This private tour is designed for cruise ship guests who want to experience the cultural heart of Mt. Fuji and Japan.
For more than 1,300 years, Japanese life and faith have looked to one sacred peak—Mt. Fuji. On this journey, you’ll discover its significance through visits to historic shrines, a beloved local eatery, a sake brewery, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Led by a bilingual local guide, the tour focuses on ”experiences": savor local dishes and drinks, learn basics of matcha, and join shrine purification rituals.
Choose destinations that best fit your interests & schedule.
“What if Mt. Fuji is hidden by clouds?”
✅ Even unseen, you’ll feel its presence and learn about Japan through shrines, a sake brewery, and cultural encounters.
“We’re 5 people.”
✅ Perfect! The tour is ideal for 1–5 guests. For groups over 5, you may be able to join by making multiple bookings (max 5 per booking). Please contact us for confirmation.
Schedule & prices
Runs
Every day
Next available
Sun, Oct 11
Group price
$1,280 per group of up to 5
In demand: 18 of the next 30 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 8.
Tour Options
Shimizu Shore Excursion: Private Mt. Fuji Cultural Experience
Pickup included
Itinerary
Miho Seacoast (Miho no Matsubara Beach)
20 min
A black-sand shoreline framed by ancient pines with classic views of Mt. Fuji across Suruga Bay. Learn how this coast inspired centuries of Fuji viewing in art and poetry while enjoying a flat, easy walk along the sea-to-mountain landscape.
Yamamiyasengen Shrine
20 min
Enter a quiet cedar grove where Mt. Fuji is directly honored in the open air. From the prayer hall, the axis lines up with Fuji’s cone on clear days—your guide explains how landscape and simple etiquette (low voices, keep to paths) shape local devotion. Photos are welcome from designated areas; comfortable shoes recommended.
Shiraito Falls
30 min
See how Fuji’s snowmelt filters through volcanic rock to form thousands of fine “threads” of water, creating a cool misty curtain. We take an unhurried walk to the best angles and share tips on respectful behavior at nature sites. Seasonal colors make this a great stop for photos and a short rest.
Admission included30 min
Try Fujinomiya-style yakisoba—chewy noodles on a sizzling griddle with crisp pork bits and a sprinkle of dried fish powder. It’s everyday local comfort food; we visit a trusted neighborhood spot, learn how to order like a regular, and see how toppings change with the season.
Fuji Takasago Sake Brewery
20 min
Visit a two-century-old historic brewery where the same Fuji snowmelt becomes sake. Taste a few styles while learning how water softness, rice polishing, and climate influence flavor—and how to enjoy sake by temperature and aroma.
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine
Admission included30 min
At the city’s main shrine, stroll under red gates and along shaded paths to a spring fed by Fuji’s aquifer. Your guide explains everyday customs—light bows, quiet voices, keeping the path clear—and how people express thanks for water and safety. Optional special prayers for your health, prosperity, or warding off evil inside of the shrine, can be arranged (extra time & cost; details vary by day, cost described in what's not included section).
Admission not included45 min
Savor authentic Shizuoka green tea made with Fuji’s pure spring water in a classic teahouse overlooking a Japanese garden. Staff prepare your choice (matcha, matcha latte, green tea) at the ideal temperature; pair it with a small house sweet as we introduce basic tea etiquette and garden design. Optional: with at least three weeks’ notice, we can reserve a private tearoom and invite a tea instructor for a guided tea experience (additional costs; please inquire).
Admission not included30 min
【Local Beer Trial】
Try local small-batch beers brewed with Mt. Fuji spring water and organically grown local grains (wheat, hops, rice). About six to seven rotating taps feature distinctive profiles—think hints of honey, rice, or hinoki cypress—with tasting flights available. Non-alcoholic choices are also made in-house, including plum soda and ginger ale. Order at the counter.
【Calligraphy Mini-Workshop (at the tap room)】
A 30-minute hands-on session with a local calligraphy artist. Learn to write your name or a favorite word in Japanese characters on a round paper fan (uchiwa) to take home; the artist can add a demonstration piece on the reverse. Enjoy the relaxed setting while others sample local brews (non-alcoholic options available). Note: advance request required; scheduling depends on artist availability —please inquire.
Admission not included45 min
Wear a properly fitted kimono and take a gentle stroll at Sengen Shrine—an ideal setting for photos with Mt. Fuji when visible. Staff dress you in the correct style and share simple etiquette (how to walk, pose, and care for the obi) so you can enjoy the experience comfortably. Kimono has over a millennium of history and is now reserved for occasions like ceremonies and festivals; this hands-on try-on lets you join the tradition with respect.
Note: advance reservation recommended; rental/dressing fees are separate, and you’ll want to allow extra time for dressing before the shrine visit.
What's included
Included
One bottle of mineral water per person
Bilingual local guide providing cultural context, etiquette, and stories.
Private van with driver. Fuel, tolls, and parking included.
Not included
All optional and paid on-site in JPY (cash). Eg: goshuin stamp (¥500), shrine offering (¥100), special prayers (¥5,000–6,000), kimono rental (¥4,000), calligraphy lesson (¥5,000). Prices may change.
Drinks at cafes are not included. Credit cards are accepted. Most drinks are under USD 7.
Cost is not included. But able to visit restaurants in the tour.
Cost is not included. But able to visit restaurants in the tour.
Pickup Locations & Times
Your guide will wait for you with a "Fuji Soul Tours" welcome sign at the exit of the cruise drop-off area.
