set of speakers set up on the tiles in front of a garden bed. The audience of several dozen – almost all young women – are watching and filming on their phones while the four band members sing and dance (the only lyric I understand is “arigatoo” – thank you).

The black tracksuits of the boys (men?) have a splash of pink emblazoned with their band’s name: Cool-X. A quick search tells me that Cool-X is from nearby Nagoya and has been releasing its saccharine J-Pop since 2019.

Here in Hamamatsu, this is not an unusual sight. In fact, I’m told that it’s pretty common to see someone performing on the plaza most days. After all, Hamamatsu is known as the City of Music in Japan – unofficially at first, and officially as a UNESCO Creative City since 2014.

As I start to explore some of the best things to do in Hamamatsu, music initially plays a large part – especially at the Museum of Musical Instruments (which I’ll talk about in a moment).

This is because Hamamatsu is traditionally an industrial city, and some of the main manufacturers headquartered here are musical instrument companies. Yamaha is one of the most famous, but there’s also Kawai and Roland.

(The other best-known company based in Hamamatsu is the automotive manufacturer Suzuki, while Honda was founded here but is now based elsewhere in Japan.)

And when the industrial blends with the artistic, as it does with these instrument companies, creativity is released – and it can be found across Hamamatsu, from the architecture (especially Act Tower, shaped like a harmonica), the cultural sights, and even the food.

But beyond the music and the artistic sights, there are lot to see in Hamamatsu, from its authentic heritage to its impressive natural reserves, making for an interesting stop for visitors to Japan.

Visiting Hamamatsu

It’s very easy to visit Hamamatsu, as the city is on the Shinkansen (bullet train) line between Tokyo and Osaka, and is about 1.5 hours from either. Although there’s enough to do in Hamamatsu to spend a couple of days here, the convenience of the Shinkansen stop means that, at the very least, you can spend the day here as you pass through.

The city centre has a few of the main Hamamatsu attractions, so you’ll be able to walk from the station or your nearby hotel to visit them. But ultimately you’ll also want to get out to other parts of the city, and will probably need to use public transport.

For instance, Lake Hamana (Hamanako), about 12 kilometres west of the city centre, has some of the most popular things for visitors to Hamamatsu and you may want to spend the day out there exploring some of those sights.

Elsewhere, some of the other natural and cultural sights are also on the outskirts of the city and will take a little bit of time to reach by bus (if you don’t have a car). It’s why basing yourself in the city for a night or two is a bit easier than just a day trip.

Ultimately, Hamamatsu may not be as famous as some of the other cities in this part of Honshu, where Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya are all just a short ride away. But its unique attractions and relaxed authentic atmosphere makes it a nice change from those other crowded spots.

The fact you don’t need to go out of your way to visit Hamamatsu is another bonus, making it easy to add to a trip and offering something a bit different – especially for those who have been to Japan before.

To help with your planning, let’s now have a look at the best things to do in Hamamatsu.

There are almost 20 museums in Hamamatsu, celebrating the city’s famous residents, festivals, and history. But I think these four are the most impressive ones.

Of all the things to do in Hamamatsu, this museum is one of the highlights – and is the main reason a lot of people visit the city.

The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is a huge complex that has about 1500 instruments on display. They come from all across the world, with quite comprehensive collections from Asian countries like Indonesia and Korea. And, of course, there are lots of examples from Japan.

Although you can’t touch most of the instruments, there are audio recordings so you can hear what they sound like. And there is one area with some examples that you can use.

As you might expect, Hamamatsu companies like Yamaha and Roland are well represented. But another of the highlights is the excellent collection of 19th-century pianos and related keyboard instruments.

While we’re talking about music, it’s also worth mentioning another ‘museum’ elsewhere in the city called Yamaha Innovation Road . This exhibition was opened by the instrument company to show the highlights from its 130 years of history, and there’s an interesting collection of organs and pianos.

The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is open everyday from 9:30 – 17:00. It is closed on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month

A standard ticket is ¥800 (US$5.65).

Along with Yamaha, one of the most famous companies in Hamamatsu is Suzuki, and there’s a way to explore its story at a museum called Suzuki Plaza.

One floor of Suzuki Plaza is dedicated to the history of the company, which began in 1909, looking at the development of its motorbikes, cars, and other products (such as outboard motors).

The other part of the museum looks at topics like factory production, how the business operates, and its international work. There’s even a flight simulator, which is pretty cool!

Officially called the Air Park JASDF Hamamatsu Air Base Museum, this is part of Japan’s Ministry of Defence and is set on a working air base, where you may see active planes taking off or landing.

As far as the museum goes, though, there’s a large collection of military aircraft that you can see, along with flight simulators where you can pretend that you’re actually flying one of them.

The Hamamatsu Air Park is a pretty interesting site, and I think it’s surprising it doesn’t get a bit more attention.

The Hamamatsu Air Park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 – 16:00. It is closed on Monday, every last Tuesday of every month, Tuesday to Thursday of the second week of March year-end, and 1 January.

Admission to the Hamamatsu Air Park is free.

For most visitors, I probably wouldn’t recommend the Hamamatsu Science Museum as something to prioritise, because it’s mainly aimed at children. But that’s why I wanted to mention it because it might be useful if you’re travelling with some young ones.

There are six themes in the museum, focusing on topics like nature, space, and sound – plus there is a planetarium and regularly changing special exhibitions.

The Hamamatsu Science Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 – 17:00; July – 1 September from 9:30 – 18:00.

A standard ticket is ¥600 (US$4.25).

Although Hamamatsu is quite a modern city, with a focus on industry, there’s still lots of history to be found here.

1300 years ago, it was the regional capital; and it became an important castle town during the Edo period from about 1600. Some of the city’s religious sites capture the heritage the best and are well worth a visit.

The Hamamatsu Castle that you see today is a replica, rebuilt here in 1958. The first one was founded in 1570 but was destroyed during the Meiji Restoration.

But don’t let that put you off, because although it’s not original – and not even that big, to be honest – the history is still very important. The castle’s main claim to fame is that it was home for 17 years to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the man who would go on to unite Japan and found the Edo period of history when Tokyo became the capital.

You’ll learn some of this history, along with more about the city, from the exhibition on the way up to the top of the building.

Hamamatsu Castle is open every day from 8:30 – 16:30. The castle is closed 29/30/31 December.

A standard ticket is ¥200 (US$1.40). Junior high school students, younger and seniors (70+ years) are free.

One of the oldest and most important temples around Hamamatsu is Ryotanji Temple, founded in 733 by a family who used it for more than 40 generations!

The buildings themselves are exquisite, with detailed artwork on the paper walls and interesting carvings and features incorporated into the design.

But the highlight of Ryotanji Temple – and the reason many people visit – is the Zen garden. The large landscaped area is full of symbolism, with a green slope covered in rocks and plants rising up from a pond. You can sit on the temple’s balcony to take it all in, appreciating the aesthetics and finding some calm in the moment.

Ryotanji Temple is open from 9:00 – 16:30.

A standard ticket is ¥500 (US$3.50).

On the edge of Lake Hamana, at the foot of a hill, Kanzanji Temple is another of the most popular temples to visit around Hamamatsu. It’s not the building itself that’s the main attraction, but the temple’s grounds that stretch up the hill, called Tateyama.

Taking the main hiking trail up Tateyama, you’ll find impressive statues amongst the trees (including a 16-metre-high Kannon Bodhisattva), as well as a cave where the temple was apparently first founded in the 9th century.

Even beyond the religious icons on Tateyama, the paths over this 50-metre-high hill offer beautiful lake views and a nice natural escape.

Kanzanji Temple is open from 8:00 – 17:30.

Entrance to the Kanzanji Temple is free.

Away from the city, amongst the forest, the Okuyama Hokoji Temple feels serene. This sprawling complex, with more than 20 buildings, is set in a dramatic location on a hillside on the edge of a valley, surrounded by trees.

While it’s certainly possible to just come and see the site, which I would recommend, one of the things that makes the temple so special is the opportunity to take part in a Zazen meditation session.

Zazen is a discipline that involves keeping the correct posture throughout the meditation – and I actually got a bit stressed when I did it and the priest paced up and down with a stick, waiting to hit me if I got it wrong. But I’m told that’s how it’s supposed to be.

Along with the meditation, you can also have a shojin-ryori lunch, which is a vegetarian meal originally created for Buddhist monks. It’s also possible to stay overnight at the Okuyama Hokoji Temple .

Okuyama Hokoji is open from 9:00 – 16:00.

Even though Hamamatsu is in one of the most populated parts of Japan, it’s surrounded by beautiful nature – one of the reasons it’s so popular with domestic tourists.

And, along with the natural landscapes around the city, there are also a few important Hamamatsu attractions that embrace the region’s (and even the world’s) flora.

There are plenty of tourists who come to Hamamatsu just for the Hamamatsu Flower Park . This enormous landscaped garden has more than 3000 species of plants, with blooms at different times throughout the year to create colourful vistas.

Like much of Japan, the cherry blossoms are popular and they create pink magic in March, but there are also beds with flowers like tulips in April, hydrangeas in June, and roses in October.

As well as local flowers, there are sections devoted to foreign exotic plants, including from Europe, Mexico, and Bali. there’s a greenhouse for indoor plants, a bus around the site, and shops and food outlets.

