Tag: japan travel

Experience Shogun Culture in Shizuoka

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With the recent premiere of FX’s new series Shogun on Disney+, Japan’s captivating history, especially the era of the Shogun, has been thrust back into the global spotlight. This limited series has not only entertained audiences worldwide but also sparked renewed interest in exploring the rich tapestry of Japan’s shogunate history. In response, Explore Shizuoka has unveiled an educational series of videos shedding light on the Prefecture’s pivotal role in the seven-century-long saga of Japan’s Shogun culture. Shizuoka, nestled along Japan’s South Coast, is a region steeped in the legacy of the Shogunate era. It was home to three of Japan’s most renowned Shoguns, including Tokugawa Ieyasu, who is at the heart of the Shogun series on FX. This connection to such significant historical figures makes Shizuoka an essential destination for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the world of the Shoguns. The First Shogun, 12th Century The educational series begins with the tale of Minamoto Yoritomo, whose youth was spent on the Izu Peninsula at the eastern edge of what is today Shizuoka Prefecture. This area was also where he met his wife, Hojo Masako, and together they established the Kamakura Period, marking the inception of Japan’s Shogunate. Visitors to the Izu Peninsula can explore the Izusan Shrine in Atami City, where the couple were wed, offering a tangible connection to this foundational period in Japanese history. Watch the full story here. The Most Famous Shogun, 16th Century The series then highlights the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the central figure of the Shogun series… Read More

Need a cafe in Japan? Here are 5

Japanese food

If you’re a dessert lover or coffee fanatic, Shizuoka Prefecture is the place to be. Located just 40 minutes from Tokyo, this region boasts some of Japan’s best cafés that offer everything from cute animal desserts to matcha latte art. Here are our top picks for the most Insta-worthy cafés in the area. First up, Atami Purin Café 2nd in the coastal Onsen town of Atami is a charming little café that serves up desserts as cute as they are delicious. With seasonal treats ranging from hippo cookies atop soft serve to creamy puddings in adorable glass bottles, this café is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The bathroom-themed décor adds a touch of nostalgia to the experience. Next on our list is Chaluck in Shizuoka City. As Japan’s leading producer of green tea, trying a green tea specialty café is a must when visiting the Prefecture. This café, run by a long-established tea wholesaler in the quaint town of Okitsu, serves a wide range of tea drinks as well as tea-based sweets. Their homemade Anmitsu is a must-try, and their anko paste is sure to get your tastebuds tingling. For those looking for a stunning view with their coffee, check out Mujoudou in Fuji City. With picturesque views of Mount Fuji from the café’s large windows, this café overlooks rice paddies and offers a tranquil escape from the city. Their seasonal menu changes frequently, with delicious kakigori available in summer and warm desserts like oshiruko to warm you up in winter. Hug Coffee, with… Read More