Mount Fuji Day is celebrated on February 23rd, and although it's not a national holiday, it still presents a wonderful chance to appreciate the iconic mountain. If you've ever wanted to get a glimpse of Fuji-san in all its glory, Shizuoka City has a number of spots where you can enjoy some excellent views.
Miho no Matsubara
Miho no Matsubara is famous for its 30,000 pine trees along a 5 kilometer stretch of coastline, and it makes up part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site. The pine forest, the white waves of the shore, and the distant silhouette of Mount Fuji create a picture-perfect scene, which has often featured in Ukiyo-e prints and traditional poetry.
📍1338-45 Miho, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka, 424-0901. About 35 minutes driving time from Shizuoka Station.
Nihondaira Yume Terrace
For a stunning 360-degree panoramic view, head to Nihondaira Yume Terrace, which is located 300 meters above sea level. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, Shimizu Port, and even the Izu Peninsula. At night, the city lights add to the beauty of the landscape. The facility's wooden design was crafted by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, and it does an excellent job of complementing the natural surroundings.
📍600-1 Kusanagi, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka, 424-0886. About 25 minutes driving time from Shizuoka Station.
Shimizu Minato Cruise
For a different perspective of Mount Fuji, take a cruise from Shimizu Port. The Mt. Fuji Shimizu Minato Cruise offers exceptional views of the majestic mountain from the sea, along with the Miho no Matsubara coastline. The sight of snow-capped Mount Fuji framed by the clear sky and shimmering water is particularly stunning during the early spring months, when the air is crisp and clear.
📍1-410-3 Minato-cho, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka, 424-0943. 4 minutes driving time from Shimizu Station.
Satta Pass
The Satta Pass was immortalized in Hiroshige’s famous "Fifty-three Stations of the Tokaido," and it offers an expansive view of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Izu Peninsula. The observation deck allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of Mount Fuji across all four seasons, but never fear if you're not nearby—a live camera from the pass is also available, providing real-time views of the mountain for those who can't visit in person.
📍Yuinishikurasawa, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka, 421-3115. About 60 minutes on foot from JR Yui Station or Okitsu Station.
Sunpu Castle Park
Located in the heart of Shizuoka City, Sunpu Castle Park houses the Momijiyama Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden designed to reflect the landscape of Suruga Province. An artificial hill in the park symbolizes Mount Fuji, offering a subtle yet powerful connection to the iconic mountain. Visitors can enjoy the changing seasons and views of Mount Fuji from various points around the garden.
📍1-1 Sunpu Castle Park, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka, 420-0855. Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Shizuoka Station.
Shizuoka Prefectural Office Mount Fuji Observation Lobby
The Shizuoka Prefectural Office Annex features an observation lobby on the 21st floor, offering a stunning view of Mount Fuji, the Southern Alps, and Suruga Bay. It's an ideal spot to take in the sweeping views of the region while also learning more about Shizuoka's history.
📍9-6 Oite-cho, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-8601. Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Shizuoka Station.