The Hamamatsu Flower Park is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 – 20:00, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 – 20:30.

Now, of course, you’re not supposed to pick the flowers at the flower park – but, at the Hamamatsu Fruit Park, that’s the whole point!

This large garden has at least 15 types of fruit that you can take directly from the plant. From strawberries at the start of the year, through to apricots, then peaches and pears, before the apples and oranges at the end of the year.

The park is about more than just the harvesting, though. There are also playgrounds for the kids, restaurants, performances, and even glamping on site!

Hamamatsu Fruit Park is open from 9:00 – 18:00.

A standard ticket is ¥730 (US$5.15).

Ryugashido Cavern may be one of the largest caves in Japan – but it wasn’t discovered until the 1980s! Deep within Ryugashi Mountain, this limestone formation is thought to be about 250 million years old.

The cave is about a kilometre long and you can go in for the first 400 metres. Decorated with spectacular stalagmites and stalactites, there’s also a 30-metre-high waterfall inside.

The temperature inside Ryugashido Cavern stays at around 20 degrees all year round, so it’s a particularly nice escape in the hot summer months.

Ryugashido Cavern is open from 9:00 – 17:00.

A standard ticket is ¥1000 (US$7).

On the coast near Hamamatsu, the Nakatajima Sand Dunes are another of the region’s most popular natural sights. Four kilometres long, they’re the third-largest sand dunes in Japan.

Some people come just to walk along the dunes for the views, others come for the sunrises and sunsets. In May, there’s a kite flying festival that is particularly popular.

As well as the landscapes created by the sand, the dunes at Nakatajima are also significant as an egg-laying area for loggerhead turtles, with the eggs hatching between August and October.

Hamana Lake

The biggest natural attraction of all near Hamamatsu is Hamana Lake, a large lake on the coast that has a mixture of fresh and saltwater within it.

There are lots of tourist facilities around the shoreline and a few of the things to do in Hamamatsu that I’ve already mentioned are closer to the lake than the city. But here are the other main attractions.

Close to Kanzanji Temple, which I talked about earlier, is an onsen area called Kanzanji Onsen, which was created in the 1950s after a hot spring was drilled here and the town formed around it.

Most of the hot baths here are connected to hotels and ryokans but can be used by day visitors as well as guests. The most popular ones are the Sago Royal Hotel and Hanasaki-no-yu, which have indoor and outdoor baths.

The town feels like a mini resort, full of domestic tourists and with a cute theme park. But there are a couple of attractions that are particularly well-known that I’ll mention next.

You can’t really miss the Kanzanji Ropeway , which stretches across the water from the Kanzanji Onsen area, up to the top of a forested hill.

The ride up the ropeway in the carriage only takes a few minutes and deposits you at a multi-storey building with different viewing points for spectacular vistas across the lake, over the region, and even out to sea.

Among the shops and food outlets at the top of the hill, there’s also the Hamanako Orgel Museum , which has an interesting collection of music machines (a lovely link back to the musical heritage of Hamamatsu).

Kanzanji Ropeway is open from 9:30 – 17:30 but may change depending on the season.

A standard ticket is ¥1,000 (US$7) and ¥550 (US$3.90) for children 3 years old and below.

Perhaps the best view of the water is… well, from the water! And the best way to get out on Hamano Lake is with one of the sightseeing cruises that travel around the lake.

The standard cruise takes about 30 minutes and heads from Uchiura Bay out to the main part of the lake where it does a loop near the shoreline.

There are regular departures during the day, and there’s also often a sunset cruise, which is a particularly special experience at the end of the day.

And, finally, let’s finish with one of the quirkiest things to see in Hamamatsu – the quaint little village of Nukumori no Mori.

The name translates as ‘Warm Forest’, which is fitting because it feels a bit like a fairytale town amongst the trees. It was founded by an architect about twenty years ago and has grown into a small collection of buildings that all have a quirky style about them – a bit like Ghibli even (although there’s no official link).

While it’s not a large site, it’s a bit of fun and definitely makes for some good photos.

Time Travel Turtle was supported by Hamamatsu and Lake Hamana Tourism Bureau but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

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2 thoughts on “Things to do in Hamamatsu”

It is pretty interesting to read all your stories of Hamamatsu even though I was with you for a couple days. Lots of nice and funny memories are coming back to me. I also have learned a lot from your writing. Thank you very much. I hope lots of tourists from all over the world stop by Hamamatsu even a short time stay and enjoy their wonderful time. If they need more information about Hamamatsu, Mr Suzuki is here. Also, if they need an English speaking guide or translator, I am here for them!!!!

The only mention you made of seeing Hammamatsu without a car is “to take public transport” .Such a big help. (sarcasm)

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Hamamatsu City Exploration

Exceeds all expectations - Day 3

We saved Hamamatsu city for our last day because the weather was forecast to be cloudy and it would be close to the station for our return trip. It turned out to be a beautiful day.

First, we walked about twenty minutes to Hamamatsu Castle . Built in 1958, this replica of the 1532 original was home to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, a primary figure in uniting Japan, who would later move the capital to Edo (Tokyo). Inside is a nice historical display, showing reproductions of the armor used by the Tokugawa family. What I liked most was the Castle Park, with lots of open space and nice walking trails leading to small ponds, waterfalls, and gardens.

We left in search of Gosha Shrine and stumbled across the Hamamatsu Reconstruction Memorial Museum. It is free and filled with pictures and artifacts from 1931 to reconstruction after WWII, up to the 1960’s. It is a sober reminder of the effects of war on the general population, and also how resilient the Japanese people are.

We made it to Gosha Shrine , dually dedicated to parenting and to the lands. Close by was Houji Temple, where Hiro stopped to pray.

We then walked another fifteen minutes to Act Tower observation deck . It was closed due to covid, but the Act Tower forest was open and we enjoyed a rooftop stroll with many great views of the city.

It was now way past our lunch time so we began walking down to the street level, when we noticed a big billboard advertisement for Mein Schloss Restaurant. Schloss is German for castle and the entrance from the street makes you think you are entering one. Many years ago, I had the opportunity to visit some authentic beer halls in Munich and once we were in the restaurant it brought back great memories. The food was excellent and they brew four different Hamamatsu local beers.

With full stomachs we walked a few blocks to the final destination of our trip, the Hamamatsu City Museum of Musical Instruments . An appropriate place when you consider that Hamamatsu is a UNESCO City of Music. Did you know that 80% of all wind instruments produced in Japan are made in Hamamatsu? Let us not forget that Yamaha and Kawai originally built their organs and pianos in this city.

I was blown away by the immensity of the museum and it would be difficult to find a musical instrument anywhere in the world that is not represented here. As you explore each section there are video and audio presentations giving you an idea of the sounds and origins of each type of instrument on display. There is even a hands-on room where you can try out your musical talent. To top that they even have mini-concerts several times a day, played by staff members.

After enjoying a pleasant piano concert, we headed back to the station to catch our train back home.

I get excited when I visit new places, but this city left a deep impression on me and I will definitely come back to continue my exploration.

3 DAYS IN HAMAMATSU SERIES

1. Hamamatsu and Lake Hamanako

2. Ryotanji Temple and Ryugashido Cave

3. Hamamatsu City Exploration

Getting there

All places are within walking distance of Hamamatsu Station. There are also regular local bus routes to each venue.

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By Rey Waters

Community writer

Information

265-16 Sunayamacho, Naka Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-0926 ( Directions )

053-452-1634

hamamatsu-japan.com

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Top 8 Best Things to do in Hamamatsu, Japan

What are the top tourist spots in hamamatsu.

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Bucket List: 8 Best Places to Visit in Hamamatsu, Japan

Table of Contents

H amamatsu is one of Japan’s premier manufacturing hubs that create motorcycles and musical instruments. Some of the companies you may be familiar with are Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. While this is mainly an industrial city, there are plenty of things to see, such as museums, temples, parks, and even castles. Here are some of the things you should consider doing during your stay:

Have Fun at Lake Hamana

Seeing Lake Hamana is part of tourists’ bucket lists. This lake is home to 800 varieties of fishes, shellfishes, and other aquatic creatures such as eels, oysters, and turtles. Lake Hamana is also a combination of fresh and saltwater.

Some activities you can do here are parasailing, windsurfing, fishing, and even cycling nearby to admire the scenery.

Tour Hamamatsu Castle

The Hamamatsu Castle is this city’s historical trademark. This museum contains several artifacts such as maps, family crests, swords, and armors. When you go downstairs, you will find Hamamatsu Castle Park.

This park is a place for visitors to relax as they are surrounded by 400 blooming cherry trees. Other facilities include an observatory and water well.

Learn from the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments

The Hamamatsu Museum is the first Japanese museum that is dedicated to preserving musical instruments. The musical instruments come from all over the world, such as Asia, America, Africa, Europe, and Oceana.

There are 1,500 varieties of instruments that you can use in this museum. Other events include concerts, lectures, and workshops.

Explore the Ryugashido Cavern

The Rgugashido Cavern is another place that cannot be missed. This limestone cavern is approximately 250 years old and measures up to 1000 meters long. Asides from the limestone, what makes this cave special is The Golden Waterfall.

This cool waterfall is the biggest one in Japan as it measures up to 30 meters high.

