Experience the Nature and Artisanship of Central Japan's Southern CoastShizuoka / Aichi / Mie

Shizuoka is a tea country, and there are plenty of reminders of this throughout the prefecture. From active plantations to a thriving tea-drinking culture, Shizuoka is a tea-lovers' paradise.
So it may come as no surprise, then, that the prefecture has its very own museum dedicated to tea in which you can enjoy through all your senses. On fine days, you can witness Mt. Fuji from the museum's observation hall and the Makinohara Tea Fields—No.1 in Japan—from its terrace.
With permanent exhibitions dedicated to the industry, culture, history, and folklore of tea, a comprehensive museum shop selling all things tea related, restaurant facilities, a garden and a beautifully ornate tea ceremony house, the museum is truly a celebration of the iconic beverage. You can even enjoy a variety of tea experiences!

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Shizuoka's coastal areas are heavily influenced by marine culture. In Hamamatsu, you'll find the beautiful Lake Hamana, a salt water lake that is also connected to the sea. It's home to traditional Takiya-ryo (torch fishing) which has a history of over 100 years. This night time activity sees boats depart at sunset and fish caught by spear and net. Catches are grilled and enjoyed on board special dining rafts that are moored at lakeside docks connected to nearby lodges, so guests can conveniently access and enjoy this memorable lakeside experience. Enjoy freshly grilled seafood while gazing out across the lake and night sky. After your stay, try cycling or trekking in the nearby areas, or venture out to explore some of Shizuoka's local fishing towns.

Japan is known the world over for its artisanship and a legion of shokunin or craftspeople. From the north of the country to the south, there are a huge variety of crafts and techniques which have been practiced for centuries. In the quaint town of Arimatsu in Aichi Prefecture, you will find ample opportunity to try your hand at and witness the centuries-old technique of Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori tie-dyeing which is said to date back to the 1600s.
This traditional tie-dyeing technique takes time and effort and is renowned for its beautiful, yet complex patterns. Due to Arimatsu's position on the Old Tokaido Route, many warriors, merchants, pilgrims, and townspeople would visit the village to purchase dyed fabrics for gifts and private use. The high quality of Arimatsu Shibori became prized throughout the country and grew in prominence thanks to the Owari clan's decision to protect the industry. This traditional national craft continues to this day and is used for kimono and other items including noren (Japanese curtains).
The town of Arimatsu, which is only 25 minutes by train from Nagoya Station, is a real jewel of an area which has been beautifully preserved with a wealth of historical structures on display and for you to explore. The town's relaxed and historical atmosphere has made it a real treat for those visiting Nagoya or Aichi Prefecture.
There are museums and shops dedicated to tie-dyeing and plenty of spots to pick up souvenirs for family and friends. It's a beautiful spot in central Japan and one which deserves your attention.

Get in touch with the local people and culture of Mie by stopping by Misugi Town, in Tsu City. Here you'll find a variety of rural experiences that truly connect tourists to local ways of life in this mountainous region.
Thanks to its abundant nature and forests, Misugi is considered a base for forest therapy, an activity known for its positive impact on wellness and general well-being. Feel encompassed by nature and the healing powers of this natural experience. Visitors to Misugi can also partake in a range of other activities that promise a fun, learning experience — from forestry, woodwork and straw crafting, or deeper cultural activities like Zen meditation and Ise Honkaido-related excursions.
Misugi is the perfect example of a Japanese countryside town and you will easily be enchanted with the nature, silence and beauty which surround the village.