Shimizu

Shimizu is a port in Shizuoka Prefecture on Japan's Pacific coast, and on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible from the harbour. The port has a small cruise terminal with souvenir shops and sometimes traditional performances for arriving passengers. The city itself is modest, and most people use the stop as a base for Fuji-area excursions. Miho no Matsubara, a pine grove along a black-sand beach, is a UNESCO-listed site about 15 minutes from the port and has a classic Fuji view. Nihondaira Plateau, reachable by bus, has panoramic views and a ropeway down to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. Shizuoka city, about 20 minutes by train, has a castle ruin and the shopping street Oden Street (oden is a local stew of fish cakes, tofu, and vegetables in broth). Green tea is the region's pride: Shizuoka produces more tea than any other prefecture. The Yen is the currency.