Hamamatsu Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich city of Hamamatsu with our travel guide. Discover top destinations, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and more. Plan your itinerary with ease.


Introduction to Hamamatsu

Located in the Chubu region of Japan, Hamamatsu is a city that boasts of its rich history, stunning scenery, and lively culture. Famous for producing musical instruments, Hamamatsu is home to Yamaha, a renowned company that manufactures pianos and motorcycles. The city is also known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Hamamatsu

From historical landmarks to natural wonders, Hamamatsu has a lot to offer. Here is a list of top destinations to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments
  • Hamamatsu castle
  • Hamamatsu Flower Park

Natural Attractions of Hamamatsu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Hamana
  • Tenryu River
  • Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some hiking and biking routes you can explore:

  • Hamamatsu Cycling Road
  • Nakatajima Sand Dunes
  • Ryugashido Cave

Best Things to Do in Hamamatsu: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Kite Festival (May)
  • Try the local eel cuisine
  • Take a Yamaha factory tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Hamamatsu

Day 1: Explore Hamamatsu Castle and the Hamamatsu Museum of Musical Instruments

Day 2: Visit Lake Hamana and Tenryu River

Day 3: Take a Yamaha factory tour and learn about the production of its iconic pianos and motorbikes

Day 4: Hike the Nakatajima Sand Dunes and Ryugashido Cave

Day 5: Attend the Hamamatsu Flower Festival and try some local eel cuisine

Day 6: Take the Hamamatsu Cycling Road and stop by Hamamatsu Fruit Park Tokinosumika

Day 7: Relax at a local spa and take in the stunning scenery at Hamamatsu City Zoo

Food and Drink Scene of Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu is known for its delicious local cuisine, particularly eel dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Unagi (eel)
  • Hamamatsu gyoza
  • Hamamatsu okonomiyaki

Local Beverages

  • Hamamatsu sake
  • Green tea

Where to Stay in Hamamatsu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hamamatsu has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

  • Kuretake-inn Act Hamamatsu
  • Smile Hotel Hamamatsu
  • Guesthouse Kikunoya

What to Buy in Hamamatsu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Hamamatsu, don’t forget to bring home some souvenirs and local products. Here are some ideas:

  • Yamaha musical instruments
  • Hamamatsu gyoza
  • Hamamatsu sake

Local Culture and Customs of Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s worth learning about its customs and traditions. One such tradition is kite flying, which dates back to the Edo period. Another is the eel culture, which has been a part of the city’s cuisine for centuries.

Best Time to Visit Hamamatsu

The best time to visit Hamamatsu is from March to May or from September to November. These months offer comfortable temperatures and nice weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hamamatsu

Do:

  • Enjoy the local delicacies
  • Visit the cultural attractions
  • Attend the traditional festivals

Don’t:

  • Enter someone’s house with your shoes on
  • Litter in public spaces
  • Talk on the phone on public transportation

Safety and Health

Safety in Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu is generally a safe city, but it’s important to take precautions against natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. It’s also important to take care when walking or cycling on the roads.

Health in Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu has modern healthcare facilities, and emergency medical services are readily available. It’s important to have adequate health insurance when traveling to Japan.

Getting to Hamamatsu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hamamatsu is easily accessible by various forms of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Hamamatsu

  • Shizuoka Airport
  • Chubu Centrair International Airport

Bus Stations Near Hamamatsu

  • Hamamatsu Bus Terminal
  • Hamamatsu Station Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Bullet train (Shinkansen) to Hamamatsu Station
  • Ferry from Atami

How to Get Around Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Taxis and bicycles are also available for rental.

Where to Go Next from Hamamatsu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mt. Fuji
  • Kyoto
  • Tokyo
  • Nagoya

Conclusion

Hamamatsu is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re keen on exploring its cultural attractions, natural wonders or immersing yourself in its local cuisine and customs, there’s something for every traveler in Hamamatsu. Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your visit.

Hamamatsu Castle Hamamatsu Castle Map of Central Hamamatsu Map of Central Hamamatsu Hamamatsu's Akaden Hamamatsu's Akaden The view of downtown Hamamatsu, seen from Act City Tower's observation deck. The view of downtown Hamamatsu, seen from Act City Tower's observation deck. A guided boat tour on the Tenryuu River. A guided boat tour on the Tenryuu River. A Brazilian samba parade near Shin-Hamamatsu station A Brazilian samba parade near Shin-Hamamatsu station