Shimizu Port Shizuoka
A scenic and welcoming port offering easy access to local culture, shopping, and breathtaking views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful stillness, clear views
Shimizu Port Shizuoka
Best Time
Peaceful stillness, clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic and welcoming port offering easy access to local culture, shopping, and breathtaking views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
"A convenient and chill cruise port location with pleasant surroundings and easy access to local attractions."
Taxi to Nihondaira Ropeway
Highly recommended for great views! Taxis are available at the port with English-speaking guides. :taxi:
Explore S-Pulse Dream Plaza
Conveniently located near the terminal for shopping and dining options. :shopping_bags:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
S-Pulse Dream Plaza
Adjacent to the cruise terminal
A vibrant hub with shops, eateries, and entertainment, perfect for a quick exploration.
Shimizu Marine Park
Beside the cruise terminal
Enjoy scenic waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere, with Mt. Fuji often visible.
Nihondaira Ropeway
Short taxi ride from port
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Suruga Bay and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Your Arrival
Embrace Local Flavors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taxi to Nihondaira Ropeway
Highly recommended for great views! Taxis are available at the port with English-speaking guides. :taxi:
Explore S-Pulse Dream Plaza
Conveniently located near the terminal for shopping and dining options. :shopping_bags:
Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Savor fresh seafood with beautiful views of the bay. :fish:
Free Shuttle Buses
Utilize free shuttles to reach train stations for further exploration. :bus:
Tips
from all over the internet
Taxi to Nihondaira Ropeway
Highly recommended for great views! Taxis are available at the port with English-speaking guides. :taxi:
Explore S-Pulse Dream Plaza
Conveniently located near the terminal for shopping and dining options. :shopping_bags:
Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Savor fresh seafood with beautiful views of the bay. :fish:
Free Shuttle Buses
Utilize free shuttles to reach train stations for further exploration. :bus:
Tourist Information
Volunteers at the info center can assist with maps and local advice. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shimizu Port is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, professional staff, and convenient amenities like free shuttle buses. Visitors appreciate the proximity to S-Pulse Dream Plaza for shopping and dining, as well as the scenic beauty of the marine park. Some find the port itself has limited attractions, but its accessibility to other sites like Nihondaira Ropeway is a significant plus.
"The Shimizu Cruise Port is well-equipped for cruise ships. They have free shuttle buses available to the train stations, and the vendors are ready. A shipping center is nearby. The pier is nice and clean. All the workers at this port are professional and I feel welcome to the city."
Michael W.
"A cruise terminal that’s close to the S Pulse Dream plaza where there are plenty of eateries and retail shops. There are several local merchants who have stalls selling local crafts and matcha tea powder.
Just outside the cruise terminal are local tours companies and taxis for hire. There’s even a tourist information centre with local maps and volunteers who are available to assist you with any questions.
From the cruise terminal to the main center is about a 20 minute stroll."
Melanie E
"Easy walking to a shopping mall, food on one side clothing on the other. Yours are an hr. Plus away."
Shawn Barreras
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a pleasant 20-minute stroll to the main center. Alternatively, free shuttle buses are available from the port to the train stations, and taxis are readily accessible for direct transport.
Yes, taxis are readily available at the port. There's often a taxi stand with English-speaking guides who can assist you with your destination, making it easy to arrange rides.
It is considered safe to take a taxi to Nihondaira Ropeway. Many travelers opt for this, and English-speaking guides at the port can help facilitate the arrangement.
Cruise ship passengers have several options, including free shuttle buses to train stations, readily available taxis, and local tour companies offering excursions.
Yes, the port offers services like shuttle buses to downtown and other nearby locations, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For attractions like the Nihondaira Ropeway, it's advisable to check their official websites for booking information, though tickets can often be purchased on-site.
S-Pulse Dream Plaza typically houses shops and eateries that have varying operating hours. It's best to check their specific store hours for the most accurate information.
