- Introduction
- Why Shizuoka Is One of Japan’s Best Touring Destinations
- Overview of Shizuoka Touring Areas
- Mt. Fuji Motorcycle Routes
- Izu Peninsula – Coastal & Skyline Riding
- Recommended 2–3 Day Touring Itinerary
- Best Seasons for Touring in Shizuoka
- Safety Tips & Riding Challenges
- Cultural & Local Experiences Along the Route
- Conclusion
- RELATED ARTICLES
Introduction
Shizuoka is one of the best regions in Japan for motorcycle touring—and one of the few places where you can experience Mount Fuji, coastal roads, and highland riding all in a single trip.
Located between Tokyo and Nagoya, Shizuoka offers unmatched variety. You can ride along the Pacific Ocean in the morning, climb toward the clouds of Mt. Fuji by midday, and finish your day soaking in an onsen by the coast.
This guide is designed to be the ultimate resource for planning a motorcycle tour in Shizuoka. From iconic routes like the Fuji Subaru Line to hidden coastal roads in the Izu Peninsula, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Why Shizuoka Is One of Japan’s Best Touring Destinations
Unique Geography: Fuji Meets the Ocean
Shizuoka’s biggest advantage is its diversity.
- Mt. Fuji (Japan’s highest peak)
- Pacific coastline
- Volcanic highlands
- Forest mountain roads
You don’t just ride here—you transition through completely different landscapes within hours.
Accessibility from Tokyo
- 2–3 hours from Tokyo
- Easy highway access (Tomei Expressway)
- Ideal for weekend trips
For international riders, it’s one of the easiest regions to access.
Overview of Shizuoka Touring Areas
Mt. Fuji Area
- High elevation roads
- Cooler temperatures
- Iconic views
Key base: Kawaguchiko / Fujinomiya
Izu Peninsula
- Coastal cliffs
- Ocean views
- Relaxed riding
Split into:
- East Izu (Route 135)
- West Izu (more scenic, less traffic)
Central Shizuoka
- Tea plantations
- Rural roads
- Less tourist traffic
Hamamatsu & Lake Hamana
- Open lakeside roads
- Gentle cruising
- A calm, local atmosphere
Mt. Fuji Motorcycle Routes
Fuji Subaru Line (5th Station)
- Length: ~30 km
- Elevation: ~2,300m
Highlights:
- Ride above clouds
- Rapid scenery change
- Iconic destination
⚠️ Closed during climbing season (July–September)
Fujinomiya Side Routes
- Less crowded
- More natural feel
- Great Fuji views
Riding Experience
- Smooth roads
- Gentle curves
- Sudden weather changes
Izu Peninsula – Coastal & Skyline Riding
Izu Skyline
- Toll road
- Fast, smooth curves
- Panoramic views
Route 135 (East Coast)
- Ocean views
- Tourist spots
- Moderate traffic
West Izu Coastal Roads
- Dramatic cliffs
- Fewer cars
- Sunset views
Recommended 2–3 Day Touring Itinerary
Day 1
Tokyo → Hakone → Izu Skyline → East Izu
Day 2
West Izu → Fuji Area → Kawaguchiko
Day 3 (Optional)
Fuji Subaru Line → return
Best Seasons for Touring in Shizuoka
- Spring: Ideal weather
- Summer: Hot (coast), cool (Fuji)
- Autumn: Best visibility
- Winter: Snow risk in mountains
Safety Tips & Riding Challenges
Weather & Fog
- Fuji area = sudden fog
- Coastal weather shifts
Traffic
- Tourist congestion
- Slow vehicles
Road Hazards
- Sand (coastal)
- Wet leaves
- Wildlife
Cultural & Local Experiences Along the Route
Food
- Fresh seafood (Izu)
- Shizuoka green tea
- Wasabi dishes
Onsen
- Shuzenji
- Atami
- Ito
Conclusion
Shizuoka offers one of the most complete motorcycle touring experiences in Japan.
It combines:
- Iconic landscapes (Mt. Fuji)
- Coastal freedom (Izu Peninsula)
- Accessible routes
If you want one region that delivers everything, this is it.
For a broader overview, explore our Motorcycle Touring in Japan guide, which connects all major routes across the country.
