Mt. Fuji & Izu Region
The Mt. Fuji & Izu region in Shizuoka Prefecture is where majestic nature harmonizes with artistic culture. Beyond conquering Mt. Fuji, immerse yourself in Japan's culinary heritage with tea-picking experiences in serene tea gardens. Indulge in hot spring inns and scenic vistas that leave a lasting impression. This area is also dotted with unique venues like art galleries and museums, making it an ideal choice for meetings and receptions. Just a 2-hour train ride from Tokyo, it has earned its reputation as a convenient resort, backed by the historical presence of renowned literary figures who frequented this land.
Special Experience
Climbing Mount Fuji
Consider Mount Fuji climbing as an incentive travel activity. If you're attempting it for the first time, the summer season (July to August) is the ideal time due to favorable weather. The panoramic views from the summit and the sunrise are nothing short of spectacular, and post-climb, indulge in local treats such like 'Fujiyama Yakisoba'.
Tea-Picking in the Scenic Tea Plantations
Shizuoka takes the top spot in green tea production. Popular among visitors are hands-on experiences like tea-picking and factory tours amidst the picturesque tea gardens. Tasting sessions and interactions with tea farmers make these participatory programs a hit. When included as part of your excursion, they offer a great opportunity to foster team cohesion.
Dive into Art: A Museum Odyssey
Shizuoka's cultural landscape is adorned with an array of museums, encompassing traditional Japanese artistry and cutting-edge contemporary works, offering a diverse range of venues. While popular choices include the 'MOA Art Museum' and the 'Shizuoka Prefectural Museum of Art, if your schedule permits, don't miss the 'Enoura Observatory' by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto.
Bathe in Bliss: Hot Springs Retreat
Hot springs offer the perfect opportunity for participants to unwind and strengthen bonds. Consider incorporating a stay at a hot spring inn into your plans, offering moments of relaxation between meetings and seminars. Izu is a beloved hot spring destination, and immersing in its soothing waters with a backdrop of the stunning Mount Fuji can elevate your event to something truly exceptional.
MICE Facilities
Laforet Resort Shuzenji
Nestled amidst lush woodlands, this expansive resort complex spans approximately 500,000 square meters, offering luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and rejuvenating hot springs. With a grand hall that accommodates up to 240 guests and multiple conference rooms, the resort is well-equipped for your MICE needs. Plus, the hotel's dedicated MICE activators are on hand to leverage the diverse facilities and ensure seamless events.
Official Website
MOA Art Museum Noh Theater
Step into the Noh Theater at MOA Art Museum, where you'll find a stage made of Japanese cypress, dressing tables adorned with hand-painted pine motifs, and a grand roof that sets the scene for a harmonious blend of Japanese culture and art. This venue offers a unique backdrop for hosting conventions, with removable pillars supporting the spacious roof, making it versatile enough for events like conferences and symposiums. Explore the 'Korin’s Residence' and the exquisite gardens on-site, and immerse yourself in an elegant and mystical atmosphere.
Official Website
Future of Fuji & Izu
The Akao Spa & Resort in Atami City has an exciting vision for the future: to become a vibrant hub for over 300 artists. Their ambitious plan includes a massive 16 billion yen investment by 2027. Meanwhile, the entire region is abuzz with ecotourism initiatives following the 2018 UNESCO World Geopark certification of the Izu Peninsula Geopark.
MICE Case Study
Sweepstakes Trip for Thai Beverage Maker
Ichitan Group, Thailand's leading producer of bottled tea with a remarkable 40% market share in the country, joined hands with Shizuoka Prefecture in 2023 to run an enticing campaign. This campaign offered a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to Shizuoka from Thailand. Ten lucky winners embarked on a memorable journey, exploring tourist hotspots, visiting tea plantations, and savoring local cuisine. This initiative, fostering cross-cultural exchange and tourism development between the two nations, stands out as a noteworthy MICE success story.
Startup Retreats and Development Bootcamps
Nestled conveniently close to Tokyo yet offering an escape from the ordinary, this region has become a favored retreat for corporate leadership. It boasts a track record of hosting management retreats for startups and more. In fact, Izu presents a diverse array of 'workation' facilities, ranging from luxurious ryokans like 'Ishinoya' to unique accommodations such as 'KONA STAY.' So why not step away from the hustle and bustle of the city, savor nature and fine dining, and foster creative thinking amidst this idyllic backdrop?
Official Website: Ishinoya
Official Website: KONA STAY
DMO & Visitor Bureau
Shizuoka Prefecture Tourism Association
Overview
A public interest incorporated association that provides tourist information in Shizuoka Prefecture. It operates tourist information centers and the "Hello Navi Shizuoka" tourist website and also handles tourist pamphlets, tourist campaigns, and other information. The association is supported by several partner members, including tourism-related facilities, shrines and temples, lodging facilities, and travel agencies in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Official Website
Service
- Operation of a tourist information center (access: 2-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station)
- Operation of the "Hello Navi Shizuoka" sightseeing website
- Providing information such as sightseeing pamphlets, sightseeing campaigns, etc.