3-Day Shizuoka Itinerary - Mt Fuji Views, Tea Picking Farm Stay, and Onsen

Day 1: Coastal Charms of Atami - A Year-Round Hot Spring and Cultural Haven

Access: Atami is conveniently accessible by train from both Tokyo and Osaka. From Tokyo, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (Hikari: approx. 35 mins; Kodama: approx. 50 mins). From Osaka, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station (Hikari: approx. 135 mins; Kodama: approx. 190 mins). [WS1] Once in Atami, you can explore the city easily by bus or taxi.

Atami City, located at the base of the Izu Peninsula in eastern Shizuoka Prefecture, is a historic hot spring resort which is even mentioned in the Izu Fudoki, an ancient report dating back to 713. Known for its mild climate and stunning natural scenery, the city is divided into six areas, among them, the city center known as Atami Onsen features over 500 hot spring sources, making it one of the premier hot spring destinations in the Kanto region. You can soak in soothing thermal waters while enjoying breathtaking views of Sagami Bay, offering the ultimate relaxation experience.

Atami hosts vibrant events throughout the year, with the Atami Fireworks Festival being one of its most famous attractions, where visitors can marvel at spectacular fireworks illuminating the night sky.

In winter (end of January to mid February depending on the year), the early-blooming Atami Zakura along the Itogawa River Promenade (a 15-minute walk from Atami Station) paints the city in shades of pink, offering a glimpse of spring in the coldest months. 

From January to March, the Atami Plum Garden (a 10-minute walk from JR Kinomiya Station) is another seasonal highlight. Home to nearly 500 plum trees of 60 varieties, this historic garden—over a century old—is one of Japan’s earliest plum blossom sites. During autumn, the same garden transforms for the Autumn Foliage Festival, ensuring scenic beauty year-round.

Beyond its natural wonders, Atami is a hub of traditional Japanese arts. Every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 am, visitors can witness the mesmerizing Atami Geigi performance, "HANANOMAI," at Atami Geigi Kenban Kaburenjo (an 18-minute walk from Atami Station). These skilled geisha uphold Japan’s classical arts, including shamisen music and elegant traditional dance, offering a rare glimpse into Atami’s refined entertainment culture.

Atami Ropeway and Aijo Misaki Observatory - Experience Unmatched Aerial Views of Atami

Access: 

Car: Approx. 10 mins drive from Atami Station

Public Transport: Atami Station to Atami Ropeway Base Station: Take Tokai Bus A71 and get off at Atami Korakuen (approx. 12 mins). Aijo Misaki Observatory is Approx. 1 min walk from Atami Ropeway Summit Station

The Atami Ropeway offers a quick yet unforgettable aerial journey, taking just three minutes to transport visitors from Atami Ropeway Base Station, near Atami Port, to the summit of Mount Hachiman.

At the top, visitors are welcomed by Aijo Misaki Observatory and Umisora Terrace, a scenic viewing platform where you can take in Atami City’s dazzling landscape and the breathtaking sight of the ocean meeting the sky. Located at the very tip of a cape, the observatory features two observation levels. The upper deck, designed with warm wooden elements and comfortable seating, provides a tranquil space to relax while admiring the panoramic scenery. Meanwhile, the lower level, an open-air platform perched atop steep cliffs, offers an unobstructed view of the surrounding seascape.

Next to the observatory is an area for hanging “ema” (small wooden prayer plaques), making it a popular spot for couples to express their wishes for happiness. Nearby, Umisora Café serves a variety of beverages and soft-serve ice cream, allowing visitors to indulge in sweet treats while enjoying spectacular views.

Atami Castle - A Stunning 360-Degree Vista of City and Sea

Access: 12-minute walk from Aijo Misaki Observatory and Umisora Terrace.

With its 160-meter observation deck above sea level, Atami Castle offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view, providing the perfect spot to overlook Atami City and the ocean. From here, you can see as far as Yugawara, the Manazuru Peninsula, and, on clear days, the floating islands of Hatsushima and Oshima, as well as the Ajiro and Ito areas of the Izu Peninsula.

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around Atami Castle, forming a mesmerizing contrast between the pink sea of flowers and the deep blue ocean. Throughout the year, the castle becomes one of the best vantage points for the Atami Fireworks Festival, where you can marvel at dazzling fireworks illuminating the night sky from above.

Inside the castle, a Jet Footbath at an altitude of 120 meters allows visitors to relax in warm foot-soaking waters while enjoying the spectacular view of Sagami Bay. Built in 1959, this replica castle may not be an original historical fortress, but its unique vantage point and diverse facilities make it an unmissable landmark in Atami.

