Sunday, May 3, 2026. Viking Venus departs Osaka and travels via the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, arriving at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier at 18:00. The ship departs the following day, Monday, May 4, 2026, at 18:00, bound for the next destination: Tokyo.
While the scheduled port stay is 24 hours, accounting for disembarkation and re-boarding procedures, you can realistically expect around 22 hours of time ashore. Even so, that’s a wonderfully generous amount of time to experience everything Shimizu and Shizuoka have to offer — from the iconic view of Mt. Fuji framed by pine trees at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Miho no Matsubara, to Kunozan Tosho-gu, a National Treasure shrine with deep ties to Tokugawa Ieyasu; the Toro Ruins, where you can step back 2,000 years to the Yayoi period; freshly caught tuna bowls and sakura shrimp at the peak of the spring fishing season; and local Golden Week festivities unique to this time of year.
This page is your complete shore day guide for May 3, 2026 — written to help you make the most of every moment in Shimizu. Still glowing from the energy of Osaka, here’s a local’s take on what to see, what to eat, and how to spend your day.
About the Author
Shimizu Port Cruise Guide — Site Administrator
Based in Shizuoka Prefecture. I work in hospitality, welcoming international visitors to the Shimizu and Shizuoka area. Through this blog, I share up-to-date local information to help cruise passengers make the most of their limited time in port. Drawing on connections with taxi drivers, tourist information staff, and local restaurant owners, I aim to give you the real Shimizu — the kind of insight you won’t find in any guidebook.
Table of Contents
- Shore Day Essentials
- Weather & What to Wear on May 3, 2026
- Getting Around from Shimizu Port
- Recommended Itinerary: “Rain-Proof & Rewarding — Indoor Highlights Tour”
- Local Events on May 3, 2026
- Must-Try Food & Drink in Shimizu and Shizuoka
- Practical Tips for a Smooth Shore Day
- Getting Back to the Ship
- About Viking Venus
1. Shore Day Essentials
Here’s a quick-reference overview of the port schedule for May 3, 2026.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Port Day | Sunday, May 3, 2026 |
| Arrival Time | 18:00 |
| Departure Time | 18:00 (following day, May 4) |
| Scheduled Time in Port | Approx. 24 hours |
| Practical Time Ashore | Approx. 22 hours |
| Berth Location | Shimizu Port, Hinode Pier |
| Previous Port | Osaka |
| Next Port | Tokyo |
May 3, 2026 falls right in the middle of Golden Week — Japan’s longest national holiday stretch. With Constitution Day (May 3) and Greenery Day (May 4) falling back-to-back, the Shimizu and Shizuoka area comes alive with both domestic and international visitors. Expect local events, street food stalls, and a festive atmosphere that gives the city an energy you won’t find at any other time of year.
That said, Golden Week also means larger crowds at popular spots. Places like Kashi no Ichi fish market, Miho no Matsubara, and S-Pulse Dream Plaza can see long queues during peak hours. We recommend arriving early right when venues open, or simply embracing the lively atmosphere as part of the experience. Since your ship arrives at 18:00 and departs the following day at 18:00, you have a full day’s worth of flexibility — giving you the luxury of choosing quieter time slots and moving at a relaxed pace.
2. Weather & What to Wear on May 3, 2026
May in Shimizu marks the transition from spring to early summer, with daytime highs typically around 20–25°C and overnight lows around 15–18°C — generally comfortable weather for sightseeing. That said, May can sometimes bring an early rainy season, and overcast or rainy days are not uncommon. Current reference data for this date shows: cloudy, high of 23°C, low of 16°C, and an 82% chance of rain. Come prepared for wet weather.
For clothing, layering is the way to go — a light long-sleeve shirt or T-shirt paired with a jacket or cardigan works well for the daytime. Since temperatures can drop a few degrees in the rain, be sure to pack a compact umbrella or raincoat. For footwear, non-slip, water-resistant sneakers are ideal if you’re planning to walk outdoors. The sandy paths at Miho no Matsubara can become slippery when wet, so heels and leather-soled shoes are best left on the ship.
Please note that this article was written a few days before the port call, so precise day-of forecasts may not yet be available. For the most accurate weather outlook, check closer to your arrival — detailed forecasts typically become reliable about three days in advance. On the morning of your shore day, simply searching “Shimizu, Shizuoka weather” will bring up English-language forecasts.
3. Getting Around from Shimizu Port
How you choose to get around can make or break a shore day. Here’s a rundown of transportation options from Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier, ordered from most to least recommended.
