My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
Before August 15, 2025
When I found out I was going back to Japan, I sent my Japanese itinerary to my friend Hiroshi on the Diamond Princess. Would we ever dock together? Not once. It seemed tragic that we would be floating around in the same waters and our paths wouldn’t intersect.
Then, as I was researching where we were docking in Shizuoka, I received an email with the berth plan:
Holy smokes! That was the Diamond Princess docking with us!
I hadn’t even heard of Shizuoka – but apparently when ships visit Shizuoka, they actually dock in SHIMIZU (Like Port Chalmers for Dunedin and several other ports we would visit later). I’ve been to Shimizu a bunch of times! While Villa Vie doesn’t consistently use the port town versus the big city on the itinerary (later I would have a hard time with Hososhima, which turned out to be more of a port area like Shimizu for the city of Hyūga), Diamond Princess docked in Shimizu regularly!
I immediately messaged all of my friends on Diamond and started making arrangements for them to come visit my ship, while I figured out what there was to do in Shimizu (and Shizuoka) besides visit the mall:
Shizuoka, Japan
Welcome to Shizuoka, a scenic coastal city nestled between Suruga Bay and the foothills of Mount Fuji. Known for its stunning views of Japan’s most iconic peak, Shizuoka is also famed for its green tea plantations, wasabi farms, historic shrines, and samurai heritage. Shimizu Port offers direct access to nature, culture, and breathtaking vistas.
Approx. 680,000 (Shizuoka City); Shimizu Ward is one of its central districts.
History:
Shizuoka, meaning “tranquil hills,” has a rich and layered past that stretches from ancient Japan to the modern era. The region was once the site of Sunpu Castle, the retirement home of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, who played a pivotal role in unifying Japan in the early 1600s. The city of Shizuoka developed around this political and cultural center during the Edo period, and became a hub for tea cultivation — a tradition that continues to thrive today.
Shimizu, now part of Shizuoka City, flourished historically as a port town and fishing village, known especially for its high-quality tuna. During the Meiji period, Shimizu Port grew into one of Japan’s most important trade ports on the Pacific coast. Its protected natural harbor and scenic location near Mount Fuji made it both strategically valuable and visually iconic.
In 2003, Shizuoka City merged with Shimizu City to form a larger municipality, blending political significance with maritime tradition. Today, Shimizu Port remains a vital gateway for trade and tourism, and is renowned for its views of Mount Fuji, fresh seafood markets, and cultural access points like the Miho no Matsubara pine grove — a UNESCO World Heritage Site linked to centuries of Japanese poetry and legend.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Friday August 15 12:00 noon
Departure: Saturday August 16 All aboard: 5:00pm Sail away: 6:00pm
Weather
- Average Temps: Highs around 31°C (88°F); lows around 24°C (75°F)
- Climate: Hot, humid, and mostly sunny in August
- What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring rain protection just in case.
Near the Pier:
Berth name: HINODE WHARF NO. 1 BERTH
日の出埠頭第1号岸壁
Address: 10 Hinode-Cho Shimizu-Ku Shizuoka-City Shizuoka-Prefecture
静岡県静岡市清水区日の出町10
The port will be open 24 hours during our stay.
Docking with the Diamond Princess (approximately 2,670 passengers) on the 16th 🥳
Tourist information maps available outside the terminal from arrival to departure. https://www.shimizu-explorer.jp/en/index.html
Japanese Yen withdrawal available from 7am to midnight
Nearby Essentials:
- Pharmacy: Tsuruha Drug Shimizu Station (~1.5 km)
- ATM: Available inside Shimizu Station and local 7-Eleven stores
- Grocery/Snacks: Lawson, FamilyMart, and 7-Eleven near the port
- Nearest Church: Shizuoka Catholic Church, ~18.3 km from port
- Nearest Golf: Shizuoka Country Club or Nihondaira Golf Club (within 20 km)
- Don Quijote: Nearest branch: Don Quijote Shizuoka Inter (~20 min by taxi)
Getting Around:
🚶 Walking: The port area and Shimizu Fish Market are walkable, with scenic waterfront paths and Mount Fuji views.
