Shizuoka Prefecture Citizens' Day

What Is Shizuoka Prefecture Citizens' Day?

August 21st is "Shizuoka Prefecture Citizens' Day" in Japan, commemorating the day in 1876 when Hamamatsu Prefecture was absorbed into Shizuoka Prefecture, largely establishing today's prefectural boundaries. The day was established by Shizuoka Prefecture.

The Day Two Prefectures Became One

Shizuoka Prefecture's current form was shaped by a reorganization of prefectural boundaries in the early Meiji era.

• How it came to be: after the abolition of feudal domains, the region was split between Hamamatsu Prefecture, centered on former Totomi Province, and Shizuoka Prefecture, centered on former Suruga and Izu Provinces, until Hamamatsu Prefecture was absorbed into Shizuoka Prefecture on August 21, 1876
• Distinct east-west character: even today, the prefecture's eastern region (Izu, Suruga) and western region (Totomi) differ in climate, culture, and dialect
• The purpose of this anniversary: to help residents learn about the origins of Shizuoka Prefecture and deepen their understanding of and attachment to their hometown

A Prefecture of Diverse Charms, From Mt. Fuji to Lake Hamana

Shizuoka Prefecture is home to abundant natural beauty and diverse industry stretching from east to west, including Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Lake Hamana. Many of its nationally famous specialty products, from tea and mandarin oranges to eel, have been cultivated across this expansive prefecture.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Learn about the origins of Shizuoka Prefecture and the distinct character of its eastern and western regions
• Enjoy Shizuoka specialty products like tea or mandarin oranges
• Learn about tourist destinations in Shizuoka Prefecture, like Mt. Fuji or Lake Hamana
• Check for any Citizens' Day events happening around the prefecture

Two Prefectures Became One, Giving Rise to Today's Rich Shizuoka

The union of Hamamatsu and Shizuoka Prefectures gave birth to today's Shizuoka, rich with diverse charms spanning east and west. Let August 21st be a moment to reflect on how the Shizuoka you call home came to be.