Spend the day at the Nakatajima Sand Dunes

The Nakatajima Sand Dunes is a sight to behold for tourists. This venue measures up to 600 meters long and 4 kilometers wide. Tourists go here to snap pictures of the dunes’ wind ripples that were created from strong winds.

Other activities you can do are watching the sunset and observing sea turtles.

Relax at Hamamatsu Flower Park

The Hamamatsu Flower Park is this city’s most aesthetically pleasing tourist site. This park measures up to 30000 square meters and contains 3000 different plant species.

The tourists flock here to see the Yoshino cherry trees and double cherry blossoms. The best time to visit here is during November when a flower competition is held.

Enjoy the Hamanako Pal Pal

Hamanako Pal Pal is a resort-style park where all people of all ages will surely have fun. This theme park contains 30 attractions such as thrill rides and indoor rides for kids.

If you plan to swim, this resort also has a wave pool complemented by a giant tilting bucket and waterfall.

See the animals at the Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens

The Hamamatsu Zoological Gardens is another natural environment worth visiting. This zoo contains 100 animal species, most of which are Primates.

Some exhibited animals are the golden lion tamarins, Japanese wild boars, and Japanese monkeys. The zoo is complemented with cherry blossoms and other plant species.

Hamamatsu Japan Travel and Tour Packages

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Hamamatsu hotels and resorts via Agoda , Booking , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist spots in Hamamatsu? Follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , and Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

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Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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What to do, 15 things to do in hamamatsu.

Located halfway between Tokyo and Osaka, Hamamatsu is the provincial city of Shizuoka Prefecture. The city is located in the center of Japan and takes advantage of its location in attracting a number of local and foreign visitors. Having ocean, river, mountains, industries and a lot more interesting activities, the city offers splendid leisure activities with beautiful sceneries. Besides its appealing location and tremendous treasures, the city also houses the world-renowned industries Yamaha, Honda, and Suzuki.

1. Hamamatsu Downtown Area:

This is the central location of Hamamatsu city for all cultural, economical and governmental affairs. It is too closed to the Hamamatsu station and to the east of this station there stands Act tower that has been the symbol of this city. Walking around the area, the tourists can enjoy drinking, shopping and eating from a variety of shops. Moreover, the Act Tower itself is the biggest building in the region that must be visited. This 45 story building has an observation deck at the height of 185 meters from where you can enjoy a splendid view of the Pacific Ocean and Mt. Fuji.

Information Name: Hamamatsu Downtown Address: 103-2 Motoshiro-chō, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka-ken 430-8652 Access: Approx. 70 min by bus from Mt.Fuji Shizuoka Airport to Hamamatsu Station | Approx. 20 min by car by car (via expressway) from Sagara Makinohara I.C to Hamamatsu I.C. Website: http://www.city.hamamatsu.shizuoka.jp/

2. Hamamatsu Castle Park:

In remembrance of Tokugawa Ieyasu, his residential place ‘Hamamatsu Castle’ was reconstructed and the surrounding areas are transformed into sightseeing parks. This is one of the best cherry blossom spots in the country having around 370 cherry trees planted there. A flock of people rushes to the Castle Park for having fun with families. You will find many of the visitors picnicking at this spot especially from the beginning of March to April (the peak season of blossomed cherry trees).

Information Name: Hamamatsu Castle Park Address: 100-2, Motoshirocho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu-shi,Shizuoka,Japan 430-0946 Phone: +81 53-453-3872 Access: 15 – 20 minutes walk from Hamamatsu station Opening hour: 8:30 hours Closing hour: 16:30 hours Website: http://www.city.hamamatsu.shizuoka.jp/lifeindex/play/park/parks/hamamatsujou/siro1.htm

3. Hamamatsu Kite Festival:

Source: Wikipedia

Get ready for the real fun of floating kites. Yes, the Hamamatsu Kite Festival sets the fire on with millions of visitors with their colorful kites. The festival is held every year from May 3 through May 5. Over the Nakatajima Sand Dunes, the kites are flown in the sky to the maximized heights. And at night, you can see hundreds of floating carved sculpture works in the center of Hamamatsu City. The festival is unique and will give you an unforgettable experience.

Information Name: Hamamatsu Kite Festival Price: Free (Entry) Website: http://hamamatsu-daisuki.net/matsuri/

4. Lake Hamana:

Being the 10th largest lake in Japan, the lake Hamana is an ideal spot for enjoying marine and water sports. The lake is quite popular for boat excursions in the summer season while the interesting water sports activities include, skiing, wind surfing, fishing, and kayaking. Moreover, Hamanako has been the center of attention for its oysters, pike congerand blowfish.

Information Name: Laka Hamana Phone: +81-53-452-1634 Opening hour: 9:00 hours (for inquiries) Closing hour: 19:00 hours (for inquiries) Website: http://hamamatsu-daisuki.net/

5. Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments:

If you want to immerse in the world of music, Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is the worth visiting place. The museum exhibits the best collection of musical instruments where you can find an extensive variety of about 1200 instruments from all over the world. The first floor is dedicated to the instruments from Japan and Asia, while the other levels showcase instruments from rest of the world including South America, Africa, Europe etc. You can even listen to the music played by these instruments or can even play some of the instruments yourself.

Information Name: Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments Address: Adjacent to Act Tower, Hamamatsu,Shizuoka Prefecture Phone: +81 53-451-1128 Price: 500 JPY (Adults) | 350 JPY ( High school students) | Free (for over 69 and physically challenged people) Access: 10 minutes walk from JR Hamamatsu Station Opening hour: 9:30 hours Closing hour: 17:00 hours Holiday: 2 nd & 4 th Wednesdays Website: http://www.gakkihaku.jp/

6. Gosha Shrine & Park:

Source: Wikimedia

Among many of the shrines in Hamamatsu city, Gosha Shrine is a wonderful sight to visit. The shrine is the home of gods of land and gods of parenting. It offers a lot of treasures in the form of Shinto water ablution pavilion, hand-cut stones, and the magnificent Unateri-nomitama monument. Closed to the shrine is Gosha park that is connected to the community hall through a red bridge called as ‘Kodomono Hashi’ (or Children’s Bridge).

Information Name: Gosha Shrine & Park Address: 302-5 Togimachi, Naka Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture 430-0937 Phone: +81 53-452-3001 Access: 15 minutes walk from Hamamatsu Station

7. Nakatajima Sand Dunes:

Nakatajima Sand Dunes is one of three amazing sand dunes of Japan. Covering an area of 4 km from east to west, this place is a perfect spot for locals and tourists. The patterns drawn by the winds on sands are simply fabulous. Moreover, the spot presents a beautiful relation between sea and sand. A number of visitors rush to the place for kite flying, playing with fun, riding bicycles and a lot more. The great Hamamatsu Kite Festival is held at this beach that creates a vibrant atmosphere with colorful flying kites.

Information Name: Nakatajima Sand Dunes Address: 1313 Nakatajimacho, Minami Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture 430-0845 Phone: +81-53-441-6211 (Hamamatsu Festival Hall) Access: Approx. 15 minutes by Entetsu bus bound for Nakatajima from Hamamatsu Station of JR Tokaido Shinkansen Website: http://hamamatsu-daisuki.net/

8. Hamamatsu Flower Park:

A wonderful botanical garden at the edge of Lake Hamana that is filled up with the breathtaking beauty of flowers is Hamamatsu Flower Park. The park is filled up with around 100,000 plants and flowers of 3,000 species with roses, tulips, irises and cherry blossoms as the most prominent ones. For enhanced attractions, the greenhouse exhibits, and water fountain displays are made available to entertain visitors at the best. It is one of the best spots in Hamamatsu for families where shops and restaurants are also present.

Information Name: Hamamatsu Flower Park Address: 195 Kanzanji-cho, Nishi-ku Hamamatsu-shi,Shizuoka,Japan431-1209 Phone: +81 53-487-0511 Access: 40 minutes ride via bus from Hamamatsu station. Take Kanzanji Onsen line bus to Flower Park Opening hour: 9:00 hours (May to Sep) | 9:00 hours (Oct to Nov) | 10:00 hours (Dec to Feb) Closing hour: 17:00 hours (May to Sep) | 16:30 hours (Oct to Nov) | 16:30 hours (Dec to Feb) Holiday: 29 th  to 31 st December

9. Hamamatsu Fruit Park:

When visiting Hamamatsu, one must not forget to experience the fun of fruit picking in a spectacular orchard. At Hamamatsu Fruit Park, you can witness this fun in an amazing orchard where one can pick 15 different kinds of fruits throughout the year. This park consists of an east area that comprises of a big orchard with different fruit plantations as well as dinosaur square and winery. While the west area has a food court that offers a dessert buffet, with amazing varieties and 300 persons’ seating capacity. And above all the mind blowing Tokinosumika night illumination is also available for the limited time.

Information Name: Hamamatsu Fruit Park Address: 4263-1 Miyakoda-cho, Kita-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka Phone: +81 53-428-5211 Access: 11 minutes journey through train from Hamamatsu station | 60 minutes ride through bus from Hamamatsu Station Opening hour: 9:00 hours Closing hour: 18:00 hours

10. Kanzanji Temple:

Located on the Mt. Tateyama, the Kaznaji Temple belongs to Soto sect and was established by Kukai in 810. Kanzanji Temple not only nourishes you with the spirituality, in fact, the footpath around the temple is prepared to let the visitors walk around while enjoying the views of splendid Hamana Lake. Besides the beautiful views of the lake, the natural red quartz rock formations can also be enjoyed. Ever year on December 15, the Fire Festival is held at the temple in which priests and monks arrange a prayer service for good health, fire prevention, and harvests.

