Shizuoka and Kanagawa A Muslim-Friendly Travel Destination Reachable from Tokyo
Introduction
Shizuoka, located in the central region of Japan, just south-west of Tokyo and 2 hours by train, is a
captivating destination that beckons travellers with its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural
heritage, and delectable culinary offerings.
Another must-visit destination is Kanagawa, also located south-west of Tokyo, is renowned for its stunning waterfront, multicultural ambiance, and an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests, its capital city of Yokohama offers an enriching experience that extends beyond its vibrant cityscape. Getting to Yokohama will also take just over 1 hour by train.
Both prefectures are making the extra effort to provide Muslim-friendly arrangements for their increasing Muslim visitors, therefore making these destinations suitable for everyoneIn this article, we will highlight some of the top tourist attractions in Shizuoka and Kanagawa, highlighting the amenities and services that cater specifically to the unique needs and preferences of Muslim visitors
Shizuoka
Shizuoka
Shizuoka is a haven where the tranquillity of serene tea fields meets the dynamic energy of vibrant urban
centres. It is suitable for Muslim travellers seeking a harmonious blend of tradition, scenic landscapes,
and Muslim-friendly experiences.
Shizuoka has emerged as a destination that seamlessly combines gastronomy and adventure, all while providing an increasingly accommodating environment for Muslim travellers.
Shizuoka Halal Portal
While visiting some of the breathtaking destinations in Shizuoka region,
you can also indulge in some of the most delectable local food that
Shizuoka have to offer. With an intention to increase the number of Muslim
visitors, the Shizuoka prefecture have created a website as a guide on how
to locate the nearest prayer rooms and Muslim-friendly grocery stores in
the following link:
https://fujinokuni.shokunomiyako-shizuoka.pref.shizuoka.jp/en/halal
1. Mount Fuji and The Suruga Bay Ferry
Nestled in the heart of Shizuoka, Japan, the illustrious Mount Fuji stands
tall as the nation’s loftiest peak, beckoning visitors to experience its
unparalleled grandeur.
Venturing to ascend this iconic mountain is a formidable challenge, yet
those who opt for alternative perspectives can find breathtaking views.
These vantage points not only provide respite from the physical demands of climbing but also
present visitors with an array of stunning photo opportunities, capturing
the serene beauty of Mount Fuji.
The Suruga Bay Ferry operates as an exceptional prefectural road
designated as Route 223, phonetically pronounced as “fujisan” in Japanese.
This distinctive road traverses above the picturesque Suruga Bay, an
esteemed member of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World Club, creating a
vital link between Shimizu Port and Nishi-Izu Toi Port with a transit time
of approximately 70 minutes.
Passengers are treated to an awe-inspiring panorama that includes World
Heritage sites such as the iconic Mount Fuji and the scenic
Miho-no-Matsubara pine grove. The ferry provides an opulent lounge room
where passengers can bask in the breathtaking views, ensuring a serene and
traffic-free maritime journey. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the
surroundings and relish a tranquil cruise over the open sea.
It is also good to note that during prayer times, you can take a quick
30-minute drive by taxi or rental car to the nearby Shizuoka Masjid from
Shimizu port.
Address: 10-80 Hinode-cho, Shimizu-ku,
Shizuoka-shi
Access: From JR Shimizu Station
8 minutes by taxi from the East Gate
10 minutes by free shuttle bus from the East
8 minutes by local bus from the West Gate. Stop “Hatoba / Verkehr
Hakubutsukan-mae”.
Website: https://www.223-ferry.or.jp/en.html
Shizuoka Masjid
Address: 5-14-5 Hirono,Suruga-ku,
Shizuoka-shi
Access: 30 minutes drive (by taxi or rental
car) from Shimizu Port
Website: https://fujinokuni.shokunomiyako-shizuoka.pref.shizuoka.jp/halal/restaurant/779?lang=en
2. Gyokuro no Sato
Situated approximately a 10-minute drive from the Fujieda-Okabe IC of the
Shin-Tomei Expressway, the Asahina area in Okabe-cho, Shizuoka Prefecture,
stands as a haven for connoisseurs of high-quality gyokuro and matcha
teas, rivaling those esteemed varieties produced in Uji, Kyoto, and Yame,
Fukuoka.
The enclave’s crown jewel is the “Gyokuro-no-Sato” facility, a captivating
destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of gyokuro
and matcha amidst the breathtaking scenery of expansive tea fields and
majestic mountains. Beyond its picturesque surroundings, Gyokuro-no-Sato
has become a sought-after tourist spot, equipped with a convenient bus
stop for sightseeing buses, attracting a bustling crowd, particularly
during holiday seasons.
This vibrant hub not only offers a sensory journey into the world of
premium Japanese teas but also provides a harmonious blend of cultural and
natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for tea enthusiasts
and tourists alike.