Taxi (Highly Recommended)
For groups and families, taxis are by far the most flexible way to get around. You can share the cost across multiple passengers, travel with luggage comfortably, and go directly to destinations like Nihondaira, Kunozan Tosho-gu, and Miho no Matsubara without navigating public transport connections. Full-day or half-day charter hire is available, with a rough guide price of around ¥15,000–20,000 for four hours. For sightseeing efficiency, a chartered taxi offers excellent value. While English-speaking drivers cannot be guaranteed, the tourist information desk at Shimizu Port Terminal can assist with arrangements, and Google Translate works well for in-taxi communication. You can also call Shizutetsu Taxi directly at 054-285-1212.
Water Bus (Shimizu Port Water Bus)
A scenic sightseeing boat connecting Hinode Pier to Miho no Matsubara — a uniquely Shimizu experience that lets you admire Mt. Fuji from the water. The fare is ¥1,000 per adult one-way, with a journey time of around 35 minutes. Boarding is at the Hinode stop, a 2–5 minute walk from S-Pulse Dream Plaza. Services generally run from 9:55 to 15:55 on the Miho Hagoromo Line. Note that sailings may be cancelled in bad weather or strong winds, so check the official website or tourist information on the morning of your visit. Since Viking Venus arrives at 18:00 on May 3, you would use this service on the following day, May 4.
Local Bus
Miho no Matsubara can be reached by bus from JR Shimizu Station in about 25 minutes for ¥470. Buses to the Nihondaira area run from JR Shizuoka Station and Higashi-Shizuoka Station. Transfers are required and journey times are longer, but it’s a cost-effective option for those on a budget. Bear in mind that buses can run behind schedule during Golden Week due to traffic, so allow extra time.
On Foot
Stepping off the pier, you’ll immediately find S-Pulse Dream Plaza just a five-minute walk away — a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex right on the waterfront. It’s an ideal spot on rainy days since everything is indoors. Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” is roughly a 15-minute walk toward JR Shimizu Station and pairs well with a stroll around the station area.
JR Shimizu Station
About a 15-minute walk from the pier, JR Shimizu Station provides easy access to Shizuoka Station (around 10 minutes, ¥200-something) on the Tokaido Line. From Shizuoka, you can reach Aoba Yokocho (famous for Shizuoka oden), the Toro Ruins, and other destinations further afield. The station also has a convenience store and tourist information desk — a handy first stop for maps and advice.
4. Recommended Itinerary: “Rain-Proof & Rewarding — Indoor Highlights Tour”
“We have a whole 24 hours — but where do we even start?” If that’s you, here’s a suggested one-day itinerary tailored to the specifics of this port call: arrival on the evening of May 3, departure the evening of May 4, and a high chance of rain. The good news is that Shimizu and Shizuoka have plenty of excellent indoor attractions, so a rainy day doesn’t have to slow you down at all. This route combines culture and cuisine — taking in the National Treasure shrine of Kunozan Tosho-gu, the ancient Yayoi-era Toro Ruins, and the portside delights of S-Pulse Dream Plaza.
On the evening of May 3 after arrival, we recommend starting close to the ship — dinner at S-Pulse Dream Plaza or Shimizu Sushi Street (both within a 5-minute walk) makes for an easy and enjoyable first evening. Then set out for sightseeing the following morning refreshed and ready.