Kiunkaku: A Historic Villa Blending Tradition and Elegance

Access: Take Atami Ropeway back to Atami Ropeway Base Station, then walk approx. 14 mins to Kiunkaku.

Kiunkaku, built in 1919, was one of Atami’s renowned "Three Great Villas of Atami." It was later converted into an inn in 1947, hosting several prominent Japanese literary figures. Today, it has been designated as a cultural property of Atami City and is open to the public.

This residence blends Japanese and Western architectural styles, with lush gardens that create a serene and elegant atmosphere. The Japanese-style building preserves the intricate craftsmanship of traditional Japanese architecture, while the Western-style building incorporates decorative elements from Japan, China, and Europe, giving it a distinctive exotic charm. The facility also houses a magnificent Roman-style bathroom and a Sun Room, reflecting the elegance of the Taisho (1912–1926) and Showa (1926–1989) eras. Kiunkaku is a cultural treasure where visitors can experience the beauty of history and architecture.

Irori Teahouse - A Taste of Izu Peninsula's Fresh Seafood and Traditional Flavors

Access: 

Car: Approx. 7 mins drive from Kiunkaku

Public Transport: Take Tokai Bus A47・48, A64 or A68 from Tenjinmachi Bus Stop to Fujisawairiguchi Bus Stop (Approx. 7 mins), then walk approx. 1 min.

The traditional Irori Teahouse is the perfect restaurant to savor the seafood specialties of the Izu Peninsula, offering fresh catches and traditional charcoal grilling for an authentic Japanese dining experience.

A must-try dish is the "Aji no Mago Cha Zen Set,” a classic Izu specialty featuring horse mackerel, dried fish, and a seafood rice bowl, presented in three different ways—enjoy it as is, pour hot tea over it to create "ochazuke," or pair it with fragrant grilled dried horse mackerel for a layered and flavorful experience. Another popular choice is the "Three Kinds of Dried Fish & Sashimi Set," which lets you savor both the Izu Peninsula’s great dried seafood and freshly sliced sashimi in one meal, offering a pure taste of the ocean.

Irori Teahouse also offers a selection of premium Japanese sake, perfectly complementing the fresh seafood.

Atami Heiwa Dori Shopping Street and Atami Nakamise Dori Shopping Street - A Retro Shopping Experience in Atami

Access: Approx. 3 mins walk from Irori Teahouse

Located in front of Atami Station, Heiwa Dori Shopping Street and Nakamise Dori Shopping Street exude a strong Showa-era (1926–1989) retro charm, making them must-visit destinations for shopping and local delicacies in Atami. Lined with decades-old shops, these streets offer souvenirs, local specialties, traditional sweets, and handcrafted goods, allowing visitors to experience the authentic atmosphere of a Japanese shopping arcade.

One of the must-try treats here is "onsen manju," particularly the signature manju from Sakurai Store, made with Okinawan brown sugar, Hokkaido red beans, and refined white sugar. With its soft outer layer and perfectly balanced sweetness, it is a beloved favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Another unmissable dessert is Atami pudding, inspired by the gentle steam of hot springs in Atami. Carefully steamed at a low temperature, it boasts a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture, complemented by a rich, handmade caramel sauce.

New Hakkeien - A Traditional Onsen Stay Overlooking Mount Fuji

Access: 

Car: Approx. 47 min drive from Atami Station

Public transport: From Atami Station, take the JR Tokaido Line to Mishima Station (approx. 13 mins). Then take the Izuhakone Railway Sunzu Line to Izu Nagaoka Station (approx. 22 mins). From Izu-Nagaoka Station, take Izuhakone bus to Onseneki bus stop (approx. 8 mins), then walk for approx. 6 mins.

Located in Izu Nagaoka, New Hakkeien offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, making it an exceptional choice for accommodation. Its standout feature is the "Sky Open-Air Bath," perched at the highest point in the area. Here, guests can soak in the soothing waters while admiring the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji or gazing at a star-filled sky at night.

The inn offers a variety of room types, from luxurious suites with private baths to elegant traditional Japanese-style rooms, catering to couples, families, and group travelers. Nearly all rooms provide stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Izu Nagaoka.

Another highlight is New Hakkeien's “kaiseki” multi-course cuisine, which features fresh seafood from Numazu Port and seasonal local ingredients.

