Sunday, May 17, 2026. Diamond Princess departs Nagasaki, crosses the East China Sea and the Pacific, and arrives at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier at 09:00. Departure is the same day at 17:00, bound for Yokohama.
While the scheduled port time is 8 hours, factoring in disembarkation and re-boarding procedures, you’ll realistically have around 6 hours to explore ashore. Even so, that’s plenty of time to take in everything Shimizu and Shizuoka have to offer: a UNESCO World Heritage view of Mount Fuji framed by pine groves, a nationally designated treasure shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, a 360-degree panoramic observation deck overlooking Suruga Bay, a fresh tuna rice bowl straight from Shimizu’s docks, and the charming world of *Chibi Maruko-chan*, the beloved anime born right here in Shimizu.
This page is your complete guide to making the most of your May 17 port day. Fresh from the memories of Nagasaki, here’s everything you need to know about what to see, what to eat, and how to spend your time in Shimizu — written from a local perspective.
About the Author
Shimizu Port Cruise Guide — Site Editor
Based in Shizuoka Prefecture, I work in the hospitality and tourism industry 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 aim to give you the real, up-to-date picture of Shimizu that you won’t find in any guidebook.
Table of Contents
- Port Day Basics
- Weather & What to Wear on May 17, 2026
- Getting Around from Shimizu Port
- Recommended Itinerary: “The Full Shizuoka Experience (Nihondaira · Toshogu · Miho · Food)”
- Local Events on May 17, 2026
- Must-Try Local Food in Shimizu & Shizuoka
- Practical Information for a Smooth Shore Day
- Getting Back to the Ship
- About Diamond Princess
1. Port Day Basics
Here’s a quick overview of the key details for your May 17 port call.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Port Day | Sunday, May 17, 2026 |
| Arrival | 09:00 |
| Departure | 17:00 |
| Total Time in Port | Approx. 8 hours |
| Realistic Sightseeing Time | Approx. 6 hours |
| Berth | Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier |
| Previous Port | Nagasaki |
| Next Port | Yokohama |
May 17 falls right in the heart of Japan’s most refreshing season — what locals call *shoka no kō*, or “early summer.” This is one of the clearest times of year, arriving just before the rainy season sets in, and it’s widely regarded as one of the best periods to photograph Mount Fuji: crisp blue skies contrasting with the mountain’s lingering snowcap. The views from Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira are especially spectacular at this time of year.
May also marks the height of Shizuoka’s *shincha* (new tea) season. As Japan’s leading tea-producing region, Shizuoka’s first harvest of the year is in full swing, and the sweet fragrance of fresh tea leaves drifts through the streets. Souvenir shops are stocked with just-picked new tea products, and the spring cherry shrimp (*sakura ebi*) season is also at its peak. It’s a wonderful time to visit from a culinary standpoint as well.
2. Weather & What to Wear on May 17, 2026
May is one of the most comfortable months to be outdoors in Shimizu, with daytime highs typically around 20–25°C (68–77°F) and overnight lows around 15–18°C (59–64°F). Mornings feel pleasantly cool, and by midday it’s warm enough to be comfortable in short sleeves. Reference data for this date suggests a high of 23.1°C and a low of 16.2°C under clear skies — ideal conditions for a full day of sightseeing.
A light layering approach works best: a short-sleeved shirt with a thin cardigan or jacket you can take off as the day warms up. Since this itinerary involves a good amount of walking at outdoor spots like Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are a must. The May sun is stronger than it looks, so sunscreen and a hat are worth packing. Tossing a compact umbrella into your bag is also a smart precaution against unexpected weather changes.
Please note that this article was written a few days before the port call, so the precise day-of forecast wasn’t yet available at time of publication. Accurate forecasts typically become available around three days out. Be sure to check the latest weather before you disembark. On the morning of May 17, simply searching “Shimizu, Shizuoka weather” will pull up English-language forecasts quickly.
3. Getting Around from Shimizu Port
With limited time in port, how you choose to get around can make or break your day. Here are your main options from Hinode Pier, listed from most to least efficient.
