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Takanawa Travel K.K.,
Kitashinagawa 5-11-1
Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan

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A dimly lit, brick-lined tunnel with glowing yellow lights overhead, creating a sense of depth and leading the viewer’s eye toward the distant, brighter exit at the far end.
A dimly lit, brick-lined tunnel with glowing yellow lights overhead, creating a sense of depth and leading the viewer’s eye toward the distant, brighter exit at the far end.
A dimly lit, arched brick tunnel stretches into the distance. Yellow lights line the ceiling, creating a warm glow against the dark, textured walls. Faint natural light is visible at the tunnel’s far end.
A dimly lit brick tunnel with arched entrance, surrounded by moss-covered stone walls and greenery, extends into the distance with hanging lights illuminating its interior.
A brick tunnel with glowing lights inside stretches through a forested area, surrounded by moss-covered stone walls and lush green trees. A paved path leads into the tunnel’s entrance.
A glowing vintage-style lantern attached to a brick ceiling casts a warm, orange light, creating a cozy and slightly moody atmosphere.
Shizuoka

Meiji Tunnel

4.4 (465)Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Meiji Tunnel is a remarkable piece of engineering history built during the Meiji era. Completed in 1896, it played a crucial role in connecting the Tokaido Main Line between Atami and Shimoda. This tunnel, stretching about 1.2 kilometers, was a significant achievement for its time, showcasing Japan's advancements in infrastructure.

The construction faced many challenges due to the area's rugged terrain and the technology available during that period. Despite these hurdles, workers managed to carve through the tough rock, using mostly manual labor. The tunnel's completion improved transportation and contributed to economic growth in the region.

Today, the Meiji Tunnel is a reminder of Japan's rapid modernization during the Meiji period. Although it's no longer in use for trains, it remains a popular spot for history enthusiasts and those interested in Japan's industrial heritage. Visitors can walk through the tunnel and get a sense of the determination and skill that went into its construction.


Phone
+81 54-221-1066
Website
bunka.nii.ac.jp


The area

Address
Utsunoya, Suruga Ward, Shizuoka, 421-1121, Japan

Phone

+81 54-221-1066

Website

bunka.nii.ac.jp

Top ways to experience Meiji Tunnel

Shizuoka Bike Tour
4 hours
Shizuoka Countryside Bike Tour with Views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay
Shizuoka Bike Rental
8 hours
24-Gear Hybrid Bike Rental at JR Shizuoka Station

What other travelers are saying about Meiji Tunnel

Neat and scenic, clean washroom and free parking. Not worth a big detour for but neat if you need a pit stop and to stretch your legs. Town didn't have any cafes open mid-day, as an FYI only if you were hoping to stop for a coffee or snack.

Nearby attractions to see

A rugged mountain ridge covered in green vegetation stretches into the distance under a partly cloudy sky, with overlapping mountain ranges visible on the horizon.

Mount Akaishi

A colorful, ornate Japanese temple with detailed roof carvings and red pillars, surrounded by lush green trees and stone steps leading up to the entrance under a bright blue sky.

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

A large crowd watches as two acrobats perform; one hangs upside down on a tall pole while the other is captured mid-air in a dramatic leap above them, set outdoors with trees in the background.

Daidogei World Cup

A wooden ladle pours thick, creamy grated yam sauce (tororo) over a bowl of steamed white rice, with another dish visible in the background.

Chojiya

Nearby attractions to see

A rugged mountain ridge covered in green vegetation stretches into the distance under a partly cloudy sky, with overlapping mountain ranges visible on the horizon.

Mount Akaishi

A colorful, ornate Japanese temple with detailed roof carvings and red pillars, surrounded by lush green trees and stone steps leading up to the entrance under a bright blue sky.

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

A large crowd watches as two acrobats perform; one hangs upside down on a tall pole while the other is captured mid-air in a dramatic leap above them, set outdoors with trees in the background.

Daidogei World Cup

A wooden ladle pours thick, creamy grated yam sauce (tororo) over a bowl of steamed white rice, with another dish visible in the background.

Chojiya


More about Meiji Tunnel from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

The Meiji Tunnel is approximately 700 meters long. Walking through it typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace.

No, the Meiji Tunnel is no longer used for vehicular traffic. It is a pedestrian-only path now, offering a unique historical walking experience.

The tunnel is not illuminated at night, so it’s recommended to visit during daylight hours. If you plan to visit in the evening, bringing a flashlight is a good idea.

Yes, the area surrounding the Meiji Tunnel offers several attractions, including scenic hiking trails and the picturesque Abe River. The nearby villages also provide a glimpse into traditional Japanese life.
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Kristi Honey
May 13, 2025
Loved the vibe, as you approach and also take steps into the tunnel. Worth the short detour if you're hiking around Utsunoya Pass. Constructed in 1876, this was the first tunnel in Japan that required payment of a toll for passage.
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Jon Bower
Jun 2, 2023
A beautiful old tunnel leading to a nice little village. It’s worth a trip there!
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Christopher Markakis
Feb 11, 2025
Great place but only worth it if you can drive there or plan to hike a lot. Half the lights were out in the tunnel which made it a bit creepy if going alone. If you drive, there is only parking on the Shizuoka side and it's hard to find. Go up a small road that seems for walking only, but actually has 3-4 spots for parking.
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Thomas
Jul 27, 2020
Very nice place, full of history, perfect for a family hike With young kids
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Guillaume7372
May 2, 2020
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