Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel, Suruga Travel Guide

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Discover Japan's first toll tunnel: a historic landmark offering a serene journey through time and nature in Shizuoka.

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Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel

The Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel, completed in 1876, was Japan's first toll tunnel and a significant feat of engineering. Located in Shizuoka, it offers a glimpse into the Meiji era with its brick construction and serene atmosphere.

A brief summary to Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel

Utsunoya, 静岡市, Utsunoya, 駿河区, Shizuoka, 421-1121, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the tunnel can be uneven.
Visit during early spring to enjoy the cherry blossoms surrounding the tunnel.
Bring a camera to capture the tunnel's historic architecture and the scenic landscapes.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse

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Explore Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Shizuoka Station, take a bus bound for Fujieda. Get off at the Utsunoya Iriguchi bus stop, located just before the Fujieda Tunnel. Cross the road using the overhead bridge and walk up the street. Follow the signs to the Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel, approximately a 10-minute walk. Bus fare is around ¥600.
Car

From central Suruga, head south on Route 1 (Tōkai-do) for approximately 15 minutes. Take the exit toward Utsunoya and follow the signs for about 5 minutes until you reach the Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel. Free parking is available near the tunnel. Note that parking may be limited during peak seasons.

Discover more about Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel

Step back in time as you traverse the Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel, a historical landmark nestled in the Utsunoya area of Shizuoka. Completed in 1876, this tunnel holds the distinction of being Japan's first toll tunnel, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's infrastructure development.Constructed during the Meiji period, the tunnel facilitated safer passage through the Utsunoya Pass, a once treacherous mountain crossing. The tunnel's brick construction exudes a retro charm, with moss-covered red and green bricks creating a captivating ambiance, especially when illuminated by orange lights in the evening.Spanning approximately 203 meters, the tunnel provides a unique journey through the lush, green mountains. The air inside is often cool and crisp, offering a refreshing escape. Beyond its historical significance, the Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel is a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. Walking trails wind through the surrounding landscape, providing vantage points to appreciate the tunnel and the region's natural beauty. Today, the Meiji Utsunoya Tunnel is registered as a national tangible cultural property.