Central Shizuoka (Around Shizuoka Station and Shimizu)Introducing the central region's famous specialties, from Shizuoka oden to fresh tuna and raw sakura shrimp.
Central Shizuoka is surrounded by both the sea and mountains, making it rich in fresh seafood and a variety of local specialties.
1. Shizuoka Oden and Local Specialties
- Oden Alleys: Aoba Oden Gai and Aoba Yokocho are famous spots where you can try Shizuoka oden, which is known for its dark broth and fish powder (kezuriko) topping. Along these narrow alleys lit by red lanterns, tiny local bars and tourist-friendly stalls are packed closely together.
- Green Tea and Wasabi: These are Shizuoka's representative products, boasting some of the highest production volumes and best quality in Japan. You can easily find rich green tea desserts, food paired with fresh raw wasabi, and even wasabi ice cream.
2. Shizuoka-Exclusive Restaurants
- Sawayaka Hamburg (Charcoal Grilled Restaurant Sawayaka): This is a famous regional hamburger steak chain found only within Shizuoka Prefecture. The signature dish is the Genkotsu Hamburg (げんこつハンバーグ), made with 100% Australian beef that locks in the juices. A server will cut the meat in half and grill it right in front of you on a hot iron plate. It is incredibly popular with both locals and tourists, so expect very long wait times. We recommend visiting outside of peak dining hours.
3. Fresh Tuna and Seafood
- Bluefin Tuna and Skipjack Tuna: The area around Shimizu Port has the highest volume of tuna landings in all of Japan. Visiting Shimizu Fish Market for lunch is a great way to enjoy high-quality bluefin tuna bowls (magurodon) at affordable prices.
- Raw Sakura Shrimp (Nama Sakura Ebi): Along with various seafood bowls, you should not miss the raw sakura shrimp bowls or tempura. These rare shrimp are caught almost exclusively in Suruga Bay.
Izu Region (Hot Spring Area)Introducing premium seafood like splendid alfonsino and Ise spiny lobster, along with sweet desserts unique to hot spring towns.
This region features premium ingredients and desserts grown and made in the rich nature of the Izu Peninsula.
1. Premium Seafood Dishes
- Splendid Alfonsino and Ise Spiny Lobster: Splendid alfonsino (kinmedai), a valuable fish caught in the Izu sea, and large, meaty Ise spiny lobsters are premium local delicacies you should try.
2. Hot Spring Town Desserts
- Sweet Treats: Hot spring manju (onsen manju) from Izunagaoka, steamed using natural hot spring heat, and smooth Izu puddings are popular snacks that are perfect to enjoy after a relaxing hot spring bath.
Fuji Region (Around Mount Fuji)Introducing casual local foods that allow you to taste Mount Fuji's pure water and local atmosphere.
1. Yakisoba Street
- Fujinomiya Yakisoba: Unlike regular yakisoba, this representative Shizuoka street food is known for its uniquely chewy noodles. If you visit Omiya Yokocho (Yakisoba Street), located right across from the main gate of Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, you will find a gathering of specialty shops to choose from.
- When you order yakisoba, the shop will give you an empty paper cup. They do not serve regular bottled water; instead, you can fill your cup with cool, fresh spring water from Mount Fuji at the well or water fountain located in the center of the alley.
Hamamatsu Region (Western Area)Introducing eel dishes from Lake Hamana and the unique local dumpling culture.
This region is famous for its massive lake and unique pan-fried dumpling culture.
1. Eel Dishes from Lake Hamana
- Eel Dishes: Eel caught in Lake Hamana is famous nationwide. It can be enjoyed in many ways, including Kabayaki (grilled with a sweet soy sauce), Shirayaki (grilled simply with salt), and Mabushi Chazuke (eaten with green tea or broth poured over the top).
2. Hamamatsu Gyoza (Pan-fried Dumplings)
- Unique Dumplings: These dumplings are famous for being served in a circle with boiled bean sprouts placed right in the center. They are crispy, packed with fillings, and highly popular.