Information Name: Kanzanji Temple Address: 2231 Kanzanjicho, Nishi Ward, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture 431-1209 Phone: +81 53-487-0107 Access: Take Kanzanji Onsen, Murakushi line bus (about 40 minutes) from Hamamatsu Station  at bus stop # 1 of the bus terminal to Kanzanji Onsen. Then walk for about 10 minutes.

11. Hamanako Pal Pal:

Get ready for an extravagant fun while being near Lake Hamana. The Hamanako Pal Pal is a resort style amusement park that is packed with thrilling rides, games and exhilarating fun that will add pleasant memories to your trip. The Fourth Dimension and Don Black are the most popular rides among kids. And the Ferris Wheel is amazingly delightful that goes up to 60 meters in height. Kids Paradise, Hide and seek with Bakke and a lot more attractions are there to make kids and adults.

Information Name: Hamanako Pal Pal Address: 1891 Kanzanji-cho,Nishi-ku,Hamamatsu-shi,Shizuoka,Japan 431-1209 Phone: +81 53-487-2121 Access: 50 minutes bus ride from Hamamatsu Station Opening hour: 10:00 hours Closing hour: 16:30 hours Holiday: None Website: http://pal2.co.jp/

12. Kakegawa Kachoen Park:

Another exciting destination to head towards  is the one that is located at a distance of 30 minutes from Hamamatsu city. Kakegawa city has further adventures to be explored and Kakegawa Kachoen is one of such attractions in the city. It is basically a theme park with flowers and birds.Throughout the year, you will see different seasonal flowers blooming in the garden. You can touch and play with these birds and will spend the relaxing hours in the glass house that keeps you cool in summer while warm in winter.

Information Name: Kakegawa Kachoen Park Address: 1517 Minamisaigo, Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture 436-0024 Phone: +81 537-62-6363 Access: 24 minutes train ride (on Tokaido Line) from Hamamatsu Station; And 15 minutes walk from Kakegawa Station. Opening hour: 9:00 hours Closing hour: 16:30 hours (Weekdays) |17:00 hours (Sat, Sun, Holidays) Holiday: N/A

13. Kanzanji Onsen:

Your trip to Hamamatsu would be incomplete without taking the healing bath at the biggest onsen called Kanzanji Onsen. This resort has total 25 different baths including indoor baths, outdoor, cold water baths and saunas. The resort is designed to provide visitors a real comfortable space for healing themselves. You will find restaurants, cafes, massage rooms and other beauty facilities as well. And sine Japanese people drink milk after taking a bath so the resort has vending machines selling that milk.

Information Name: Kanzanji Onsen Address: 1891 Kanzanji-cho, Nishi-ku,Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka Phone: +81-53-487-0001 Access: Take the “Kanzanji Onsen” line bus (60 minutes) at bus stop #1 of the bus terminal to “Kanazanji Onsen” then walk for 1 minute Opening hour: 10:00 hours Closing hour: 23:00 hours Website: http://hanasakinoyu.jp/index.html

14. Lake Hamana Cruiser Trip:

Immerse yourself in the refreshing views of Lake Hamana and natural surroundings by having a cruise trip. This luxurious cruise trip will enable you to have a different feeling of this natural landscape. The cruise runs in two courses. One of which is a 60 mins course while the other one is 30 mins. Through this cruise trip, you can easily reach Kanzanji Onsen for relaxing bath and spa facilities. From season to season, different event cruises are also planned including, First Sunrise of The Year Cruise, Bird-Watching Cruise, Sunset Cruise etc.

Information Name: Lake Hamana Cruise Address: 2226-1 Kanzanji-cho, Nishi-ku, Hamamatsu-shi Phone: +81-53-487-0228 Website: http://www.hamanako-yuransen.com/

15.  Hamamatsu City Zoo:

Just located in front of Lake Hamana, Hamamatsu City Zoo is is the place where 400 animals from 120 species are bred here. In order to entertain people, various events are held together in this zoo. You will come across different animals, birds and insects alongside a refreshing view of blooming flowers. At the Southern end of the zoo, there is a flower park connected with the zoo that will make your experience more pleasant.

Information Name: Hamamatsu City Zoo Address: 199 kanzanji-cho,nishi-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka 431-1209 Phone: +81-53-487-1122 Access: Take the “kanzanji onsen” line bus (50 minutes ride) at bus stop #1 of the bus terminal to “Doubutsuen mae” then walk for about 3 minutes Opening hour: 9:00 hours Closing hour: 16:30 hours Holiday: 29 th to 31 st December Website: http://www.hamazoo.net/outlineEn.php

So, you have a complete list of wonderful spots, attractions and sightseeing landscapes of Hamamatsu city. You just need to pack your bags and come out of your home for spending a luxurious trip to this city.  Explore these attractions and immerse yourself in the real fun of natural beauty.

Have a good trip and travel!

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Lake Hamana’s City

Hamamatsu is a middle-sized Japanese city located along the Pacific Coast in the Shizuoka Prefecture. Of an average size, it displays a large variety of hobbies oriented around the vast Lake Hamana-ko. Easily reached by public transportation, it offers an interesting break for travelers willing to discover the surroundings.

A former shogun town during Tokugawa Ieyasu’s reign at the end of the 16th century, Hamamatsu still shows the stigma of this historical past, which can be seen with a quick visit to the dungeon. Yet, its real tourist attraction mostly concerns aquatic hobbies. With Lake Hamana on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the south, the city proudly displays a resort atmosphere.

Hamana-ko’s banks guarantee entertainment. A tiny world was created, where classical shrines and temples live alongside a theme park  🎡 , zoo, botanical garden , music museum , and also resort hotels with onsen   ♨️ (hot springs), ideal for relaxation. The Kanzanji District does particularly well, as it contains many of these attractions. Moreover, it is possible to cross parts of the lake by boat or cable car  🚙 . On its southern side, we discover Bentenjima that ends on the ocean. The sea coast with its palm trees and concrete sidewalks looks like the USA’s eastern coast.

Sand dunes connoisseurs will enjoy those of Nakatajima Sakyu, which are counted among the most important in Japan. Blown by the wind, the dunes form a sea of sand and offer a pleasant view of the blue shades in the ocean and sky. Tourists can also take the time to observe sea turtles ( Caretta caretta ), as the turtles find a protected place to lay down their eggs here.

Okura Act City Hotel Observation Gallery

When we walk back to the central JR Train Station site of Hamamatsu, we recommend travelers go to the Okura Act City Hotel  🏨 , if only for a short time. Located near Shinkansen   🚅 , the Act City tower is easily recognizable by its height, and inside it hides an observatory gallery covering 360° views of the city. When the sky is clear, we can see faraway Mount Fuji   🗻 on the northeast side. Be careful, as this platform is not well indicated. Visitors should go through the lobby to take the elevator to the 44th floor (45F).

Hamamatsu looks like Shizuoka , in terms of urban architecture and has some high buildings but mostly small and low blocks. Downtown is oriented towards the city and has no mountainous landscapes; however, the wind blows strong all year round. From the main train station, numerous buses are available to begin discovering each district. However, the network is very centered and requires returning to the main station to take another bus for further exploration.

Well served by public transportation , Hamamatsu is reachable by trains and planes  ✈️ from the surrounding cities of Nagoya , Osaka , and Tokyo . It can be seen as an interesting stopover on the Tokaido Road or for those looking for a more peaceful way of living in a middle-sized city with numerous activities that are more recreational than traditional. Despite its size and geographical location, Hamamatsu hosts several motorcycle headquarters that participate to diversify the inhabitants and are used to welcoming expatriate communities.

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Hamamatsu Guide

• Published on : 16/11/2013
• by : Japan Experience
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Hamamatsu 浜松市

• Hamamatsu Attractions
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Hamamatsu Map

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Hamamatsu in Shizuoka Prefecture is an industrial city west of Shizuoka city . Hamamatsu has long been known for the production of musical instruments with Yamaha and Kawai prominent in the city, and motorcycles , with Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha also having factories in the area.

Historically Hamamatsu was an important communications center in the Edo Period as it was the meeting place of the Tokaido highway (the route largely followed by today's Tokaido Shinkansen ) and the Shinano higway, which runs north along the Tenyu River to Matsumoto and Nagano .

Hamamatsu is Shizuoka Prefecture's second largest city after Shizuoka City , with a population of around 800,000. Around 18,000 are Japanese Brazilians, many from the São Paulo area, drawn to work in the area's manufacturing industries.

Hamamatsu Castle, Shizuoka

Hamamatsu - Things to see and do

Though not a tourist city per se, Hamamatsu has a number of interesting places to visit. Perhaps Hamamatsu's main attraction is Hamamatsu Castle (Tel: 053 453 3872; 150 yen).

The original Hamamatsu Castle (Shussei Castle) was destroyed in World War II, along with much of the rest of the city, and was rebuilt in 1958.

The original Hamamatsu Castle is related to the life of the warlord Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543-1616) who moved his base from nearby Okazaki Castle  to Hamamatsu in 1570 and lived here as a young man for a further 17 years before moving to Sumpu Castle in what is now modern day Shizuoka city. 

