7 Days of Winter Wonders in Shizuoka Itinerary

Begin your second day with a trip to Hakone Open-Air Museum. This museum combines art and nature beautifully, featuring sculptures set against the backdrop of Hakone's scenic landscapes. The crisp winter air adds an extra layer of charm to this outdoor gallery.

Next, visit the nearby Pola Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of European and Japanese art. The museum's architecture itself is a work of art, blending seamlessly with its forest surroundings. Enjoy lunch at Gora Brewery & Grill, known for its delicious food and great ambiance.

In the evening, take a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of Owakudani Valley and beyond. The ropeway offers stunning vistas that are particularly beautiful at sunset during winter months. End your day with dinner at Itoh Dining by Nobu, offering exquisite Japanese cuisine.

Start your third day by visiting Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko). Take a leisurely boat cruise across the lake to enjoy picturesque views of Mt. Fuji reflected on its surface amidst winter scenery.

Afterwards, explore Odawara Castle (Odawara-jo), which provides insights into Japan's feudal history along with beautiful gardens that look enchanting even in wintertime. Have lunch at Kaishin, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

In the evening, head towards Little Prince Museum, dedicated to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s famous novella 'The Little Prince'. The museum's European-style architecture looks especially charming under winter lights. Conclude your day with dinner at La Terrazza Ashinoko, offering Italian cuisine with stunning lake views.

Begin your day with the Shizuoka Tour of Japan's No.1 tea area close to Mt. Fuji. This tour will take you through the lush tea plantations, where you can learn about the tea-making process and even try your hand at picking tea leaves. The crisp winter air adds a refreshing touch to this immersive experience.

After the tea tour, visit Shiraito Falls (Shiraito no Taki). These stunning waterfalls are particularly beautiful in winter, with icicles forming around the cascading water. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the area and take in the serene winter landscape. For lunch, head to Soba Shingen, known for its delicious soba noodles.

In the evening, explore Fuji-Q Highland, an amusement park that offers thrilling rides and attractions. During winter, the park is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere. End your day with dinner at Murasaki, offering a variety of Japanese dishes.

Start your day with a visit to Narukawa Art Museum. This museum offers a stunning collection of modern Japanese art and provides panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji from its observation deck.

Next, head to Kawaguchi-ko (Lake Kawaguchi). Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside or rent a bike to explore the area. The lake offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji reflected on its surface, especially during winter when the surroundings are covered in snow. Have lunch at Houtou Fudou, famous for its hearty Houtou noodle soup.

In the evening, visit Owakudani, an active volcanic valley known for its hot springs and sulfur vents. Take a walk along the trails and enjoy the unique geothermal landscape. Conclude your day with dinner at Gyoza Center, offering delicious gyoza dumplings.

Begin your day by exploring Nakasendo Way, an ancient trail that once connected Kyoto to Tokyo during Japan's Edo period. Enjoy a scenic hike along this historical path, taking in the beautiful winter landscapes.

Afterwards, visit Izu Shaboten Zoo, home to various species of animals and cacti gardens. The zoo is particularly charming in winter when some animals are more active in cooler temperatures. Have lunch at Cactus Restaurant, located within the zoo premises.

In the evening, unwind at Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen once again for another relaxing soak in hot spring waters while enjoying views of Mt. Fuji under starry skies. End your day with dinner at Kai Sushi, known for its fresh sushi offerings.

Start your final day with a visit to Fuji Safari Park. This unique park allows you to drive through and observe animals in a more natural habitat. During winter, the park offers special seasonal attractions and the chance to see animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes against a snowy backdrop.

After your safari adventure, head to Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum. This museum is dedicated to the works of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of Japan's most famous ukiyo-e artists. The museum's collection includes beautiful woodblock prints that depict scenes from the historic Tokaido road. Enjoy lunch at Hiroshige Cafe, located within the museum.

Conclude your trip with a visit to Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko). Take in the stunning views of Mt. Fuji reflected in the lakes, especially beautiful during sunset in winter. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Lake Yamanaka Hananomiyako Park Restaurant, offering delicious local cuisine with panoramic lake views.