Sunday, May 10, 2026. Crystal Symphony departs Tokyo and sails south across Suruga Bay, arriving at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier at 08:00. Departure is set for 16:00 the same day, heading west through the Seto Inland Sea toward the next port of call, Osaka.
While the scheduled time in port is eight hours, once you factor in disembarkation and re-boarding, a realistic window for sightseeing ashore is around 6 to 6.5 hours. Even so, that’s more than enough time to take in everything Shimizu and Shizuoka have to offer: sweeping views of snow-capped Mount Fuji from multiple vantage points, the brilliantly colored national treasure shrines of Kunozan Tosho-gu, the UNESCO World Heritage pine grove of Miho no Matsubara with Fuji rising beyond the trees, a fresh seafood lunch featuring tuna landed right here in Shimizu Port, and the sweeping coastal panoramas from the observation deck at Nihondaira.
This page is your complete guide to making the most of the May 10, 2026 port day. Fresh from Tokyo and ready for what’s next — here’s where to go, what to eat, and how to spend your time in Shimizu, straight from a local perspective.
About the Author
Administrator, Shimizu Port Cruise Guide
Based in Shizuoka Prefecture, I work in hospitality and tourism, welcoming international visitors to the Shimizu and Shizuoka area. Through this blog, I share on-the-ground information to help cruise passengers make the most of their limited time in port. Drawing on connections with local taxi drivers, tourist information staff, and restaurant owners, I bring you the kind of real, up-to-date insights you won’t find in any guidebook.
Table of Contents
- Port Day at a Glance
- Weather and What to Wear on May 10, 2026
- Getting Around from Hinode Pier
- Recommended Itinerary: “Early Summer Shizuoka in Full — Nihondaira, Tosho-gu, Miho & Fresh Seafood”
- Local Events on May 10, 2026
- Must-Try Food and Drink in Shimizu and Shizuoka
- Practical Tips for a Smooth Day Ashore
- Getting Back to the Ship
- About Crystal Symphony
1. Port Day at a Glance
Here’s everything you need to know about May 10, 2026, organized at a glance.
| Port Day | Sunday, May 10, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Arrival | 08:00 |
| Departure | 16:00 |
| Total Time in Port | Approx. 8 hours |
| Realistic Sightseeing Time | Approx. 6–6.5 hours |
| Berth | Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier |
| Previous Port | Tokyo |
| Next Port | Osaka |
May 10 is a wonderful time to visit Shimizu. May is known locally as tea season — the first harvest of new-crop green tea (shincha) is in full swing, and the vivid green of the tea fields set against the snow-dusted peak of Mount Fuji is one of the most quintessentially Shizuoka sights you’ll ever see. Sakura shrimp, the jewel of Suruga Bay, are also at the height of their spring season, making this an ideal time for food lovers as well.
Because this is a Sunday, popular spots such as Miho no Matsubara, Nihondaira, and the restaurants at S-Pulse Dream Plaza are likely to be busy with local families and domestic tourists. Lunch in particular can get crowded, so an early start will go a long way toward a comfortable day.
2. Weather and What to Wear on May 10, 2026
May is one of the most pleasant months of the year in Shimizu. Daytime highs typically reach around 20–24°C (68–75°F), while mornings and evenings can feel a little cooler at 14–17°C (57–63°F). During the day you’ll likely be comfortable in short sleeves, though coastal areas and hilltops can be breezier than expected, and afternoon clouds are not unusual. By late May, Shizuoka begins to ease into rainy season, but the first half of the month still tends to offer clear skies and excellent visibility for Mount Fuji.
A light layering approach works best — a T-shirt topped with a thin cardigan or a light jacket. Sunscreen and a hat are worth packing for Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira, where UV exposure can be strong. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are ideal; the “Kami no Michi” (Path of the Gods) at Miho no Matsubara is a sandy, pine-needle-covered trail where heels are best avoided. Tuck a compact umbrella into your bag just in case.
Please note that this article is published a few days ahead of the port call, before precise forecasts are available. More accurate predictions typically appear about three days out, so be sure to check the latest conditions before you go ashore. On the morning of the port day, a quick search for “Shimizu, Shizuoka weather” will pull up an up-to-date English forecast.
