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 8:00 – Yume Terrace 08:50 – Ropeway and Toshogu Shrine 11:00 – Miho no Matsubara 12:40 – Kashi no Ichi 13:40 – Shimizu Station 14:05 – Dream Plaza 14:20
Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Mt. Fuji Views to Miho no Matsubara
We met the group visiting from North America successfully at 8:00 and headed to Yume Terrace. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji was hidden by clouds, but we could see Suruga Bay, Shizuoka City, and faintly the area around Omaezaki City, while I talked about the Southern Alps, volcanoes, and hot springs as we waited for the ropeway to open. We took the very first ropeway down, and as we descended, I explained the stone walls of the castle ruins and the camphor trees while we slowly climbed up Toshogu Shrine. Explaining as we went, we climbed all the way up to the Ieyasu Mausoleum. We enjoyed searching together for the upside-down hollyhock crest, and it was a pleasant tour to guide. After that, although Mount Fuji was not visible, we went out to the shore at Miho no Matsubara and enjoyed playing in the water. At the riverside market, we savored delicious sakura shrimp, whitebait, and tuna, and at the very last moment on our walk to Shimizu Station, Mount Fuji faintly came into view. It made bringing everyone this far worthwhile. Both my guests and I were overjoyed, and we took many photos. From there, we took a shuttle bus to Dream Plaza, confirmed the way to the cruise ship, and said our goodbyes.
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.