Shimizu Marine Park is a public space and generally does not have an entrance fee, allowing visitors to enjoy the waterfront freely.
Yes, local tour companies often have stalls outside the cruise terminal offering various guided tours, including options for popular sites like the Nihondaira Ropeway.
Tickets for the Nihondaira Ropeway can usually be purchased at the ropeway station. If you're concerned about queues, consider checking if online booking is an option.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront areas, especially Shimizu Marine Park, offer stunning views of the bay and often Mount Fuji. The S-Pulse Dream Plaza area also provides interesting urban and coastal photo opportunities.
Clear mornings often provide the best visibility for Mount Fuji. The soft light of early morning or late afternoon can also create beautiful photographic conditions.
Look for shots capturing the blend of maritime activity with the cityscape and natural scenery. The Ferris wheel at the marine park can also be a photogenic element.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A polarizing filter can enhance sky and water colors, especially on sunny days.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas of S-Pulse Dream Plaza, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of merchandise or inside individual shops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Shimizu is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly tuna. Don't miss trying local specialties like 'Shizuoka oden' and enjoying matcha tea and sweets.
The S-Pulse Dream Plaza area and waterfront eateries offer excellent seafood options. Many restaurants pride themselves on serving the freshest catch of the day.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants can accommodate dietary needs. Look for vegetable-based dishes like tempura or soba noodles, and don't hesitate to ask about options.
Most restaurants operate for lunch (around 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM) and dinner (around 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM). Some cafes and eateries may have extended hours.
Yes, you can find stalls selling local crafts, matcha tea powder, and other regional snacks and souvenirs right at the port and within the S-Pulse Dream Plaza.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a taxi ride to the Nihondaira Ropeway for a fun and scenic experience that most children will enjoy. The gentle ride and the expansive views can be captivating. Ensure you check the operating hours for any specific attractions you plan to visit to manage your family's schedule effectively.
💰 Budget Travelers
When dining, look for local eateries or food stalls within the S-Pulse Dream Plaza that offer more affordable options. Trying local snacks and regional specialties from vendors can be a cost-effective way to experience the local cuisine.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the bustling port activity and the unique architecture of the S-Pulse Dream Plaza. The Nihondaira Ropeway offers a different perspective with sweeping panoramic shots of Suruga Bay and the surrounding landscape. Consider bringing a versatile lens and a polarizing filter to enhance your images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Shimizu Port as a Cruise Passenger
Many travelers find the proximity to the S-Pulse Dream Plaza a major advantage. This complex offers a good mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, providing immediate options for exploration right off the ship. You'll also find local merchants selling crafts and regional products, offering a taste of local culture. The presence of a tourist information center with volunteers further enhances the visitor experience, providing maps and answering questions.
For those seeking natural beauty, the Shimizu Marine Park offers serene waterfront views, and on clear days, the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji can be seen. The port's location seamlessly blends maritime activity with scenic vistas, making it a pleasant and memorable arrival point. The overall atmosphere is described as convenient and chill, making it a pleasant place to visit.
The Appeal of Nihondaira Ropeway
This experience is particularly appealing for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs. The journey itself is part of the attraction, offering a sense of tranquility and wonder. It's a popular choice for cruise ship passengers looking for a memorable experience that showcases the natural splendor of the Shizuoka region.
Culinary Delights of Shimizu
For those with a sweet tooth or looking for a taste of local tradition, matcha tea and related sweets are widely available. You can find stalls selling high-quality matcha powder and enjoy matcha-flavored desserts. The S-Pulse Dream Plaza is a central hub for dining, offering a variety of eateries that cater to different tastes, from casual snacks to more formal meals.
When exploring dining options, don't hesitate to ask locals or staff for recommendations. Many establishments pride themselves on their regional specialties. Even if you have dietary restrictions, most places are accommodating and can offer vegetable-based dishes or other alternatives upon request.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit