July 20, 2026 Shimizu Port Shore Day Guide for Diamond Princess Passengers

2026年7月18日2026年7月28日

寄港日ガイド / Port Day Guide

🇯🇵 日本語版はこちら: 日本語で読む

Monday, July 20, 2026. The Diamond Princess departs Nagasaki, sailing north along the Pacific coast from the East China Sea, arriving at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier at 09:30. Departure is set for 18:00 the same day, with Yokohama as the next destination. Your summer day in Japan begins here, in this Shizuoka port cradled by the majestic Mount Fuji.

While the scheduled time in port is 8 hours and 30 minutes, once you factor in disembarkation and re-boarding, roughly 7 hours is a realistic estimate for time ashore. Even so, that’s more than enough to soak up the best of Shimizu and Shizuoka — the sweeping panorama of snow-capped Fuji rising over Suruga Bay from Nihondaira, the breathtaking National Treasure shrine of Kunozan Toshogu where Tokugawa Ieyasu rests, the timeless beauty of Miho no Matsubara’s pine-lined shore and azure sea (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a indulgent tuna rice bowl at Kashi no Ichi market, fresh from Shimizu Port’s own waters, and a spot of shopping at Escape Dream Plaza, home to a beloved piece of Japanese anime culture.

This page is your complete guide to making the most of your shore day on July 20, 2026. Fresh from Nagasaki, it’s time to discover what to see, what to eat, and how to spend your hours in Shimizu — all through the eyes of a local.

About the Author

Shimizu Port Cruise Guide — Site Operator

Based in Shizuoka City. I plan and run the “Shimizu Cruise Festival“, an event at Shimizu Port where visitors from Japan and abroad mingle with the local community, and I work on other projects that connect cruise travelers with local people.

Through my interactions with cruise travelers and local residents, I’ve come to realize that enjoying a limited port call is not just about deciding where to go. What really matters is concrete, up-to-date information: How long does it take to get there? Can I visit without a reservation? Will it be open that day?

On this site, I introduce access routes from Shimizu Port, sightseeing spots, events, restaurants, and model itineraries in an easy-to-follow way, from the perspective of someone active on the ground.

My goal is to bring you the kind of real, local information about Shimizu and Shizuoka that guidebooks alone can’t offer, and to help make your day in port an even more enjoyable and memorable one.

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1. Shore Day Basics

Here’s a quick overview of the key details for your July 20, 2026 port call.

Item	Details
Shore Day	Monday, July 20, 2026
Arrival	09:30
Departure	18:00
Scheduled Time in Port	Approx. 8 hours 30 minutes
Realistic Sightseeing Time	Approx. 7 hours
Berth	Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier
Previous Port	Nagasaki
Next Port	Yokohama

July 20 falls in the heart of the summer tourism season — and this year, it also happens to be a public holiday. The third Monday of July is Marine Day (Umi no Hi) in Japan, and in 2026 that falls on July 20. It’s a national holiday celebrating Japan’s relationship with the sea and its maritime heritage — and there’s no more fitting place to spend it than Shimizu Port, one of Japan’s great seafront gateways.

As a public holiday, most shops and attractions will be open as normal or on special holiday hours. That said, expect larger crowds than usual, as local families and domestic tourists will be out in force. We strongly recommend getting an early start and confirming transportation options in advance. Note that some venues that would normally be closed on Monday may open on this public holiday and take a substitute closure on Tuesday instead — please check the operating hours listed later in this guide.

2. Weather & What to Wear on July 20, 2026

July in Shimizu is full-on summer. Expect highs around 29°C and lows around 25°C, with temperatures climbing from early morning and strong sunshine throughout the day. This period often falls just after the rainy season ends, so the air carries that familiar summer humidity — though on a clear day, the combination of blue skies and Mount Fuji is simply stunning. Do be aware that late-afternoon showers and thunderstorms are not uncommon in July, and rainfall probability can vary from day to day.

Dress in light, breathable summer clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for UV protection. Both Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira have stretches with little shade, so you’ll be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. We strongly recommend carrying a water bottle. Tuck a compact folding umbrella into your bag in case of a sudden shower. Comfortable walking shoes are a must — the “Kami no Michi” pathway at Miho no Matsubara is a mix of sand and stone paving.

