Shizuoka Airport (Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport)

The gateway to the skies of Shizuoka Prefecture, located in Makinohara City. In addition to six domestic routes, including Sapporo (New Chitose) and Fukuoka, it also operates international flights to Seoul, Shanghai, Qingdao, and other destinations. Known as the airport closest to Mt. Fuji, one of its biggest attractions is the magnificent view of the mountain, visible not only from inside the terminal but also from the aircraft during takeoff and landing.

From the observation deck on the third floor of the terminal building, you can enjoy a sweeping view of Mt. Fuji right in front of you. The wire-mesh fence has camera holes, making it a popular photo spot as well. The observation hall also features a flight simulator where you can feel like a pilot. Another must-visit is the “Sekiunin Observation Deck,” located Approx. 450 meters east of the terminal. Its striking design incorporates the Zen concept of the circle, and you can watch planes take off and land from up close.

Inside the terminal, you’ll find plenty of great dining options, including the popular cafe “This Is Cafe,” which has seven locations in the prefecture, “Shimizuko Kaisen,” where you can enjoy Shizuoka cuisine centered on seafood from Suruga Bay, and a food court lined with well-known local eateries. There are also souvenir shops selling Shizuoka specialties such as tea, as well as duty-free shops, so shopping is part of the fun too.

Though it is a little farther from the terminal, the airport’s eastern observation plaza “Daidarabocchi” is also well worth a visit. Planes in landing position pass about 50 meters overhead, creating an impressively powerful sight you can enjoy up close.