Hamamatsu Castle's grounds, which are now a pleasant park, contain a bronze statue of Ieyasu and are a favorite spot for hanami or cherry-blossom viewing , as the park has over 360 cherry trees. The 3-story reconstructed keep has a small museum packed with samurai armor and Tokugawa memorabilia.

Hamamatsu Castle Park also has the Hamamatsu City Art Museum (Tel: 053 454 6801; 300 yen) with wood block prints by Hiroshige Ando and works by local artists, and the Shoin-tei tea house . The Hamamatsu Literary Memorabilia Museum (Tel: 053 471 5211) is also here, with a collection of Japanese literature focused on the local area.

Arai Checkpoint, Arai-juku, Tokaido, Shizuoka, a short train or bus journey west of Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu's connection with musical instruments is shown at the superb Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments (Tel: 053 451 1128; 400 yen) in the Act City complex near Hamamatsu Station.

The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments has two floors: the upper floor has instruments from Japan, Korea, China, Mongolia, Iran and the rest of East and South East Asia. The lower floor has instruments from Europe including a gem of a collection of European pianos and the rest of the world: America, Oceania and Africa. Visitors can see videos of musical performances and listen to snippets of the instruments on headphones.

The Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments is also a venue for performances of music by groups from around the world.

Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments, Shizuoka

Act Tower is a huge tower that contains an Observation Gallery (Tel: 053 451 0001; 500 yen) at 185m with amazing views on a clear day of the Southern Alps, the Enshu Coast and Hamamatsu city. Mt. Fuji is also sometimes visible. The Observation Gallery is actually part of the Okura Act City Hotel Hamamatsu, which occupies part of Act Tower, so the Gallery is usually closed for private events on weekends. Usually open between 10am and 6pm.

The Hamamatsu Science Museum (Tel: 053 454 0178; 500 yen) is aimed mostly at children and has exhibits on six themes including nature and science. The Hamamatsu Science Museum also has a 20m diameter planetarium.

The Gosha Shrine at the end of Kajimachi Boulevard past the Zaza City shopping mall is a pleasant shrine where people take their children for the Shichi-go-san Festival .

Nearby is the free Hamamatsu Reconstruction Memorial Museum , which details Hamamatsu's development since World War II and has original household articles from the 1950's, 1960's and 1970's, as well as uniforms and helmets from the wartime period.

The Keisuke Kinoshita Memorial Museum is also close by and celebrates the life and movies of the Japanese film director Keisuke Kinoshita  (1912-1998).

Hamamatsu Science Museum, Shizuoka Prefecture

The Act Tower & Hamamatsu Station, Shizuoka

Chitose, Yurakugai & Sakanamachi

Hamamatsu's main entertainment area for shops, bars and restaurants are Chitose behind the Zaza City mall and Yurakugai & Sakanamachi to its north. The May One mall inside Hamamatsu Station has a restaurant alley and numerous shops.

There are a number of good museums within easy reach of Hamamatsu city. Down at the coast to the south at Enshu Beach Sea Park is the Hamamatsu Festival Pavilion (Tel: 053 441 6211; 400 yen) which has exhibits of the huge 4 meter-long kites used in the Hamamatsu Festival . The 4km-long Nakatajima Sand Dunes, where the Hamamatsu Festival takes place, are close by. Take bus number 6 from Hamamatsu Station bus terminal (15 minutes).

North of Hamamatsu is the free Air Park (the Air Self-Defense Force Hamamatsu Public Relations Hall) where visitors can see fighter planes and enjoy flight simulators. Take bus number 15 from Hamamatsu Station bus terminal (25 minutes). Near by just off National Highway 257 is a large Honda Factory. South on National Highway 257 is the Saigagake Museum , dedicated to local history.

To the west around Lake Sanaru are the Hamamatsu City History Museum (Tel: 053 456 2208; 300 yen, 9am-5pm, closed Monday, but open if Monday a public holiday, in which case, closed Tuesday) which focuses on the Jomon Period of the area's history with exhibits found in the nearby Shijimizuka archeological site. The Kamono Mabuchi Memorial Hall (Tel: 053 456 8050; 300 yen) celebrates the career of the classical Japanese scholar, Kamono Mabuchi (1697-1769).

Resort Hotels at Bentenjima, Hamanako, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka

Hamanako (Lake Hamana)

Further west of Hamamatsu towards Toyohashi is Lake Hamana (Hamanako; 浜名湖) a popular resort area in summer for boat excursions on the lake - Japan's 10th largest - and other water sports such as water skiing, kayaking, wind surfing, parasailing and, of course, fishing.

Hamanako is famous for its eel and oysters, blowfish ( fugu ) and pike conger ( hamo ) are both caught off the Enshu Nada coast. The Hamanako region is also known for its delicious strawberries and mikan oranges and visitors can pick and buy their own in a number of places near Mikkabi on the north west edge of the lake.

Besides the local delicacies, Lake Hamana has a number of onsen hot springs in Bentenjima , Kanzanji and Mikkabi . The Hamanako area offers such resort hotels as the Hotel Green Plaza Hamanako, the Hamanako Royal Hotel and the Hamanako Benten Resort The Ocean. Many of the Hamanako area's hotels and ryokan have hot springs, some of them outside baths called rotemburo , from where bathers can enjoy views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Attractions around the edge of Hamanako include the Hamamatsu City Zoo, Hamamatsu Flower Park, Kanzanji Ropeway, Kanzanji Temple and Kanzanji Ukimido, Hamanaka Pal Pal amusement park and the Hamanako Music Box Museum all close to Kanzanji on the north eastern side of the lake. Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika is further to the north and has a number of fun activities including fruit picking, BBQs, a food court, winery, tropical green houses, a dog run, boating, after dark illuminations and live performances. By public transport take a Tenryu Hamanako Line train to Fruit Park Station.

Makayaji Temple showing the Heian Period garden and pond, Mikkabi, Shizuoka

A short walk or shorter taxi ride from Mikkabi Station on the Tenryu Hamanako Line is the delightful Kamakura Period (1192-1333) Makayaji Temple with its impressive Heian-style garden and trio of historic Buddhist wooden statues, two of which are classified as National Treasures.

Further south near the coast, echoes of the Edo Period Tokaido highway between what is now modern-day Tokyo and Kyoto can be found at the original Arai Checkpoint ( sekisho ) and Kinokuniya Inn both a short walk west from Araimachi Station.

In Bentenjima, one stop east on the JR Tokaido Line, visitors can see the beautiful Maisaka Shukuwaki-honjin , an inn for samurai and commoners traveling on the Tokaido, but used for more important people if the honjin - inns for daimyo, court nobles and Shogunate officials - were full. The honjin have rarely survived as they catered to such rarified clientele, whereas there are a number of waki-honjin still in existence in Japan, though the Maisaka Shukuwaki-honjin is the only such place left on the Tokaido.

Gosha Shrine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka

Industrial Tourism in & Around Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu's industrial heritage can be explored on various factory tours organized by the numerous companies based in the area. Some factory tours require prior reservation. Reservations are required to visit the Suzuki Plaza in Takatsuka (Tel: 053 440 2020), the Hana-no-mai Sake brewery (Tel: 053 582 2121) near Miyaguchi Station, the Honda Motor Company (Tel: 053 439 2011) and the Heian Corporation Miyakoda System Laboratory (Tel: 053 428 5321).

The Unagi Pie Factory, the Soichiro Honda Craftsmanship Center and the Shizuoka University Takayanagi Memorial Hall keep usual museum hours.

Kururu Loop Bus, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka; single fare 100 yen or day pass 200 yen

Train at Hamamatsu Station

Entrance to JR lines

Hamamatsu Access

There are good rail links to Hamamatsu with Tokyo , Nagoya and Osaka ( Shinkansen bullet train). Note that the fastest shinkansen, the Nozomi does not stop in Hamamatsu.

From Tokyo JR Station take a Hikari or Kodama train to Hamamatsu. The journey is 89 minutes from Tokyo to Hamamatsu by Hikari. From Nagoya the journey is only 29 minutes by Hikari and from Osaka 83 minutes.

Alternatively from Nagoya take a local JR train about 30 minutes to Toyohashi. Toyohashi can be reached by either JR or Meitetsu from Nagoya Station or Kanayama Station. By local JR train from Shizuoka journey time is 72 minutes to Hamamatsu.

The Enshu Railway Line connects Shin-Hamamatsu Station with Nishi-Kajima Station to the north.

The Tenryu Hamanako Railway loops up and around the west of Lake Hamana and north of Hamamatsu from Shinjiohara to Kakegawa to the east of Hamamatsu.

There are highway buses from Hamamatsu to Shinjuku and Shibuya in Tokyo run by Entetsu Highway Bus e-LineR. The company also runs highway buses to Osaka via Kyoto and Yokohama .

From Osaka, Hamamatsu is 282 km and from Tokyo 230km by Tomei Expressway. Exit at Hamamatsu I.C.

Shizuoka Airport

Shizuoka Airport (Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport) opened in June 2009 and has international flights to Seoul, Taipei and Shanghai. There are domestic flights to Sapporo , Naha ( Okinawa ), Kagoshima and Fukuoka in Japan. The airport is close to Makinohara and Shimada and it takes 70 minutes by Entetsu E-wing bus to Hamamatsu.