Please note that this article is published a few days before the shore day, so precise forecasts for July 20 may not yet be available. Accurate weather predictions typically become available about three days out. Be sure to check for the latest forecast before you go. On the morning of your shore day, a quick search for “Shimizu, Shizuoka weather” will bring up an English-language forecast.

3. From Ship to City: Transportation at Shimizu Port

For each mode of transport we have summarized the fare rules, payment methods, and a rough sense of frequency. Docked from 9:30 to 18:00, an 8.5-hour call, travelers who want every minute under their own control should look to taxis first.

🚕 Taxi (the most flexible option, and our recommendation)

Nothing else covers Nihondaira, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, and other spots poorly served by public transport in one go. To complete this article’s recommended model route, the “Shizuoka Full Course (Nihondaira, Toshogu, Miho, and local food)”, within 8.5 hours, a taxi’s mobility is what makes it work. Split the fare and the per-person amount stays realistic.

【Where to board】Taxis stand ready at Hinode Wharf when cruise ships dock. If none appear, the tourist information desk in the port terminal can call one (Shizutetsu Taxi dispatch center: 054-281-5111)
【How fares work】Fares are metered: ¥700 for the first 1.17 km, then ¥100 added for every 285 m. Time also counts toward the fare at lights and in traffic. Asking for an approximate fare before boarding is entirely normal
【Charter option】Time-based charters run ¥7,700 per hour for a standard car. Sightseeing taxi plans (Shizutetsu Taxi) start at ¥30,800 for 4 hours, which comes to about ¥7,700 per person with four aboard. Show your list of stops and finalize the order with the driver
【Payment】Cash and credit cards are the sure things. IC card and QR acceptance varies by vehicle, so confirm before boarding if you plan to use them. Tipping is not customary
【Language】Most drivers speak Japanese only, but displaying this article’s spot names (with the Japanese) on your phone communicates plenty

🚌 Free Shuttle Bus (the little-known link between the port and Shimizu Station)

A free loop bus by S-Pulse Dream Plaza connects Dream Plaza, Shizutetsu Shin-Shimizu Station, and the Minato Exit of JR Shimizu Station in about 10 minutes.

【Fare】Free, whether or not you plan to shop
【Frequency】Every 15 to 20 minutes
【When to use it】When moving toward JR Shimizu Station or Shin-Shimizu Station. It replaces a walk of more than 20 minutes, boarding at Dream Plaza right next to the wharf

⛴ Water Bus (crossing the harbor with Mt. Fuji in view)

The Hinode pier of the Shimizu Port water bus (Photo: ブルーノ・プラス / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0)

Small boats run from the Hinode pier (in front of Dream Plaza) to the Miho area and to Ejiri (toward the Kashi-no-Ichi fish market). The boat ride itself counts as Shimizu Port sightseeing.

【How fares work】A flat fare per section: ¥1,000 for adults and ¥500 for elementary school children. Hinode to Miho is about 15 minutes; Hinode to Ejiri, about 10 minutes
【Frequency】7 sailings a day. No reservations; boarding is first come, first served
【How to buy tickets】Buy your ticket at the pier
【About cancellations】On this sheltered in-harbor route cancellations are rare, though sailings may stop in severe weather like typhoons. Check the day’s status at the pier or by phone (054-353-2222)

🚏 Local Bus (the standard route to Miho: Shizutetsu Justline)

The classic public-transport route to Miho no Matsubara is the Miho Yamanote Line: ¥440 and about 25 minutes from Shimizu Ekimae to Miho Matsubara Iriguchi.

【Frequency】Generally 3 to 4 buses per hour in the daytime
【How to ride】Board through the rear door and pay at the front fare box when you get off. Nationwide IC cards such as Suica and ICOCA only need a tap when boarding and again when alighting
【Paying in cash】The onboard change machine handles coins and ¥1,000 bills only. With larger bills, get change at a convenience store before you ride
【Note】From the port to the Shimizu Ekimae bus terminal, use the free shuttle bus or walk

🚃 Train (to central Shizuoka)

Use the train for outings to the Shizuoka Station area, including the oden alley Aoba Yokocho and Sumpu Castle Park.