For Muslim visitors, the restaurant serves Muslim-friendly no pork dishes.
Address: 1214-3 Shinshu, Okabe-cho, Fujieda
City, Shizuoka Prefecture 421-1115
Access:
Approximately 10 minutes by car from Shin-Tomei Expressway Fujieda
Okabe IC
About 20 minutes by car from Tomei Expressway Yaizu IC
From JR Shizuoka Station, take the Shizutetsu Just Line bus on the
Chubu National Highway Line and get off at “Fujieda City Okabe
Branch”.
Transfer to the Fujieda City independently operated bus and get off at
“Gyokuro no Sato”
Website: https://www.shizutetsu-retailing.com/gyokuronosato/
3. Gotemba Premium Outlets
Nestled in the picturesque town of Gotemba in Shizuoka Prefecture, Gotemba
Premium Outlet stands as a retail haven in close proximity to the majestic
Mt. Fuji. Boasting the innovative concept of a “town in the forest,” the
outlet mall invites visitors to indulge in a unique shopping experience
set against a backdrop reminiscent of the historic cityscape of North
America.
Beyond its reputation as a premier shopping destination, Gotemba Premium
Outlet is renowned for its breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, earning its
place as a prominent viewing spot for the iconic mountain. Notably, the
“Yume No Ohashi” (Bridge of Dreams) within the facility has secured its
position among the “Top 12 Mt. Fuji Viewing Spots” and the esteemed “Mt.
Fuji View Legacy” in Gotemba city.
This architectural gem not only provides a spectacular vantage point for
admiring the grandeur of Mt. Fuji but also adds an extra layer of allure
to the overall experience of exploring Gotemba Premium Outlet. Whether
indulging in retail therapy or savoring the scenic beauty, visitors can
immerse themselves in the multifaceted appeal of this distinctive
destination.
It’s good to note that Gotemba Premium Outlets also provides prayer rooms
for Muslim visitors.
Address: 1312, Fukasawa Gotemba-Shi,
Shizuoka, Japan 412-0023
Access: Free shuttle bus operates every 15
minutes between the mall and JR Gotemba Station
Website: https://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/en/
4. MOA Museum of Art
Perched atop a scenic hill in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the MOA
Museum of Art offers a captivating blend of art and nature as an “art
museum with a view of the sea,” providing a stunning panorama overlooking
the Sagami Nada Sea. The museum’s main lobby serves as a visual feast,
offering a sweeping vista of Hatsushima and Izu Oshima floating on the
waters below, creating a serene and soul-soothing ambiance for visitors.
Positioned in Atami City, a renowned tourist destination in Shizuoka
Prefecture, the MOA Museum stands out as one of the city’s premier
attractions, drawing numerous visitors year-round.
Within its walls, the MOA Museum of Art proudly houses an extensive
collection of approximately 3,500 works of art, which includes three
national treasures, 70 important cultural properties, and around 50
significant art objects. This rich and diverse collection encompasses a
wide array of art forms with both artistic and scholarly significance.
Visitors can explore a curated selection of paintings, calligraphy,
handicrafts, and statues originating from Japan, China, and various other
parts of East Asia, offering a comprehensive and enlightening journey
through the region’s cultural and artistic heritage. The museum’s
commitment to showcasing a range of masterpieces enhances its appeal as a
cultural gem within the vibrant tapestry of Shizuoka Prefecture.
Address: 26-2 Momoyama-cho, Atami, Shizuoka
413-8511
Access: Buses depart from Atami railway
station bus terminal: Head left after you exit the station. Taxis are also
available at the station. It takes approximately 5 minutes to the museum.
Website: https://www.moaart.or.jp/en/
Kanagawa
Kanagawa, located just south-west of Tokyo, Japan, is a diverse and
captivating destination that holds special appeal for Muslim travellers.
Boasting a mix of modernity and traditional charm, Kanagawa offers a range
of experiences that cater to different interests. The prefecture is
renowned for its iconic city, Yokohama, which is home to Japan’s largest
Chinatown. Muslim travellers can explore vibrant markets, and enjoy the
picturesque waterfront. Kanagawa is not only a hub for urban adventures
but also a gateway to natural beauty, with scenic landscapes, historical
gardens, and cultural attractions that provide a well-rounded and
enriching experience.
In order to increase the number of Muslim visitors to the main city of
Yokohama and its surrounding areas, there is a very useful Muslim Tourist
Information website that a Muslim visitor can refer to for tours and
events that are happening. This guide will help you with your daily
itineraries, or if you’re into adventures and sight-seeing.
