Hamamatsu is uniquely surrounded by the sea, mountains, and a lake—a rare setting in Japan. Just a short ride from the city center leads to landscapes that feel like scenes from a painting…

With the vast Pacific Ocean, the sparkling Lake Hamana, and majestic mountains all around.

Hamamatsu is uniquely located—one of the few places in Japan blessed with the sea, mountains, and a lake.

One of the best things about Hamamatsu is that just a short trip from the city takes you to scenery that looks like it came from a painting.

Walk along the shore, feel the breeze by the lake, and find peace in the green forests.

These are the kinds of moments that make your heart feel full—and you’ll find them right here.

With every season, the landscapes take on a new expression—offering something fresh to discover each time you visit.

In this article, we’ll take you through the beautiful landscapes of Hamamatsu—by the water and in the mountains.

If you’re still planning your trip to Japan, this might just help you decide where to go next.

1. By the Water: Lakes, Shores, and Sea Views of Hamamatsu

Hamamatsu is embraced by both the sea and the lake, offering an incredible variety of waterfront scenery.

To the south, you’ll find the powerful waves of the Enshū Sea and Nakatajima Sand Dunes—one of Japan’s three largest sand dunes.

Look to the west, and you’ll see Lake Hamana—a calm, brackish lake filled with quiet beauty and gentle charm.

Patterns in the sand shaped by the wind, and a lake surface glowing with the colors of the sunset.

Each of these waterfronts welcomes travelers with its own unique expression and charm.

Nakatajima Sand Dunes

Nakatajima Sand Dunes, one of Japan’s three largest sand dunes, is just a 15-minute bus ride from Hamamatsu’s city center.

Despite its easy access, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a vast desert-like landscape, as if you’ve wandered into another world.

What makes this place especially captivating are the beautiful ‘wind patterns’ created by the wind and sand.

wind patterns

The wind patterns, especially visible on cold winter mornings when the wind is strong, feel like art created by nature itself.

Another attraction is the fiery ‘sunset’ sinking into the horizon.

The colors of the sky change with each passing moment, and as the sun sets, you’ll find yourself lost in the moment, feeling a sense of calm wash over you.

In addition, this landscape has been chosen as the filming location for many movies and TV dramas, known for its unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere that makes the perfect backdrop.

And the Nakatajima Sand Dunes are not only an important place for us humans, but also for many other living creatures.

Every year, the dunes are visited by loggerhead sea turtles to lay their eggs, making it a place of significant interest from a nature conservation perspective.

Here, you can quietly feel the cycle of life in nature, making it a place of deep reflection.

Access: Take a bus bound for “Nakatajima Sand Dunes” from Bus Stop No. 6 at the JR Hamamatsu Station North Exit. Get off at “Nakatajima Sand Dunes” after approximately 15 minutes.

Kanzanji Ropeway and Ookusa Mountain

The Kanzanji Ropeway connects the popular tourist hub of Lake Hamana, Kanzanji Onsen, with the Ookusa Mountain Observatory.

This ropeway is a little special.

It has a unique route in Japan, crossing over the lake.

During the 4-minute aerial walk, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful Lake Hamana and the surrounding lush nature.

It’s truly an extraordinary, otherworldly scenic experience.

After taking the ropeway, you’ll arrive at the Ookusa Mountain Observatory.

A stunning view awaits, and especially at sunset, the lake surface is dyed in shades of orange and pink, making it easy to lose track of time as you gaze at the scene.

It’s such a beautiful view, you’ll want to capture it in a photo.

And Ookusa Mountain has another attraction.

That is the ‘Shoryu Weeping Plum Garden.’

The garden is home to around 350 trees, with more than 10 varieties of weeping plums. Thanks to their unique cultivation method, the trees appear as if ‘a dragon is rising to the sky.’

In particular, the plum tunnel, where you can walk through a shower of flowers, is a popular photo spot that lets you fully experience the arrival of spring.

Be sure to visit during the blooming season.

Be sure to experience the moment at Ookusa Mountain, where you can discover a new side of Lake Hamana’s charm.

Access to the Kanzanji Ropeway Station:
Take a bus bound for “Kanzanji Onsen” from Bus Stop No. 1 at the JR Hamamatsu Station North Exit. Get off at “Hamanako Palpal” after approximately 50 minutes.

Bentenjima Seaside Park

A vibrant red torii quietly stands in the middle of the lake.

This is the symbol of Bentenjima in Hamamatsu.

Have you ever seen the sunset sinking through the center of the torii?

Here at Bentenjima, you can witness the ‘miracle sunset,’ where nature and mystery seem to come together.

This sunset can only be seen during an approximately one-month period before and after the winter solstice (around December 21st).

It’s only visible during a limited time, which is why so many people are moved by it and call it the ‘miracle sunset.’

Of course, even if the sunset doesn’t pass through the center of the torii, the view is still beautiful.

The reflection of the light on the lake and the gradient of the sky’s colors gently soothe the hearts of those who see it.

Furthermore, Bentenjima Seaside Park changes completely during the summer.

It becomes lively with beachgoers in the summer, and under the palm trees, you can soak up the sun, feeling as if you’re in a tropical resort.

One of the great charms of this place is that it shows a different face with each season.

A healing moment in harmony with nature, enjoyable throughout the four seasons.

If you visit Hamamatsu, you definitely shouldn’t miss the ‘miracle sunset’ and the torii.

Access: Take a JR Tokaido Line train (downbound) from JR Hamamatsu Station. Get off at “Bentenjima Station” after approximately 12 minutes.

Tomei Expressway Hamana Lake Service Area (SA)

You might be wondering, ‘A great view at a service area?’

But the Hamana Lake Service Area will exceed your expectations.

The Hamana Lake Service Area faces Hamana Lake.

