Shizuoka history

The history of Shizuoka is inextricably linked with the key figures and events that shaped Japan. Known in ancient times as Sumpu, the city transformed from a provincial capital into a vital political centre, largely due to its strategic location and connection to the powerful Tokugawa clan.

Foundation and First Mentions

The first significant settlements in the territory of modern Shizuoka existed as early as the Yayoi period, as evidenced by archaeological findings. In the Nara period (710–784), the city, then called Fuchu, became the capital of Suruga Province. However, the true flourishing of the city began much later, with the rise of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Key Factors of Development

The development of Shizuoka (Sumpu) was defined by several important aspects:

• Political Role: The city acquired special significance when Tokugawa Ieyasu built Sumpu Castle here in 1585. After officially retiring from power in 1605 and passing the title of Shogun to his son, Ieyasu returned to Sumpu, turning it into a shadow capital from where he continued to rule the country.
• Geographical Location: Its location on the strategically important Tokaido road, connecting Edo (modern Tokyo) and Kyoto, contributed to the city's growth as a trade and transport hub.
• Castle Town: A prosperous city quickly grew around Sumpu Castle, serving the needs of the Shogun's residence and numerous samurai.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the Edo era, Sumpu was not only a political but also an economic centre. The city and its surroundings were famous for the production of high-quality tea, plantations of which have existed in the region since the 13th century. Cultural life was closely tied to the Tokugawa clan, which patronised temples such as the Shizuoka Sengen complex. The name "Shizuoka", meaning "Quiet Hills", was given to the city later and reflects its picturesque location.

Chronology of Key Events

• 3rd Century AD (Yayoi Period): Flourishing of the Toro settlement — an ancient agricultural community, the ruins of which have become a unique archaeological monument of Japan.
• 680: Establishment of Suruga Province with its centre in the city of Fuchu (the ancient name of Shizuoka), which became the administrative core of the region.
• Mid-16th Century: The rule of the Imagawa clan, which turned the city into a prosperous cultural centre referred to as "Little Kyoto".
• 1585: Tokugawa Ieyasu begins the construction of the massive Sumpu Castle, laying the foundation for the city's future political rise.
• 1607: The retired Shogun Ieyasu moves his residence to Sumpu, making the city the de facto capital of the state and a centre of diplomacy.
• 1616: Death of Tokugawa Ieyasu in Sumpu Castle and his initial burial at the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine on Mount Kuno.
• 1869: The city receives its modern name Shizuoka ("Quiet Hills") after the fall of the shogunate and the relocation of the last Shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, to the area.
• 1889: Official designation of city status and the opening of a railway station on the Tokaido main line, connecting the region with Tokyo.
• 1940: The Great Shizuoka Fire, which destroyed a significant part of the central districts and historic wooden buildings.
• 1945: Devastating air raids during World War II, followed by complete replanning and modernization of the streets.
• 1964: Opening of the high-speed train station on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, reducing travel time to the capital to one hour.
• 2003: Merger with the port city of Shimizu, providing Shizuoka with direct access to the sea and the status of a major logistics hub.
• 2005: Designation as a government-ordinance-designated city, granting the local administration expanded powers.
• 2009: Opening of Shizuoka Airport (Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport), significantly improving tourism accessibility to the region.

Stages of Urban and Economic Development

The development of the city of Shizuoka is a story of transformation from a feudal fortress to a modern metropolis playing a key role in the economy of the country's central region. Each era left its mark on the street layout, culture, and industrial profile of the region.

Here are the key milestones that defined the modern look and status of the city:

• Creation of the Castle Town (Late 16th — Early 17th Century): The construction of Sumpu Castle and the relocation of Tokugawa Ieyasu here turned a provincial settlement into the de facto second capital of Japan. Significance: The classic "jokamachi" (castle town) street grid was laid out, which still forms the structure of the centre today, and the concentration of artisans and samurai spurred the development of traditional crafts.
• Flourishing on the Tokaido Route (Edo Era): The city became one of the most important post stations on the road connecting Edo and Kyoto. Significance: This ensured a constant flow of travellers, fostered cultural exchange, and promoted the prosperity of the service sector, laying the foundations of hospitality for which the region is famous.
• Rise as the Tea Capital (Late 19th Century): After the fall of the shogunate, many former samurai turned to agriculture, beginning the mass cultivation of tea on the Makinohara Plateau. Significance: This created a unique economic specialisation. The tea industry became the engine of the economy, and the proximity of Shimizu Port allowed for large-scale exports, integrating the city into global trade.
• Post-War Reconstruction and Modernization (Mid-20th Century): Recovery after the fire of 1940 and the destruction of World War II. Significance: The city had the opportunity to upgrade infrastructure, widen streets, and build modern earthquake-resistant buildings, transitioning from wooden structures to a modern urban landscape.
• Launch of the Tokaido Shinkansen (1964): Opening of the high-speed train station in the city centre. Significance: Shizuoka became just an hour's ride from Tokyo, which sharply increased its attractiveness for business and tourism, integrating the city into the unified industrial belt of the Pacific coast.
• Merger with Shimizu City (2003): Unification of the administrative centre with a major port city. Significance: Formation of a government-ordinance-designated city with a population of over 700,000 people. This allowed for the consolidation of management resources and a powerful logistics hub, strengthening the city's status as the region's gateway to the outside world.

