“Neon Genesis Evangelion” and the “Evangelion New Theater Version” series remain beloved masterpieces in Japanese animation history, cherished by fans worldwide. While “Neo Tokyo-3,” the setting depicted in the works, is modeled after the area centered on Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, numerous related spots and pilgrimage sites actually exist in Shizuoka Prefecture as well.
This article provides a thorough explanation of pilgrimage spots in Shizuoka Prefecture that “Evangelion” fans should visit, the history of collaboration events, and efficient pilgrimage routes.
The Deep Connection Between Shizuoka Prefecture and Evangelion
Geographical Background of Neo Tokyo-3
“Neo Tokyo-3” depicted in the work is set in an area centered around the Hakone Caldera. While Hakone belongs to Kanagawa Prefecture, the surrounding areas are adjacent to Shizuoka’s Gotemba City, Susono City, Mishima City, Numazu City, and others, maintaining a geographically close relationship.
The majestic figure of Mount Fuji appearing in the work largely reflects landscapes viewed from the Shizuoka side. Particularly from the Gotemba area, multiple viewpoints offer angles remarkably similar to those in anime cuts.
Collaboration Development Within Shizuoka Prefecture
In Shizuoka Prefecture, particularly in Numazu City and Gotemba City, “Evangelion” collaboration projects have been implemented in the past. As part of regional revitalization efforts, limited merchandise sales, stamp rallies, and special exhibitions have been held, becoming catalysts for many fans to visit Shizuoka Prefecture.
Major Pilgrimage Spots Within Shizuoka Prefecture
Gotemba Area
Gotemba Premium Outlets Vicinity
Gotemba Premium Outlets is known as a scenic spot with Mount Fuji as its backdrop. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji’s majestic figure as depicted in the Evangelion work world up close.
Access Information:
- Approximately 15 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Gotemba Station
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from Tomei Expressway Gotemba IC
Mount Fuji Skyline
The Mount Fuji Skyline, a major access route to Mount Fuji from the Shizuoka side, is a road where you can feel the atmosphere of mountainous areas appearing in the work. The changing scenery as elevation increases evokes the tension of angel attacks.
Points of Interest:
- Mount Fuji view from Futatsu-go-me Mizugatsuka Park
- Panoramic scenery from Shin-Go-go-me (elevation 2,400m)
- Natural environment changing with seasons
Numazu Area
Numazu Port
Numazu Port is popular as a tourist spot where you can enjoy fresh seafood, but it is also a special place for Evangelion fans. At past collaboration events, life-size panels were installed around the port, and special menus were provided.
Recommended Points:
- Numazu Port Deep Sea Aquarium (deep-sea creature displays)
- Seafood restaurants around the port
- Spectacular view of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay
Byuo (Observation Water Gate)
“Byuo,” an observation water gate at Numazu Port, is a 30-meter-high observation facility. The view of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji from here offers a grand panorama linked to the work’s world view.
Facility Information:
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM (subject to seasonal changes)
- Admission: ¥100 for adults, ¥50 for elementary and middle school students
- 360-degree panoramic viewing corridor
Mishima Area
Mishima Skywalk
“Mishima Skywalk,” Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge at 400 meters long, offers a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay from the bridge—a scenic spot capturing the futuristic structure resonating with Evangelion’s world view.
Experience Content:
- Mount Fuji views from the suspension bridge
- Activity facilities (zip-lining, long zip-slide, etc.)
- Cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops
Access:
- Approximately 25 minutes by shuttle bus from JR Mishima Station
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from Tomei Expressway Numazu IC
Kakita River Freshwater Springs
The Kakita River Freshwater Springs in Shimizu Town, adjacent to Mishima City, is a mystical spot where Mount Fuji’s groundwater emerges. The highly transparent water and natural environment evoke the beauty of the “source of life” appearing in Evangelion.
Susono Area
Healthy Park Susono
Susono City, located on the southern slopes of Mount Fuji, is a region close to the setting area of Neo Tokyo-3. Healthy Park Susono is a hot spring facility with an open-air bath where you can bathe while viewing Mount Fuji.