【JR Tokaido Line】Shimizu to Shizuoka: ¥240, about 12 minutes, with 3 to 4 trains per hour during the day
【Shizuoka Railway (Shizutetsu Line)】Shin-Shimizu to Shin-Shizuoka: ¥350, about 23 minutes. Trains come about every 8 minutes, so just hop on whichever arrives
【Payment】Both lines accept IC cards such as Suica and ICOCA. Credit card tap-to-ride is not supported, so use an IC card or buy a ticket with cash
【From the port to the stations】The free shuttle bus is the convenient link to Shimizu and Shin-Shimizu stations

🚶 On Foot (fine for the area right around the port)

S-Pulse Dream Plaza: right next to the wharf (a 1 to 3 minute walk)
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi-no-Ichi”: about 1.3 km, a 15 to 20 minute walk. Or take the water bus from Hinode to Ejiri (about 10 minutes) and disembark directly in front of the market
JR Shimizu Station: about 1.5 km, a 20 to 25 minute walk. We recommend the free shuttle bus
Shizutetsu Shin-Shimizu Station: about 1 km, around 15 minutes on foot

4. Recommended Itinerary: “The Full Shizuoka Experience (Nihondaira, Toshogu, Miho & Gourmet)”

“Where should I go in just 7 hours?” — that’s the most common question we hear from first-time visitors to Shimizu. With today’s generous 8.5-hour port stay, we’ve put together a “full-course” itinerary that covers the very best of Shimizu and Shizuoka in a single day: iconic Mount Fuji views, Japanese history, a World Heritage site, fresh seafood, and a taste of local culture — all made possible by Diamond Princess’s extended docking time. A chartered taxi keeps transfers tight and efficient.

Sample Schedule

Time	Spot	Details	Duration
10:00	Depart (Hinode Pier)	Disembark & arrange taxi at tourist information office	30 min
10:30	Nihondaira / Yume Terrace	Taxi (~30 min). 360° panoramic views of Fuji and Suruga Bay	60 min
11:30	Kunozan Toshogu	Ropeway down from Nihondaira (~5 min). Visit National Treasure shrine & museum	90 min
13:00	Transfer	Taxi to Kashi no Ichi (~20 min)	20 min
13:20	Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”	Tuna rice bowl lunch at Maguro-kan; pick up souvenirs	60 min
14:20	Transfer	Water bus or bus to Miho no Matsubara (water bus ~35 min)	35 min
14:55	Miho no Matsubara	Stroll along Kami no Michi, see Hagoromo no Matsu pine, enjoy Fuji views through the pines	90 min
16:25	Transfer	Water bus back to Shimizu Port (~35 min); or local bus + taxi if needed	40 min
17:05	Escape Dream Plaza	Last-minute souvenir shopping & a quick look at Chibi Maruko-chan Land	30 min
17:35	Return to Hinode Pier	5-minute walk back to the pier — plenty of time for re-boarding	—

Estimated Budget: approx. ¥12,000+ per person (including taxi, admission fees & meals)

*Based on sharing a 4-hour taxi charter between 2–4 passengers.*

Nihondaira & Nihondaira Yume Terrace

Perched at 307 meters above sea level, Nihondaira Yume Terrace offers a full 360-degree panorama that’s hard to beat anywhere in Shizuoka. Looking out across Suruga Bay, on a clear day you can take in Mount Fuji, the Southern Alps, the Izu Peninsula, and Miho no Matsubara all at once — completely free of charge. The facility was redesigned in 2018 by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, whose elegant Japanese-inspired architecture is itself worth admiring.

Kunozan Toshogu

This was the very first Toshogu shrine built in Japan, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu — the shogun who unified Japan and founded the Edo Shogunate. The National Treasure shrine buildings are an explosion of rich color and intricate craftsmanship, showcasing the finest of classical Japanese architecture. You reach it via a 5-minute ropeway ride down from Nihondaira, adding a scenic aerial element to the visit. A combined ticket for the shrine (¥700) and museum (¥600) is available for ¥1,200.

Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”

A beloved institution among locals, Kashi no Ichi is the place to enjoy freshly landed Shimizu tuna. The market is split into two buildings — Maguro-kan (tuna hall) and Ichiba-kan (market hall) — offering tuna rice bowls, sashimi platters, sakura shrimp shumai dumplings, and other local specialties. Ichiba-kan was renovated in 2025 and now offers a great range of takeaway options — handy if you want to bring something back to the ship. Many stalls offer English menus, making this an easy and welcoming spot for international visitors.