3. Getting Around from Hinode Pier
On a port day, how you get around can make or break your experience. Here’s a rundown of your options from Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier, starting with the most efficient.
① Taxi (Highly Recommended)
For groups, a taxi is the most time-efficient option by far. You can reach Nihondaira in about 20 minutes, Miho no Matsubara in 15–20 minutes, and Kunozan Tosho-gu (via Nihondaira) in roughly 25 minutes. A chartered taxi for four to five people typically runs ¥15,000–¥20,000 for four hours — which, broken down per person, is comparable to using buses and trains, with the added benefit of saving significant time. Most drivers speak little to no English, but Google Translate works well for communicating destinations. Head straight to the tourist information desk at Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal, right next to Hinode Pier, and staff there can help you arrange a taxi.
② Water Bus (Shimizu Port Water Bus)
A scenic ferry service connects the “Hinode” stop near the pier to S-Pulse Dream Plaza (Ejiri) and Miho no Matsubara. It’s a uniquely Shimizu experience — you’ll glide across the harbor with views of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay all around you. The one-way fare from Hinode to Miho is ¥1,000 (approximately 35 minutes). Departures from Hinode run roughly from 09:55 to 15:55, but services may be cancelled in rough weather or high seas. Check the operator’s website or ask at the tourist information desk the evening before and again on the morning of the port day.
③ Local Bus
For Miho no Matsubara, buses depart from JR Shimizu Station and take about 25 minutes (fare approximately ¥470). For Nihondaira, Shitetsu buses run from Shimizu Station, Higashi-Shizuoka Station, and Shizuoka Station (approximately 55 minutes from Shizuoka Station). Some routes have limited frequency, so checking timetables in advance is advisable. Buses depart from the east exit of JR Shimizu Station.
④ On Foot
S-Pulse Dream Plaza is just a five-minute walk from Hinode Pier, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment right at the port. Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” is about 15 minutes on foot. If time is short or the weather turns, the area immediately around the port offers plenty to keep you happily occupied.
⑤ JR Shimizu Station
JR Shimizu Station is about a 15-minute walk from Hinode Pier. From there, the JR Tokaido Line takes you to Shizuoka Station in roughly 10 minutes (fare ¥340). This is a good option if you’d like to explore Shizuoka City — the Toro ruins, Aoba Yokocho (famous for Shizuoka oden), and local restaurants are all easily accessible. Shizuoka Station is also a well-connected hub for onward buses.
4. Recommended Itinerary: “Early Summer Shizuoka in Full — Nihondaira, Tosho-gu, Miho & Fresh Seafood”
“Eight hours sounds like a lot — but where do I even start?” We hear you. Shimizu and Shizuoka pack in so much — panoramic views, samurai history, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and world-class seafood — that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This itinerary is designed to make the most of your time, taking in the very best of the region in a single day.
The plan: start with a taxi ride to Nihondaira for sweeping views of Fuji and Suruga Bay, then glide down by ropeway to the dazzling Kunozan Tosho-gu shrine. Head to Kashi no Ichi for a tuna rice bowl lunch, then make your way to the World Heritage pine groves of Miho no Matsubara for a stroll along the “Path of the Gods.” Wind up with a last-minute stop at S-Pulse Dream Plaza for souvenirs before heading back to the ship. We recommend chartering a taxi for maximum efficiency, with the option to incorporate the water bus for a scenic stretch on the water.
