Shizuoka Summer Escape Guide to the Hidden Gem Suwa Shrine Surrounded by Greenery

Shizuoka's niche top spot! A millennium-old shrine with natural cooling aura! 📍Address: Otecho, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture 🚌Transport tip: 15-minute walk from JR Shizuoka Station ✅Must-do list: 1️⃣ Walk through the torii tunnel A 100-meter approach surrounded by centuries-old cedar trees, dappled sunlight creates a natural filter 📸Tips: 7 AM offers fewer crowds and stunning light 2️⃣ Pet the komainu for love luck The stone lions at the shrine entrance are known as "matchmaking komainu"—girls touch the right ear, boys the left 🔔Ps: Limited-edition sakura bells at the nearby charm shop are super effective! 3️⃣ Drink the eye-brightening sacred water Natural spring "Me no Mizu" beside the main hall—locals use bamboo cups to collect water for eye-washing 🍵Nearby spot: Sunpu Castle Park (5-minute walk) The retirement castle ruins of Tokugawa Ieyasu—perfect with Shizuoka melon by the moat! 🔥Pro tips: ▫️Weekends feature lively traditional festivals but get crowded ▫️Mosquito repellent is a must for the mountain trail behind the shrine