Miho no Matsubara

One of Japan’s most iconic landscapes — and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Fujisan” inscription. The view of snow-capped Mount Fuji framed by a grove of some 30,000 pine trees was famously captured by ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige, and it remains just as striking today. Wander the “Kami no Michi” (Path of the Gods), a pine-canopied trail that leads to the legendary “Hagoromo no Matsu” — the pine where, according to ancient folklore, a celestial maiden hung her feathered robe. In summer the beach is lively with swimmers, but the pine forest itself stays cool and serene, offering welcome shade.

Escape Dream Plaza

A waterfront shopping and entertainment complex just a 5-minute walk from Hinode Pier — perfectly positioned for a final stop before re-boarding. Highlights include the “Shimizu Sushi Yokocho” restaurant alley, Chibi Maruko-chan Land (dedicated to the beloved anime series set right here in Shimizu), and a wide selection of souvenirs including local crafts, Shizuoka tea, and wasabi products. The ideal last port of call before heading back to the ship.

Operating Status on Monday, July 20, 2026

✅ Nihondaira Yume Terrace: Normal hours (9:00–17:00) — Mondays are regular operating days
✅ Kunozan Toshogu: Normal hours (9:00–17:00) — open daily, no fixed closing day
✅ Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”: Open on July 20 (public holiday) — normally closed Wednesdays, but as this is a holiday, it will open; note a possible substitute closure on Tuesday. Recommend confirming in advance.
✅ Miho no Matsubara: Open all day (free admission)
✅ Escape Dream Plaza: Normal hours (shops 10:00–20:00)
⚠️ Water Bus: Expected to run on public holiday schedule, but subject to cancellation due to wave conditions. Check with the tourist information office on the day.

⚠️ Expect Crowds: July 20 is Marine Day, a national public holiday. Miho no Matsubara, Nihondaira, and Kashi no Ichi are all likely to be busier than usual, with local families and domestic tourists out in numbers. Popular restaurants may have queues at peak lunch hours (11:30–13:00). We strongly recommend securing a taxi early and adjusting your lunch timing slightly to avoid the rush.

5. Local Events on July 20, 2026

July 20 is Marine Day — a national public holiday. Shimizu Port and coastal areas throughout Shizuoka Prefecture tend to host various events in celebration, and it promises to be a lively day as locals head to the sea to enjoy the summer.

At this time, we don’t have details of any specific confirmed events for the shore day. As the date approaches, local festivals and harbor events are often announced, so it’s worth searching for “Shimizu events July” or checking the Shimizu tourism website. Around Marine Day, outdoor events at Miho Beach and special programs at Dream Plaza are not unusual. For the latest information, we recommend asking at the tourist information office inside the port terminal after disembarking.

6. Local Food & Drink in Shimizu and Shizuoka

The Shimizu and Shizuoka area is one of Japan’s great food destinations. Here are the local specialties you won’t want to miss on your shore day.

Dish	Where to Find It	Price Guide	Notes
Tuna rice bowl / tuna sashimi	Kashi no Ichi, Maguro-kan	¥1,000–2,500	Fresh-landed Shimizu tuna; English menus available
Shimizu tuna sushi	Shimizu Sushi Yokocho (Dream Plaza)	¥1,500–4,000	5-minute walk from the pier; try sakura shrimp nigiri too
Sakura shrimp kakiage (tempura)	Yui Port area (~25 min by car)	¥800–1,500	Seasonal (spring & autumn); availability in July uncertain — check ahead
Shizuoka Oden	Aoba Yokocho (central Shizuoka)	¥500–1,500	A beloved local B-grade classic — look for black fish cake and dried seaweed powder
Seafood rice bowl / tuna tataki	Kashi no Ichi, Ichiba-kan	¥500–2,000	Renovated in 2025; great takeaway selection
Wasabi dishes	Throughout Shimizu & Shizuoka	¥300–3,000	Shizuoka is Japan’s top wasabi producer; wasabi soft-serve ice cream is a must
Shirasu-don (raw whitebait)	Near Dream Plaza & surrounding area	¥1,000–2,000	Summer is prime season for fresh shirasu — a real seasonal treat

One highlight we’d especially like to recommend for July is fresh shirasu-don — a bowl of rice topped with raw whitebait (baby sardines). Shirasu is a local specialty harvested from the waters of Suruga Bay, with summer being an active fishing season. Served fresh and uncooked, shirasu is delicate in flavor, with a translucent white color, a soft yet springy texture, and a subtle ocean freshness. A splash of soy sauce, a mound of the tiny fish piled over warm rice — it’s a bowl that only truly exists in places like Shimizu, where the catch comes straight from the sea. Available at seafood restaurants around Kashi no Ichi and Dream Plaza, though supply depends on the daily catch, so check when you arrive.

