The Home of Mount Fuji and a Shogun

SHIZUOKA

The Prefecture That Has It All

Shizuoka prefecture, located in Japan's approximate geographic center, is best known as the home of Mount Fuji. The elegant outlines of this volcanic mountain are recognized all over the world as a symbol of Japan. The temperate climate here is said to be reflected in the people of this prefecture, who are known for their mild and open manner. The scenery of Shizuoka includes the Southern Japan Alps and about five hundred kilometers of coastline. Four distinct seasons and lack of harsh weather have been said to be major factors in the region's long-standing prosperity; today that prosperity continues as industry and advanced technologies in the region stand as pillars of Japan's industrial success and economic prominence. With mountains, lakes, rivers, ocean, a wide variety of flora and fauna, and natural hot springs, this prefecture has everything to offer the visitor who wants to experience the nature of Japan. Colorful year-round festivals, historic sites, museums, and ruins dating from the Stone Age, make this prefecture a destination not to be missed when visiting the "Land of the Rising Sun." Castles from Japan's feudal period as well as well-preserved temples and shrines that are testaments to the excellence of Japanese architectural style are all here for the visitor to see. The legendary Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu chose to live in Shizuoka which made it the unofficial capital during the 17th century. Traditional folk crafts produced today as they have been for hundreds of years are the pride of the prefecture. Verdant tea plantations and abundant groves of mandarin oranges give Shizuoka it's name that translates as "Tranquil Hills".

ACCESS to SHIZUOKA (by Shinkansen) From Time Fare km Tokyo 1hr 20min 6,180yen 180.2km Nagoya 1hr 10min 6,180yen 185.8km Osaka 2hr 05min 10,580yen 372.4km Kyoto 1hr 50min 9,950yen 333.4km Information subject to change (as of September 20, 2001)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. MOUNT FUJI -- This symbol of Japan has its home in Shizuoka prefecture
   CLIMBING MOUNT FUJI -- Climb Japan's Tallest mountain at 3,776 meters. in Shizuoka prefecture
   
   
2. SUGGESTED TOUR ROUTES -- Highlights of Shizuoka Prefecture
   
   
3. HOT SPRINGS -- Refresh, rejuvenate, relax at a spa
   
   
4. NATURAL BEAUTY -- Nature here has all Japan has to offer
   
   
5. UNIQUE LOCAL FESTIVALS -- Join in the fun!
   
   
6. HISTORICAL SITES -- See history come alive
   
   
7. GREEN TEA -- Shizuoka is the largest producer of this national beverage. You too can become a tea expert, as you learn about Tea.
   
   
8. ARTS and FOLK CRAFTS --Japan's legacy of traditional crafts are vigorously maintained here
   
   
9. MARINE SPORTS -- Shizuoka's ocean, rivers and lakes are waiting for you!