10 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Iwata City – Full of Charm Beyond Just Soccer!

Iwata City, well known as the hometown of Jubilo Iwata, is a city located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture. When it comes to tourism, the neighboring city of Hamamatsu is more widely recognized, and Iwata often gets overshadowed. However, there are plenty of sightseeing spots in Iwata that are definitely worth recommending. In this article, we’ll introduce some of the top tourist attractions in Iwata City. Let’s discover the hidden charm of Iwata.

1. “Fuhachimangu Shrine” – A Place That Reflects the Spirit of Iwata City

Fuhachimangu Shrine is said to have been enshrined in the early 8th century (Nara period) as a guardian of the provincial government (kokufu). The two-story gate built during the Edo period is designated as a cultural property of the prefecture, and the natural forest that grows and spreads across the grounds continues to watch over people’s lives like the deity’s divine spirit. The grand annual festival, the “Fuhachimangu Festival,” is held every autumn, where elaborately decorated floats from each town are paraded around to the sound of energetic chants—a cherished seasonal tradition of this city.

2. “Shishigahana Park” – Enjoy Beautiful Mountain Cherry Blossoms and Autumn Foliage

Shishigahana Park offers not only seasonal natural beauty, but also plenty of attractions such as a 360-degree observation deck, a suspension bridge, and “Ari no Towatari,” a narrow 1-meter-wide cliff path to walk across.

During spring, when the mountain cherry blossoms bloom in full, the “Shishigahana Park Cherry Blossom Festival” is held, featuring food stalls, stage shows, and local product markets, drawing even more visitors. Even outside of spring, the park is highly recommended for autumn foliage, birdwatching, and scenic views from the observation deck.

3. Perfect for Girls’ Trips! Make Your Own Perfume at the “Fragrance Museum”

A museum themed around “fragrance” is rare even in Japan. The “Fragrance Museum,” with its charming exterior, showcases the history of fragrance and artistic perfume bottles. It’s a must-visit spot, especially for women who often appreciate scents.

In the popular hands-on experience area (for an additional fee), you can create your own personalized fragrance or make your own perfume bottle. The special exhibitions change four times a year, so even repeat visitors can enjoy something new. The adjacent Fragrance Park is a relaxing spot where plants like fragrant olive trees (kinmokusei) let you sense the seasons through their scent. With affordable admission fees, it’s also perfect for a quick break during a drive. Why not take home a unique memory from your trip—your very own one-of-a-kind fragrance from the museum and park?

4. “Gyokoji Temple” – Beautiful Wisteria Blossoms in Full Bloom

Gyokoji Temple is famous for the “Kumano no Nagafuji,” an estimated 800-year-old wisteria tree designated as a national natural monument. In addition to that tree, there are 17 other wisteria trellises blooming across a 400-tsubo (approximately 1,300 square meters) area within the temple grounds. From mid-April to early May, when the flowers are at their peak, the area—including the adjacent Toyoda Kumano Memorial Park—becomes lively with many hanami (flower-viewing) visitors.

Resting in the temple's graveyard is Kumano Gozen, a graceful and intelligent woman from the late Heian period, known as a model of womanhood in her time. Her mother, Senju no Mae, also known for her own poetic love stories in The Tale of the Heike, lies beside her. The quietly yet splendidly blooming wisteria flowers carry on the elegance and spirit of these women—true Yamato Nadeshiko of their time.

5. A Must-Visit for Bikers! Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Communication Plaza

Yamaha, Japan’s top manufacturer known for its motorcycles and other products, is supported behind the scenes by Yamaha Motor. The “Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Communication Plaza” is a place where you can experience the passion behind the legendary “Yamaha” brand, admired by many.

Here, visitors can view classic motorcycles, boats, and other marine products. But it’s more than just a display of machines—the exhibits present craftsmanship through the lens of “technology and art,” making the entire experience feel like a museum. From nostalgic collection models to cutting-edge technology, this is a dream space for any biker. At the Plaza Café, you can enjoy original menu items while taking in the beautiful Enshu landscape, satisfying both curiosity and appetite.

