Susono

Historical Roots and Foundation

The territory of modern-day Susono has been inhabited since ancient times, as evidenced by archaeological finds from the Jomon and Yayoi periods. Historically, these lands were part of Suruga Province.

The city was formed as an administrative unit much later. In 1952, the town of Susono was created through the merger of the villages of Izumi and Koizumi. It was granted city (shi) status on January 1, 1971. The city's name translates from Japanese as "foothills" or "base," which literally describes its location at the foot of Mount Fuji.

Key Development Factors

Susono's development was determined by a unique combination of natural and logistical conditions:

• Geography: The city is located at the foot of two mountains—the famous Mount Fuji and Mount Ashitaka. This provided the area with fertile volcanic soil and an abundance of water resources.
• Transport Significance: Situated in the eastern part of Shizuoka Prefecture, the city's territory has historically served as an important transit corridor. Proximity to the Tokaido road, which connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto, encouraged the flow of travelers and goods.
• Political Status: During the Edo period, most of this territory was under the direct administration of the Tokugawa shogunate or part of the Odawara Domain, which ensured relative stability.

Early Culture and Economy

Before the onset of industrialization, the region's economy was predominantly agricultural. Local residents utilized the rich volcanic soil to grow crops. Tea production and sericulture (silk farming), characteristic of the entire Shizuoka Prefecture, held a special place.

The cultural life of the region is inextricably linked to the veneration of Mount Fuji. Local shrines dedicated to the mountain's deities served as centers of attraction for pilgrims for centuries, forming a special spiritual atmosphere that can still be felt in Susono today.

Key Milestones of Development

• 1889: Opening of Susono Station on the line now known as the Gotemba Line, which boosted trade and transport.
• 1952: Formation of the town of Susono following the administrative merger of the villages of Izumi and Koizumi.
• 1957: Expansion of the town's territory through the annexation of Tomioka village and part of Suyama village.
• 1967: Opening of the major Higashi-Fuji automobile plant, turning the region into an important industrial hub.
• 1969: Launch of the Susono Interchange on the Tomei Expressway, significantly improving the city's connection to Tokyo and Nagoya.
• 1971: Susono is officially granted city (shi) status, marking a new stage of urbanization.

Modern History

• 1974: Approval of the city's official symbols, including the coat of arms, as well as the selection of the tree (cedar) and flower (azalea) as natural symbols.
• 1982: Signing of a sister city agreement with Frankston, Australia, to promote international cultural exchange.
• 1991: Opening of the Susono Cultural Center, which became the main venue for concerts and community events.
• 1998: Completion of Susono Central Park, providing residents and tourists with a zone for recreation and sports.
• 2021: Groundbreaking ceremony for "Woven City"—a futuristic smart city project at the foot of Mount Fuji.

Tourism Chronicle and Cultural Milestones

Beyond its industrial and administrative growth, the history of Susono is closely tied to the development of tourism at the base of Mount Fuji. The city has gradually transformed from a transit point into a destination in its own right for family vacations, culinary tourism, and winter sports. Below are the key events that shaped the city's tourism image:

• Opening of Fuji Safari Park (1980): This event was a turning point for the city's tourism industry. The launch of one of Japan's largest safari parks attracted millions of visitors from across the country to Susono, establishing the city as a major center for family entertainment in the region.
• Development of the Southern Slope Resort Area: The transformation of the Grinpa amusement park and the Yeti ski resort created a unique cluster for outdoor activities. Snow Town Yeti became famous throughout Japan for being the first resort in the country to open the ski season each year (often as early as October), using an artificial snowmaking system to attract winter sports enthusiasts long before the cold weather sets in.
• Culinary Branding (2007): The founding of the "Susono Gyoza Club" marked the beginning of the popularization of a local delicacy. Gyoza dumplings made with moroheiya (mulukhiya) powder in the dough became the city's gastronomic hallmark, attracting foodies to local food festivals.
• UNESCO Recognition (2013): The inclusion of Mount Fuji on the World Heritage List directly affected Susono. The city's Suyama Sengen Shrine, the starting point of the historical Suyama climbing route, was recognized as a component part of the cultural site, significantly increasing interest in the region's historical heritage.

