Shimizu Port

Shimizu Port (清水港), now part of Shizuoka City, was an independent city until its merger in 2003. The port is famed for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, offering some of the best vistas, especially on clear days. Steeped in history, Shimizu Port is mentioned in Japan’s oldest texts from the Nara Period and rose to prominence in the early 1600s when Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, selected Sumpu Castle as his retirement destination. By the early 20th century, the port had become a major hub for exporting Shizuoka’s prized tea, and today it continues to handle a diverse range of cargo, including fish, natural gas, and container goods.

Among the top attractions at Shimizu Port is the S-Pulse Dream Plaza, a four-story shopping complex right by the water. The plaza features a variety of entertainment options, including museums, movie theaters, and a Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. One of its unique highlights is the Shimizu Sushi Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of sushi and see fascinating models. Close by, the Kashi-no-Ichi Market offers fresh seafood from the region, while the Verkehr Museum delves into the history and significance of Shimizu Port, making it a great stop for those interested in the area’s maritime heritage.