🚌 Public Transit: Shimizu Station (JR Tokaido Line) connects to central Shizuoka (~11 mins) and Tokyo (~1.5–2 hrs). Local buses also serve attractions like Nihondaira Ropeway.
🚖 Taxis: Available at the port and Shimizu Station. Drivers may speak limited English—have your destination written in Japanese. Can book using Uber or Go
🚴 Bike Rentals: “Hello Cycling” e-bike rental stations are available around Shimizu. App required for booking (available in English).
Car Rentals: Nearby outlets include Nissan Rent-a-Car and Times Car Rental (advanced booking recommended).
Free Shuttle Bus Service: from 8am to 4pm 8/16
(Shimizu Port Hinode → Shin-Shimizu sta.→ JR Shimizu sta. → Shimizu Port Hinode)
Witnessing:
Climb Mount Fuji from Mount Fuji 5th Station: 76.4 km from port (~1.5–2 hrs by bus/car).
Visit https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/plan-your-trip-index.html for current climbing conditions and regulations.
Mt. Fuji Paragliding & Cycling Trails
Glide over scenic landscapes under the shadow of Mt. Fuji, or join rejuvenated mountain biking trails in bamboo forests and hidden valleys—a blend of excitement and tranquility. Paragliding (Fujinomiya): ~1 hr 10 min drive from port
🌊 Fuji Five Lakes Cycling Routes
These lakes offer scenic, beginner-friendly trails with stunning Fuji views:
- Lake Yamanakako: Best dedicated cycling path in the region. ~14 km loop with rental shops and stops like Nagaike Water Park
- Lake Kawaguchiko & Lake Saiko: More challenging route with uphill climbs through Momiji and Ashiwada Tunnels
- Lake Motosu & Lake Shoji: Quieter roads, great for intermediate riders
🏞️ Guided Tours & Rentals
- Fuji Bike Tour: Offers private guided rides around Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko, and Hakone. English-speaking guides and top reviews.
Visit: https://fujibiketour.com/
- Sora No Shita Outdoor Shop: Near Kawaguchiko Station, rents electric bikes for tougher climbs
🗺️ Unique Trails
- Subashiri Route: A descent-focused trail near Oyama-cho, ideal for thrill-seekers
- Kodanuki Marsh: Near Lake Tanuki, great for nature lovers and Diamond Fuji views
Nihondaira Plateau: Nihondaira is a lush plateau in Shimizu-ku, Shizuoka City, rising to about 307–308 m above sea level. From this vantage point, enjoy sweeping views of Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, the Southern Alps, Suruga Bay, and Shimizu Port when skies are clear. Recognition: Designated one of Japan’s Top 100 Landscapes (since 1927) and a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1954.
🚠 Nihondaira Ropeway: Aerial tramway that connects Nihondaira Plateau and Kunōzan Toshogu Shrine in only 5 minutes, covering 1,065 m with a vertical rise of ~120 m.
- Capacity: Operates with two cabins, each holding up to 55 passengers, traveling at approx. 3.6 m/s (or 4.7 m/s depending on source).
- Operating Hours: Typically runs from 09:00 to 17:00, with departures every 10–15 minutes.
- Ticket Prices:
- One‑way: ¥ 600
- Round‑trip: ¥ 1,100
- Many visitors opt for a combo ticket (ropeway + admission to Kunōzan Toshogu Shrine & museum) for better value.
- Return via ropeway or walk scenic trails.
🕌 Visit Kunōzan Toshogu Shrine: Right at the foot of the ropeway’s lower station, this national treasure shrine honors Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate.You’ll find exquisite Edo-period architecture, a small museum of Ieyasu artifacts, and serene forested surroundings.
Getting There:
- Fastest by Taxi (Distance: ~8 km) Time: About 10 minutes
Cost: Approximately ¥3,100–3,800
- Bus + Taxi (Cheaper, still efficient) Take a bus from Shimizu Station or nearby to Muramatsu, then a short taxi ride to the ropeway base.
