This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- Shimizu Port 9:00 → Orix Rent-a-Car 9:30 → Kunozan Toshogu Shrine Entrance and Strawberry House 10:30 → Yume Terrace 11:30 → Moriuchi Tea Farm 14:40 → Orix Rent-a-Car 15:20 → Coco's 15:45 → Shimizu Port 16:00
Title: What's a Private Car Tour of Shizuoka Like from the Port? A Licensed Guide's Report
Prior to the tour, it had been arranged at the guest's request that they would rent a car and drive around themselves. Initially, a rental car shop near Higashi-Shizuoka Station had been booked online, but considering the round-trip time to and from the port, this seemed likely to result in a considerable loss of time. Therefore, on the condition that I, the guide, would accompany them and interpret, we were specially able to change the arrangement so that the car could be picked up and returned at a branch located inside a gas station within walking distance of the port. As one of the guests had become unwell with seasickness, the tour was conducted with a single guest. I introduced the famous Kuno strawberries of Shizuoka and guided them to the entrance of Kunozan. We then enjoyed a drive up to Nihondaira, where the cherry blossoms had come into considerable bloom, and headed for the Yume Terrace. Unfortunately, it was cloudy and Mount Fuji was not visible, but we could take in a sweeping view of Suruga Bay, including Miho, and the city of Shizuoka. After this, at the guest's strong request to see the rural Japanese landscape, we headed to Moriuchi Tea Farm, where they were greatly moved by the tea fields. They listened intently to the explanation of the four kinds of tea served there and were able to interact with other visitors from North America and Europe who were also present. Reluctantly leaving the tea farm, we safely returned the rental car, had some tea at a family restaurant, and returned to the port. I was able to guide the guest to the places they had wished to see, and the guest was very pleased, which I felt was truly wonderful.
Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!
Jul 26, 2026
Edward_H
Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
The only way to tour if…
The only way to…
Jul 26, 2026
Edward_H
Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
The only way to tour if…
The only way to tour if you have mobility issues or want a freestyle itinerary set on your pace. Our driver Yusaku Abe was so extremely helpful and attentive. From loading and unloading the wheelchair to finding just the perfect spot to enter/exit the taxi safety. His vehicle was spotless and he was the best driver. After the first stop he felt like family and he had our best interest and safety at heart. He was a true pleasure. Our licensed guide interpreter Akahori Atsuko was number 1 from pick up at the port to drop off at the ship – a true blessing. She customized our itinerary to our interests and also mobility constraints. Every stop was as explained to us and we had ample time to view and see what we wanted. We even had time at the Shizuoka City Museum of Art to complex a hands on piece of Japanese art. Our favorite stop was the Mt Fuji World Heritage Centre and the close by temple and ponds. We ended the day at a local family restaurant for lunch and both Akahori and Yusaku made our day – we all had become family on this day. As we told them both – Aloha Nui Loa A Hui Hou!
Jun 30, 2026
Louisa_B
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
My Fuji Experience and temple visit
Great trip out…
Jun 30, 2026
Louisa_B
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
My Fuji Experience and temple visit
Great trip out of a city.
Use public transit and visit local exhibit of My Fuji and had a great guide also!
Apr 14, 2026
Bret_F
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Great Shizuoka Area Experience
We enjoyed a memorable day…
Apr 14, 2026
Bret_F
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Great Shizuoka Area Experience
We enjoyed a memorable day with Acchan, our guide! Although the weather was unfavorable and we did not get good views of Mt Fuji, we learned a lot about the history and the surrounding area. Perhaps our favorite part of the trip was lunch at a Japanese restaurant just talking and learning about the Japanese culture and language. We also toured the grounds and gardens at Sumpu Castle, ending our day with the best matcha ice cream. Thanks for a great tour, Acchan!
Mar 27, 2026
James_M
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Loved are guide.
Great tour guide. We loved her…
Mar 27, 2026
James_M
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Loved are guide.
Great tour guide. We loved her and she accommodated all are requests. Would definitely
recommend her.