The Divine Fuji View: Exploring the Pine Groves of Miho and the Maguro Bounties of Shimizu Port
Course Highlights
A Sensory Journey of Ancient Legends and Modern Flavors
Experience the timeless beauty that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. This full-day tour from Shizuoka Station takes you to the legendary pine groves of Miho, part of Mt. Fuji's World Heritage site. Walk the "God's Path," sail across the bay on a water bus, and feast on the freshest tuna in Japan at the lively Shimizu Port. A perfect blend of spiritual serenity and culinary indulgence.
Course Overview
- Duration: Approx. 8 hours
- Target: Nature Lovers, Photographers, & Foodies
- Start: Shizuoka Station
- Finish: Shizuoka Station (or Shimizu Station)
Highlights
- Indulge in a premium Maguro (tuna) bowl at one of Japan's busiest tuna ports.
- Enjoy a mini-cruise on the Shimizu Port Water Bus for a unique maritime view of Fuji.
- Walk the legendary black-sand beach of Miho with a stunning Mt. Fuji backdrop.
- Learn the "Hagoromo" legend at Miho Shirube, the Miho no Matsubara Culture & Creativity Center.
- Stroll the "Kami-no-michi" (God's Path) beneath ancient, 500-year-old pine trees.
Morning: Tuna Feast and Portside Culture
Indulge in a lunch of exceptionally fresh tuna at the source and explore the modern culture of one of Japan's most important trade ports.
10:30 - Lunch: Premium Maguro at Kashi-no-Ichi
Just steps from Shimizu Station, "Shimizu Fish Market Kashi no Ichi" is a seafood paradise. As Japan's top tuna port, the maguro here is exceptionally fresh and reasonably priced. Order a "maguro-don" (tuna rice bowl) piled high with a variety of cuts, from lean red meat to melt-in-your-mouth fatty otoro.
11:30 - S-Pulse Dream Plaza & Chibi Maruko-chan Land
Stroll to the nearby S-Pulse Dream Plaza. For fans of Japanese pop culture, "Chibi Maruko-chan Land" is a must-visit, celebrating the beloved anime that is set right here in Shimizu. Browse local souvenirs, including Shizuoka tea and traditional crafts, before making your way to the water bus terminal.
12:30: A Maritime Cruise to Miho no Matsubara
Leave the bustling port behind and head out onto the bay. Cruise across the water by water bus, enjoying refreshing sea breezes and ever-changing views of Mt. Fuji as you make your way toward the World Heritage landscape of Miho.
13:00 - Water Bus from Shimizu Port to Miho
Board the water bus at Hinode Pier, located in front of S-Pulse Dream Plaza. As you cruise across Suruga Bay toward Miho, take in panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and the bustling port of Shimizu. This relaxing voyage offers a unique perspective that cannot be experienced from land.
Afternoon: The Spiritual Path and the Iconic Pine Grove
Arrive at one of Japan's most celebrated coastal landscapes. Explore the pine grove that inspired generations of artists, learn the legends that shaped the region, and follow a sacred pathway steeped in history and spirituality.
14:00 - Miho no Matsubara: Mt. Fuji's World Heritage Site
Step onto the shore lined by an estimated 30,000 pine trees. Here, the deep blue of Suruga Bay, the white waves, and, in winter, the majestic snow-capped Mt. Fuji come together to create a scene reminiscent of a living Japanese woodblock print. Take time to breathe in the salty air and capture one of Japan's most iconic views.
15:00 - "Miho Navi" & Kami-no-michi
Continue to Miho Shirube, where you can learn about the famous Hagoromo Legend and discover the history and cultural significance of Miho no Matsubara. Then follow Kami-no-Michi, the sacred pine-lined pathway leading to Miho Shrine. Surrounded by centuries-old trees, this tranquil route offers a peaceful and spiritually enriching conclusion to your visit.
17:00 - Return to Shizuoka Station
After a day immersed in the beauty of Mt. Fuji and Miho's coastal scenery, take the local bus from Miho Shrine back to Shimizu Station, then continue by train to Shizuoka Station. Arrive in time to connect with the Shinkansen or enjoy dinner in the city before the end of your journey.