When visiting Shizuoka, you can't miss Sumpu Castle Park! This is where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo shogunate, lived in his later years. Although the castle no longer stands and the former Sumpu Castle was destroyed by fire long ago, what remains is a lush public park.
The park has a bronze statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu and a mandarin orange tree said to have been planted by Ieyasu himself. Walking along the tree-lined paths, it's hard to imagine that this was once the center of power.
The weather was also great that day, and everything looked good in photos with the sunlight. Although we didn't get to see the most spectacular flower season, we unexpectedly enjoyed a leisurely stroll around the old castle grounds.
Sumpu Castle Park | Review by 楊雅雯
Other Reviews by 楊雅雯
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Chibi Maruko-chan Land
Japan’s one and only museum dedicated to the beloved manga “Chibi Maruko-chan” is located in Shizuoka, the hometown of the series’ creator Momoko Sakura. Inside you’ll find 3 different zones to explore.
When you're in Shimizu, Shizuoka, how could you miss Maruko's hometown!
For a 1,200 JPY admission fee, you can step into Chibi Maruko-chan Land and feel like you've instantly traveled back to childhood. The students of Class 3-4 are all lined up—Maruko, Tama-chan, Hanawa, Maruo... Every character feels as familiar as an old classmate.
The museum also has original manga artwork, anime scripts, and an introduction to Momoko Sakura's life. Looking at the pencil drafts and revision marks, I realized that those seemingly ordinary childhood moments were all precious memories from the creator's life.
The funniest part is the Sakura family—Grandpa Tomozou, Maruko's mom and dad. Every one of them makes you think, "This is exactly like my family!"
There are no thrilling rides here, but it's filled with childhood memories. My biggest takeaway after walking around was—turns out we were all Maruko once! -
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Miho no Matsubara
About 30,000 pine trees grow along the 5-km-long coastline, a scenic spot that has attracted people from all walks of life since ancient times. It is one of Japan's three new scenic spots and one of Japan's three great pine groves. In 2013, it was registered as a component of the World Cultural Heritage of Mt Fuji.
Visiting Miho no Matsubara really felt like stepping into a natural ukiyo-e print! The expansive coastline lined with lush green Japanese black pines is stunning, and when the weather is clear, you can see Mount Fuji too. It almost doesn't look real. Unfortunately, we arrived near sunset, and part of Mount Fuji was already hidden by the clouds, so we could only play “peekaboo with Mount Fuji.” Still, strolling along the coast in the sea breeze was so relaxing that we didn't want to rush at all. There's also the romantic legend of Hagoromo, so be sure to look for the legendary “Hagoromo Pine.” Even without a full view of Mount Fuji, the sea breeze and pine grove alone make it well worth a visit!
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Izu Teddy Bear Museum
A museum showcasing teddy bears collected from around the world. Meet rare and adorable bears, including “Teddy Girl,” listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the most expensive teddy bear. Popular highlights include the Teddy Bear Factory, where you can make a one-of-a-kind plush, and the long-running special exhibition “My Neighbor Totoro Plush Exhibition Part 3.”
This place is basically a paradise of cute and soothing attractions! As soon as you enter, you're surrounded by adorable teddy bears. On the first floor, you can experience the history and culture of teddy bears through different themed displays, while the second floor transforms into a dreamy world of My Neighbor Totoro. There are also all kinds of merchandise to browse at your leisure.
The most interesting part is that you can reserve a hands-on workshop and make your own plush toy, which is perfect for families with children. It's also not far from Izu-Kogen Station on foot, and the surroundings are quiet and relaxing. Although the museum isn't large, it's just as cute as you'd expect! Don't miss this place full of childlike wonder when visiting Izu-Kogen. -
