This charming city is known for its crystal-clear spring water from Mount Fuji, beautiful rivers, and rich cultural history. Visitors can explore the historic Mishima Taisha shrine, enjoy peaceful walks along clear streams, and taste the city’s famous grilled eel, known as Mishima unagi. With easy access to both Mount Fuji and Hakone, Mishima is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience nature, culture, and local Japanese life.
Visit Mishima Taisha
Mishima Taisha has a history of more than 1,200 years. It is one of the most famous shrines in the region. Visitors come to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.
It has long been worshipped as an important shrine in the Izu region, and many historical figures prayed here for success and protection.
You can enjoy several beautiful spots inside the shrine grounds:
- Main Shrine (Honden) – traditional Japanese shrine architecture
- Large Torii Gate at the entrance
- Sacred pond and gardens
- Cherry blossom trees that bloom beautifully in spring
Visit the Mishima Taisha here (Japanese only. Please translate using your browser)
Walk Along the Clear Water of the Genbe River
This small river flows through the city with incredibly clear water from Mount Fuji.
You can walk on stepping stones across the river and enjoy a relaxing nature experience. The beautiful Genbe River is located about a 10–15 minute walk from Mishima Station, making it an easy and relaxing spot to visit while exploring Mishima.
See the Famous Mishima Skywalk
The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan. From the bridge, you can enjoy amazing views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains. The bridge is about 400 meters long. Walking across it feels like walking in the sky, and the slight movement of the bridge makes the experience exciting. Visitors can enjoy a zipline ride that flies over the forest near the bridge. It’s a thrilling activity and very popular for adventure lovers! (People with a fear of heights may want to skip this one.)
Visit the official web site for Mishima Skywalk here
Mishima’s Local Specialty – Unagi (Grilled Eel)
Mishima is famous for delicious unagi.
Restaurants prepare eel using fresh spring water, which makes the flavor especially good.
Popular Unagi restaurants are:
Unagi Sakuraya
The most famous eel restaurant in Mishima.
- A historic restaurant with over 100 years of history
- Soft, flavorful grilled eel with a slightly sweet sauce
- Very popular with both locals and tourists
* There is often a long line, especially on weekends.
Visit Unagi Sakuraya’s official Web site (Japanese only. Please use your browser to translate.)
2. Suminobo Honcho
A well-known traditional eel restaurant near Mishima Taisha.
- Classic style unaju (eel over rice)
- Comfortable traditional atmosphere
- Easy to visit after sightseeing at the shrine
Visit Suminobo Honcho’s official website (Japanese only. Please use your browser to translate.)
3. Unagi Ikeda
A popular spot among locals.
- Known for crispy grilled eel with rich flavor
- Smaller restaurant with a cozy feeling
- High ratings from local food lovers
4. Mishima Unagi Matsuko
A newer and stylish eel restaurant.
- Modern interior
- High-quality eel dishes
- Popular for lunch
See information web site. (Japanese only. Please use your browser to translate.)
Enjoy Local Food and Shopping Around Mishima Station
Near Mishima Station, you can find restaurants, cafes, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to try local food or relax before traveling to Hakone or Mount Fuji.
Popular Souvenirs from Mishima are:
1. Mishima Croquette
A famous local snack made with Mishima potatoes.
2. Fukutaro Mochi
A sweet rice cake associated with Mishima Taisha.
3. Mt. Fuji Sweets
Cookies and cakes shaped like Mount Fuji.
4. Shizuoka Green Tea Products
Tea sweets, matcha cookies, and tea bags.
For more information, visit Mishima’s touring site! Check to see the types of Shinkansen in Mishima here.
Japanese phrase of the day: Mishima no Unagi wa Oishi! (Mishima’s eels are delicious!)
