Shizuoka city government is challenging a long-held belief about Japan’s historic Tokaido route and its famous post stations. Most people familiar with Utagawa Hiroshige’s ukiyo-e series assume the route contained only 53 post stations. However, city officials say a detailed Edo-period map reveals the actual number reached 57 stations total. Consequently, Shizuoka hopes this historical correction will draw renewed tourist attention to the route.
The map, called Tokaido bunken nobe ezu, depicts additional post stations extending from Kyoto to Osaka’s Koraibashi. These include Fushimi, Yodo, Hirakata, and Moriguchi, stations often overlooked in popular cultural depictions. Shizuoka City itself hosts six post stations, more than any other municipality along the entire route. Therefore, city officials see significant opportunity in promoting the lesser-known stations to attract additional visitors.
Tourism in Shizuoka has lagged considerably behind other municipalities situated along the historic Tokaido corridor. In 2024, average visitor spending in the city reached only 16,356 yen per person. That figure falls dramatically short of Japan’s national average of 46,585 yen per visitor. Furthermore, few tourists currently stay overnight in Shizuoka, limiting the city’s broader economic benefit from passing travelers.
To address this gap, the city launched an exhibition showcasing Tokaido history at the former Kambara post station site. Additionally, Shizuoka submitted a 27.6 million yen supplementary budget proposal to fund expanded tourism initiatives. The plan includes compiling regional tourism information and launching a digital stamp rally across participating post stations. Moreover, the city established a council in January 2025 to coordinate promotional efforts among Tokaido municipalities.
Currently, 12 municipalities participate in the collaborative council, planning joint events going forward. Keihan Electric Railway has also joined the effort, operating a train wrapped in 57-station-themed designs. A city tourism official said the goal is encouraging travelers to explore the entire Tokaido route comprehensively. Ultimately, Shizuoka hopes repositioning the historic post stations narrative will extend visitor stays and boost regional tourism revenue significantly.
