Hamamatsu City, located in the western part of the prefecture, is the largest metropolis in Shizuoka. The city consists mainly of the “Hamanako” [Lake Hamana], famous nationwide for producing eels. Also known for being a music city, the headquarters of renowned instrument manufacturing companies Yamaha, Kawai, and Roland are located. Also, Hamamatsu specialty “Hamamatsu Gyoza” [vegetable-filled dumpling] is enjoyed.
From Nagoya
From JR Nagoya Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen and disembark at Hamamatsu Station, or take the JR Tokaido Main Line and disembark at Hamamatsu Station (transfer at Toyohashi Station).
From Tokyo
From JR Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen and disembark at Hamamatsu Station.
Hamamatsu City is surrounded by abundant nature from all sides, with mountainous areas in the north, Enshu-nada in the Pacific Ocean in the south, the Tenryu River (one of the leading rivers in Japan) in the east, and Hamanako [Lake Hamana] in the west. A warm climate on the Pacific coast and a high rate of sunny days, but in winter, there are days when the wind is strong, as it is said to be "the sky breeze of Enshu". In May, the Hamamatsu Festival, which is known for its kite-flying battles with more than 160 kites, gorgeous goten stalls and fireworks displays held at the sea and lakes in the summer attract many people. The main specialty products are mandarin oranges, eels, clams and oysters.