Where to Stay in Shizuoka
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Shizuoka
Suruga Ward (Near Shizuoka Station South Exit)
BudgetA mix of residential calm and accessible city life, with local eateries.
- +Quieter atmosphere than the north side
- +Good selection of local restaurants
- +More affordable accommodation options
- -Slightly further walk to major shopping
- -Fewer tourist-oriented services
🛡️ Safe during the day and night; well-lit streets near main roads offer good visibility.
Shizuoka Station Area
Mid-rangeThe bustling gateway to the city, offering convenience and modern amenities.
- +Excellent transport links
- +Wide range of dining and shopping
- +Convenient for day trips
- -Can feel very commercial
- -Lacks traditional charm
🛡️ Very safe during the day and generally safe at night, though well-lit areas are recommended.
Aoi Ward (Central)
LuxuryThe heart of Shizuoka, blending government offices, shops, and cultural sites.
- +Proximity to key cultural attractions
- +Mix of traditional and modern architecture
- +Good public transport access
- -Can be busy during weekdays
- -Fewer budget accommodation options
🛡️ Extremely safe day and night due to high foot traffic and presence of official buildings.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
JPY 15000/day
Hidden Gems in Shizuoka
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Sumpu Castle Park
Explore the reconstructed castle tower and enjoy the beautiful gardens. It's a peaceful escape with historical significance, offering a glimpse into Shizuoka's past.
Shizuoka Prefectural Museum of Art
Discover a diverse collection of art, with a focus on local artists and traditional Japanese crafts. The building itself is also an architectural highlight.
Shizuoka City Tokai Kaido Museum of Art
This museum celebrates the art and culture along the historic Tokaido Road, showcasing a variety of historical and contemporary works. It offers a unique cultural dive.
Yaizu Fish Market
FREEWhile Yaizu is a bit outside the city center, this bustling fish market is where locals go for the freshest seafood. You can often find delicious grilled fish or sushi for breakfast.
Safety in Shizuoka
Very safeSolo Female Travel
Shizuoka is exceptionally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings are sufficient.
At Night
Well-lit and generally safe, especially around the station and main streets. Quieter residential areas are also safe but have less foot traffic.
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1No significant common tourist scams reported.
- 2Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help, though this is rare.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Shizuoka