Suggested Schedule
| Time | Stop | What to Do | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:30 | Hinode Pier | Disembark and arrange taxi at the tourist information desk | 30 min |
| 09:00 | Nihondaira / Nihondaira Yume Terrace | 20-min taxi ride. Take in 360° panoramas of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and beyond | 60 min |
| 10:00 | Kunozan Tosho-gu | Take the 5-min ropeway down from Nihondaira. Explore the national treasure shrine and museum | 75 min |
| 11:15 | Transfer | Taxi to Kashi no Ichi (approx. 20–25 min) | 25 min |
| 11:40 | Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” | Tuna rice bowl lunch at the Maguro-kan; browse for souvenirs at Ichiba-kan | 60 min |
| 12:40 | Transfer | Taxi or water bus to Miho no Matsubara (taxi approx. 15 min / water bus approx. 35 min) | 15–35 min |
| 13:00–13:20 | Miho no Matsubara | Walk the Kami no Michi, visit the Hagoromo Pine, and enjoy the Fuji view | 90 min |
| 14:30–14:50 | Transfer | Water bus or taxi back to Shimizu Port (water bus approx. 35 min / taxi approx. 15 min) | 15–35 min |
| 15:10 | S-Pulse Dream Plaza | Visit Chibi Maruko-chan Land and pick up last-minute souvenirs | 30–40 min |
| 15:50 | Hinode Pier | Return to ship with time to spare | — |
Estimated budget: approx. ¥12,000–¥15,000 per person (based on shared taxi charter for 4, including ropeway, admission fees, lunch, and souvenirs)
Nihondaira / Nihondaira Yume Terrace
Perched atop a 307-meter hill, Nihondaira Yume Terrace offers a full 360-degree panorama that takes in Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, the Southern Alps, and the pine groves of Miho no Matsubara all at once — a view you genuinely cannot get anywhere else. Clear May mornings are often ideal for Fuji viewing, as the air is still crisp and the mountain’s snow cap stands out sharply against the blue sky. The building itself was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, and a single walk around the observation promenade is a delight in its own right. Admission is free.
Kunozan Tosho-gu
Japan’s oldest Tosho-gu shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu — the first shogun whose legacy shaped Japan for 265 years. The main hall, connecting chamber, and offering hall are designated national treasures, and their vivid palette of red, gold, green, and blue is genuinely breathtaking. From Nihondaira, a five-minute ropeway ride descends to the hilltop precinct with sweeping views of Suruga Bay along the way. The adjacent museum displays Ieyasu’s personal armor, swords, and other rare artifacts. Shrine admission ¥700 / Museum ¥600 / Combined ticket ¥1,200.
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”
This beloved market has opened its doors to the public, offering a lively and accessible seafood experience. The Maguro-kan (Tuna Hall) is lined with restaurants serving tuna landed fresh in Shimizu Port in every form imaginable — rice bowls, sashimi platters, grilled tuna collar, and more. The Ichiba-kan (Market Hall) carries sakura shrimp, dried seafood, and local specialties ideal for souvenirs. In May, when the spring sakura shrimp season is at its peak, this is one of the finest spots in Japan to experience the full breadth of Suruga Bay’s bounty.
Miho no Matsubara
A stretch of white sand beach backed by approximately 30,000 pine trees, recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Follow the “Kami no Michi” — the atmospheric, pine-canopied path leading to the Miho Shrine — and seek out the legendary Hagoromo Pine, where a celestial maiden is said to have left her feather robe. Glimpses of Mount Fuji through the pines are every bit as beautiful as the postcards suggest. In May, the fresh green of new pine growth against the deep blue of Suruga Bay is especially striking. The visitor center “Mihoshiruhe” stocks multilingual pamphlets and offers English language assistance.
S-Pulse Dream Plaza
A shopping and entertainment complex right on the waterfront, just five minutes on foot from Hinode Pier. Chibi Maruko-chan Land, inspired by the beloved anime series set in Shimizu, is a hit with families and fans of all ages. The Shimizu Sushi Yokocho food court brings together several sushi restaurants if you’re looking for a light bite. It’s also an ideal last stop for souvenirs — wasabi, green tea, sakura shrimp products, and all manner of Shizuoka specialties are well represented.
Opening Hours on Sunday, May 10, 2026
- ✅ Nihondaira Yume Terrace — Open as normal on Sundays (9:00–17:00). Free admission
- ✅ Kunozan Tosho-gu — Open year-round, 9:00–17:00
- ✅ Nihondaira Ropeway — Operates year-round (weather permitting), 9:00–17:00
- ✅ Miho no Matsubara — Open at all times, year-round. Mihoshiruhe visitor center: 9:00–16:30
- ✅ S-Pulse Dream Plaza — Open as normal on Sundays (10:00–20:00)
- ⚠️ Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” — Closed Wednesdays, so open as normal on Sundays. Note that individual restaurant hours vary; some Maguro-kan restaurants open at 11:00, so an early arrival is recommended
⚠️ Sunday crowds: Popular spots tend to draw large numbers of domestic visitors on May Sundays. Expect the Maguro-kan at Kashi no Ichi, the Miho no Matsubara car park, and the Shimizu Sushi Yokocho at S-Pulse Dream Plaza to be particularly busy. Aiming to sit down for lunch before 11:30–12:00 is a smart move, and it’s worth budgeting an extra 10–15 minutes for potential queues.