A bus runs from Hamamatsu to Centrair (Chubu International Airport) and costs 3,000 yen.

ZaZa City mall, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka

Hamamatsu Hotel Accommodation

There are plenty of places to stay around Hamamatsu Station. The city's most luxurious hotel is the Okura Act City Hotel Hamamatsu. Other hotels in Hamamatsu near the station are the more budget Daiwa Roynet Hotel Hamamatsu, the Hotel Crown Palais, the Toyoko Inn Hamamatsu Eki Kitaguchi, the Hotel Sorriso Hamamatsu, the Hamamatsu Hotel and the Comfort Hotel Hamamatsu.

More traditional ryokan in Hamamatsu include the Okuraya Ryokan, Ryokan Tsuruya and the Ukikawa Ryokan.

Getting Around Hamamatsu

The Kururu Loop bus runs in three circuits around Hamamatsu: west, east and south. It costs 100 yen for a single fare or 200 yen for a day pass. Entetsu buses run to various destinations around Hamamatsu including Bentenjima, Hamanako, Oiwake, Aizuke and Wakamibashi.

Hamamatsu Tourist Information Office

The Tourist Information is near the South Exit of Hamamatsu Station at 265-16 Sunayama-cho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu; Tel: 053 452 1634 for pamphlets and maps in English and other languages.

Entetsu Bus

Kururu Loop Bus

Guide Books on Japan

Hamamatsu guide: read a travel guide to Hamamatsu in Shizuoka Prefecture famous for its production of musical instruments and motorbikes.

Our activities in Shizuoka

Shizuoka Tea Fields Tour Activities in Japan

• Duration : 4 hour
• Location : Shizuoka

Our tours in Shizuoka

Discover Japan Group Tours in Japan

• Duration : 13 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima
• Included : Visits & meals, English-speaking tour leader, Hotel temple, 3*/4* Hotels & Ryokan

The Tokaido Road Group Tours in Japan

• Duration : 14 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Koyasan, Osaka
• Included : English-speaking tour leader, 3*/4* Hotels & Ryokan, Hotel temple, Visits & meals

Autumn Leaves Photography Group Tours in Japan

• Duration : 12 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Mt Fuji (Kawaguchiko), Osaka, Himeji, Kyoto, Nara
• Included : English-speaking tour leader, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Visits & meals

Cherry Blossoms Photography Group Tours in Japan

• Locations : Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kawaguchiko, Tokyo
• Included : English-speaking tour leader, 3*/4* Hotels & Ryokan, Visits & meals

Urban and Rural Japan Group Tours in Japan

• Duration : 21 days
• Locations : Tokyo, Hakone Mt Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Koyasan, Osaka, Kobe, Takachiho, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Miyajima

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The city of Fukuroi, 20th station of the Tokaido

In the prefecture of Shizuoka and at the gates of the city of Hamamatsu, is Fukuroi. The city prospered for decades as the twentieth station of the 53 stopover towns of the ancient Tokaido route.

Hamamatsu Castle

Hamamatsu, a city in Shizuoka Prefecture, is very proud of its old castle, which has housed great historical figures.

Hamamatsu is a city in Shizuoka prefecture, along the Pacific coast.

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Hamamatsu Castle : The castle where Ieyasu rose to the top and realized his dream to seize power in Japan

Hamamatsu Castle is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the north exit of Hamamatsu Station. If you have some spare time, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll along Ieyasu’s Promenade, which leads you to various sites related to the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu. From the ages of 29 to 45, Ieyasu resided in Hamamatsu Castle, which was later occupied by successive generations of daimyo (feudal lords) descended from those who had supported him prior to his rise to power. Many of these daimyo even attained the rank of roju (elder) during their tenure at the castle, hence the castle’s nickname “Promotion Castle” or “Shussejo” in Japanese.

Let us begin by looking at the life of Ieyasu and the period he spent at Hamamatsu Castle.

Table of Contents

The life of Tokugawa Ieyasu

Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, was born in 1542 as the eldest son of the lord of Okazaki Castle. At the age of seven, he was sent to Sunpu as a hostage of Imagawa Yoshimoto. Following Yoshimoto’s defeat by Oda Nobunaga at the Battle of Okehazama, Ieyasu returned to Okazaki Castle, formed an alliance with Nobunaga, and took the name Tokugawa Ieyasu at the age of 24.

In 1570, Ieyasu moved his base of operations to Hamamatsu and began constructing Hamamatsu Castle. He then engaged in a struggle with Takeda Shingen for control of Totomi Province, culminating in a crushing defeat by the Takeda army at the Battle of Mikatagahara in 1572. Despite this setback, Ieyasu would go on to become one of the most successful and influential figures in Japanese history, eventually achieving unification of the country and establishing a lasting peace.

The Battle of Mikatahara: Ieyasu’s greatest defeat

At the age of 31, in 1572, Ieyasu faced a significant challenge when Takeda Shingen and his army marched into Totomi Province on their way to the capital. Shingen had already seized control of the northern part of the province, and led his army of 27,000 men southward. Ieyasu, commanding a smaller force of 12,000 soldiers, moved towards Mikatahara to confront them. However, despite their efforts, the Tokugawa army was defeated by the larger Takeda army and its renowned cavalry. Ieyasu himself narrowly escaped death and fled to Hamamatsu Castle.

Surprise Attack at Saigagake

Following his defeat at the Battle of Mikatahara, Ieyasu retreated to Hamamatsu Castle and began planning a strategy to turn the tables on the Takeda army. He concocted a clever scheme to lure them to Saigagake cliff and then used a white cloth to make it appear as if a bridge had been erected across the chasm. To further confuse the enemy, he set Fusaiji Temple ablaze to create the impression that Hamamatsu Castle was on fire. The Takeda camp was then tricked into thinking that they were being attacked from behind, causing many men and horses to panic and fall to their deaths while crossing the fake bridge.

Despite his defeat at Mikatahara, Ieyasu’s reputation as a military strategist grew due to his bold resistance against Takeda Shingen, who was considered the most powerful warlord during the Warring States period. Three years later, the Oda and Tokugawa clans joined forces and defeated the Takeda army at Nagashino, gaining control of Totomi Province. Ieyasu later relocated his residence to Sunpu Castle in 1586. He then emerged victorious against the Western Army at the Battle of Sekigahara after Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s death. As a result, he was appointed shogun in 1603 and founded the Tokugawa shogunate, also known as the Edo shogunate.

Hamamatsu Castle – the “Promotion Castle” ( Shussejo )

Understanding the historical background of the castle and its connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu can enhance one’s appreciation for the structure.

Hamamatsu Castle was built in the Teikaku style, with the main keep’s enclosure standing at the highest point of the Mikatahara Plateau. The honmaru, ninomaru, and sannomaru were arranged in a staircase pattern. The main keep was rebuilt in 1959, and the main gate was restored in 2014. The castle’s stone walls are also a notable feature, built in the nozurazumi style with natural stones piled on top of each other. Despite appearing unstable, the inside is packed with pebbles and gravel, making it very strong.

The castle is known for having ten wells, and the well in the foundation of the main keep was left intact during the castle’s reconstruction. This well can now be seen in the basement of the main keep. Only five castles in Japan still have a well in the basement of the main keep, including Iga Ueno Castle, Nagoya Castle, Matsue Castle, Kumamoto Castle, and Hamamatsu Castle. These unique features and historical connections make Hamamatsu Castle a fascinating destination for visitors interested in Japanese history and architecture.

We can go inside the main keep and look at a lot of items on exhibition (It cost 200 Yen for one adult)

The Enshu Sea and Lake Hamana are clearly visible from the observation deck. On days with good weather, you can even see Mt. Fuji.

Highlights of Hamamatsu Castle Park

Hamamatsu Castle Park offers not only historical and architectural delights but also natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Miyama-style Japanese walking garden is a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the picturesque waterfall, pavilion, and pond. The park is particularly famous for its shidarezakura blossoms in the spring and momiji leaves in the fall, which draw large crowds of visitors seeking to enjoy the seasonal colors. Moreover, the stone stage is a perfect spot for picnics, and the central lawn regularly hosts various events such as concerts, festivals, and sports activities. With its combination of history, nature, and leisure activities, Hamamatsu Castle Park serves as an oasis for the city’s residents and a popular destination for tourists.

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Japanese town to block Mount Fuji view from troublesome tourists

A huge black barrier to block Mount Fuji from view will be installed in a popular photo spot by Japanese authorities who are exasperated by crowds of badly behaved foreign tourists.

Construction of the mesh net -- 2.5 metres high and the length of a cricket pitch at 20 metres -- will begin as early as next week, an official from the town of Fujikawaguchiko said on Friday.

"It's regrettable we have to do this, because of some tourists who can't respect rules," he told AFP, claiming tourists were littering and ignoring traffic regulations.

It is the latest direct action in Japan against over-tourism after residents of Kyoto's geisha district banned visitors from small private alleys this year.

Record numbers of overseas tourists are travelling to the country, where monthly visitors exceeded three million in March for the first time ever.

Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, can be photographed from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko.

But this viewpoint is particularly popular because the majestic volcano appears behind a Lawson convenience store, which are ubiquitous in Japan.

Due to this visual juxtaposition, "a reputation has spread on social media that this spot is very Japanese, making it a popular photo location," said the town official who declined to be named.

