- The city is home to a unique regional legend about a giant named Daidarabotchi, which inspired the naming of local parks.
- Shimada was one of the 22 stations on the Tokaido road, and the tradition of 'Shimada-mage' hairstyles originated here.
- The local tea industry is central to the economy, with the Makinohara plateau hosting one of the largest tea cultivation areas in Japan.
- The city is a rare location in Japan that features a dedicated park, Kanaya East Park, specifically themed around steam locomotives (SL).
- Local cultural heritage is preserved through the rigorous maintenance of historical castle ruins that lack modern reconstruction.
About Shimada, Shizuoka
Shimada is a city in Shizuoka Prefecture situated along the Oigawa River, historically serving as a crucial post town on the Tokaido road. It is defined by its extensive tea plantations and the landmark Horai Bridge, officially recognized as the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge. Visitors can explore the Site of Suwahara Castle to understand regional military history or visit the Shimada City Museum Annex for cultural artifacts. The city maintains a distinct connection to traditional Japanese architecture and landscape through sites like Higirijizoson.
Highlights of Shimada, Shizuoka
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
Walk across the world's longest wooden pedestrian bridge spanning the Oigawa River.
Historical places
Explore the strategic earthworks and layout of a significant Takeda-clan mountain castle.
Temples
Visit this temple known for its Jizo statue believed to help fulfill prayers related to traffic safety.
Museums
View local history and traditional artifacts detailing the city's role on the Tokaido route.
Places of interest
Observe aircraft movements and views toward the surrounding tea fields and mountains.
Parks
See a preserved steam locomotive displayed in a park setting near the Kanaya area.
Temples
Visit a temple site associated with historical local lords and traditional aesthetics.
Parks
Experience expansive views of tea plantations and the Oigawa River basin from this hillside park.
Top things to do in Shimada, Shizuoka
The 141 highest-rated places in Shimada, Shizuoka, ranked by travellers.
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Omaesaki Lighthouse is a white, octagonal brick structure situated on the southernmost tip of Shizuoka Prefecture's Omae...
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Horai Bridge is an 897.4-meter-long wooden footbridge spanning the Oigawa River in Shimada, Shizuoka. Built in 1879, it...
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Shimada, Shizuoka on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Shimada, Shizuoka
Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (November) for moderate temperatures and tea harvesting cycles.
1-2 days to cover the major historical sites and river views.
The city is best navigated by rental car or regional bus lines, as major sites are spread across the river basin and surrounding plateaus.
Stay near Shimada Station for convenient train access or closer to the Kanaya area for better proximity to the tea plantations and river views.
Shimada is a mid-range destination, offering affordable local transit and entry fees compared to major metropolitan hubs.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 141 curated attractions in and around Shimada, Shizuoka, ranked by traveller ratings.
Omaesaki Lighthouse is the highest-rated place to visit in Shimada, Shizuoka right now.
The largest category is temples, with 40 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Toshima, Osaka, Kyoto.
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