FAQ

Category

About this site

QWhat can I learn from this website?
A This website offers helpful travel information on sightseeing spots, experiences, local food, and transportation in the Hamamatsu and Lake Hamana area.

Access & Transportation

QWhere is Hamamatsu located?
A
Hamamatsu is located in the Chubu region of Japan, roughly halfway between Tokyo and Nagoya. For more details, please see our access pages: Getting Around in Hamamatsu City , Getting to Hamamatsu City
QHow can I get to Hamamatsu?
A
Hamamatsu is about 1.5 hours by Shinkansen from both Tokyo and Nagoya, making it easily accessible from major cities. For more details, please see our access page: Getting to Hamamatsu City
QCan I use the JR Pass?
A
Yes. The JR Pass can be used on the Hikari and Kodama Shinkansen services. Please note that it is not valid on the Nozomi Shinkansen. For more details, please visit the official JR Pass website: https://japanrailpass.net/en/other window
QWhat transportation options are available within the city?
A
Within Hamamatsu, you can get around by train, bus, or taxi. In some areas, renting a car can also be a convenient option. For more details, please see our access page: Getting Around in Hamamatsu City
QAre there any discount passes or travel tickets for getting around the city?
A
Yes. The HAMANAKO 2-DAY PASS / 3-DAY PASS is a great value option, offering unlimited rides on buses, trains, sightseeing boats, and ropeways for two or three consecutive days. For more details, please visit: https://www.hama-pass.com/other window

Sightseeing & Activities

QWhat kind of city is Hamamatsu?
A
Hamamatsu is a relaxed and welcoming city where nature, lakes, the sea, local food culture, and a rich history of music and craftsmanship come together. Its main sightseeing areas are easy to access, making it a comfortable destination even for first-time visitors. To learn more about Hamamatsu, see: Get to Know Hamamatsu
QAre there any recommended places for families with children?
A
Yes. Family-friendly attractions in Hamamatsu include Hamanako Palpal (amusement park), Hamamatsu Zoo, Hamamatsu Fruit Park, and Air Park (JASDF Public Relations Center), all of which are popular with families. For more ideas, please see: Enjoy Lake Hamana’s Kanzanji! A Family-Friendly 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary , Japan’s Only Air Self-Defense Force Museum: Enjoy Aircraft at Hamamatsu Air Park!
QCan I join experience programs or guided tours?
A
Yes. Depending on the season and program, we offer a variety of experiences and tours that require advance reservations.
QAre there any suggested itineraries or travel ideas?
A
Yes. We introduce model itineraries based on length of stay and travel themes to help you plan your visit. To explore our suggested routes, see: Travel Ideas

Food & Onsen

QWhat types of food are recommended in Hamamatsu?
A
Hamamatsu is well known for its eel dishes, cuisine made with local ingredients, and fresh seafood. For more information, see: Restaurants
QAre there options for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
A
Yes. Some restaurants can accommodate vegetarian or special dietary needs; however, we recommend checking with the restaurant in advance.
QAre there hot springs in the area?
A
Yes. There are several hot spring areas around Lake Hamana, where you can enjoy both overnight stays and day-use bathing.
QCan I use hot springs if I have tattoos?
A
Policies vary by facility. To avoid any concerns, we recommend choosing accommodations that offer private baths or reservable baths.

Practical Information

QIs Wi-Fi available?
A
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available at many major train stations, tourist attractions, and accommodations. For more information, see: Free Wifi
QAre there tourist information centers?
A
Yes. There are tourist information centers around Hamamatsu Station and other key areas, where you can get maps and local travel information.
QCan I use credit cards or cashless payment methods?
A
Credit cards and cashless payments are accepted at many places; however, some shops and facilities may accept cash only.
QIs tipping required in Japan?
A
No. Tipping is not customary in Japan.
QAre there places to store large luggage?
A
Yes. Coin lockers are available at train stations, and some accommodations offer luggage storage services. For more information, see: Luggage Storage
QWhat should I do if I have questions or need assistance?
A
Please contact us via the inquiry form on this website. We provide support in both Japanese and English.
QDoes it snow in winter?
A
Snowfall in the city center is rare; however, Hamamatsu experiences strong northwesterly winds known as the Enshu no Karakaze in winter, which can make it feel colder. We recommend wearing windproof clothing.
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