Facility Features:
- Open-air bath with Mount Fuji view
- Restaurant using local ingredients
- Relaxation facilities
History of Evangelion × Shizuoka Prefecture Collaboration Events
Past Major Collaborations
Multiple Evangelion collaboration events have been implemented within Shizuoka Prefecture as part of regional promotion.
Development in Numazu City
In the 2010s, the “Evangelion Stamp Rally” and special exhibitions were held in Numazu City. The project of collecting stamps while visiting tourist spots throughout the city and receiving limited merchandise greatly appealed to many fans.
Events in Gotemba City
Gotemba City held Evangelion-related exhibitions and photo spot installations themed around Mount Fuji. Through collaboration with local shopping streets, collaboration menus and limited products were also sold.
Characteristics of Limited-Time Collaborations
Collaboration events in Shizuoka Prefecture have the following characteristics:
- Community-Focused: Partnerships with local shopping streets and tourism facilities
- Limited Merchandise: Original items available only at those locations
- Photo Spots: Life-size panels and wrapped displays
- Special Menus: Food and beverage menus inspired by the work
Proposed Efficient Pilgrimage Routes
1-Day Course: Gotemba and Hakone Vicinity
Morning:
- 9:00 AM Depart from JR Gotemba Station
- 9:30 AM Gotemba Premium Outlets (Mount Fuji photography)
- 11:00 AM Travel via Mount Fuji Skyline to Mizugatsuka Park
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM Move toward Hakone area (can also visit pilgrimage sites on the Kanagawa side)
- 3:00 PM Related spots in Susono City
- 5:00 PM Hot spring bath at Healthy Park Susono
2-Day Course: Eastern Shizuoka Prefecture Tour
Day 1: Gotemba and Susono Area
- Morning: Pilgrimage sites in Gotemba City
- Afternoon: Scenic spots around Mount Fuji
- Overnight: Stay in Gotemba or Susono City
Day 2: Mishima and Numazu Area
- Morning: Mishima Skywalk, Kakita River Freshwater Springs
- Afternoon: Seafood lunch at Numazu Port, observation from Byuo
- Evening: Sunset photography along Suruga Bay
When Using Public Transportation
By combining JR Gotemba Line, Tokaido Shinkansen (Mishima Station), and Izu Hakone Railway, you can visit major spots without a car. However, some spots near Mount Fuji have limited bus service, so checking timetables in advance is recommended.
Preparation and Etiquette for Pilgrimage
Packing Checklist
- Camera/Smartphone: For recording scenery
- Maps/GPS App: Google Maps or Navitime app
- Work Materials: Anime screenshots or setting materials
- Warm Clothing/Rain Gear: Weather changes frequently around Mount Fuji
- Comfortable Shoes: For extended walking
Pilgrimage Etiquette
Pilgrimage is an enjoyable experience, but consideration for local residents and other tourists is essential:
- No Trespassing on Private Property: Do not enter private land even for photo spots
- Mind the Noise: Act quietly in residential areas
- Take Trash With You: Practice environmental conservation
- Follow Traffic Rules: Ensure safety when photographing on roads
- Respect Facility Rules: Check photography regulations at each facility
Photography Tips
Points for taking photos recreating scenes from the work:
- Choose the Right Time: Early morning and evening lighting angles closely match the work’s atmosphere
- Research Angles: Confirm anime cuts in advance
- Consider Seasons: Mount Fuji looks most beautiful during winter on clear days
- Use Wide-Angle Lens: Effective for capturing grand landscapes
Ways to Enjoy Unique to Shizuoka Prefecture
Combining With Gourmet Experiences
Combining pilgrimage with enjoying Shizuoka’s famous cuisine is also recommended:
Seafood at Numazu Port
- Fresh Whitebait Rice Bowl: Fresh Suruga Bay whitebait
- Deep-Sea Fish Cuisine: Rare sashimi and tempura of deep-sea fish
- Seafood Barbecue: Available at restaurants around the port
Gotemba Specialties
- Gotemba Mikuriya Soba: Traditional local soba
- Craft Beer Using Mount Fuji Foothills Water
- Local Cuisine Related to Kintaro
Eel from Mishima
Mishima City is famous for eel farming using Mount Fuji’s freshwater springs. Eels raised in the clear Kakita River current are said to be firm and delicious.