5. Local Events on May 10, 2026
May is when Shimizu and Shizuoka truly come alive. With the scent of new tea in the air and clear skies overhead, the city fills with festivals, outdoor music, and community markets that reflect the warmth and energy of early summer. Here are the events taking place around the time of your port call — if your schedule allows, any of these would make a memorable addition to your day.
1. Funakoshi Tsutsumi Park Sunshine Music Festival — MUSIC PARK 2026 Early Summer
| Event | Funakoshi Tsutsumi Park Sunshine Music Festival — MUSIC PARK 2026 Early Summer |
|---|---|
| Date | May 2026 (please check the official website for exact dates) |
| Venue | Funakoshi Tsutsumi Park, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City |
An open-air music festival set in the lush green surroundings of Funakoshi Tsutsumi Park. Local artists take to the stage for live performances throughout the park grounds, and the relaxed, picnic-on-the-grass atmosphere makes it a deeply local and genuinely charming event. A lovely place to pause between sightseeing stops and soak in the everyday rhythm of life in Shimizu.
2. Marché One Heart — Together as One, vol. 6
| Event | Marché One Heart — Together as One, vol. 6 |
|---|---|
| Date | May 2026 (please check the official website for exact dates) |
| Venue | Shizuoka City (please check the official website for exact location) |
A community market bringing together local artisans, food producers, and farmers from across the region. Expect handcrafted goods, dishes made with Shizuoka-grown ingredients, and one-of-a-kind products you won’t find anywhere else — a wonderful hunting ground for original souvenirs. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to strike up a conversation with locals and take home a genuine memory of Shizuoka life.
3. Wheelchair Basketball — Nippon Life Cup
| Event | Wheelchair Basketball — Nippon Life Cup |
|---|---|
| Date | May 2026 (please check the official website for exact dates) |
| Venue | Shizuoka City (please check the official website for exact location) |
One of Japan’s premier wheelchair basketball competitions, featuring high-level national and international competition. The speed of play and skill of the athletes are genuinely impressive, even for first-time spectators. A rare opportunity to experience Japanese para-sports culture up close — well worth a visit if your schedule permits.
6. Must-Try Food and Drink in Shimizu and Shizuoka
Shimizu and Shizuoka are widely regarded as one of Japan’s top food destinations. Here’s what to look for on your port day.
| Dish | Where to Find It | Approx. Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuna rice bowl / sashimi platter | Kashi no Ichi, Maguro-kan | ¥1,000–2,500 | Ultra-fresh Shimizu-landed tuna in many styles. English menus available |
| Tuna sushi / sakura shrimp gunkan | S-Pulse Dream Plaza, Shimizu Sushi Yokocho | ¥1,500–4,000 | Steps from the port. Multiple restaurants to choose from. Cards accepted |
| Sakura shrimp kakiage (spring only) | Yui Port area | ¥800–1,500 | In May, fresh raw sakura shrimp are also available — a rare seasonal treat. Cash only |
| Shizuoka oden (black fish cake / beef tendon) | Aoba Yokocho, Shizuoka City | ¥500–1,500 | Flavored with dark soy and topped with dried seaweed powder — the king of Shizuoka comfort food |
| Seafood bowl / minced tuna / sakura shrimp shumai | Kashi no Ichi, Ichiba-kan | ¥500–2,000 | Takeaway options available. Shop for souvenirs at the same time |
| Wasabi specialties (wasabi soft serve, pickled wasabi) | Various locations near Shimizu Port | ¥300–3,000 | Shizuoka is Japan’s top wasabi producer. A great souvenir choice |
| Shirasu rice bowl (fresh whitebait) | Shimizu / Yui area | ¥800–1,500 | Suruga Bay whitebait at its translucent, silky best. May is peak season |
One ingredient deserves special mention: sakura shrimp (sakura ebi). These tiny, jewel-red shrimp are found nowhere else in the world except Suruga Bay, and fishing is permitted only twice a year — in spring (March to June) and autumn (October to December). May falls right in the heart of the spring season, when the freshest shrimp are being landed at Yui Port just a short drive away. Served as kakiage tempura, they’re crisp, fragrant, and deeply flavorful; but if you can find fresh raw sakura shrimp on the menu, don’t pass it up. Pop a small handful into your mouth and you’ll taste the clean ocean air of Suruga Bay in a single bite. Specialist restaurants in the Yui area (about 25 minutes by car from Shimizu Port) are the best place for the full experience, and the Ichiba-kan at Kashi no Ichi also carries sakura shrimp products for those who want to take a little piece of the season home.