6. The Spectacular Naked Festival of “Yanahime Shrine (Mitsuke Tenjin)”

Yanahime Shrine, where Sugawara no Michizane is enshrined, is regarded as one of the top academic shrines in the Tokai region, attracting many students from across Japan. The local mascot character “Shippei” was created based on the legend of Shippei Taro, which has been passed down in this area.

In spring, the “Tsutsuji Park” on the north side of the shrine becomes filled with color as 3,500 azalea bushes of 30 varieties and 200 cherry trees reach full bloom, adding a vibrant touch to the visit. Locally, the shrine is affectionately called “Mitsuke no Tenjin-sama” or simply “Mitsuke Tenjin.” The autumn “Mitsuke Tenjin Naked Festival” is a grand event designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The sight of men, bare-chested and jostling as they perform the “oni-odori” (demon dance), is covered by the media every year and is known as one of Japan’s “most extraordinary festivals.”

7. Japan’s Oldest Surviving Elementary School Building – “Former Mitsuke School”

Opened in 1875 (Meiji 8), the “Former Mitsuke School” is a symbol of Iwata City and is the oldest existing wooden Western-style elementary school building in Japan. Preserved inside are valuable materials such as textbooks used at the time and students’ calligraphy works. The building itself is designated a National Historic Site. In the recreated classroom displays, the dedicated expressions of children studying diligently leave a lasting impression. A visit here will make you appreciate being born in an era where education is taken for granted.

8. Create Original Art as a Souvenir! “Shin Zokei Creative Center”

At the “Shin Zokei Creative Center,” you can participate in hands-on art experiences such as glass and candle making. Even children can join easily, making it a great recommendation for family trips. Simple projects can be enjoyed by kids as young as three, so even small children can participate with ease.

Handmade creations carry memories not just in the final product but also in the process of making them. The on-site gallery and shop are also popular, so you can take home a favorite piece as a souvenir from your trip. Admission is free, so it’s easy to stop by casually.

9. Enjoy the Great Outdoors Without Bringing a Thing – “Ryuyo Seaside Park Auto Camping Ground”

The “Ryuyo Seaside Park Auto Camping Ground,” visited by many from inside and outside the prefecture, is a campsite located near the mouth of the Tenryu River. Surrounded by rich natural beauty, it has also earned a five-star certification from the Japan Auto Camping Association and is highly praised as a safe, clean, and reliable camping ground.

The site features fully equipped cottages and trailer houses, along with a wide range of rental items including tents and BBQ gear. With nearby bathing facilities and a restaurant, guests never feel inconvenienced. Whether you come for a day-trip BBQ, river or sea fishing, or just want to lie on the lawn and forget the time, this is a top camping spot in Iwata City that’s perfect for visiting with family or friends.

10. Famous for Luxurious Pudding – “Gyokkado”

Carrying on a 120-year tradition, “Gyokkado” is a beloved sweets shop in Iwata City that became famous through word of mouth and mail-order gourmet rankings. Offering a wide range of sweets from traditional Japanese to Western styles, including seasonal limited-edition items, it has something for everyone. There are even sweets themed after Iwata’s local mascot character “Shippei,” making them great souvenirs, especially for families with small children.

The “Gyokkado no Goku Pudding” series, highly praised in reviews, absolutely lives up to the hype. As its name implies, it boasts an exceptional texture, fragrance, and flavor that keeps customers coming back. The included caramel sauce is especially delicious and shows the brand’s attention to detail.

◎ Summary

What did you think? While Iwata City is often strongly associated with soccer, there are many other sightseeing spots and local specialties not covered in this article. On the Iwata City Tourism Association’s website (http://kanko-iwata.jp/), you can download a sightseeing guidebook and gourmet booklet. With these in hand, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to Iwata City with ease.

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10 Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Iwata City – Full of Charm Beyond Just Soccer!