Day 2: Mount Fuji from Every Angle – Scenic Views and Izu Landscapes

Izu Panorama Park - Admire Unparalleled Views of Mount Fuji From the Sky

Access: Approx. 7 mins walk from New Hakkeien to Izu Panorama Park Ropeway Station

Located at the summit of Mount Katsuragi, Izu Panorama Park offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and comfortable amenities, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the surrounding mountains. A scenic seven-minute cable car ride, spanning 1,800 meters, takes guests to the 452-meter-high peak, where they can take in panoramic views of Izu Nagaoka Onsen’s townscape, Mount Fuji, and the vast natural landscape around them.

One of the park's highlights is the "Ao Terrace," an open-air observation deck featuring water elements, cozy sofas, seating areas, and viewing platforms. Guests can indulge in premium tea and desserts at Katsuragi Tea Cottage or enjoy freshly brewed coffee from Katsuragi Coffee, all while admiring the magnificent scenery of the sea meeting the sky. For a more private experience, the Private Gazebo at Katsuragi Tea Cottage offers an exclusive retreat in a tranquil setting, where visitors can savor delightful sweets while taking in stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Izu Panorama Park’s seasonal beauty is exceptional. In spring, 35,000 azaleas bloom in vibrant colors; summer brings the romantic hues of hydrangeas; autumn’s foliage adds warm tones to the landscape; and in winter, plum and rapeseed flowers infuse vitality into the colder months. A year-round destination, the park offers visitors the chance to fully experience the beauty of nature in every season.

Suminobo - Savor Unagi, Mishima’s Must-Try Dish

Access:

Car: Approx. 22 min drive from Izu Panorama Park Ropeway Station

Public transport: Walk approx. 5 mins to Onsenba-Nishi Bus Stop, take Izuhakone bus to Izu-Nagaoka Station (Approx. 15 mins). Then take the JR Railway to Mishima Station (approx. 13 mins), then walk for approx. 15 mins.

Mishima is renowned for its "unagi" (grilled eel) cuisine, and Suminobo is the perfect place to savor this local specialty. Just a 15-minute walk from Mishima Station, the route also offers a chance to stroll through the historic Mishima Taisha Shrine, where you can immerse yourself in the solemn atmosphere of this ancient sacred site.

Suminobo takes pride in using pure spring water from Mount Fuji to cultivate and prepare its eel. The eel is soaked in the pristine spring water, resulting in firmer, more delicate meat. Grilled over a charcoal fire and coated with a secret house-made sauce passed down through generations, the "kabayaki" eel boasts a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior—showcasing the dedication of the chefs in every bite.

Mishima Skywalk - Japan’s Longest Pedestrian Suspension Bridge With Stunning Mount Fuji Scenery

Access:

Car: Approx. 15 mins drive from Suminobo Mishima Taisha Front Shop

Public transport: Walk approx. 1 min to Mishima Taisha-Mae Bus Stop, take Tokai Bus N65 to Mishima Skywalk Bus Stop (approx. 21 mins)

Mishima Skywalk is Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, stretching 400 meters across breathtaking natural scenery. From the bridge, visitors can take in panoramic views of the majestic Mount Fuji, the deep blue Suruga Bay, and the rolling mountain ranges of Izu and Hakone. Standing 70 meters at its highest point, walking across the bridge offers not only a refreshing breeze but also a thrilling sense of suspension, creating unforgettable travel memories.

Beyond its spectacular views, Mishima Skywalk offers a variety of outdoor activities, including a forest adventure park, the Sky Tower rope challenge jungle gym, and even an off-road Segway tour for those looking to explore nature more deeply. Thrill-seekers can also take on the excitement of driving a four-wheel all-terrain vehicle, experiencing the rush of extreme off-road riding.

Travelers can also visit Sky Garden, a cozy shop situated in the South Area of the bridge. The shop features a diverse range of Mishima Skywalk's exclusive products and gourmet souvenirs from Izu. Surrounded by colorful blooms, it's the perfect spot to enjoy light snacks and relax.

MtFuji Retreat MUKUtensha Fujinomiya - An Exclusive Escape at the Foot of Mount Fuji

Access:

Car: Approx. 50 mins drive from Mishima Skywalk

Public transport: Take Tokai Bus to Mishima Station (Approx. 34 mins), then take JR Tokaido Line to Fuji Station (Approx. 26 mins). From Fuji Station, take JR Minobu Line to Nishi-Fujinomiya Station (Approx. 22 mins), then walk approx. 9 mins.

Mt. Fuji Getaway MUKUtensha Fujinomiya is a secluded escape in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, nestled between the majestic Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine and the Shizuoka Mount Fuji World Heritage Center (a museum to learn about Mount Fuji). This prime location offers guests an immersive experience of Mount Fuji's beauty, with a seamless blend of traditional and modern design that ensures a tranquil, unforgettable stay.