① Taxi (Most Recommended)
For groups of two or more, a taxi is by far the most efficient and convenient option. Taxis are typically stationed at the pier on cruise ship days, so you can usually get one right away after disembarking. For a sightseeing charter, budget roughly ¥15,000–20,000 for four hours, with up to four passengers per vehicle — making the per-person cost very reasonable when split. Not all drivers speak English, but Google Translate works well for communication. The tourist information desk inside the port terminal can also assist with arranging a taxi.
② Water Bus (Shimizu Port Water Bus)
This scenic ferry service connects Hinode, Ejiri, and Miho within Shimizu Port, letting you enjoy views of Mount Fuji from the water — a perfect fit for cruise travelers. The Hinode stop is a 2–5 minute walk from Shimizu S-Pulse Dream Plaza. A one-way ticket between Hinode and Miho costs ¥1,000 and takes about 35 minutes. It’s a popular way to reach Miho no Matsubara, and the view of Mount Fuji from the water is truly memorable. On the Miho Hagoromo Line, boats depart Hinode from around 09:55 to 15:55. Note that services may be cancelled in rough weather, so check operating status before boarding.
③ Local Bus
Buses run from Shimizu Station to Miho (approx. 25 minutes, ¥470) and toward Nihondaira. Frequency is limited, so check the timetable in advance. For Miho no Matsubara, get off at the “Miho Matsubara Iriguchi” stop and walk about 15 minutes. It takes longer than a taxi, but it’s a budget-friendly option, especially for solo travelers.
④ On Foot
Several attractions are within easy walking distance of Hinode Pier. Shimizu S-Pulse Dream Plaza (about 5 minutes on foot) is the nearest major tourist facility, where you can jump straight into the Sushi Street and Chibi Maruko-chan Land. Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” is a 3–5 minute walk from JR Shimizu Station’s east exit — roughly a 15-minute walk from the pier heading toward the station.
⑤ JR Shimizu Station
About a 15-minute walk from Hinode Pier. From Shimizu Station, the JR Tokaido Line reaches Shizuoka Station in about 10 minutes (even faster by limited express). Useful if you want to venture a bit further afield to spots like the Toro Ruins or Aoba Yokocho (Shizuoka Oden alley) in central Shizuoka City.
4. Recommended Itinerary: “The Full Shizuoka Experience (Nihondaira · Toshogu · Miho · Food)”
*”With only 6 hours, where should I even start?”* — That’s the big question, and here’s our answer. To make the most of your 8 hours in port (roughly 6 hours of actual sightseeing time), we’ve put together an ambitious but very doable itinerary that covers all three signature themes of Shimizu and Shizuoka: Mount Fuji, history, and food. Charter a taxi for efficient transportation and enjoy a full day of Nihondaira’s 360-degree panorama → a nationally designated treasure shrine → a fresh tuna rice bowl → the World Heritage pine groves of Miho no Matsubara → and a final stop at the port-side Dream Plaza. Being a Sunday, attractions operate on normal schedules. With early summer’s clear air and blue skies, Mount Fuji should be looking its absolute best.
Suggested Schedule
| Time | Location | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier | Disembark & clear immigration | — |
| 09:30 | Hinode Pier | Board taxi, depart for Nihondaira | — |
| 10:00–11:00 | Nihondaira / Nihondaira Yume Terrace | 360-degree views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay & Southern Alps | Approx. 60 min |
| 11:00–11:10 | Ropeway | Nihondaira to Kunozan Toshogu (approx. 5 min ride) | Approx. 10 min incl. boarding |
| 11:10–12:30 | Kunozan Toshogu Shrine | Explore the nationally designated treasure shrine & museum | Approx. 80 min |
| 12:30–12:50 | Transfer | Taxi to Kashi no Ichi (approx. 20 min) | — |
| 12:50–13:50 | Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” | Tuna rice bowl lunch at Maguro-kan; souvenirs at Ichiba-kan | Approx. 60 min |
| 13:50–14:20 | Transfer | Water bus or taxi to Miho no Matsubara (approx. 30 min) | — |
| 14:20–15:50 | Miho no Matsubara | Walk the Kami no Michi, see the Hagoromo Pine, enjoy Mt. Fuji views | Approx. 90 min |
| 15:50–16:10 | Transfer | Water bus or taxi back to Shimizu Port | Approx. 20–30 min |
| 16:10–16:30 | S-Pulse Dream Plaza | Last-minute souvenirs & a quick look at Chibi Maruko-chan Land | Approx. 20 min |
| 16:30 | Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier | Begin re-boarding (30 min before 17:00 departure) | — |
Estimated budget: approx. ¥12,000+ per person (including taxi, ropeway, admission fees & lunch)
Nihondaira & Nihondaira Yume Terrace
Perched at 307 meters above sea level, this observation facility was designed by acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma, featuring a striking circular terrace. The 360-degree panorama from the top takes in Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, the Southern Alps, the Izu Peninsula, and Miho no Matsubara all at once — widely considered the finest viewpoint in all of Shizuoka. In May, the contrast between Fuji’s snow-dusted summit and the fresh green of the surrounding hills is simply breathtaking. Best of all, entry to the observation deck is free. There’s also a café on-site where you can sit back with a Shizuoka-made drink while soaking in the scenery.
