Shizuoka City One Day Course Nihondaira Kunozan and Miho

Nihondaira overlooking Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji, the national treasure Kunozan Toshogu enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu, and Miho pine grove of the celestial maiden legend. This classic course ties together three of Shizuoka city signature views in one day, balancing history, scenery and a seaside pine forest.

Course Route

9:30 Start at JR Shizuoka Station Take a bus from the station toward Nihondaira.

10:30 Nihondaira A hill about three hundred meters high commanding sweeping views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay and Shimizu Port. The panorama from the summit observation building is a must see.

11:00 Nihondaira Ropeway to Kunozan Toshogu Cross a steep valley on a ropeway just over one thousand meters long, a roughly five minute aerial ride.

11:20 Kunozan Toshogu The first shrine to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, with a vividly colored hall designated a national treasure. The stone steps facing the sea and the solemn carvings are highlights.

12:30 Lunch and the Kunou coast The Kunou coast is famous for strawberry picking, and depending on the season you can enjoy freshly picked sweet strawberries.

14:30 Travel to Miho pine grove One of the components of the World Cultural Heritage Mount Fuji. A pine forest said to number some thirty thousand trees lines the shore, including the Hagoromo pine of the celestial robe legend.

15:30 View Mount Fuji from the shore On clear days Mount Fuji rises beyond the pines in a scene worthy of a woodblock print.

17:00 Return to Shizuoka Station to finish

Highlights

The hall of Kunozan Toshogu is striking with its colorful carvings, and the treasures linked to Ieyasu are rewarding. Mount Fuji seen from Miho has long been painted, and the gradation of sea and sky at dusk is lovely.

Access and Tips

Buses from Shizuoka or Shimizu Station are handy for Nihondaira. The ropeway from Nihondaira is the easiest way to reach Kunozan Toshogu. Miho is a little far, so plan a car or bus connection.

A Quick Tip

The shrine has many stone steps, so wear comfortable shoes. For Mount Fuji, the clear mornings of winter are the best chance.