Suggested Schedule (Monday, May 4, 2026)
| Time | Location | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 | Hinode Pier | Depart by taxi or bus toward Nihondaira | — |
| 9:00 | Nihondaira (Ropeway Station) | Arrive at Nihondaira Ropeway | — |
| 9:05 | Kunozan Tosho-gu | Take the ropeway up (approx. 5 min); explore the National Treasure shrine and museum | Approx. 120 min |
| 11:05 | Transfer | Ropeway + taxi back toward Shimizu | Approx. 30 min |
| 11:35 | Kashi no Ichi (Maguro-kan) | Lunch — tuna bowl and seasonal sakura shrimp dishes | Approx. 60 min |
| 12:35 | Transfer | Taxi to Toro Ruins | Approx. 20 min |
| 12:55 | Toro Ruins & Museum | Explore the reconstructed Yayoi-era village and museum exhibits | Approx. 75 min |
| 14:10 | Transfer | Taxi or bus to S-Pulse Dream Plaza | Approx. 20 min |
| 14:30 | S-Pulse Dream Plaza | Chibi Maruko-chan Land, souvenir shopping, coffee break | Approx. 90 min |
| 16:00 | Walk back to Hinode Pier | 5-minute walk from Dream Plaza to the ship | Approx. 5 min |
| 17:00 | Arrive at Hinode Pier / Board | Return to the ship with at least one hour to spare before departure | — |
Estimated Budget: Approx. ¥7,000+ per person (including taxi, admission fees, and meals)
Kunozan Tosho-gu
This is the oldest Tosho-gu shrine in Japan, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu — the founding shogun whose legacy shaped centuries of Japanese history. After a breathtaking five-minute aerial ropeway ride from Nihondaira, you’ll arrive face-to-face with a dazzlingly ornate National Treasure shrine complex. We recommend the combined ticket for the shrine (¥700) and museum (¥600), available together for ¥1,200. The museum houses Ieyasu’s personal artifacts and Important Cultural Properties — a real treat for history enthusiasts. The sweeping views over Suruga Bay are another highlight. Since both the shrine and museum are covered structures, this is an excellent choice even in rainy weather.
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi” (Maguro-kan)
This public fish market complex is split into two buildings: Maguro-kan (tuna hall) and Ichiba-kan (market hall). Shimizu is one of Japan’s top tuna landing ports, and the tuna bowls served here are in a league of their own for freshness and quality. May also marks the peak of the spring sakura shrimp season, so look out for crispy kakiage fritters and shrimp-topped rice bowls at various stalls. Expect Golden Week crowds during lunch hours — arriving right at opening time is your best bet. The recently renovated Ichiba-kan (2025 renovation) is also well-stocked for souvenir shopping.
Toro Ruins & Toro Museum
A nationally designated Special Historic Site, the Toro Ruins preserve the remains of a Yayoi-period settlement from roughly 2,000 years ago. You can walk among reconstructed pit dwellings, raised storehouses, and ancient rice paddies — a genuinely immersive glimpse into ancient Japanese life. On rainy days the outdoor grounds can be a little muddy, but the indoor museum alone is well worth the visit. Ground floor admission is free; the second-floor exhibition costs ¥300 for adults. English-language display panels are provided throughout, making it accessible and enjoyable for international visitors. This is one of Japan’s most famous archaeological sites — a must for anyone with an interest in Japanese history.
S-Pulse Dream Plaza
This lively waterfront shopping and entertainment complex is just a five-minute walk from Hinode Pier — you really can’t miss it. With around 60 shops and restaurants under one roof, highlights include Chibi Maruko-chan Land (admission from ¥800), celebrating the beloved anime set right here in Shimizu, and Shimizu Sushi Street, lined with a selection of sushi restaurants. Everything is indoors, making it an ideal option in wet weather. It’s also the perfect final stop before heading back to the ship — stock up on Shizuoka green tea, wasabi products, and locally produced tuna goods to take home.
Operating Status on Monday, May 4, 2026
- ✅ Kunozan Tosho-gu: No regular closing day. Hours: 9:00–17:00. Expect Golden Week crowds
- ✅ Nihondaira Ropeway: No regular closing day. May suspend operations in strong winds or lightning
- ✅ Kashi no Ichi (Maguro-kan / Ichiba-kan): Normally closed on Wednesdays, so May 4 (Monday) should be open. Special Golden Week hours may apply — check the official website to confirm
- ✅ Toro Museum: Normally closed on Mondays, but May 4 is Greenery Day (a national holiday), so the museum is expected to be open. Note that a substitute holiday may fall on May 7 — check the Shizuoka City official website in advance to confirm
- ✅ S-Pulse Dream Plaza: No regular closing day (individual shop hours may vary). Special Golden Week hours may apply
⚠️ Golden Week heads-up: May 3–5 is peak Golden Week. Popular restaurants can have waits of one to two hours. Aim to arrive right when venues open, or make reservations in advance where possible.
5. Local Events on May 3, 2026
With Golden Week in full swing on May 3, the Shimizu and Shizuoka area bursts with events that bring locals and visitors together. Here’s a look at what’s happening around the time of your port call — whether you’re stepping ashore on the evening of May 3 or heading out to explore on May 4.
