SHIMIZU SHORE EXCURSIONS: MT FUJI SHRINE, SHIRAITO FALLS OR HAKONE

Shimizu is the closest cruise port to Mt Fuji, and that is why most people get off the ship here. The honest truth first: Fuji hides in cloud a lot, especially in spring. Our March 2024 group did not see the top at all. Our April 2026 group had better luck. We cannot promise the mountain, but both routes below are worth the day without it.

Route 1: Shrine, falls and Miho no Matsubara (about 5 hours)

• Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha in Fujinomiya, the main shrine for Mt Fuji. The water in its spring pond comes from snow melt on the mountain.
• Shiraito Falls, a wide curtain of thin waterfalls coming out of the rock. Short walk with some steps.
• Miho no Matsubara, a long pine beach on the way back to the port. On a clear day you see Fuji across the water from here.

Route 2: Hakone and Owakudani (about 5 hours)

• Coach to Togendai on Lake Ashi.
• Hakone ropeway from Togendai up to Owakudani. If you are nervous of heights, tell us; the cabins are enclosed but high.
• Owakudani, a volcanic valley with sulphur steam. Try the black eggs boiled in the hot springs (paid on the spot). Fuji is visible from here on a clear day.
• Coach back to Shimizu port.

Route 2 has more time in the vehicle. If your ship leaves early afternoon, Route 1 is the safer pick.

What our guests said

“Interesting side stories, good historical information. Only one thing could have been improved: find a way to clear those clouds that blocked our view of Mt Fuji.” – group travel organiser from the USA, March 2024

“Our guide was informative and did a great job. She taught us a lot and was helpful and patient. We all really enjoyed the tour.” – Peggy, USA, April 2026

How our Japan shore excursions work

• Private tour for your group only, from about 5 people in a minivan up to 40 in a full coach.
• A licensed English-speaking local guide meets you at the cruise terminal.
• We plan the day around your ship's times and bring you back to the pier well before all-aboard.
• The times on this page are a guide. Send us your ship name and port date and we fit the day to it.

Included

• Licensed English-speaking guide
• Private vehicle with driver, highway tolls and parking
• Entrance fees for the sights listed in the route you choose

Not included

• Lunch and drinks (your guide will point you to a good place)
• Tips for the guide and driver

Price

The price per person depends on how many people are in your group: a group of 30 pays much less each than a group of 6. Tell us your ship, date and group size and we will send a price.

See all our Japan shore excursions.