Total time: Around 14 minutes, fare approx. ¥2,900–3,500
Note on Public Transport Routes: There is no direct fixed-route bus from Shimizu Port to Nihondaira Plateau; the main bus service runs from Shizuoka Station, roughly 40–45 minutes to the Nihondaira Ropeway stop, at about ¥580 one way. To use that route, you’d need to go from the port to Shizuoka Station (e.g. via train or taxi), then board the bus—an indirect, longer option.
Discovery:
S-Pulse Dream Plaza: A lively bayfront complex offering over 60 shops and restaurants, including the area’s largest selection of souvenirs and gifts. The Ferris wheel offers dazzling views of Mt. Fuji when the weather is clear. (8min from pier on foot)
Kashi no Ichi Fish Market: Shimizu Port lands more tuna than any other port in Japan, and you can taste the freshness at the 30 restaurants and seafood stalls here. A favorite of both locals and tourists, the market draws over a million visitors annually. (22 minutes on foot / 10 minutes by taxi)
Shimizu Ekimae Ginza Shopping Street – A nostalgic shopping street with 91 local stores, offering everything from Shizuoka tea and handmade goods to clothes, crafts, and toys. A perfect place to soak up local atmosphere and shop for unique finds. (25 minutes on foot / 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle to JR Shimizu Station on the 2nd day)
Miho no Matsubara – Part of the UNESCO Fujisan World Cultural Heritage Site, this stunning stretch of coast is lined with 30,000 pine trees over 5 kilometers of beach. A frequent subject of Japanese woodblock prints, it offers one of the most iconic views of Mt. Fuji.
- Kami no Michi (“The Divine Path”) – A pine-tree-lined boardwalk leading from Miho Shrine to the beach — some trees are over 200 years old.
- Miho Shrine – Dating back to the Heian Period, this shrine is revered for blessings in relationships, career, and business. Peaceful and photogenic.
Learning:
The Shimizu Sushi Museum, located inside S-Pulse Dream Plaza, is Japan’s first museum dedicated to sushi culture. Step into recreated Edo-period streets, learn about regional sushi traditions, and admire quirky exhibits like giant wax sushi and a tuna shrine. It’s a fun, cultural stop just minutes from Shimizu Port—perfect before or after a sushi lunch! Open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission at 5:30 PM. Admission is ¥300 for adults and ¥200 for children, and if you dine first in the adjacent Sushi Alley (Shimizu Sushi Yokocho), you’re eligible for a 50% discount on entry.
Miho Shirube – (Near the beach) Miho Shirube is a free museum dedicated to the cultural significance of Miho no Matsubara, including woodblock prints. A café and gift shop are on the first floor.
Exploring:
In Shizuoka, walk along the famed Gofukucho shopping street,
I have to interupt here. When I came across this shopping street, I had to ask Hiroshi if this was real. I mean, first there was Kashi no Ichi Fish Market (catchy-no-itchy fish market?!). He didn’t understand the context of my question. But I hope you do. It’s a real street- my new favorite street in Japan.
which locals have been doing for the past 400 years. This 1.5 km shopping street is bustling every day. Modern department stores sit alongside centuries-old shops, so there’s lots to discover on a stroll.
Sumpu Castle Park – Walk in the footsteps of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, at the ruins of Sumpu Castle. Explore the reconstructed turrets, enjoy a cup of local green tea in a traditional garden, and reflect on the legacy of one of Japan’s greatest warlords.
Cenova Mall – Located within Shin-Shizuoka Station, Cenova is a modern shopping mall with over 150 stores, eateries, and daily necessities — perfect for a shopping break after your historical stroll.
Getting there: From Shin-Shimizu Station to Shin-Shizuoka Station then a short walk
Other Stuff to do in Shizuoka:
Shiraito Falls & Otodome Falls (1 hr 15 min drive from port)
Ethereal cascades of snowmelt flowing like silk from Mt. Fuji’s flank—designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty. A side-by-side visit to the louder Otodome Falls is a perfect addition.
Jogasaki Coast & Jōgasaki Suspension Bridge (1 hr 40 min drive from port)
Enjoy dramatic Pacific views along rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and the iconic red suspension bridge. Great for coastal walks and photos.