1. Gourmet Yui Sakura Shrimp Festival
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Gourmet Yui Sakura Shrimp Festival |
| Date | Around May 3, 2026 (confirm via official sources) |
| Location | Yui (approx. 25 minutes by car from Shimizu Port) |
A culinary celebration of one of Suruga Bay’s most prized seasonal delicacies: sakura shrimp. Held in the Yui fishing area to coincide with the peak of the spring harvest (March–June), this festival is a feast of fresh sakura shrimp kakiage fritters, shrimp rice bowls, and more. Found nowhere else in the world except Suruga Bay, these delicate pink shrimp are best enjoyed right at the source — and this festival is the ultimate way to do exactly that.
2. Shimizu Kei-Truck Caravan at Liberty Resort Kunozan
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Shimizu Kei-Truck Caravan at Liberty Resort Kunozan |
| Date | Around May 3, 2026 (confirm via official sources) |
| Location | Liberty Resort Kunozan (Kunozan area) |
A charming local market event where vendors load up kei-trucks (Japan’s beloved mini-trucks) with fresh produce, local goods, and specialty products. Held in the Kunozan area, it pairs perfectly with a visit to Kunozan Tosho-gu — you can take in one of Japan’s most historic shrines and browse local wares all in one trip. It’s the kind of warm, unpretentious event that gives you a real feel for everyday life in Shimizu.
3. Tamageta Flea Market at Shimizu Marine Park (May 3 & 5)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Tamageta Flea Market at Shimizu Marine Park |
| Date | May 3 and May 5, 2026 (confirm via official sources) |
| Location | Shimizu Marine Park [Event Plaza] |
A large-scale flea market held at Shimizu Marine Park, right next to the port — making it an easy first stop as soon as you step off the ship. Browse handmade crafts, clothing, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind items from local vendors. It’s a fun, low-key way to soak up the local atmosphere without going far at all.
4. Shiki Theatre Company Family Musical: “Hajimari no Ki no Shinwa”
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Shiki Theatre Company Family Musical: *Hajimari no Ki no Shinwa* (The Myth of the Tree of Beginnings) |
| Date | Around May 2026 (confirm via official sources) |
| Location | Shizuoka City (confirm venue via official sources) |
A family-friendly musical production from Shiki Theatre Company, one of Japan’s most celebrated theatrical troupes. Even if Japanese isn’t your language, the visual storytelling and live music make it an engaging experience for the whole family. Shizuoka performances by Shiki are relatively rare — stumbling upon one during a cruise port call feels like a happy accident worth embracing.
6. Must-Try Food & Drink in Shimizu and Shizuoka
Shimizu and Shizuoka are widely regarded as one of Japan’s top food destinations. Here are the local specialties you shouldn’t miss during your shore day.
| Dish | Where to Find It | Price Guide | Why It’s Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuna bowl / tuna sashimi platter | Kashi no Ichi, Maguro-kan | ¥1,000–2,500 | Ultra-fresh tuna landed right at Shimizu Port; English menus available |
| Shimizu tuna sushi / sakura shrimp nigiri | Shimizu Sushi Street (Dream Plaza) | ¥1,500–4,000 | 5-minute walk from the pier; portside sushi at its finest |
| Sakura shrimp kakiage (spring season only) | Yui fishing port area | ¥800–1,500 | May is peak spring season; found only in Suruga Bay |
| Shizuoka oden (black fish cake, beef tendon) | Aoba Yokocho, central Shizuoka | ¥500–1,500 | A beloved local comfort food; served with dashi powder and dried seaweed flakes |
| Seafood bowl / sakura shrimp shumai | Ichiba-kan (Kashi no Ichi) | ¥500–2,000 | Takeaway options available; great for souvenir shopping too |
| Wasabi soft serve ice cream / wasabi pickles | Around Shimizu Port | ¥300–3,000 | Shizuoka is Japan’s leading wasabi producer; a perfect souvenir |
| Shincha (first-flush deep-steamed green tea) | Throughout Shimizu and Shizuoka | ¥500–3,000 | May is peak new tea season; the finest first-harvest deep-steamed tea |
One ingredient above all others deserves special mention in May: sakura shrimp. These tiny, translucent pink shrimp exist nowhere in the world except Suruga Bay, and fishing is limited to just two seasons — spring (March–June) and autumn (October–December). May sits right at the heart of the spring harvest, making it one of the very few times when fresh, raw sakura shrimp are available. Eaten fresh, they have a delicate sweetness and oceanic fragrance that even locals consider a rare treat — usually they’re only available dried or boiled. Look for them at restaurants in the Yui fishing port area and at Ichiba-kan in Kashi no Ichi. Don’t hesitate to ask: “Do you have fresh sakura shrimp?” The kakiage fritter version is equally wonderful — crispy on the outside, packed with concentrated sea flavor on the inside. It’s a taste that simply can’t be replicated anywhere else.