Architectural Character and Urban Planning

The urban development of Susono is inextricably linked to its geographical location at the foot of Mount Fuji. The city does not possess a single historical center in the traditional European sense; rather, its structure is a blend of traditional rural settlements, modern industrial zones, and cutting-edge experiments in urbanism. The architectural landscape can be divided into three key stages.

Traditional Japanese Architecture (Edo – Meiji Eras)

The oldest surviving structures in the region belong to religious architecture. This period is characterized by the use of natural materials (wood, stone) and harmony with the surrounding landscape.

• Style: Traditional Shinto architecture (Nagare-zukuri).
• Key Features: Curved roofs covered with cypress bark or copper, massive wooden columns, and minimalist decor that emphasizes the building's structure.
• Iconic Landmark: Suyama Sengen Shrine. This temple, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, demonstrates classical techniques of sacred architecture. Its location within a cedar forest highlights the traditional Japanese concept of unity between structure and nature.

Industrial Modernism and Civil Engineering (Showa – Heisei Eras)

Attaining city status in 1971 and the rapid development of the automotive industry radically changed Susono's appearance. Urban planning during this period was governed by functionality and pragmatism.

• Style: Functionalism, Brutalism, Postmodernism.
• Key Features: Use of reinforced concrete, glass, and steel. Strict geometric shapes, an emphasis on utility in industrial zones, and the creation of large-scale public spaces.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Susono Cultural Center (1991): An example of public architecture from the "bubble economy" era. The building is noted for its monumentality, complex layout, and the use of high-quality finishing materials.
  • Factory Complexes: Large industrial enterprises (particularly those associated with Toyota and Canon) shaped entire districts with a characteristic industrial aesthetic.

Futuristic Urbanism (Reiwa Era – Present)

Currently, Susono is becoming the site for one of the most ambitious urban planning experiments in the world. The city is transitioning from an industrial model to a "smart city" concept.

• Style: Eco-futurism, High-tech.
• Key Features: Carbon neutrality, modularity, the use of advanced wooden structures combined with digital technologies, and a priority on pedestrian zones and autonomous transport.
• Iconic Project: Woven City. A prototype "city of the future" currently under construction at the foot of Mount Fuji by Toyota. Designed by renowned architect Bjarke Ingels, the project aims to create a fully integrated ecosystem where architecture, robotics, and nature coexist in a single space.

Notable People of Susono

The city of Susono, nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Fuji, has been the starting point for many talented individuals. Despite its relatively small size, this corner of Shizuoka Prefecture has given Japan figures who have achieved recognition in cinema, professional sports, and pop culture.

• Katsuhiko Tasaka (1914–1979)
  Role: Film Director
  A native of Izumi village, which later became part of Susono. Tasaka was a key figure at Nikkatsu Studios during the golden age of Japanese cinema. His films, which often explored themes of humanism and family values, are considered classics of Showa-era cinema and an important part of the region's cultural heritage.
• Tomoyoshi Ikeya (born 1962)
  Role: Football Coach and Manager
  A well-known specialist born in Susono. Ikeya made significant contributions to the development of the J-League, working with clubs such as Kashiwa Reysol and Roasso Kumamoto. His career highlights Shizuoka Prefecture's status as Japan's "football kingdom," where the sport enjoys immense popularity.
• Mitsuhiro Uesugi (1942–2016)
  Role: Statesman
  A politician whose life journey began in Susono. He represented the region's interests in the national parliament for many years. His work was closely tied to agriculture and forestry—key industries for the territory at the foot of the mountains. He was honored with high state awards for his service.
• Kenta Kano (born 1986)
  Role: Professional Footballer
  A prominent representative of a sporting generation whose development as an athlete is inextricably linked to Susono. An attacking midfielder, he gained widespread fame playing for the prestigious club Yokohama F. Marinos. Kano serves as an inspiring example for local youth teams, upholding the city's strong football traditions.
• Ayumi Takada (born 1984)
  Role: Singer and Choreographer
  A star of the modern Japanese pop scene who considers Susono her hometown. She gained popularity as a member of the idol group Canary Club. In addition to her vocal career, Takada has achieved success as a talented choreographer, working with various musical groups and demonstrating the creative potential of those from this region.