Shimada is situated in the middle of Shizuoka
Prefecture, occupying the area of the middle
and lower reaches of the Oi river.
During the era of the Edo period, the river
was counted as one of the most dangerous
places to travel along the Tokaido Road. The
Tokugawa Shogunate banned bridge building
across the Oi river to prevent enemy samurai
easy access to invasion and attack. Travelers
and merchants needed to wait out the
storm, a long rain swollen river in order to
cross safely. Shimada benefited greatly as a
posting station town. Shimada still retains
traces of that era with historical sites,
museums, and the Old Tokaido Road itself.
Eventually, a wooden bridge was built across
the Oi river and still stands today as the
longest wooden pedestrian bridge in the world,
the Horai bridge. | From the Makinohara Plateau, one can stand in
the midst of emerald colered fields of green tea,
and take in the breath taking view of Mt.Fuji, the
Oi river, and Horai bridge.
After refreshing mind with the beauty of nature,
refresh the body by enjoying the hot springs of
Kawane and Ita.
Now, we welcome you to come and enjoy the rich
history, nature and culture of Shimada. Shizuoka
Airport, expected to open in 2009, will give you
easy access as well as connection to Hokkaido,
Okinawa, Korea, China and other well known cities.
Come and refresh your mind and body in Shimada! |
On April 1 2008, Shimada City newly merged with scenic Kawane Town.