7. Practical Tips for a Smooth Shore Day
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available inside the Shimizu Port terminal building and throughout S-Pulse Dream Plaza. Major convenience store chains — 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart — also offer free Wi-Fi nationwide, so you’re rarely far from a connection. If you’re spending an extended time in Japan, picking up a prepaid SIM card at the airport is a convenient way to stay connected wherever you go.
Payment
Cash is still king in many parts of Japan, particularly at smaller restaurants, the sakura shrimp vendors in Yui, and most taxis. Larger establishments at S-Pulse Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi generally accept Visa and Mastercard, though American Express and Diners Club are not always accepted. There are 7-Bank ATMs inside convenience stores near the port where you can withdraw cash using overseas-issued cards. Keeping ¥3,000–10,000 in cash per person per day should see you comfortably through the day.
IC Transport Cards
Suica, ICOCA, and other IC cards work on local buses and JR trains. You can purchase them at Shimizu Station or at convenience stores. Cash is accepted too, but note that some buses don’t give change, so having an IC card or the exact fare in coins is advisable.
Language Support
The tourist information desks at Shimizu Port Terminal and JR Shimizu Station have English-speaking staff. S-Pulse Dream Plaza and Kashi no Ichi offer English menus and English-capable staff at many locations. The Miho no Matsubara visitor center “Mihoshirube” provides multilingual brochures. Taxis are almost always Japanese-only, but the Google Translate app (Japanese ↔ English) handles destination names and basic conversation with ease.
Tourist Information Centers
- Inside Shimizu Port Passenger Terminal — Right by the pier. Maps, brochures, and taxi arrangement assistance available
- Shimizu Station Tourist Information — 15-minute walk from the pier, inside JR Shimizu Station. Excellent resource for local bus routes and area sightseeing
Emergency Contacts
| Purpose | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance / Fire | 119 |
| Shizuoka City Tourism (English) | 054-221-1173 |
| Taxi (Shizutetsu Taxi) | 054-285-1212 |
8. Getting Back to the Ship
The ship departs on Monday, May 4, 2026 at 18:00. Please make sure you are back at Shimizu Port’s Hinode Pier by 17:30 at the latest (30 minutes before departure). Given that Golden Week traffic can cause unexpected delays on the roads, we strongly recommend aiming to arrive at Hinode Pier by 17:00 to be safe.
Finding your way back is straightforward. In Google Maps, search for “Shimizu Port Hinode Pier” or “清水港 日の出埠頭” and it will show you directions from wherever you are. If you’re running short on time or feeling uncertain about navigation, don’t hesitate to hail a taxi. Just tell the driver “Hinode Pier” (日の出埠頭) and you’ll be taken straight there. For a dispatch booking, call Shizutetsu Taxi at 054-285-1212. If your last stop is S-Pulse Dream Plaza, the pier is only a 5-minute walk — making it the perfect final destination before boarding.
9. About Viking Venus
Viking Venus is a 47,842-gross-ton ocean cruise ship operated by Viking Cruises, headquartered in Norway. Launched in 2021, she holds a special place in Japanese maritime history — built at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries using Japanese shipbuilding expertise, she was the first large international cruise ship to be constructed in Japan, and was specifically designed with the Asian market in mind. Throughout the ship, clean Scandinavian design creates a refined, understated atmosphere perfectly suited to the discerning adult traveler.
Onboard dining ranges from the main restaurant with its Nordic design aesthetic to a varied lineup of specialty restaurants — Japanese, Chinese, Italian, and more — ensuring a different culinary experience every evening. The ship is also well-appointed for wellness, with a pool, spa, and fitness center. From the deck, port arrivals offer spectacular vistas — and on a clear day, Mt. Fuji may even be visible as Viking Venus sails into Shimizu. With a relatively modest number of cabins for her size, passengers enjoy generous personal space and a distinctly unhurried, premium atmosphere that the ship has earned a strong reputation for.
Carrying the vibrant memories of Osaka with you, your journey now continues to Shimizu — and before long, onward to the final destination of Tokyo. The pine-framed shores of a World Heritage coastline, a National Treasure standing in brilliant color above the bay, the fleeting taste of spring’s finest seafood — may everything you discover in Shimizu make the voyage ahead all the richer.
良い旅を。Have a wonderful voyage.