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
This is Japan’s oldest Toshogu shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu — the first shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty and the man who unified feudal Japan. It’s just a 5-minute ropeway ride from Nihondaira. The shrine buildings are designated as a National Treasure, and the intricate, richly colored carvings are absolutely stunning up close. The adjacent museum displays armor, letters, and other artifacts connected to Ieyasu. Admission is ¥700 for the shrine precinct, ¥600 for the museum, or ¥1,200 combined — very reasonable for what you get. Don’t miss the sweeping view of Suruga Bay from the ropeway on the way there and back.
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”
Originally a wholesale fish market, Kashi no Ichi has been opened to the public as a lively food and shopping destination. It’s divided into two buildings: Maguro-kan (the restaurant zone) and Ichiba-kan (the market zone). Shimizu is one of Japan’s top tuna landing ports, and you can tuck into a generous tuna rice bowl or sashimi platter here at surprisingly reasonable prices, using fish unloaded just that morning. Several restaurants have English menus, so international visitors will feel right at home. Beyond eating, there’s a great selection of seafood products and local goods to pick up as souvenirs — lunch and shopping all in one place.
Miho no Matsubara
Listed as one of the component sites of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Fujisan,” this stunning shoreline is blanketed by approximately 30,000 pine trees. The view of Mount Fuji rising beyond the pine forest has captivated painters and poets for centuries and is considered one of the finest vantage points for viewing the mountain. Follow the “Kami no Michi” (Path of the Gods) through the pines to reach the Hagoromo Pine — a legendary tree where, according to ancient folklore, a celestial maiden hung her feather robe. Let the fresh sea breeze and dappled light through the pine canopy wash over you as you take in this timeless view.
S-Pulse Dream Plaza
This lively shopping and entertainment complex sits right alongside Shimizu Port, just a 5-minute walk from Hinode Pier. Among its roughly 60 shops and attractions, the highlight for many visitors is Chibi Maruko-chan Land — a theme park dedicated to the beloved anime series born in Shimizu, fun for all ages. The Shimizu Sushi Street inside the complex is a great option for fresh tuna sushi, and the souvenir shops carry Shizuoka staples like wasabi, green tea, and seafood products. It’s the perfect last stop before re-boarding.
Operating Hours on Sunday, May 17, 2026
- ✅ Nihondaira / Nihondaira Yume Terrace — Sunday: Normal hours (9:00–17:00)
- ✅ Kunozan Toshogu Shrine — Sunday: Normal hours (9:00–17:00)
- ✅ Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” — Sunday: Open (closed Wednesdays)
- ✅ Miho no Matsubara — Open all day (Visitor Center “Mihoshirube” 9:00–16:30)
- ✅ S-Pulse Dream Plaza — Sunday: Normal hours (shops 10:00–20:00)
A note on May crowds: May Sundays fall right in the middle of peak travel season in Japan, and popular spots like Nihondaira and Miho no Matsubara can get quite busy with local families and domestic tourists. We recommend arranging your taxi charter or water bus tickets as soon as you disembark. Restaurants are most crowded between noon and 1:00 PM, so aiming for lunch around 12:30 will help you avoid the longest waits.
5. Local Events on May 17, 2026
May 17 is right in the middle of Shimizu’s most vibrant time of year, and being a Sunday, there are several local events happening around town. Feel free to pop in on any of these during your shore day.
