Port
Shimizu, Japan
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$450
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Your tour begins at Chojiya, established in the first year of Keicho (1596), it is Maruko-shuku's renowned Tororo-jiru (grated yam soup) eatery, depicted as "Maruko Meibutsu Chaya" within the Tokaido Gojusan-tsugi series. It is Shizuoka Prefecture's oldest dining establishment. Amid the tumultuous Sengoku period, with Suruga's town ablaze before their eyes and Toyotomi Hideyoshi mustering troops for the Odawara Castle campaign, the founder, Heikichi, hoisted the noren curtain and established the Chojiya here. While now beloved as "Chojiya's Tororo-jiru," it seems it operated as a tea house back then.
Subsequently, facing transitions of eras like Mt. Fuji's major eruption, the Meiji Restoration, and world wars, Chojiya remained steadfast, spending over 400 years here in Maruko-shuku on the Tokaido without changing its location. The current establishment is housed in a relocated early Edo-period traditional house to replicate a ukiyo-e print, designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
Continue to Rinsoin Temple, a historic Zen temple. It is a place of serene beauty and spiritual significance, offering visitors a tranquil environment to experience traditional Japanese culture and Zen Buddhism. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for meditation and reflection.
Move onto the Traditional Hand Craft Arts Center (Takumi shuku) is dedicated to preserving and passing down the traditional crafts and techniques of Shizuoka City, while also exploring innovations in these crafts with visitors. At Takumishuku, they house and showcase the remarkable crafts of Shizuoka, particularly those centered around Shizuoka City. They offer permanent exhibitions that introduce these works and their artisans, as well as special exhibitions that highlight specific aspects of our craft heritage.
Then visit Gyokuro no sato, where you’ll have a chance to experience a tea ceremony. You’ll casually enjoy tea in a setting full of Japanese charm while taking in the beautiful natural scenery.
After enjoying a Japanese style lunch, return back to the pier.
Please note:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. During the Zen Meditation experience, floor seating is required.Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. In the event that the head priest of Rinsoin Temple becomes unavailable, the visit may be rescheduled to another temple. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency (yen) for purchases as few stores accept credit cards. Traffic can be unpredictable, so the driver will do his/her best to keep moving safely. Your patience is greatly appreciated. Delays occasionally extend tour duration. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s).