Shimizu Port

Shimizu Port (清水港), now part of Shizuoka City, was once an independent city until it merged in 2003. Known for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, the port offers some of the best vistas on clear days, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. Steeped in history, Shimizu Port was mentioned in Japan’s earliest historical texts from the Nara Period and gained further prominence in 1605 when Tokugawa Ieyasu chose Sumpu Castle as his retirement residence. In the early 20th century, the port became an essential hub for exporting Shizuoka tea and is still a major center for various cargo, including fish, natural gas, and containers.

One of the main attractions at Shimizu Port is the S-Pulse Dream Plaza, a lively four-story shopping mall located by the waterfront. This vibrant complex features museums, movie theaters, a Ferris wheel, and the unique Shimizu Sushi Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and evolution of sushi. Nearby, the Kashi-no-Ichi Market offers a taste of local culture with its bustling fish market, while the Verkehr Museum provides insight into the history of Shimizu Port and its vital role in Japan's maritime trade.