1. Shimizu Cruise Festival -Side Cruise-
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Shimizu Cruise Festival -Side Cruise- |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | Shimizu Port area |
Almost as if it were timed to welcome Diamond Princess, this cruise-themed waterfront festival fills the area around Shimizu Port with local food, live music, and festive energy. It’s a perfect first stop right off the ship — the harbor will be buzzing from early in the day.
2. The 22nd Portside Jazz in Shimizu
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | The 22nd Portside Jazz in Shimizu |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | Shimizu Port area |
A beloved annual tradition now in its 22nd year, this outdoor jazz festival fills the waterfront with live music from local and professional jazz artists. Stroll around the S-Pulse Dream Plaza area and let the sounds of live jazz set the mood for your port day in Shimizu.
3. Let’s Make Animal Steamed Buns!
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Let’s Make Animal Steamed Buns! |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | A facility in central Shimizu |
A hands-on cooking event where participants shape and steam adorable animal-themed buns. A wonderful opportunity for families with children to try their hand at a piece of Japanese food culture — and a sweet, memorable experience for anyone curious about traditional Japanese sweets.
4. Walking Ultimate Frisbee Experience Session (May 17)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Parent-Child & Kids Walking Ultimate Frisbee Experience |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | Shimizu area |
A fun, family-friendly event introducing the sport of ultimate frisbee at a walking pace. Watching local kids and families enjoy an outdoor sporting event under the clear May sky is the kind of spontaneous, everyday moment that can become a real highlight of any trip.
5. Miho Lifelong Learning Center Art Club
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Miho Lifelong Learning Center Art Club |
| Date | May 17, 2026 |
| Location | Miho Lifelong Learning Center |
An exhibition and activity event hosted by a local art club based in the Miho area. If you’re already visiting Miho no Matsubara, this is a lovely side stop to discover artwork inspired by the area’s exceptional natural surroundings — a quiet window into the local arts community.
6. Must-Try Local Food in Shimizu & Shizuoka
Shimizu and Shizuoka are home to some of Japan’s finest regional cuisine. Here’s what we recommend seeking out during your port day.
| Dish | Where to Find It | Price Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuna rice bowl / sashimi | Kashi no Ichi, Maguro-kan | ¥1,000–2,500 | Super-fresh tuna landed at Shimizu Port; English menus available |
| Shimizu tuna sushi | Shimizu Sushi Street (S-Pulse Dream Plaza) | ¥1,500–4,000 | 5 min walk from the pier; multiple restaurants with English support |
| Sakura ebi kakiage (fried cherry shrimp patty) | Yui Fishing Port area (25 min by car) | ¥800–1,500 | Spring season peak in May — fresh, raw sakura ebi also available |
| Shizuoka Oden | Aoba Yokocho (near Shizuoka Station) | ¥500–1,500 | Dark broth, black fish cake, topped with dried green seaweed — a Shizuoka classic |
| Seafood rice bowl / sakura ebi shumai | Kashi no Ichi, Ichiba-kan | ¥500–2,000 | Recently renovated in 2025; takeaway options available |
| Fresh-grated hon-wasabi | Various spots around Shimizu Port | ¥300–3,000 | Shizuoka is Japan’s top wasabi producer; wasabi soft-serve ice cream is also popular |
| Shincha / fukamushi-cha (new harvest/deep-steamed green tea) | Throughout Shimizu & Shizuoka City | ¥500–2,000 | May is peak new-tea season — pick up freshly harvested tea as a souvenir |
One dish absolutely worth highlighting for a May visit is sakura ebi (cherry shrimp). These tiny shrimp, just 4–5 cm long, are named for their delicate pink color and prized for their intense, savory flavor. Remarkably, Suruga Bay — spread out just south of Shimizu Port — is virtually the only place in the world where they are commercially caught. The fishing season runs twice a year: spring (March–June) and autumn (October–December), with May falling right at the spring peak. The most popular way to eat them is as *kakiage* — a light, crispy fritter that releases a wonderful fragrance of the sea with every bite. Once you’ve tried them, they’re impossible to forget. You’ll find them freshest at restaurants near Yui Fishing Port, with some Shimizu restaurants serving them as well. Alongside tuna, sakura ebi is the quintessential taste of Shimizu in May — a seasonal treasure not to be missed.