Lake Tanuki & Izu Peninsula Trails
Ideal for biking, kayaking, hiking, and forest strolls—especially near Mt. Fuji where lush landscapes meet adventure.
Rakuju-en Garden & Zoo (Mishima)
Serene Japanese gardens, a historic villa, a small zoo, and a steam locomotive on display—perfect for a family-friendly break.
Rinzai-ji Temple (35 min drive from port)
Founded in 1536 by the Imagawa clan, with a historically significant Zen Garden open to the public during autumn only—an experience steeped in heritage.
Mishima Skywalk Zip Line & Suspension Bridge (~50 min drive from port)
Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge (400 m) offers thrilling zip-line fun and stunning views over Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Onsen & Spa Destinations: Atami & Izu Peninsula (~1 hr from port)
Known for relaxing hot spring resorts, coastal onsen views, and elegant ryokan stays. Atami Castle adds architectural flair and panoramic views over the sea.
Tasting:
Wasabi Village & Fujinishiki Sake Brewery Tours
Dive into Shizuoka’s agricultural heritage at a traditional wasabi farm or tour a 300+‑year-old sake brewery using Mt. Fuji’s pure spring water, complete with tastings and behind‑the‑scenes tours.
- Wasabi farm (Wasabi-no-Sato): ~1 hr 10 min from port)
Fujinishiki Brewery: ~35 min from port
Shizuoka-Oden & Aoba Oden Alley
Taste local-style oden simmered in rich soy‑based broth, skewered and deeply flavorful. Best experienced in narrow alleys or specialty izakaya’s—especially perfect on cooler evenings.
Local Delicacies:
- Shizuoka Green Tea
- Fresh sushi from Shimizu Port
- Wasabi soba noodles
- Unagi (eel) from nearby Lake Hamana
- Koko – Soft sponge cake with a rich cream filling. Available in cream, matcha, and various seasonal flavors. A favorite souvenir for over 30 years.
- Ochanoha Cookie – Cookies made with green tea leaves that retains their aromatic tea scent. No artificial sweeteners used. Originally made in Shimizu.
- Unagi Pie – Your friends will get a kick out of these sweet cookies made with, believe it or, powdered eel bones! These are a staple souvenir of Hamamatsu in western Shizuoka, where eel is a local delicacy.
- Bari Katsuokun – Crispy little chips made from Bonito fish, caught in neighboring Yaizu. The perfect snack to go with a cold beer.
- Potato chips with local flavors – There are plenty of local potato chip flavors for you to explore, such as Bonito Flake, Salted Tea, or Suruga Bay Deep Sea Salt.
Nightlife:
Limited near the port; head to central Shizuoka City for izakayas, local bars, and rooftop dining.
Sunset views from Nihondaira or the waterfront promenade are stunning.
🎶 Live Jazz Options
LIFE TIME Jazz Club – Shizuoka Station Area
- Location: Near JR Shizuoka Station
- Vibe: Cozy, intimate jazz club with regular live performances
- August Lineup: While August 15 isn’t listed yet, LIFE TIME typically hosts jazz acts several nights a week. Check their official site for updates
- Tip: Arrive early for good seating and enjoy their curated drink menu
DOT COOL – Shizuoka City
- Location: Tokiwacho, Shizuoka City
- Vibe: Retro jazz bar with JBL sound system and vinyl nights
- Live Music: Most weekends; jazz records on weekdays
BROWN SUGAR – Shizuoka City
- Location: Aoi Ward, ~13 min walk from JR Shizuoka Station
- Vibe: Casual live bar with jazz, soul, and blues
- Regular Events: Friday: Participatory live night
- Cover Charge: ¥500–¥3,000
🍸 Nightlife Spots (Non-Jazz)
🔥 Bar Oz – Shizuoka City: Stylish bar with cocktails and occasional live music
🍺 Beer Owle – Craft Beer & Chill Vibes: Brewery-bar hybrid with a relaxed atmosphere
🎤 Karaoke Apia & Happening: Popular karaoke bars with private rooms and themed nights
August 15, 2025
My friends wouldn’t dock with us until the next day, so after we docked around noon, I headed to the mall with my current ship friends. There were so many times on the Diamond that I’d dreamed about this meal:
And then I took them to the gelato place with the weird flavors. I’ve told stories about the wierd flavors in this gelato shop so many times in real life- when I see flavors that make no sense, I have to give them a chance! These flavors were not surprisingly delicious but I still find them so entertaining.