The retreat operates on an "exclusive one-group-per-day" basis, providing complete privacy and luxury. The architecture incorporates rare Japanese woods, such as Fuji cypress, "yakusugi" (Japanese cedar), elm, and zelkova, with every detail reflecting the craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. The minimalist design promotes relaxation in a serene, natural atmosphere. Rooms also feature a Shizuoka-grown "hinoki" cypress bath and a private sauna for a deeply relaxing wood-infused experience.

MUKUtensha serves meals made from locally sourced ingredients, along with fine regional sake.

Day 3: Farm Stay in Rural Japan – Tea Picking, Slow Living, and Waterfalls

Shiraito Falls - A Dreamlike Waterfall at the Foot of Mount Fuji

Access:

Car: Approx. 23 mins drive from MtFuji Retreat MUKUtensha Fujinomiya

Public transport: Walk approx. 3 mins to Sengen Taisha Bus Stop, take Fujikyu-Shizuoka Bus to Shiraito Falls Sightseeing Information Center (approx. 27 mins)

Located on the southwest side of Mount Fuji, Shiraito Falls is not only a famous national scenic spot and natural monument in Japan but also part of the World Heritage site "Fujisan, Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration." The waterfall stands 20 meters tall and spans 150 meters wide, with water cascading down the cliff in a manner that resembles white silk, displaying a soft and elegant feminine grace. The water flows from the snowmelt of Mount Fuji, passing through the unique volcanic layers of the mountain, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Standing close to the falls, the water flows from three directions, forming an arch-like mist, giving the impression of being in a dreamlike water world.

Tabinoya - Experience an Authentic Farm Stay and Shizuoka Tea Picking

Access:

Car: Approx. 1 hour and 20 mins drive from Shiraito Falls

Public transport: Take the Fujikyu-Shizuoka Bus to Fujinomiya Station (approx. 30 mins). From there, take the JR Minobu Line to Fuji Station (approx. 19 mins), then transfer to the JR Tokaido Line to Kakegawa Station (approx. 1 hour and 20 mins). For overnight guests, pickup and drop-off service is available from Kakegawa Station. Please inform the owner when booking. Or, you can take a 20-minute taxi ride to Tabinoya from Kakegawa Station.

Shizuoka Prefecture is Japan’s leading tea-producing region, responsible for 40% of the country’s tea plantations, and consistently recognized for its exceptional quality and yield. Tea cultivation in the area dates back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), making it a historic and integral part of the region’s culture.

Tabinoya, located near Nissaka-shuku, one of the fifty-three stations along the old Tokaido route, is nestled amidst lush tea fields and picturesque countryside landscapes. The house, once an old tea farmer’s residence, seamlessly blends nostalgia with modern comfort, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This retreat offers more than just a getaway—it provides an opportunity to embrace a lifestyle that extends beyond typical tourism. With exclusive one-group-per-day accommodation, guests can fully immerse themselves in privacy and tranquility.

The popular “Plan with Activities Relating to Japanese Tea” offers a deep dive into Shizuoka’s tea culture. During spring and autumn, guests can participate in tea picking, while in winter, they can observe local farmers practicing the “chagusaba,” a UNESCO-recognized agricultural heritage technique. This method involves growing grass between tea fields, which is cut and used as mulch to enhance the soil's fertility, control weeds, and improve water retention. This sustainable practice enriches the flavor and aroma of Shizuoka’s renowned tea.

For those seeking stunning vistas, the host can guide you to hidden viewpoints offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji during tea picking. Beyond tea-related activities, visitors can enjoy seasonal experiences such as foraging for bamboo shoots and mountain vegetables in spring or embarking on an adventurous trek to a waterfall basin in summer.

A highlight of the stay is the seasonally inspired meals, which feature tea-infused dishes and tea leaves, used in creative preparations such as tempura and salads.Guests can try their hand at preparing Kakegawa’s specialty: Japanese yam soup, or enjoy a tea “shabu-shabu” hot pot. The following morning, breakfast features locally dried fish from nearby fishing ports and a comforting bowl of deep-steamed tea “chazuke” (tea-infused rice porridge), offering a flavorful introduction to Shizuoka’s rich tea culture.

Explore Tea Traditions and Mount Fuji With This 3-Day Shizuoka Itinerary

Shizuoka Prefecture offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural depth, and authentic experiences often missed by typical tourist routes. From the aerial views of Atami Ropeway to the tranquil tea fields of Tabinoya, this journey unveils a Japan beyond the familiar. Whether you're drawn to panoramic mountain vistas, historical insights, or culinary adventures, Shizuoka promises a travel experience that reveals the nuanced beauty of Japan's lesser-known regions.