These Gorgeous Photos Will Make You Want To Book A Trip To Japan ASAP

It’s been a gloomy, wet and overall murky week here in New York City so far, a fate far worse than the stifling heat everyone (this writer included) seemed to complain about just a few short weeks ago. However as I write that I take stock of the fact that rain is something we tend to take for granted, especially now as the fires continue to blaze out west and heartbreak continues for so many in Northern California. Rain or shine, wherever you find yourself in the world today, it’s as good a time as any to turn your attention to a place so majestic and beautiful it can’t help but bring a smile to your face in the way that only really beautiful travel photography can.

Roughly half way between Tokyo and Kyoto, the prefecture (or state) of Shizouka, Japan may not be as well known as its aforementioned counterparts – odd, considering it’s the home of Japan’s iconic Mt. Fuji – however it’s only a matter of time before this under the radar locale becomes a more permanent fixture along the tourist circuit. This summer, Shizouka will play host to some of the 2020 Summer Olympic cycling events thanks to its epic mountain passes and idyllic rolling hills making it an ideal spot for such a sport. Due to its moderate year-round climate, this area is also the largest producer of green tea as well as a number of wasabi farms and a thriving food and drink scene.

So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, or if you’re in need of a little wanderlust to brighten up your day, here are some of the most gorgeous photos that will make you want to book a trip to Japan ASAP. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Green Tea Plantations

Shizuoka’s history in green tea runs deep and it’s believed that tea production in the region began as early as the 1200’s.

Today, Shizuoka produces an estimated 40% of all the tea cultivated in Japan, which gives them the right to claim “most tea produced” in the country.

With hundreds of years to perfect their craft, Shizuoka’s tea leaves and resulting green tea products are hailed as some of the best in the world.

Japanese Maple Trees

Everyone always talks about how beautiful the cherry blossoms are come springtime (which, yes their reputation precedes them Sakura does possess a certain magical quality) but not to be overlooked are Japanese Maple trees which are on full display in the fall.

In the Sumata Valley, beautiful autumn colors can be seen from the suspension bridges over the river and valley and November is easily one of the best times to view the Mount Fuji Skyline, with fall leaves in the foreground and a snow-capped Mount Fuji in the distance.

Castles, Temples and Shrines

Shizuoka is home to some of the oldest castles in Japan which date back nearly 1,000 years to the Warring States Period. Kakegawa Castle is a hirayama-style Japanese castle built in the 15th century and is one of the best preserved pieces of architecture from that era.

Sumpu Castle, also known as “Castle of the Floating Isle,” was built in 1585 and was once home to the founder and first shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan. Sumpu Castle is believed to bring a sense of serenity to those who visit and the park that surrounds the ancient building is a great place to take a stroll.

The gardens are also home to a tea house where guests can taste some of Shizuoka’s world-famous tea as well as participate in a traditional tea ceremony.

Scenic Steam Train

Train travel is a way of life in Japan – this is the home of the illustrious Shinkansen bullet train after all–but if you’re looking to take a step back (way back) in time, then Oigawa Railway is just the ticket.

This vintage steam engine train takes you on a 90-minute ride across the lush scenery surrounded by mountains and endless views of Oigawa Valley and mountains in northern Shizuoka.

The route also passes by some of the world’s most famous tea fields and ends at the Senzu Station.

Oigawa Railway Ikawa Line train follows the Oi River and the train route operates from Kana to Ikawa passing a several onsen towns along the way, including notable Kawaneonsen and Sessokyo-Onsen.

The Bridge of Dreams

Who wouldn’t want to cross over a beautiful wooden bridge, especially when that bridge is called the bridge of dreams. The bridge is only a short bus ride from the main Senzu station, which winds its way through a beautiful gorge to a small hot spring town.

Hiking, Biking & Beyond

Between its quiet mountain passes, beautiful rolling hills and large swathes of flat terrain covered in rice patty’s, cyclists from all over the world come to experience Shizouka’s dramatic landscapes.

Two of the most popular self-guided cycling experiences are the Mt. Fuji and Izu Peninsula. Cyclists that come are here are able to take in the majesty of Mt.Fuji, or the more relaxed route along the Izu Peninsula where they can experience the natural wonders of Shizuoka.