From the park area, you can enjoy the many faces of Lake Hamana throughout the changing seasons.

In spring, the cherry blossoms and the lake create a beautiful combination, while in the evening, the sky turns red and the sunset reflected on the water soothes the hearts of travelers.

In spring

And there’s one more thing.

There’s also a sightseeing boat that departs from and arrives at the service area—something said to be unique in all of Japan.

It’s a rare and exciting experience to look up at the highway from below while cruising on the lake.

(The sightseeing boat operates only on selected days. Please check in advance.)

The shops and restaurants are well-stocked, offering a wide variety of local souvenirs from Hamamatsu area.

What’s even better is that this service area is also accessible from local roads, so even travelers not using the expressway can easily stop by.

It’s not just a great stop during a drive—it’s a scenic spot worth making your destination.

2. By the Mountains: Mystical Caves and Sacred Temples

While Hamamatsu is often known for its sea and lake scenery, its mountains hold a depth of beauty that’s just as captivating.

Mysterious caves shaped over millions of years, and historic temples and shrines where people’s prayers still linger.

You’ll find peaceful landscapes that gently bring calm to your heart.

Maybe it’s less of a sightseeing trip, and more of a quiet journey for the soul.

Why not take a moment to reflect on yourself, surrounded by nature?

Hōkō-ji Temple

Hōkō-ji is the head temple of the Hōkō-ji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.

The temple grounds are home to many nationally registered cultural properties, giving visitors a sense of its rich history and deep traditional significance.

Surrounded by vast natural beauty, the temple offers stunning autumn foliage when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

The approach to the temple is enveloped in deep green, and within the forest, many statues of Arhats stand watch over the visitors.

An arhat is a stone statue of a person who has attained enlightenment through his or her own practice.

The Arhats here all have different faces, and there is a mysterious story that you can find an Arhat who resembles yourself.

Another spot you shouldn’t miss is the ‘Stone Bridge and the Five Hundred Arhats.‘

There’s also a mysterious story that the number of Arhat statues lined up on the stone bridge changes every time you visit.

Be sure to see it with your own eyes.

Another lovely spot to visit is the ‘Kihai Bridge,‘ which is also a popular place to enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves.

The view of the natural path from the vibrant red bridge is simply beautiful and brings a sense of calm.

Take a moment to step away from the busy routine and take a deep breath.

Hōkō-ji is a place where you can experience the tranquility of a mountain temple with all five senses.

This quietly standing temple may offer visitors small moments of wonder and subtle realizations that linger deep within their hearts.

Access: Approximately 90 minutes by bus bound for “Okuyama” from Bus Stop No. 15 at the JR Hamamatsu Station North Exit. Get off at “Okuyama” and walk about 15 minutes.

Ryugashido Cave

Ryugashido Cave, a mysterious limestone cave that slowly formed over 250 million years in a tranquil limestone region.

The total length of the cave exceeds 1,000 meters, making it one of the largest in the Tokai region.

About 400 meters of the cave is open to the public, allowing visitors to fully experience its grand scale.

The temperature inside the cave remains a gentle 18°C throughout the year.

In summer, it feels refreshingly cool, and in winter, it’s gently warm.

It’s also a popular ‘all-weather spot,’ perfect for enjoying even on rainy days.

Above all, the most remarkable feature is its stunning natural formations.

The stalactites, formed drop by drop over countless years, are a true work of art created by nature itself.

The mysterious shapes formed over time are often compared to various things, adding an element of fun as you explore them.

It’s a fun adventure to explore while imagining what each formation might resemble.

One of the must-see sights is the ‘Golden Waterfall.‘

The sight of the massive 30-meter waterfall crashing down with a thunderous roar is yet another masterpiece of nature.

It offers a sense of scale and beauty that feels unexpected for a cave.

The stalactites, like masterpieces shaped by the passage of time, are truly works of art created over ages.

Please experience the healing power of this spot in the mysterious underground world.

Access: Approximately 60 minutes by bus bound for “Okuyama” from Bus Stop No. 15 at the JR Hamamatsu Station North Exit. Get off at “Ryugashido Iriguchi” and walk about 10 minutes.

Akihasan Hongu Akiha Shrine (Upper Shrine)

This is the head shrine of over 400 Akiha Shrines found throughout Japan.

Located at the summit of Mt. Akihasan, 866 meters above sea level, the shrine is dedicated to the god of fire protection.

One of the shrine’s most beloved highlights is the ‘Torii of Happiness.‘

Set against the blue sky, the golden torii gate shines brilliantly—a view unlike any other.

Simply gazing at it brings a sense of happiness.

And from this spot, the view below is simply overwhelming.

And of course, be sure to take a moment to pay your respects.

Another highlight to look forward to is the popular “Tengu’s Plate Throwing” at the Akiha Shrine Upper Shrine.

You write your wish on a small plate and try to throw it through a ring set up on the cliff below.

If your plate makes it through the ring, your wish might just come true…

A small challenge like this is sure to become one of your favorite travel memories.

At this mountaintop shrine, take a moment to refresh your mind and body—and send a single wish up into the sky.

*Please be aware that Akiha Shrine Upper Shrine is not accessible by public transportation.
We recommend traveling by car or taxi.
The mountain road can be narrow and winding, so please drive carefully.

By the Heart: Finding Your Own Hamamatsu

Ocean, lake, and mountains—wherever you look, Hamamatsu’s natural beauty is full of fresh discoveries.

Each visit brings a new landscape, and with it, a sense of excitement you’ll feel in your heart.

Take a break from the rush of daily life, feel the breeze, bring your camera, and set out in search of your own unforgettable views.

Looks like your next travel destination is already decided.

In Hamamatsu, you’re sure to find something truly special.