Shizuoka

Quality of life in Shizuoka

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

About Shizuoka

Shizuoka, located in the heart of Japan, is a city that beautifully blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Shizuoka is a hub for tea production, offering a serene and picturesque landscape that attracts both locals and tourists alike.The city is characterized by its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events that celebrate its history and traditions. Shizuoka's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, making it a dynamic place to live and visit.
Climate
Outstanding
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Healthcare
Good
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Traffic
Very High
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Affordability
Expensive
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Crime
Very Low
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Pollution
Low
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History and Culture

Shizuoka's history dates back to ancient times, with its development closely tied to its strategic location along the Tokaido road, which was a major route during the Edo period. The city played a crucial role in Japan's history, serving as a political and cultural center.

Culturally, Shizuoka is renowned for its traditional arts and crafts, including the production of exquisite ceramics and textiles. The city is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, which is a testament to its rich cultural heritage.

Shizuoka's cultural vibrancy is further highlighted by its diverse population, which has contributed to a unique blend of traditions and modern influences. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Shizuoka Festival, which showcases traditional music, dance, and food.

Things to do in Shizuoka

Visitors to Shizuoka can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the stunning landscapes of Mount Fuji to relaxing in the city's many hot springs. The Nihondaira Plateau offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Shizuoka is also famous for its tea culture, and visitors can experience traditional tea ceremonies and visit tea plantations to learn about the production process. The city boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with local specialties such as Shizuoka oden and fresh seafood from Suruga Bay.

Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the city's museums and galleries, including the Shizuoka Prefectural Museum of Art, which features works by both Japanese and international artists. The city's lively festivals, such as the Abekawa Fireworks Festival, provide a glimpse into the local culture and community spirit.

See top attractions and things to do in Shizuoka

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Japan reflect how livable a city in Japan is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Shizuoka

Shizuoka, Japan experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 90 inches (2300 mm), with September being the wettest month, averaging 12 inches (300 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 57°F (14°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 8 inches (200 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The hottest months, with average highs ranging from 77°F (25°C) in June to 86°F (30°C) in August. Rainfall is substantial, especially in June and July, averaging around 10 inches (250 mm) per month due to the rainy season.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 81°F (27°C) in September to 63°F (17°C) in November. September is the wettest month, with rainfall averaging 12 inches (300 mm), while October and November see a decrease in precipitation.
  • Winter (December to February)The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 54°F (12°C) in December to 50°F (10°C) in February. Snowfall is rare, and the winter months are relatively dry, with January averaging about 3 inches (75 mm) of precipitation.
Notable Weather Events
  • Typhoons during late summer and early autumn
  • Occasional heatwaves in July and August
  • Heavy rainfall during the rainy season in June and July

Shizuoka's Political Climate

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)

Shizuoka, located in Japan, is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, but it also boasts a dynamic political climate. The city operates under a mayor-council government system, which is common in Japan. The mayor, elected by the citizens, plays a significant role in shaping the city's policies and governance. Shizuoka's political landscape is influenced by both local and national politics, with the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) often holding significant sway in local elections.

Historically, Shizuoka has been a stronghold for the LDP, reflecting the broader political trends of Japan. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards more progressive policies, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability and disaster preparedness, given the city's proximity to Mount Fuji and its vulnerability to natural disasters. The city has implemented various green initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources.

Shizuoka's political climate is also shaped by its economic priorities, with a strong focus on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. The city's leadership has been proactive in promoting economic development while balancing social and environmental concerns. Recent political events have seen increased civic engagement, with local movements advocating for greater transparency and accountability in government.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout65%
  • City GovernanceMayor-council government
  • CompositionMajority LDP with representation from opposition parties
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on environmental policies and disaster preparedness
  • EngagementModerate to high, with active civic groups
  • Political ScorecardB+ for governance and transparency
  • Legislative PrioritiesEnvironmental sustainability Disaster preparedness Economic development
  • Public OpinionGenerally conservative with growing support for progressive policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Yoshinobu IshikawaFormer Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture known for his environmental initiatives.
  • Heita KawakatsuCurrent Governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, focusing on economic development and disaster preparedness.
  • Nobuhiro TanabeMayor of Shizuoka City, advocating for sustainable urban development.