Shimoda is a charming coastal town located on the Pacific Ocean, all the way to the south of the Izu Peninsula in Japan. This destination was recommended to me for a short stay, and I decided to travel there by train. After one of the most beautiful train journeys of my life, I arrived in the serene and beautiful Shimoda. Read on and discover Shimoda.
Before my trip, I did some research on this relatively undiscovered place for foreign tourists. However, this made it challenging to find information about what to do and where to go. That’s why I did various activities myself. A year later, my husband and I returned, this time by car, and we discovered many new, fun things to see and do in and around Shimoda.
Want to know more about my adventures and tips for Shimoda? Keep reading for an extensive report full of hidden gems and unforgettable experiences in Japan and discover Shimoda!
Sleeping in traditional Japanese style
I wanted to immerse myself in Japanese culture and decided to book a room at the Seiryu-so hotel. This was my first experience in a traditional Japanese hotel, surrounded by beautiful nature and only fifteen minutes from the center of Shimoda. The spacious rooms are furnished with tatami mats, and you sleep on an authentic futon bed. Like most hotels in Japan, this hotel also has its own hot spring, which is perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring. This unique stay offers a great opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality and culture.
Last time we stayed at the Ocean View Hiromi SPA Hotel. This hotel is located at the very tip of the peninsula in Shimoda, on the other side of the city. In style completely different from the Seiryu-so hotel, but here too you sleep on the floor in the traditional Japanese way and enjoy spa facilities. The best thing about this hotel is the breathtaking view of the ocean and the small island of Ebisu in front of the door. This island is a perfect place to relax and end the day with a beautiful sunset.
Things to Do in Shimoda
While Shimoda may be less vibrant than expected, it still offers a beautiful experience for travelers looking to explore Japan’s coastline. Here are some of the sights and activities in Shimoda worth checking out:
- Walk through Shimoda Park: Enjoy panoramic views of the city, perfect at sunset when the scenery is at its most beautiful.
- Explore Perry Road: This idyllic street along a babbling brook offers a unique, almost un-Japanese view with charming shops, eateries, and a temple.
- Cycle the Coast: Rent a bike and follow the quiet coastline with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a leisurely bike ride.
- Take the ropeway to the top of Nesugatayama: The summit offers breathtaking views and a beautiful garden to stroll through.
- Visit the Tsumekizaki Lighthouse: On the eastern side of Cape Suzaki, this lighthouse offers scenic views and a fun bike ride to get there.
Shimoda offers a peaceful escape, ideal for those wanting to experience the authentic beauty of the Japanese coast.
Where to eat in Shimoda
Outside of Japan’s big cities, you’ll find that many eateries close after lunch and don’t open until the evening. While this took some getting used to, I’ve still found a few great places to grab a bite and a drink in Shimoda:
Cubstar: A small and cozy café just off Perry Road with just a few seats. Here you can enjoy delicious food and a selection of local beers on tap.
Need U: A modern coffee shop known for their homemade ice cream and unique drinks. Make sure to try their creamy black sesame latte – highly recommended!
These places offer a great atmosphere and tasty options, perfect for rounding off your day in Shimoda. Do you have a top tip for eating and drinking in Shimoda? Drop me a line and I’ll make sure it makes it onto the list.
Discover Shimoda
Are you looking for peace, nature, the coast and relaxing onsen? Then Shimoda is the perfect destination for a few days away. Discover Shimoda by train, read about my first beautiful train journey in Japan here!