7. Practical Tips for a Smooth Day Ashore
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available at Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal, so you can get connected the moment you step ashore. S-Pulse Dream Plaza also offers free Wi-Fi throughout the complex. Major convenience store chains — 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart — provide free Wi-Fi as well. If you’d prefer a more reliable data connection for the whole day, a prepaid SIM card purchased at the airport before your cruise is a convenient option.
Payment
Cash is still king at many places in Japan, particularly at the sakura shrimp restaurants in the Yui area and the oden stalls of Aoba Yokocho, which are often cash only. Major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at larger establishments in S-Pulse Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi, though Amex and Diners are not always accepted. Seven Bank ATMs, found inside 7-Eleven convenience stores, accept most overseas-issued cards and dispense Japanese yen. We recommend carrying ¥5,000–¥10,000 per person in cash to cover meals, activities, and souvenirs comfortably.
IC Cards
Suica, ICOCA, and other IC transit cards work on local buses and trains. These can be purchased at ticket machines at Shimizu Station. Cash payment is always an option on buses and trains, though note that buses may not carry change — having ¥10 and ¥100 coins on hand will make things easier.
Language Support
The tourist information desk at Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal and the tourist information office at Shimizu Station both have English-speaking staff. English menus are available at major restaurants in S-Pulse Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi, and the Mihoshiruhe visitor center at Miho no Matsubara carries multilingual pamphlets. Taxi drivers typically speak Japanese only, but showing them your destination written in Japanese — or using the voice translation feature in Google Translate — works well in practice.
Tourist Information
- Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal — Immediately accessible after disembarking. Staff can arrange taxis, provide maps, and assist in English.
- Shimizu Station Tourist Information Office — About 15 minutes on foot from the pier. Useful for bus and train timetables and local information.
Emergency Numbers
| Purpose | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance / Fire | 119 |
| Shizuoka City Tourism (English) | 054-221-1173 |
| Taxi (Shitetsu Taxi) | 054-285-1212 |
8. Getting Back to the Ship
Crystal Symphony departs at 16:00. Please plan to be back at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier no later than 15:30 — thirty minutes before departure. Time has a way of slipping away on a good port day, so setting an alarm on your phone for 15:00 is a simple but effective reminder.
If you’re ever unsure of where you are or how to get back, search for “Shimizu Port Hinode Pier” or 「清水港 日の出埠頭」 in Google Maps and it will guide you straight there.
When taking a taxi back to the ship, tell the driver “Hinode Pier” or show them the Japanese text 「清水港 日の出埠頭」 on your phone screen — this is the clearest and most reliable way to make sure you end up at the right place.
9. About Crystal Symphony
Crystal Symphony is a mid-sized luxury cruise ship of 51,044 gross tons, operated by the prestigious Crystal Cruises and launched in 2006. Long celebrated as one of the world’s finest cruise experiences and the recipient of numerous international awards, she is known for her generous space ratios, impeccable service, and the thoughtful attention given to every guest on board.
Evenings aboard are filled with Broadway-style entertainment, live performances by accomplished musicians, and dining experiences curated by renowned chefs at her specialty restaurants. A spacious spa, fully equipped fitness center, and even a paddle tennis court round out an onboard experience that truly earns the title of floating hotel.
Carrying the energy and history of Tokyo with you, it’s now Shimizu’s turn to offer something different: the quiet majesty of Mount Fuji, the flavors of Suruga Bay, and the tranquil beauty of pine-fringed shores. For those of us who call this part of Japan home, nothing would make us happier than seeing Crystal Symphony’s guests leave with a full heart and lasting memories of our corner of the country. We hope this day in port becomes one of the highlights of your voyage.
良い旅を。Have a wonderful voyage.