The mostly non-Japanese tourists are overcrowding a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop, he said.

After traffic signs and repeated warnings from security guards fell on deaf ears, the town in the Yamanashi region decided on the huge screen as a last resort.

The measure is also meant to protect a nearby dental clinic against the onslaught of tourists.

They sometimes park there without permission and have even been seen climbing on the roof of the clinic to get the perfect shot, the official said.

The town wishes it hadn't come down to this, he said, adding that the current plan is for the screen to be maintained until the situation improves.

Tourism to Japan has been booming since pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted, and the government has been working hard to boost visitor numbers.

But this has not been universally welcomed — including in Kyoto, where locals have complained of snap-happy tourists harassing the city's immaculately dressed geisha.

And this summer, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji will be charged ¥2,000 ($20) each, with numbers capped to ease congestion.

Other top destinations worldwide are also struggling with visitor numbers, and on Thursday Venice began charging day-trippers for entry to tackle mass tourism.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Hamamatsu

Things to do in hamamatsu, explore popular experiences, tours in and around hamamatsu.

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Japan blocks Mount Fuji view, nearby selfie spot to curb tourist misbehaviour

Officials in fujikawaguchiko, japan, have decided to obstruct the view of mount fuji with a mesh net to curb unruly tourist behaviour at popular photo spots..

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• Japan's Fujikawaguchiko town blocks Mount Fuji view due to unruly tourist behaviour
• Mesh net to be installed at site
• Officials say tourists found littering and ignoring traffic regulations

Officials in Japan's Fujikawaguchiko town have blocked panoramic views and a popular selfie spot near Mount Fuji. A mesh net, approximately 2.5m high and 20m long, will also be placed at the site, media reports said.

The decision to block the view was taken to tackle unruly behaviour by tourists who visit the place to take pictures of the iconic mountain peak, a report with the Independent stated.

The construction of the mesh net will start next week, the report quoted a local official as saying.

Photo spots, particularly one offering a view of Mount Fuji behind a Lawson convenience store in Yamanashi prefecture, off late been seen flooded with badly behaved tourists.

Speaking to The Japan Times, a Fujikawaguchiko official termed the move "regrettable", and said they were forced to do this "because of some tourists who can't respect rules".

The official complained that the tourists leave litter behind and ignore traffic regulations despite warnings.

The decision to install the net will protect the town's infrastructure and preserve the tranquillity of the area, the official added.

In March this year, it was reported that Japan would start collecting an entry fee of å2,000 (Rs 1,041.54 in Indian currency) per person to limit the number of trekkers to Mount Fuji.

The fee for climbers was expected to begin from July 1, this year, when the year's climbing season begins.

Earlier, officials in Japan's Geisha district in Kyoto had announced they would shut down access to "paparazzi" tourists who harass and trouble globally recognised Japanese women artists.

Also, the historic Gion district's local council last month said it was banning sightseers and tourists into the alleys and streets housing geisha and maiko (teenage trainee geisha) after facing years of complaints over the growing buzz of photography. Published By: Vani Mehrotra Published On: Apr 27, 2024 ALSO READ | 2 Japanese navy choppers, carrying 8, crash during training exercise, 1 dead ALSO READ | Earthquake of 6.4 magnitude jolts Japan's Ehime, Kochi

Marriott International and HMI Hotel Group Announces a Multi-property Conversion Deal in Japan

The conversion deal entails the rebranding of seven hotels to marriott hotels and courtyard by marriott across five of japan’s most popular travel destinations.

Marriott International and HMI Hotel Group today announced a signed agreement to rebrand seven existing HMI properties in five major cities across Japan to Marriott Hotels and Courtyard by Marriott. This signing will bring the rich legacy and guest-focused experiences of both Marriott brands to the increasingly sophisticated consumers in Japan and is part of HMI’s strategic repositioning, aimed at revitalizing and realigning these properties with the latest trends in global hospitality.

The Marriott Hotels properties planned are:

• Grand Hotel Hamamastu to Hamamastu Marriott in Naka-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Hotel Heian no Mori Kyoto to Kyoto Marriott in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
• Hotel Crown Palais Kobe to Kobe Marriott in Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Rizzan Seapark Hotel Tancha Bay to Okinawa Marriott Rizzan Resort & Spa in Onna Village, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture

The properties planned for Courtyard by Marriott are:

• Hotel Pearl City Kobe to Courtyard by Marriott Kobe in Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Hotel Crown Palais Kokura to Courtyard by Marriott Kokura in Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture
• Hotel Crown Palais Kitakyushu to Courtyard by Marriott Kitakyushu in Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture

“We are very pleased to welcome these properties to the fast-expanding portfolio of Marriott International properties across Japan,” said Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Conversion continues to drive a robust growth for the company on a global scale, and we are thrilled to embark on this project with HMI in Japan. As consumer preferences evolve, these properties will have the opportunity to leverage on the strength of affiliation with Marriott’s portfolio of over 8,800 properties worldwide across more than 30 leading brands, along with Marriott Bonvoy – our award-winning travel program boasting a global membership base of over 200 million.”

“With this strategic collaboration, HMI Hotel Group aims to redefine excellence in guest service while unlocking growth opportunities in key markets. By leveraging Marriott International's expertise, the collaboration promises to introduce innovative services and amenities tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Marriott International, said Mr. Ryuko Hira, President, HMI Hotel Group. “Together, we are committed to delivering unparalleled experiences that exceed the expectations of our discerning guests and set new benchmarks for excellence in the hospitality industry. Our gratitude extends to our valued partner, Hazaña Hotel Advisory (HHA), whose support has been instrumental in facilitating this deal,” he added.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, HMI Hotel Group remains steadfast in its commitment to driving positive change and shaping a brighter future for all stakeholders.

These properties are located in five of Japan’s most popular travel destinations which welcome millions of visitors each year. Hamamatsu is rich in history and culture, with attractions such as the 16th century Hamamatsu Castle, and the city is also renowned as a culinary hotspot. As Japan’s former imperial capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is one of the most enchanting cities in Japan and is home to an impressive number of iconic UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines. Kobe is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and its unique blend of Eastern and Western influences stemming from its past as a historic port city. On Okinawa Island in southern Japan, Onna Village is renowned for its stunning tropical beaches and scenic coastal landscapes. Kitakyushu City, in Fukuoka Prefecture, is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and is famous for its many landmarks such as Kokura Castle, a beautifully preserved feudal era castle dating back to the 17th century, and the Mojiko Retro District, famous for its Taisho-era architecture and atmosphere.

About Marriott International Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of over 8,800 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy ® , its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com . In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram .

About Marriott Hotels ® With nearly 600 hotels and resorts in over 65 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hospitality – placing people first is the brand’s living legacy – ensuring guests always feel deeply cared for throughout their stay. Marriott Hotels raises the bar by consistently delivering heartfelt service, with modern, comfortable spaces, and by providing experiences elevated beyond the everyday. As global travelers needs and expectations evolve, so does Marriott Hotels, leading the industry with innovations including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that embrace style, design, and technology. For more information, please visit www.marriotthotels.com , and stay connected on Facebook , @marriott on Twitter , and @marriotthotels on Instagram . Marriott Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy ® , the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments , and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com .

About Courtyard by Marriott ® Courtyard by Marriott is the hotel brand of choice for trailblazing guests who are inspired by a passion to do great things. With over 1,300 locations in 60 countries and territories, Courtyard is passionate about empowering its guests and serving the needs of travelers everywhere, no matter the purpose of their trip. Its thoughtfully designed guestrooms provide an elevated experience to relax and recharge, complete with plush bedding and flexible workspaces. Guests are able to work, eat well, connect, and be at their best to keep moving forward to succeed. Courtyard is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com . For more information or reservations, visit courtyard.marriott.com and stay connected on Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook .

About Hotel Management International Corporation (HMI Hotel Group) HMI Hotel Group, where hospitality transcends mere accommodation, intertwining seamlessly with the vibrant tapestry of local communities and the rich heritage of Japan. Established in 1966, HMI Hotel Group has flourished into a distinguished entity, boasting a diverse portfolio of 44 properties spanning Japan's landscapes. Our collection of meticulously curated brands is designed to exceed guest expectations and redefine the essence of hospitality. At HMI, we believe that life is a journey for fulfillment. Guided by this principle, we cherish curiosity and champion learning, enriching the hearts and minds of travelers as they traverse the world. Our mission is simple yet profound: to curate journeys of fulfillment for our guests. Rooted in the principles of "Love All, Serve All" and "Unity in Diversity," we continually elevate our service standards to craft pristine experiences unlike any other. Whether it's a corporate sojourn or a familial escape, HMI Hotel Group epitomizes "Omotenashi" – the quintessential Japanese hospitality experience, defined only through firsthand encounters. At HMI Hotel Group, we don't just provide accommodations; we curate unforgettable experiences that resonate with the soul, leaving an indelible mark on the journey of life. Welcome to a world where hospitality knows no bounds. For further information, please visit our website at www.hmihotelgroup.com .

Media Contact: Emi Ihara Communications Manager – Japan Marriott International [email protected]

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Mount Fuji view to be blocked as tourists overcrowd popular photo spot

Fujikawaguchiko town official says choice to erect huge barrier is ‘regrettable’ and last resort

A huge barrier to block views of Mount Fuji will be installed at a popular photo spot by Japanese authorities exasperated by crowds of badly behaved foreign tourists.

