Shizuoka's Nippondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: A Tranquil Journey of Hot Springs and Historical Exploration!

I embarked on a rejuvenating trip to Nippondaira in Shizuoka Prefecture, blending natural hot springs with the historical charm of Kunozan Toshogu Shrine! 🌅 Just an hour by Shinkansen from Tokyo, this 307-meter-high hill offers breathtaking views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji, with fresh and invigorating air. I stayed at a hotel in the Nippondaira hot spring area, soaking in chloride-rich hot springs to relieve fatigue. The next day, I visited Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, immersing myself in the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu. This journey was a perfect balance of relaxation and cultural enrichment, leaving me refreshed and inspired. 💙 Come explore the hidden charm of Shizuoka with me! 📸

📍 Location: Nippondaira & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
📍 Address: Nippondaira Hot Spring Area, Suruga Ward, Shizuoka City; Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Negoya, Suruga Ward, Shizuoka City
🚗 Transportation: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shizuoka Station (about 1 hour, ¥4,000 one-way), then transfer to a bus to Nippondaira (about 20 minutes, ¥500). From Nippondaira, take the ropeway to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (about 5 minutes, ¥1,100 round trip). By car, drive via the Tomei Expressway to Nippondaira Kunozan Smart IC (about 40 minutes). ⏱️
🎫 Costs: Approximately ¥15,000-25,000 per person (hot spring hotel stay with two meals ¥12,000-20,000 + transportation ¥5,000 + ropeway ¥1,100 + shrine admission ¥500)
🕒 Operating Hours: Nippondaira hot spring hotels open all day; Kunozan Toshogu Shrine 9:00-17:00 (ropeway 9:00-17:00)
💡 Tips: Nippondaira can be windy, so wear warm clothing; ropeway queues are long during peak seasons, so buy tickets in advance. Bring rain gear on rainy days and watch out for slippery stone steps! ☔️

🌿 Highlights: A perfect blend of serene hot springs and historical heritage
1. Nippondaira Hot Spring Hotels: Healing chloride-rich baths
Stay at a hotel in the Nippondaira hot spring area (e.g., Nippondaira Hotel), with rooms offering views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji. Enjoy private open-air baths with chloride-rich hot springs to ease travel fatigue. ♨️ At night, the illuminated mountain scenery and stargazing from the baths create a romantic atmosphere. The smooth spring water rejuvenates your skin! 📷 Photo Tip: Capture sea views and Mount Fuji from the open-air bath, adding mist effects for a soothing vibe.

2. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: Tokugawa Ieyasu's National Treasure Shrine
Take the ropeway from Nippondaira to Kunozan, where 1,159 stone steps lead to Toshogu Shrine, the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. This national treasure features stunning architecture! ⛩️ Pay homage to Ieyasu and experience the profound history of the Edo period. The shrine's golden decorations shine brightly, and the views of Suruga Bay are magnificent. 📷 Photo Tip: Capture the shrine's full view and stone steps, with Suruga Bay in the background to highlight the sacred and natural beauty.

3. Nippondaira Plateau Walk: Scenic beauty and natural landscapes
Nippondaira, at an elevation of 307 meters, is a designated national scenic spot. Stroll through Yume Terrace, overlooking Suruga Bay and Miho no Matsubara. Winter snow, spring cherry blossoms, and autumn foliage offer seasonal charm, with fresh air perfect for picnics or walks. 📷 Photo Tip: Capture panoramic views of the plateau and Mount Fuji, including the ropeway gondola for a majestic perspective.

🏞️ Nearby Itinerary Suggestions
• Miho no Matsubara: 30-minute drive, 🌊 a UNESCO World Heritage pine forest with views of Mount Fuji.
• Sunpu Castle Park: 20-minute drive, 🏯 explore Tokugawa Ieyasu's historical site.
• Shimizu Fish Market: 40-minute drive, 🍣 enjoy fresh seafood.

💡 Travel Tips 🌟
1. Best Timing: Visit the shrine from 9:00-11:00 AM and soak in the hot springs from 2:00-4:00 PM to avoid crowds. 🌞
2. Budget Reference: Shinkansen ¥8,000 + hotel ¥15,000 + ropeway ¥1,100 + transportation ¥1,000, totaling approximately ¥25,100 per person. 💸
3. Outfit Suggestions: Lightweight yukata or outdoor wear, 👘 paired with non-slip shoes and a sun hat for the hot spring vibe.
4. Safety Tips: Watch your step on steep stone steps, check hot spring temperatures, and bring warm gear for winter. ⚠️

🌟 Overall Rating: 9/10 💎
A trip to Nippondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine in Shizuoka Prefecture is a stunning combination of hot springs and historical treasures! ♨️ The healing baths at Nippondaira Hotel and the national treasure architecture of Toshogu Shrine make this journey serene and majestic. Compared to the popular Mount Fuji, this destination feels more authentic. I look forward to visiting Miho no Matsubara for cherry blossoms next time! 🌸 Which Shizuoka attraction is your favorite? Share your hot spring travel experiences in the comments! 😊💬