My conclusion still stands (at least for this location): if it’s a flavor that doesn’t seem like it should be gelato, it probably shouldn’t be!
As the excellent Destination Manager that I am, I spread the word.
That evening, Victor (our Executive Chef) picked our dinner spot (hoping that they could omit the soy for Steven, who is allergic). On they way there, we drove past the festival – people were dancing in circles in the parking lot, just like we’d done on the Diamond last summer.
We were seated in a private room and the door was closed. Apparently, in Japan many business deals are made over meals, and this place created privacy for every table.
Victor ordered way too much food, as usual.
We ate so much we decided to walk home (of course stopping at every kombini we passed).
August 16, 2025
We had a drill that morning, so my friends could visit either before or after. Paolo had another friend to meet, so he walked over as soon as Diamond Princess had clearance to disembark for the early tour. We were hoping he could just walk straight over, but he had to leave his port area before entering ours.
I worked with Paolo on Enchanted Princess after the pandemic. We went parasailing in St Thomas, and he was a key player in making my birthday awesome that year. At one point- either before or after Paolo met my mom- my mom was on the same ship as his lady friend who worked in Guest Services. Paolo was able to send his lady a Valentines surprise via my mom and Ron Voyage – they had so much fun being part of the ruse.
Now Paolo was the Music Manager on Diamond Princess with my friends! I had such a great time catching up with him and giving him a tour of the ship.
After the drill I met up with the rest of my buddies from the previous summer.
After a very short time working together, Hiroshi and I joked about linking our contracts – professionally. Linking is something romantic partners can do on Princess to be assigned to the same ship. We weren’t quite friends yet, but I loved his energy and work ethic. It was flattering that he felt the same about me. When I’m running an event, I tend to micromanage every detail to ensure it meets my standards. Hiroshi is one of the only people I’ve worked with who I could fully trust to handle all the preparation so I could simply ‘show up’ (this is usually the directive that I gave to the other people on my events).
Last summer, his contract ended on the same day my mom left after spending a month onboard. When Andi (my friend and Cruise Director) saw me crying in the office he assumed I was upset about my mom leaving. I knew I’d see her again – but not Hiroshi! His absence left a huge hole in my day-to-day ship life.
Kosuke hadn’t seemed very happy when he finished his first contract last summer, so I was surprised when he returned. I was delighted to learn that he was much happier this time around, and he gave full credit for the improvement of his experience to Hiroshi’s leadership.
And Dave, an Irishman who loves Japan. We bonded as outsiders who adored Japanese culture and often talked about how it related to the meaning of life in general.
I was disappointed that Masahiro was IPM and had to stay onboard- someone always gets the short stick. I gave Dave, Kosuke and Hiroshi their own tour, and they were just as flabbergasted by the differences as I had been. They couldn’t believe we didn’t have a production cast and had only one live musician (at that time).
After the tour, we wandered around Shimizu, catching up on everything that had changed in each other’s lives. I savored being back in the company of my friends as the conversation naturally drifted into Japanese and then back into English when they remembered that I wasn’t quite fluent.
For lunch, we had Chinese food. I didn’t realize this would be the case until I was there in the moment (though I realize now that it’s obvious) but eating Chinese food in Japan is a different experience than eating it in the US! I can’t remember what I ordered (I’m pretty sure I left the ordering to my local friends) but I do remember noticing how different it was. This doesn’t happen often, but I was so thrilled to be with my friends that the food became secondary to the company.
It was pouring rain (I’ll post the video on Facebook) when the boys had to return to their ship to go back to work. I appreciated my new, more flexible schedule, which allowed me so much more time in port than I had on Princess.
I’m so proud of Hiroshi who will be returning to the Diamond for his next contract as Cruise Director, Head of Department. Come to think of it, I will be too – though my department will be just a wee bit smaller 😉.