Known for its peaceful landscapes, renowned teas and traditional craftsmanship, the city of Shizuoka also attracts lovers of Japanese popular culture. It is here in Shimizu, a Shizuoka district, that Momoko Sakura was born, the author of an unmissable manga.Chibi Maruko-chan. This candid and mischievous character, a reflection of the author’s childhood, has become a symbol for an entire generation. The following itinerary proposes to discover the places that inspired the work, while enjoying the local charm of Shizuoka, between quiet alleys, culinary specialties and living heritage.
Understanding the universe of Momoko Sakura
Momoko Sakura, by his real name Miki Miura, was born in 1965 in Shimizu, at the time an autonomous city before its integration into Shizuoka. In 1986, it began publication ofChibi Maruko-chanin a pre-teen magazine. Very quickly, his anecdotes from everyday life in the 1970s echoed Japanese readers. The series becomes a huge success, adapted to cartoon, translated, and broadcast worldwide.
Maruko, the author’s alter ego, is a nine-year-old girl. She lives in a typical family of three generations. The places and characters of the series are directly inspired by Shimizu d It is this immersion in the post-war Japanese daily, authentic and tinted with humour, which gives toChibi Maruko-chanits universal charm.
First stage: from Shimizu station
The route starts at the JR train station in Shimizu, which can be reached in about ten minutes from Shizuoka train station by local train. From the exit by the mouth “Ejiriguchi”, illustrations of the universe ofChibi Maruko-chanwelcome you, integrated in urban settings. From there take the bus to “Miho” (line Shizutetsu Just Line) and get off at the stop “Hatoba Ferukğru Hakubutsukan”. In less than 15 minutes, you are close to the first must-see visit.
Chibi Maruko-chan Land: immersion in the world of Maruko
Located in the S-Pulse Dream Plaza Shopping Centre,Chibi Maruko-chan Landoffers a faithful reconstruction of the key scenes of the manga. There is the family house, the classroom, the neighbourhood park, and the famous candy shop (dagashiya). Each space is designed to recall the Showa years, the time in which history unfolds.
The museum also exhibits original manuscripts, drawing boards, archival videos and various personal objects of the author. Visitors can take photos with life-size characters, participate in mini-games or buy exclusive souvenirs, often not found elsewhere. This museum seduces families as well as lovers of cultural history or Japanese nostalgia.
Sweet twist: the Oiwake Yokan store
A few minutes by bus, towards Sakurabashi local railway station, is locatedOiwake Yokan, an emblematic confectionery founded in the 17th century. This store is particularly known for itsyōkan, a red bean paste gelatinized and sweet, wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Momoko Sakura enjoyed this traditional dessert, and in his work there are references to these sweet childhood. TheyōkanIt is available in long or individual versions. The setting is picturesque, with its old sign marking the historic crossing (oiwake) roads to Shimizu and Miho.
Lunch by the river Tomoe : KANEDA Shokudo
As you continue on foot to the city centre, take a lunch break atKaneda Shokudo, a small popular canteen located near the Tomoe River. The establishment, often mentioned in local conversations, offers simple and tasty cuisine based on regional products.
The recommended menu: a dish combining sashimi of local fish,kuro hanpen(black fish croquettes typical of Shizuoka), and shrimp donuts Sakura. The setting is modest but warm, and the walls decorated with souvenirs evoking Momoko Sakura’s work reinforce the atmosphere.
Walk in the streets of Shimizu
Before returning to the station, take the time to walk in the secondary streets of Shimizu. It still feels the atmosphere of a peaceful and slow Japan. Some old buildings are alongside recent houses, but the pace, neighbourhood shops and discussions on the doorstep recall whatChibi Maruko-chanSo well transcribed.
The walls painted, statues or signposts in the colours of manga remind us that the city is proud of its heritage. Every corner of the street you can see the curious little girl Maruko was.
Practical information
Access from TokyoFrom Tokyo Station, take the Shinkansen to Shizuoka (about 1 hour) and then a local train to Shimizu (10-15 minutes).
Estimated budget:
- Chibi Maruko-chan Land entrance: 1200 yen (1000 yen for seniors)
- Lunch at Kaneda Shokudo: 2000 to 2500 yen
- Local transport: about 1000 yen
- Souvenirs: providing a free budget according to your wishes
Hours:
- Chibi Maruko-chan Land: 10am to 7.30pm, open daily
- Oiwake Yokan: 9.30am to 3.30pm, closed on Sundays and Mondays
- Kaneda Shokudo: 11am-1pm and 5.30pm-2pm, closed on Sundays and Mondays
Other ideas for extending the visit
If you have more time, you can visit:
- Shimizu Harbour and Maritime Museum (Ferukěru Hakubutsukan)
- Miho district and its famous pine beach, World Heritage
- A traditional tea house to tastesenchaorgyokuro
Visiting Shimizu in the footsteps of Momoko Sakura not only allows you to immerse yourself in the tender and comical world of Chibi Maruko-chan, but also to discover a local Japan, authentic, often unknown to international tourists. An enriching excursion for young and old, easily integrated into a larger route through Shizuoka Prefecture.
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