UNFORGETTABLE FUJI

Cruise to Mt. Fuji (Shimizu), Japan

The skyline at Shimizu port is dominated by one of Japan's most distinctive sites: snow-capped Mt. Fuji. Head to Miho-no-Matsubara, a pristine beach flanked by a picturesque pine grove, where you can take in some of the clearest views of Japan's tallest mountain. Cruise to Mt. Fuji and take the one-hour drive from the port to Fuji itself for some hiking — the mountain is relatively approachable climb appropriate even for beginners, and you don't have to hike all the way to the summit. Don't miss the ancient shrines that surround this volcanic landmark: Visit Fujisan Hongu Sengentaisha shrine, built to appease Fuji's volcanic deity. Or see Kunouzan Toshogu shrine, a masterpiece of Japanese lacquer and woodwork.

National Language Japanese

Currency Accepted Japanese Yen (JPY)

Things To Do in Mt. Fuji (Shimizu)

Miho no matsubara is a black beach with Fuji mountain

White Peak, Black Sand

On cloudless days, the views of Mt. Fuji are everywhere. Head to the magical Miho-no-Matsubara Park pine grove. This black-sand beach framed by bright green pines gives you a clear view of the bulk of Mt. Fuji. Pay your respects for the sheer natural splendor at the nearby Miho Shrine during your Mt. Fuji cruise.

Close up shot of tea leaves in a green tea plantation in Mt. Fuji

Tea Time

The Shizuoka prefecture is the most famous tea-producing region in the whole of Japan. From April to October, you can learn how to pick tea at Nihondaira Ocha Kaikan farm. Take the leaves you pick home with you, and learn about the history of tea at the Ocha-no-Sato Tea Museum. At the garden and teahouse on the museum grounds, you can enjoy matcha tea and sweets while gazing out over a Japanese garden.

Get Crafty

At the Sumpu Takumi Shuku Workshop, you can learn to make Japanese Sugura Crafts using age-old techniques passed down from the Edo era. Make your own lacquered chopsticks, learn how to dye a handkerchief with real indigo and create a delicate Mariko Koma basket.

Raw fish tuna sashimi in traditional Japanese style

Local Cuisine

Shimizu's fishermen haul in some of the highest-quality tuna in the whole of Japan. Head to Shimizu Sushi Alley and take your pick of the many delicious sushi restaurants, where you can enjoy this cold-water catch's delicate texture and nuanced flavor in its unadulterated form. Cruise to Mt. Fuji and venture out and try Sakura shrimp, tiny shrimp served raw or dried for a crunchy texture.

Vintage Japanese black lacquer tea caddy with auspicious gold makie bamboo forest design, used in the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Shopping

Sugura crafts have been a high-quality export of Shizuku artisans for generations. Intricate gold and silver lacquerware (makie), handpainted banners (sashimono) and bamboo baskets (sensuji saiku) are beautiful examples of Japanese artisanal skill. Find these traditional handicrafts the S-Pulse Dream Plaza Souvenir Shopping Area.