The architectural appearance of Shizuoka represents a blend of eras, where the heritage of the feudal past coexists with the practicality of modern development. The urban development of the city was largely determined by its status as a castle town, as well as a series of destructions and subsequent reconstructions that formed its current look.

Edo Era: Sumpu Castle Town

In the feudal period, the centre of city life was Sumpu Castle, built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1585. Around the castle, as was customary at the time, a so-called jokamachi formed — a city whose layout was subordinate to the needs of the castle. Streets radiated from the central fortress, and districts were clearly divided for samurai, artisans, and merchants. Although the original castle structures have not survived to this day due to fires and subsequent dismantling in the Meiji period, its territory, surrounded by moats, remains the heart of the city, having been transformed into a public park. In recent decades, some elements have been restored, such as the East Gate and towers, giving an idea of its former grandeur.

20th Century: Destruction and Modernist Revival

The architectural history of Shizuoka in the 20th century is tragic — the city suffered greatly from the Great Fire in 1940 and massive bombings during World War II. These events destroyed most of the historic, predominantly wooden buildings. Post-war reconstruction proceeded along the lines of Japanese modernism, where priority was given to functionality, speed of construction, and seismic resistance. Modern buildings of concrete and steel rose on the site of destroyed quarters, and the urban layout became more rational, which is characteristic of many Japanese cities that shared a similar fate.

Modern Appearance and Iconic Buildings

Today's Shizuoka is a modern Japanese city with a dynamic business district, shopping areas, and residential quarters. The architecture is predominantly functional, yet interesting examples of modern design can be found. One notable example is the Jikka complex, designed by architect Issei Suma — a group of structures resembling teepees that serve simultaneously as housing and a social services centre. Also of architectural interest are the bright red shrines of the Shizuoka Sengen complex with their ornately decorated roofs. Overall, modern urban planning aims to create a comfortable urban environment, harmoniously integrating new projects into the existing landscape while respecting the region's rich historical heritage.

Notable Figures Associated with Shizuoka

The city of Shizuoka and its surroundings have been the birthplace or place of activity for many iconic figures in the history and culture of Japan. From legendary rulers to industry pioneers and artists — here are some of those who left their mark on the city's history.

Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543–1616)

Founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate and unifier of Japan. Although he was not born here, Shizuoka, then bearing the name Sumpu, became his residence after retiring from the post of Shogun. From here, he continued to govern the country, turning the city into the de facto political centre of that time. His legacy is still felt in the city, especially in the area of Sumpu Castle Park.

Imagawa Yoshimoto (1519–1560)

Powerful Daimyo (feudal lord) of the Sengoku period. Before the rise of Tokugawa Ieyasu, it was the Imagawa clan that ruled Suruga Province from Sumpu Castle. Yoshimoto was one of the most influential warlords of his time, and his court in Sumpu was known as an important cultural centre.

Sakura Momoko (1965–2018)

Manga artist, creator of the cult manga and anime "Chibi Maruko-chan". She was born in the former city of Shimizu (now part of Shizuoka), and it is here that the action of her famous work, beloved by millions of Japanese people, takes place. Her work has become an integral part of modern Japanese pop culture. The city features a theme park, Chibi Maruko-chan Land, dedicated to her characters.

Torakusu Yamaha (1851–1916)

Entrepreneur and founder of the Yamaha Corporation. He began his activities in the neighbouring city of Hamamatsu (Shizuoka Prefecture) by repairing his first organ, which marked the beginning of the world-famous corporation for musical instruments and other equipment. His innovation laid the foundation for the industrial development of the entire region.

Soichiro Honda (1906–1991)

Engineer, inventor, and founder of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. A native of Shizuoka Prefecture (Komyo village, now part of Hamamatsu), he became one of the greatest industrial pioneers of Japan. His passion for mechanics and bold engineering solutions turned a small workshop into a global giant of automobile and motorcycle manufacturing.

Yamaoka Tesshu (1836–1888)

Distinguished samurai and sword master of the Bakumatsu period. He played a key role in the peaceful surrender of Edo Castle to imperial forces during the Meiji Restoration, preventing a bloody battle. He spent the last years of his life in Shizuoka, where he founded a Zen Buddhist temple and left a notable mark on the spiritual life of the region.