Shimada: The City Might Be Your Cup of Tea
Sitting on the Shida Plains and surrounded by the River Oi is the city of Shimada, Japan. It is nestled in the Shizuoka Prefecture. It was a fortified town of great importance in the ancient times especially during the Edo period. The city thrives on its agricultural industry and green tea is its most popular crop. Almost half of the city is covered in lush green sceneries enticing many travelers to come for a quick getaway.
Best Time to Visit
Shimada prevails with a maritime climate considering it is nearby bodies of water. Hot summers are expected while the other months either tends to experience moderate to heavy rain or snow. For that matter, it is between March and May or September and October, when it is neither too hot nor too cold in the city and there are little chances of rain. Shimada hotels are more affordable too as there are lower tourist turnouts during these months. Every May, the Shimada Obi Festival takes place.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Although very basic, the Hotel Select Inn Shimada Ekimae is a budget-friendly hotel close to the metro station. Hotel Route-Inn Shimada Ekimae, on the other hand, has a restaurant on-site. Complimentary breakfast, whether Japanese or Western, also comes with the rooms. Overlooking the nearby park, you can also try booking at Hotel Tomioka-ya. The Shimada City Baranooka Park is a gorgeous park that also doubles as a botanical garden. You can find hundreds of rose varieties in the area that is also perfect for relaxing or casual strolling. Of course, while in Japan, it is a must to not miss their onsen spas or hot springs. The famous one in Shimada is the Kawane Thermal Spa. Meanwhile, World Tea Museum will tell you more about the city’s most successful tea sector.