Water Activities in Shizuoka | Water Sports Enjoying the Spectacular Views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay

The waterfront around Shizuoka is an ideal location for enjoying water activities. The experience of viewing the beautiful landscape created by the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay from the water's surface allows you to rediscover the charm of Shizuoka Prefecture from a special angle that cannot be seen from the shore. The waterfront landscape changes its appearance with each season, offering new discoveries every time you visit. In recent years, SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) has surged in popularity, and experiential schools for beginners are increasing. The spectacular view of Miho Pine Grove from the water is well worth seeing.

Kayaking Experience: Enjoying Spectacular Views from the Water's Surface

The most popular water activity around Shizuoka is kayaking experience. Kayaking in rivers with calm currents allows beginners to enjoy stable paddling. The experience fee is 5,000 to 8,000 yen for a half-day course (approximately 2 hours) and 12,000 to 18,000 yen for a full-day course (approximately 5 hours, including lunch). Tandem kayaks for two people allow participation with children in elementary school and above, making it ideal for creating family memories. Equipment such as wetsuits, life jackets, and paddles are all included in the rental fee.

SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) Beginner's Guide

SUP, which has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, now has more spots where you can experience it in Shizuoka. Although it's a simple activity of standing on a board and paddling, it also serves as a core training workout and is popular with health-conscious people. Beginner experience lessons are about 90 minutes for 4,000 to 6,000 yen, with instructors carefully teaching everything from how to stand on the board to how to use the paddle. SUP on lakes is stable with no waves, and a water walk while viewing ${loc.nature} is the ultimate relaxation. There's also a wealth of derivative menus such as SUP Yoga (7,000 to 10,000 yen) and SUP Fishing (8,000 to 12,000 yen).

Rafting and River Activities

For those seeking thrills, we recommend experiencing rafting down rapids. There are renowned rafting spots nearby such as the Nagara River and Tenryu River, with courses available from beginner to advanced levels. A half-day course (approximately 3 hours) costs 7,000 to 12,000 yen, with a safety management system of one guide for every 6 to 8 participants. The season is April to October, with June to July being the most exciting due to higher water levels. Since you'll get thoroughly wet, a change of clothes is essential, and you wear a wetsuit over your swimsuit.

Night Water & Seasonal Limited Programs

In addition to regular water activities, Shizuoka also hosts unique special programs. "Moonlight Kayaking" (held once a month, 8,000 yen), held on nights with a full moon, is a romantic experience of quietly paddling on a water surface illuminated by moonlight. During the summer vacation season, family-oriented "River Play Packages" (6,000 yen and up for a parent and child pair) also appear, bundled with shallow water play and wildlife observation. During the Street Performance World Cup period, a special cruise to view fireworks from the water is also popular.

Safety Precautions for Enjoying Water Activities Safely

Here are the safety matters to know when participating in water activities. Always wear a life jacket and follow your instructor's directions. Even those who cannot swim can safely participate with the buoyancy of a life jacket, but it's reassuring to inform the staff in advance. What to bring includes a swimsuit (rash guard recommended), towel, change of clothes, fleece for warmth, and drinks. Put cameras or cell phones in waterproof cases, or use action camera rental (1,000 to 2,000 yen). Activities may be cancelled depending on weather or water levels, with a decision notification by 6 PM the previous day. After the experience, it's recommended to warm up slowly at Atami Hot Springs.