Construction of the mesh net – 2.5 metres (8ft) high and the length of a cricket pitch at 20 metres – will begin as early as next week, an official from Fujikawaguchiko town said on Friday.

“It’s regrettable we have to do this, because of some tourists who can’t respect rules,” leaving litter behind and ignoring traffic regulations, he told Agence France-Presse.

It is the latest direct action in Japan against over-tourism after residents of Kyoto’s geisha district banned visitors from small private alleys this year.

Record numbers of overseas tourists are travelling to Japan, where the number of monthly visitors exceeded 3 million in March for the first time.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, can be photographed from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko. This viewpoint is particularly popular because the majestic – and active – volcano appears behind a Lawson convenience store, which are ubiquitous in Japan.

Due to this visual juxtaposition, “a reputation has spread on social media that this spot is very Japanese, making it a popular photo location”, said the town official, who declined to be named.

The mostly non-Japanese tourists are overcrowding a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop, he said.

After traffic signs and repeated warnings from security guards were ignored, the town in Yamanashi region decided on the huge screen as a last resort.

The measure is also meant to protect a nearby dental clinic against tourists who sometimes park there without permission and have even been seen climbing on to the roof of the clinic to get the perfect shot, the official said.

The town wished it had not been forced to take action, the official said, adding that the current plan was for the screen to stay up until the situation improves.

Japan has been a booming tourist destination since pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted, and the government has been working hard to boost visitor numbers. But this has not been universally welcomed, including in Kyoto, where people have complained of snap-happy tourists harassing the city’s immaculately dressed geisha.

This summer, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji will be charged ¥2,000 each (£10.50, $13.35, A$20.50), with numbers capped to ease congestion.

Other destinations are also struggling with over-tourism. On Thursday, Venice began charging day-trippers to enter the city, while last week tens of thousands of people across the Canary Islands called for a freeze on visitor numbers .

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The Asahi Shimbun

Base opens for high tourist spot offering ‘best’ view of Mt. Fuji

By SHIN TOYOHIRA/ Staff Writer

April 25, 2024 at 17:49 JST

FUEFUKI, Yamanashi Prefecture—A tourist base opened here on April 25 to lure foreign visitors to a little-known spot high in the mountains that is touted to offer the most spectacular view of nearby Mount Fuji. 

Lily Bell Hutte, equipped with a cafe, shop and tourist information center, serves as the gateway to Fujiyama Twin Terrace, which sits on the 1,600-meter-high Shindo Pass.

The ridge straddles the city of Fuefuki and the town of Fuji-Kawaguchiko, both in Yamanashi Prefecture.

“Mount Fuji seen from Twin Terrace is the best in Japan,” said Masakatsu Okawa, manager of the Kofu branch of JTB Corp., the travel agency that operates Lily Bell Hutte. “But the spot is not yet widely known among foreign tourists.”

Visitors can view the majestic Mount Fuji, down through to its base, Lake Kawaguchiko and, far in the distance, Lake Yamanakako on a clear day.

It was a hidden spot known only to hikers and photographers, but the Fuefuki city government spent 178 million yen ($1.1 million) on constructing viewing decks and walking trails in 2021.

The Twin Terrace observation decks are not accessible by private vehicles because the roads are narrow.

Visitors take a 10-minute bus ride from the Suzuran Gunseichi parking lot, which is located in front of Lily Bell Hutte at an altitude of 1,300 meters, after parking their vehicles there.

Fuefuki Mayor Masaki Yamashita said he hopes that the new facility will help attract foreign tourists from Lake Kawaguchiko, a popular sightseeing resort, to the city and further onto other travel destinations in Yamanashi Prefecture.

“We need to create a place where (foreign visitors) want to come if we want to bring them over to Fuefuki from Kawaguchiko,” Yamashita said at the opening ceremony for Lily Bell Hutte on April 23. “We will be happy if we can establish a new route to travel around Yamanashi Prefecture via Fuefuki.”

The city government spent about 89 million yen on constructing Lily Belle Hutte.

Yamashita said he hopes to attract 100,000 visitors to Twin Terrace over the long term.

About 20,000 people visited the facility during the eight months through November, according to the city.

Jinji Yamada, JTB managing executive officer, said the company wants to increase visitor numbers to 50,000 this year with the opening of Lily Belle Hutte and other measures.

JTB on April 25 started a bus tour from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyuko Line to Twin Terrace and back three times daily.

The tour costs 3,500 yen for an adult. The company expects 13,000 participants this year.

JTB is also considering offering guided tours along hiking trails around Twin Terrace as well as travel plans combining other attractions in Yamanashi Prefecture, such as dips at the Isawa Onsen hot spring resort and fruit picking at orchards.

The shuttle bus between the Suzuran Gunseichi parking lot and Twin Terrace will run until November.

The round-trip ticket costs 1,800 yen for an adult. The fare is 500 yen for Fuefuki residents.

There is a free bus service to the Suzuran Gunseichi parking lot from a location in Fuefuki where vehicles can be parked.

For more information, visit the city government’s website at ( https://www.city.fuefuki.yamanashi.jp/kanko/sports/spot/fujiyamatwinterrace.html ) or Lily Belle Hutte’s website at ( https://fujiyama-twinterrace.com/en/ ).

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• Hamamatsu Festival

Hamamatsu Festival 浜松まつり

2832 Shirowa-cho, Minami-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka-ken

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Huge kites soar into battle during the day while parades dominate the night

The Hamamatsu Festival is a popular event featuring up to 174 kites, flown high, battling in the skies. The event takes place in late spring during the holiday period known as Golden Week.

At night there's a parade of floats, creating a whole different style of festivities.

• Exploring the Nakatajima Dunes near the venue

How to Get There

The Hamamatsu Festival kite-battle venue is accessed from Hamamatsu Station on the Tokaido Main Line and Tokaido Shinkansen.

From Hamamatsu Station a shuttle bus takes visitors out to the kite-battle venue.

Quick Facts

The battle kites are decorated with the characters of the names of kids from each town, along with marks or designs of each town

About 1.5 million people come to visit during the festival

Go fly a kite

Hamamatsu Festival's origins date back to the 16th century when the birth of an heir to the domain was celebrated with a kite display. The tradition is echoed around the country when carp flags are flown on Children's Day on May 5, the climax of the festival.

Up to 174 large kites take to the skies. The highlight is a battle between kites. The aim is to cut your opponent's string using friction alone, a battle is for experts only.

Parades in the evening

In the evening the streets are full of about 83 pulled festival floats accompanied by traditional music. Each float is elaborately carved and decorated, and they are referred to as “palaces.”

Other attractions include dancing and drum and bell performances. Hamamatsu has a substantial non-Japanese community who take part in the festival.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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This new japanese-minimalist hotel in dtla is the perfect base for exploring the arts district.

The stunning nine-room Kodo Hotel is located inside a nearly 100-year-old former fire station and features a Japanese cafe on the ground floor.

By Degen Pener

Degen Pener

Deputy Editor

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Add Kodō Hotel to the list of the best and most unique places to stay in Los Angeles .

Modern, minimalist and boasting just nine rooms, the boutique hotel opened earlier this year in downtown L.A.’s Arts District along South Santa Fe Avenue just below 7th Street. Directly across the street from Warner Music Group’s L.A. offices, Kodō Hotel is tucked away on the second floor of a former Beaux Arts-style fire station that dates back to 1927.

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Now the nearly 100-year-old Engine Co. No. 17 building has been renovated and reborn with a completely different vibe, trading in boho cool for a Japanese-ryokan-inspired aesthetic. Designed by M Royce Architecture in collaboration with gry space , the rooms feature polished concrete floors, low-to-the-ground king-sized and queen-sized beds and high loft-like ceilings. A study in grays, beiges and whites, the hotel is a spartan but serene respite from the urban-core streets of the Arts District.

The showpiece of each guest accommodation is the bathroom, which seems to float in the middle of each room, featuring a geometric freestanding sink in dark stone, a beautifully lit circular hanging mirror and a shower. The effect is both sculptural and sensuous.

Guests should be aware that the hotel does not have an elevator and the hotel rooms are reached only via a tall staircase. Rooms, starting at $218 a night, are available at kodohotel.com and booking.com .

The property’s ground-floor Kodō restaurant serves everything from sushi rolls and omakase platters to salads and main dishes like Uni-mentaiko Cream Pasta with cured egg yolk. It features minimalist meets earthy design in keeping with the aesthetic of the hotel, as well as an outdoor patio and a private dining room that’s located in the fire station’s former handball court.

More dining options located nearby in the Arts District are Hauser & Wirth’s Manuela restaurant, Korean-American Yangban (right next door to the hotel), French restaurant Camphor (which has one of the best burgers in L.A. ), Mexican hotspot La Cha Cha Chá, chef Enrique Olvera’s Damian, The Factory Kitchen and Baroo.

Kodō Hotel is the brainchild of Boulevard Hospitality Group, which also owns the historic Japanese restaurant Yamashiro overlooking Hollywood, as well as such spots as Durango Cantina on Melrose and the three-level Cork & Batter in Inglewood. Boulevard recently launched Nice & Sweet , a new bakery and coffee shop in Hollywood, located at 7061 W. Sunset Boulevard.

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