Relax at Hot Springs
Eastern Shizuoka Prefecture is also known for its hot spring areas:
- Gotemba Hot Spring: Open-air bath with Mount Fuji view
- Izu Nagaoka Hot Spring (near Numazu City): Historic hot spring town
- Shuzenji Hot Spring: Worth visiting if you have extra time
Highlights by Season
Spring (March–May)
- Mount Fuji with Remaining Snow: Snowy Mount Fuji is beautiful
- Cherry Blossoms: Cherry blossom spots in Gotemba and Mishima
- Fresh Greenery Season: Nature around Kakita River is vibrant
Summer (June–August)
- Mount Fuji Climbing Season: July–early September
- Summer Festivals: Traditional events held throughout the region
- Beach Swimming: Beaches near Numazu
Autumn (September–November)
- Autumn Foliage: Red leaves around Mount Fuji foothills
- Crystal Clear Air: Ideal season for Mount Fuji photography
- Autumn Flavors: Local agricultural products abundant
Winter (December–February)
- Mount Fuji’s Spectacular View: Mount Fuji is clearest during winter
- Diamond Fuji: Natural phenomenon visible at specific times and locations
- Hot Springs Are Exceptional: Open-air baths are best in cold season
How to Choose Accommodations
Recommended Lodging by Area
Gotemba Area
- Business Hotels: Multiple options around the station, reasonable prices
- Resort Hotels: High-end hotels with Mount Fuji view
- Guest Houses: Homey atmosphere
Numazu Area
- Station-Front Hotels: Convenient access, optimal for next day’s travel
- Inns Near the Port: Accommodations known for seafood cuisine
- Business Hotels: Cost-performance focused
Mishima Area
- Station-Front Hotels: Convenient for Shinkansen use
- Hot Spring Inns: Accommodations at nearby hot springs
- Guesthouses: Experience local atmosphere
Reservation Tips
- Book Early: Popular seasons fill up quickly
- Check Cancellation Policy: Consider bad weather contingencies
- Prioritize Access: Near stations are convenient for public transportation users
- Check Reviews: Reference actual guest reviews
Related Nearby Spots (Hakone Area)
Combining pilgrimage in Shizuoka Prefecture with visits to the Hakone area in Kanagawa Prefecture provides a more fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Major Hakone Spots
- Lake Ashi: An important landscape element of Neo Tokyo-3
- Hakone Yumoto: Popular as a hot spring town
- Owakudani: A spot where you can feel volcanic activity
- Hakone Ropeway: Spectacular aerial views
Travel Between Shizuoka and Hakone
From Gotemba to Hakone is accessible in about 30 minutes by shuttle bus or taxi. A 2–3 day pilgrimage plan combining both areas is recommended.
Methods for Obtaining Latest Information
Official Information Sources
- Official Tourism Association Websites: Event information updated regularly
- Official Evangelion Website: Announcements of collaboration projects
- SNS: Twitter and Instagram hashtag searches (#エヴァ聖地巡礼 #静岡エヴァ, etc.)
Fan Communities
- Pilgrimage Specialty Sites: Detailed reports by fans
- Message Boards/SNS Groups: Sharing latest information
- YouTube: Pre-research through pilgrimage videos
Conclusion: Experience the Evangelion World in Shizuoka Prefecture
Shizuoka Prefecture is an important pilgrimage site where fans can experience the world of the “Evangelion” series. Through majestic natural scenery centered on Mount Fuji, geographic proximity to the work’s setting, and region-wide collaboration projects, it has become a special destination for fans.
Each area—Gotemba, Susono, Mishima, and Numazu—has its own unique charm, offering new discoveries with each visit. Through pilgrimage, fans not only deepen their understanding of the work but can simultaneously enjoy Shizuoka’s nature, culture, and cuisine—a major attraction.
Using the information presented in this article, please plan your Evangelion pilgrimage in Shizuoka Prefecture. You should experience a fulfilling pilgrimage while sensing the work’s world view firsthand.
When on pilgrimage, respect local residents and follow proper etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Wishing you a wonderful pilgrimage!