7. Practical Information for a Smooth Shore Day
Wi-Fi
- Shimizu Port Terminal: Free Wi-Fi is available inside the terminal building. Connect as soon as you get off the ship to load maps and travel information.
- S-Pulse Dream Plaza: Free Wi-Fi throughout the entire complex.
- Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart): All offer free Wi-Fi nationwide. There are several locations near the port.
- SIM card / eSIM: If you haven’t already, picking up a prepaid SIM or eSIM at the airport upon arriving in Japan gives you reliable data all day — highly recommended.
Payment
Cash is still king in Japan, especially at smaller restaurants, markets, and taxis. Restaurants near Yui Fishing Port and smaller local eateries are often cash-only, so please come prepared. Larger establishments at S-Pulse Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi generally accept credit cards — Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. Amex and Diners cards may not be accepted everywhere. You can withdraw Japanese yen with an overseas card at the 7Bank ATM inside the 7-Eleven convenience store near the port. We recommend carrying ¥3,000–10,000 in cash per person to be safe.
IC Transit Cards
Local buses and trains (JR and Shizutetsu) accept Suica, ICOCA, and other IC transit cards. These can be purchased at Shimizu Station’s ticket counter and at nearby convenience stores (a ¥500 deposit is required). Cash is also accepted on buses, but some buses don’t give change, so having exact change or an IC card ready will save you the hassle.
Language Support
- Tourist Information Offices (Port Terminal & Shimizu Station): English-speaking staff are available. Great first stop for taxi arrangements and route advice.
- S-Pulse Dream Plaza & Kashi no Ichi: Several shops and restaurants have English menus and English-speaking staff.
- Miho no Matsubara Visitor Center “Mihoshirube”: Multilingual brochures and pamphlets are available.
- Taxis: Japanese only as a general rule. Google Translate’s camera and voice translation features work well for getting your point across.
Tourist Information Offices
- Inside Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal — Right at the pier for immediate assistance with maps, taxi bookings, and sightseeing advice.
- Shimizu Station Tourist Information Office — About a 15-minute walk from the pier. Helpful for planning bus and train connections.
Emergency Contacts
| Purpose | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance / Fire | 119 |
| Shizuoka City Tourist Info (English) | 054-221-1173 |
| Taxi (Shizutetsu Taxi) | 054-285-1212 |
8. Getting Back to the Ship
Diamond Princess departs at 17:00. Please make sure you are back at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier by 16:30 at the latest. Keep an eye on the time throughout your day, and check your return route before leaving your last attraction.
To navigate back to the ship, search “Shimizu Port Hinode Pier” or “清水港 日の出埠頭” on Google Maps for step-by-step directions from your current location.
When taking a taxi back, simply tell the driver “清水港 日の出埠頭 (Hinode Pier)” — showing the text on your phone screen is an easy way to make sure you’re understood. Taxis are also a stress-free option if you’re carrying shopping bags or souvenirs.
If you have any concerns about finding your way back to the ship, don’t hesitate to ask ship staff or the team at the port terminal’s tourist information office for assistance.
9. About Diamond Princess
Diamond Princess is a large ocean cruise ship operated by Princess Cruises, with a gross tonnage of 115,906 GT. Launched in 2004, she accommodates approximately 2,670 guests and 1,100 crew members across 18 decks — a true floating resort. She has long been a flagship vessel for Japan-based cruise itineraries, and her excellent Japanese-language service and onboard staff make her a particular favorite among Japanese travelers.
Onboard dining options span 15+ venues, from fine dining to international cuisine, with the main dining room’s multi-course dinners being a nightly highlight. Other facilities include a full casino, a show lounge with Broadway-style productions every evening, a spa and beauty salon, multiple outdoor pools, a fitness center, and a library — everything you could need, all at sea. After a full day exploring Shimizu, return to the ship and watch the golden light settle over Suruga Bay as Diamond Princess sets sail for Yokohama.
The history and atmosphere of Nagasaki are with you as you sail on; Shimizu and Shizuoka offer the gifts of Mount Fuji and the sea. And ahead lies your final port of call — Yokohama. The best journeys always seem to grow richer the closer you get to farewell. We hope the breeze off Shimizu Port and the scent of the ocean stay with you long after this voyage is over.
良い旅を。Have a wonderful voyage.