7. Practical Information for a Smooth Shore Day

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available inside Shimizu Port Terminal, accessible from the moment you step off the ship. Escape Dream Plaza also offers free in-building Wi-Fi. Across Japan, all major convenience store chains — 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart — provide free Wi-Fi, so you’ll be well-connected throughout the day with a smartphone. If you need consistent data access, consider picking up a prepaid SIM card at the airport before your cruise.

Payment

Cash is still king at smaller restaurants and shops in Japan. Taxis typically require cash payment, so confirm before you get in. Larger establishments at Escape Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi generally accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), but Amex and Diners Club are not always accepted, so keep that in mind. The ATM at the 7-Eleven convenience store near the port (Seven Bank ATM) accepts international cards for yen withdrawals. Having ¥3,000–10,000 per person in cash on hand is a good safety net.

IC Transit Cards

Suica, ICOCA, and other IC transit cards work seamlessly on local buses and JR trains. You can purchase and top up a Suica card at Shimizu Station or at nearby convenience stores. Cash payment is also accepted on buses and trains, but be aware that some buses don’t give change, so having small coins ready is helpful.

Language Support

English-speaking staff are available at both the Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal tourist information office and the Shimizu Station tourist information office. Many major shops at Escape Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi offer English menus and have some English-capable staff. The Miho no Matsubara visitor center “Miho Shirube” carries multilingual brochures. Most taxi drivers speak Japanese only, but showing your destination in text or using Google Translate’s camera feature (which can translate Japanese signs in real time) works well in practice. Don’t be shy about using it.

Tourist Information Offices

Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal Tourist Information Office — Right at the pier entrance. English support available. Can assist with taxi arrangements and up-to-date event information.
Shimizu Station Tourist Information Office — About 15 minutes on foot from the pier. Useful for bus and train connections.

Emergency Contacts

Purpose	Number
Police	110
Ambulance / Fire	119
Shizuoka City Tourism Info (English)	054-221-1173
Taxi (Shizutetsu Taxi)	054-285-1212

8. Getting Back to the Ship

The Diamond Princess departs at 18:00. Please plan to be back at Hinode Pier by 17:30 at the latest. Re-boarding can take longer than expected, and if you miss the ship, you’ll need to make your own way to the next port of call, Yokohama. Please manage your time carefully.

If you get turned around on your way back, search for “Shimizu Port Hinode Pier” or “清水港日の出埠頭” in Google Maps for directions from your current location. When taking a taxi, tell the driver “Hinode Pier” (日の出埠頭) or simply show them this text on your smartphone.

If you’re returning from Miho no Matsubara by water bus, keep a close eye on the last departure time. If the water bus isn’t running, the most reliable backup is to take a local bus toward JR Shimizu Station, then grab a taxi from there to Hinode Pier.

9. About the Diamond Princess

The Diamond Princess is a large cruise ship operated by Princess Cruises, with a gross tonnage of 115,906 tons. Launched in 2004, she has spent many years sailing Asia itineraries that call at Japanese ports, making her a familiar and much-loved ship among Japanese passengers in particular. Stretching over 290 meters in length, she accommodates approximately 2,670 guests in elegantly appointed staterooms, backed by a full array of onboard entertainment and amenities.

Life on board is its own adventure. Multiple restaurants, bars, and cafés offer everything from formal dining to casual buffets, catering to every mood and appetite. The iconic outdoor “Movies Under the Stars” screen lets you watch films under the open sky with the sea breeze on your face — a truly romantic experience. There’s also a casino, spa, fitness center, pools, and a shopping arcade — enough to fill a day at sea without ever setting foot ashore. After a full day exploring Shimizu, we hope you’ll enjoy the evening sail toward Yokohama from the deck, watching the last light fade over Suruga Bay.

From the historic harbor streets of Nagasaki to a summer’s day beneath the skies of Shimizu, with Fuji standing watch overhead. Next, Japan’s great international port city of Yokohama awaits. If the taste of fresh-caught seafood and the memory of Mount Fuji rising beyond the pine trees stay with you long after you’ve sailed on — then as a local guide, there’s nothing more I could wish for.

良い旅を。Have a wonderful voyage.