Cruise port Shimizu
Port information & tips for Shimizu
Shimizu is a picturesque cruise port in Shizuoka Prefecture and is considered one of Japan's most beautiful docking locations, offering spectacular views of the majestic Mount Fuji. The city welcomes travelers with a relaxed maritime atmosphere and provides a unique backdrop for exploration thanks to its location between the mountains and the sea. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the famous pine-lined beach of Miho-no-Matsubara and the lively S-Pulse Dream Plaza with its fascinating Sushi Museum. Cruise ships dock directly at the central Hinode Pier, from which the city center and main attractions are easily accessible via shuttle bus or a short, pleasant walk.
The Port of Shimizu at the foot of Mount Fuji impresses with its prime location on Japan's Pacific coast and excellent connections to the Tokyo metropolitan area. Cruise ships dock at the central Hinode Pier, which offers modern infrastructure for international guests.
Airplane
For travelers from the DACH region, arrival usually takes place via the international airports Tokyo-Haneda (HND) or Tokyo-Narita (NRT). Haneda is located about 160 kilometers away and offers a quick onward journey thanks to the direct connection to the Shinkansen, while Narita is located about 230 kilometers to the south and can be easily reached by express train or private transfer.
Train
Arrival by train is particularly comfortable and reliable thanks to Japan's high-speed Shinkansen network. From Tokyo, you can reach Shizuoka Station with the Shinkansen of the Tokaido Line in about 60 to 90 minutes and change there to the local JR Tokaido Line to Shimizu Station. From Shimizu Station, on cruise dates, you can often reach the Hinode Terminal directly by free shuttle buses or in a five-minute taxi ride.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Transfer
Due to the long flight duration and the time difference, arriving at least one day before embarkation is recommended. Many guests take the opportunity for an overnight stay in Tokyo or directly in Shizuoka to explore the region around Mount Fuji in a relaxed manner. Additionally, the port is very well connected to the long-distance road network via the Tomei Expressway (Shimizu IC exit), which allows for arrival by private chauffeur service or rental car directly to the terminal.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Shimizu at the foot of Mount Fuji impresses with its prime location on Japan's Pacific coast and excellent connections to the Tokyo metropolitan area. Cruise ships dock at the central Hinode Pier, which offers modern infrastructure for international guests.
Airplane
For travelers from the DACH region, arrival usually takes place via the international airports Tokyo-Haneda (HND) or Tokyo-Narita (NRT). Haneda is located about 160 kilometers away and offers a quick onward journey thanks to the direct connection to the Shinkansen, while Narita is located about 230 kilometers to the south and can be easily reached by express train or private transfer.
Train
Arrival by train is particularly comfortable and reliable thanks to Japan's high-speed Shinkansen network. From Tokyo, you can reach Shizuoka Station with the Shinkansen of the Tokaido Line in about 60 to 90 minutes and change there to the local JR Tokaido Line to Shimizu Station. From Shimizu Station, on cruise dates, you can often reach the Hinode Terminal directly by free shuttle buses or in a five-minute taxi ride.
Pre-Cruise Hotel & Transfer
Due to the long flight duration and the time difference, arriving at least one day before embarkation is recommended. Many guests take the opportunity for an overnight stay in Tokyo or directly in Shizuoka to explore the region around Mount Fuji in a relaxed manner. Additionally, the port is very well connected to the long-distance road network via the Tomei Expressway (Shimizu IC exit), which allows for arrival by private chauffeur service or rental car directly to the terminal.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your arrival at the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Shimizu offers first-class access to the sights around Mount Fuji thanks to its excellent location and well-organized infrastructure. Directly at the terminal, travelers will find diverse options for a comfortable onward journey to the city center or to the picturesque coastal sections.
Shuttle Buses & Taxis
Numerous taxis are available directly in front of the harbor terminal and quickly take guests to destinations in the immediate vicinity. In addition, many cruise lines offer free shuttle buses that transport you in a few minutes to the JR Shimizu Station, enabling a connection to the regional rail network as well as the local bus lines of the Shizutetsu company.
Water Bus (Shimizu Port Bay Water Bus)
A particularly beautiful connection is offered by the local water bus, which runs directly from Hinode Pier to the Miho Peninsula as well as to Ejiri. This trip across the harbor basin is very popular and simultaneously allows for an impressive view of Mount Fuji directly from the water.
On Foot
In only about 5 to 10 minutes on foot from the pier, you can reach the S-Pulse Dream Plaza, a large shopping and leisure center with museums and restaurants. The path leads along the waterfront promenade and, thanks to the flat route, offers a relaxed way to explore the immediate surroundings of the harbor independently.
To make the most of your stay in Shimizu, we recommend a combination of the iconic view of Mount Fuji and the culinary treasures directly at the harbor.
Miho no Matsubara
This picturesque pine grove by the sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site and, thanks to its location, offers one of the most spectacular views of the majestic Mount Fuji. The vast coastline and centuries-old trees create a magical atmosphere and are ideal for a relaxing stroll in nature.
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine & Nihondaira
This magnificent Shinto shrine perches high above the bay and is easily accessible by cable car from the Nihondaira plateau. The ornate golden carvings and the wide view across the Pacific make this cultural treasure a perfect destination for those interested in history.
S-Pulse Dream Plaza & Kashi no ichi Fish Market
A lively mix of shopping and first-class gastronomy awaits you directly at the harbor, where the unique Sushi Museum and the nearby fish market guarantee fresh-caught delicacies. Here you can experience the local maritime atmosphere up close and also find high-quality souvenirs for your return on board.
Nihondaira and Kunozan Toshogu
The impressive Nihondaira plateau is easily accessible from the port in about twenty minutes by taxi and offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay thanks to the modern "Nihondaira Yume Terrace". With the directly connected ropeway, you can also effortlessly reach the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, a magnificent national sanctuary that impresses with its artistic gold decorations and the peaceful atmosphere in the wooded slopes. In the surrounding cafes, you can enjoy local specialties such as high-quality green tea while admiring the history-steeped surroundings. Ideally, visit the plateau directly in the morning to take advantage of the best chance for a clear view of the sacred Mt. Fuji and plan a relaxed return to the ship for the early afternoon.
The return journey to the cruise terminal in Shimizu is extremely straightforward and relaxed, thanks to the well-organized infrastructure and proximity to many attractions.
Shuttle Buses and Public Transport
On port days, free shuttle buses run regularly between the JR Shimizu Station and the terminal at Hinode Pier. Additionally, you can use local Shizutetsu Line buses from the station or other central points in the city to return to the ship comfortably and on time.
Taxi
Taxis are available at any time at the main exits of the JR Shimizu Station and at the S-Pulse Dream Plaza shopping center. The drivers are well-acquainted with the docking areas and will bring you safely to the terminal grounds within a few minutes, thanks to the short distances.
On Foot
From the popular S-Pulse Dream Plaza shopping and entertainment complex, you can walk back to the berth along the water in just a few minutes. The path is level and provides excellent orientation thanks to clear signage and a direct line of sight to the ship.
