September 2024: A range of new authentic travel experiences have launched in the Japanese prefecture of Shizuoka, showcasing the region's rich culture, heritage and cuisine with highlights including exclusive Geisha performances and a tour that uncovers the top attractions of the western area of the prefecture via the retro Tenryu Hamanako Railroad.  

New Exclusive Geisha Experience in Atami

A new Geisha experience from Curious Travel has launched in the resort city of Atami on Shizuoka's idyllic Izu Peninsula. Home to the largest number of Geisha in the Tokai region, Atami has long been renowned for its close links to the traditional art form, with travellers visiting from around the world to witness the majestic and captivating performances. The new experience, which launched this summer, provides guests with an introduction to Geisha, starting with an introductory talk followed by a traditional dance show, a photo opportunity and a chance to play some traditional Japanese games. The experience lasts approximately three hours and costs 18,000 JPY per person with English-speaking guides available.

New Culinary Culture Walking Tour in Atami

For those wanting to explore Atami further, a new culinary culture walking tour has also been launched by Curious Travel this summer, showcasing the region's artisan produce by meeting with local food vendors in the city. Guests will have the opportunity to try a range of locally made ingredients that are indispensable to Japanese cuisine, including wasabi, green tea and tofu. The experience lasts approximately three hours and costs 6,900 JPY per person, with English-speaking guides available.

New Kakegawa Castle and Sake Shibori Tour by Train

A newly launched tour by H.I.S Co Ltd explores the highlights of Shizuoka's western area, visiting its majestic castle and taking a ride through the unspoilt countryside on the retro Tenryu Hamanako Railroad. The tour ends with a visit to a nearby sake brewery to taste and experience the famous local drink, with guests invited to try and make their own sake. The experience lasts approximately six hours and costs from 20,000 JPY per person, inclusive of transportation and admission fees, with English-speaking guides available.

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About Shizuoka

Just one hour from Tokyo by bullet train, Shizuoka prefecture is home to the iconic Mount Fuji. It boasts a spectacular natural environment of coastline, mountains and lakes, including the beautiful Izu Peninsula, which has been described as “Japan's Riviera” and was designated as a Global Geopark by UNESCO in April 2018. The region is steeped in history, has a huge choice of traditional ryokan inns and onsen hot springs, and is also a gourmet paradise. Its natural environment produces some of the country's best food and drink, from green tea and wasabi to fresh seafood. Shizuoka is Japan's biggest producer of green tea.

For more information, contact: Rebecca Pasha (Rebecca@humewhitehead.co.uk) or Richard Hume (Richard@humewhitehead.co.uk) or call 020 3375 4050.