Another useful information for Muslim travellers is the availability of
two guidebooks that you can download and save in your mobile devices. You
can proceed to download these two very useful guidebooks from the links
below:
1. Minato Mirai 21: Urban Oasis
Positioned as a captivating seaside urban enclave in central Yokohama,
Minato Mirai 21 derives its name, meaning “harbor of the future,” from its
transformative evolution. Once an expansive shipyard until the 1983, this
dynamic area underwent development to emerge as a vibrant new city center,
adorned with towering structures, notably the Landmark Tower, reigning as
Japan’s tallest building from 1993 to 2014.
Nestled along the waterfront, the Minato Mirai Chuo district contributes
to Yokohama’s iconic skyline, dominated by the 296-meter Landmark Tower
and complemented by the progressive Queen’s Towers, incrementally
diminishing in height. Adjacent to these structures, Queen’s Square Yokohama
and the Pacifico Yokohama Conference Center,
enhance the architectural panorama. The district seamlessly extends
inland, with ongoing redevelopment initiatives shaping its evolving
landscape.
Beyond its visually striking features, Minato Mirai is strategically
located along the water, offering an array of attractions to visitors. The
area encompasses shopping centers, hotels, a convention center, an
amusement park, a relaxation center featuring hot spring baths, museums,
and expansive park spaces. This dynamic fusion of urban development,
architectural marvels, and diverse leisure options positions Minato Mirai
21 as a multifaceted destination, inviting exploration and engagement.
Address: Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa
220-0012, Japan
Access: Two stops from Yokohama station to
Minatomirai Station on the Minato Mirai Line central rail link.
Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2099/
2. Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
Step into the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, a gastronomic haven that
transcends the boundaries of time and space. Nestled in the vibrant city
of Yokohama, this unique museum is not merely a culinary destination; it’s
a captivating journey through the history and artistry of one of Japan’s
most beloved dishes – ramen.
The museum is a carefully crafted homage to ramen, showcasing its
evolution from humble beginnings to the diverse and globally celebrated
dish it is today. It’s a place where flavour and tradition intertwine,
inviting visitors on a flavourful odyssey through the many regional styles
of this iconic noodle soup.
Muslim visitors can indulge in some of the most delectable ramens. Fret
not, the Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum serves Muslim-friendly vegetarian
ramen dishes that you can find within the vicinity. There are two ramen
shops specifically. You can head over to Komurasaki, and Ryu-Shanghai
Honten for some delicious Muslim-friendly vegetarian ramens.
As a bonus, there is also a prayer room available in the museum.
Please refer to the following link for more information:
https://www.raumen.co.jp/english/
Address: 2-14-21 Shin-yokohama, Kohoku-ku,
Yokohama
Access: Stop at Shin-Yokohama Station (from
JR Tokaido Shinkansen / JR Yokohama Line / Yokohama Municipal Subway)
Website: https://www.yokohamajapan.com/things-to-do/detail.php?bbid=17
3. Yokohama World Porters
Nestled along the waterfront of Yokohama, a vibrant cosmopolitan city,
stands the Yokohama World Porters – a multifaceted destination that
seamlessly weaves together entertainment, shopping, and culinary
exploration. As a bustling hub that mirrors the dynamic spirit of
Yokohama, World Porters
Invites visitors into a world where diverse cultures converge, creating an
immersive experience that captures the essence of both local and global
influences.
At the Yokohama World Porters, Muslim visitors can also make use of their
prayer room, which is available upon request from the information counter
located on the 2nd floor. The prayer room at this facility is thoughtfully
equipped with multiple sets of compasses and prayer rugs, ensuring a
comfortable and accommodating space for Muslim visitors.
Additionally, the facility provides a wealth of information through the pamphlet in English that include valuable travel insights. These informational resources are conveniently accessible,
allowing visitors to pick them up on their way back, enhancing their
overall experience with helpful travel guidance.
Address: 2-2-1 Shinko, Naka-ku, Yokohama
City, Kanagawa
Access: 5-minute walk from Minatomira Line’s
Minatomirai Station or Bashamichi Station. 10-minute walk from JR or
Yokohama City Subway’s Sakuragicho Station.
Website: https://www.yokohamajapan.com/tour-itineraries/detail.php?id=15
Closing Note
Shizuoka and Kanagawa have unveiled themselves as two remarkable
Muslim-friendly destinations that offer a diverse spectrum of experiences
for an avid traveller. As our journey through these captivating cities
draws to a close, it becomes evident that Japan’s charm extends far beyond
its iconic landmarks and bustling metropolises. Shizuoka’s serene
landscapes, tea culture, and heartwarming hospitality invite you to
immerse yourself in Japan’s rural beauty, while Yokohama’s eclectic mix of
modernity and tradition ensures an unforgettable urban adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to the tranquillity of Shizuoka’s relaxing atmosphere
or the bustling vibrancy of Kanagawa, Japan eagerly awaits to share its
wonders, surprises, and warm hospitality with you. Your next adventure in
the Land of the Rising Sun promises to be an unforgettable one.