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
5.0
9 reviews
5
9
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0
How it compares in Shizuoka
No. 20 by number of reviews among 117 tours in Shizuoka
Excurgo comparison of 117 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
Important Information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does this tour take?
Shimizu Shore Excursion: Private Mt. Fuji Cultural Experience lasts about 5–6 hours. The itinerary has 9 stops.
How much does this tour cost?
Prices start at $1,280 per person for this Shizuoka experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does this tour run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day.
Does this tour sell out?
It can: 18 of the next 30 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Can I cancel this tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. Your guide will wait for you with a "Fuji Soul Tours" welcome sign at the exit of the cruise drop-off area.
What languages is this tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 15 travellers can book together.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Specialized infant seats are available
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is this tour worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 9 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Fuji Soul Tours: Private Mt. Fuji Cultural Experiences (Shin-Fuji & Shimizu).
Reviews(9)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
K
KImberly_W
August 3, 2026 · via Viator
Dint miss this incredible tour! Taku was the perfect guide!
We had such an incredible day with Taku as he showed us around Shimizu. Unfortunately Mt Fuji didn't reveal herself (which is NOT uncommon) but Taku made sure we had an unforgettable day anyway. He was in contact with us ahead of time to get an idea of what we would like to see, and offered additional options to enhance our experience, including a kimono rental, Saki and beer tasting from local breweries. Lunch was included on our tour, and we had delicious Fukiyama local ramen... it was amazing!! It was a hot day, so Taku thought of everything including UV umbrellas, water and cooling towels for it entire group. And tasty snacks for the ride back. We were on a cruise ship, but Taku and his brother picked us up at the cruise terminal and got us back in plenty of time. I will definitely find Taku again for a tour, the next time we are back in Shimizu.
Operator response
Hi Kim, thank you very much for your kind words, this is very very sweet of you. And you looked absolutely stunning wearing that kimono. I had an amazing time thanks to you guys. I am looking forward to seeing you all soon! Thank you!
M
Manuel_M
May 22, 2026 · via Viator
Taku san is the greatest guide ever
Taku san is an incredible guide, his itinerary is great and all his experiences feel unique and refreshing in a nation that is troubled by overtourism and everyone seeing the same things. Not only is the itinerary great but Taku is incredibly accommodating even adjusting the itinerary to our liking. Without a doubt this was one of my favorite tours of all Japan and don't recommend skipping this hidden gem
Operator response
Hi Manuel, thank you very much for your kind words. It was wonderful to see you all and it was such a beautiful day to see the sacred mountain from up above! Hope to see you guys again very soon!
M
milldog1235
April 16, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Shimizu Excursion
Takumu was an outstanding tour guide for our trip to Shimizu. We had a fantastic day even though it was too overcast to really view Mt Fuji. He more than made up for it by taking us to local spots that he really had a connection with. We enjoyed waterfalls, a Shinto temple, lunch at a local restaurant (we would have never found on our own), taught us to properly use chop sticks, and an authentic tea ceremony . He provided a lot of local and interesting information. Highly recommend!
K
Karen_L
April 15, 2026 · via Viator
We had an incredible day...
We had an incredible day with Takumu. Although we did not get a clear view of Mt, Fuji due to weather conditions, he made up for it by taking us to some incredible places. We had a delicious lunch in a small local restaurant , and a tea ceremony at a local tea house. Absolutely great day…. Highly recommend.
T
Twila_E
April 10, 2026 · via Viator
Best tour on our entire cruise!
Takumu provided the best tour we have had on our entire cruise around Japan. He was so personable, and knowledgeable regarding the area and sites. He had a huge job with us since it was POURING rain throughout the entire day. In addition, we are an elderly couple and I depend on a walker to assist me with mobility. Takumu completely revised our tour due to the inclement weather and somehow managed to keep us dry and safe without sacrificing ANY of the main sites in the area. He picked us up and dropped us back off at the correct times. We are so grateful to Takumu and Viator for providing us with an amazing day. It was our first private tour with Viator and because of our positive experience we have already booked many more with this company. Thanks again.
B
BobWE
April 10, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Personal, Professional and Flexible Experience with Takumu
It was pouring rain today and our tour guide and tour owner, Takumu Makino, offered us the opportunity prior to the tour to cancel. We decided to move forward with the tour which was re-organized because of the rain. We visited the Mt. Fuji UNESCO Heritage Center, had lunch at a local 100 year old restaurant and then ended the day with a green tea experience. What an exciting adventure with a personable and knowledgeable guide who spoke perfect English and provided a large and very comfortable car for transportation. Because one of us has mobility issues and uses a wheeled walker we had concerns about moving about--not a problem--Takumu was always watchful and made sure that we had handicapped access in the pouring rain. Definitely book with Takumu if you are in Shimizu.
L
Lena_M
March 27, 2026 · via Viator
Excellent Tour and highly recomnebded
Our day with Takumu was a very enjoyable and memorable one. He customized our tour to our interests and made it a delightful experience. His warm hospitality, friendliness and personality left us with a wonderful impression of him and we would highly recommend Takumu to anyone.
Operator response
Dear Lena,
Your kind message truly made me smile, thank you for taking the time to write it. Tailoring the day around your interests was so much fun for me, and I'm really happy that the experience felt warm and personal. Meeting guests like you is exactly why I love guiding in this region, and your generous words about hospitality mean a great deal. I do hope our paths cross again one day, whether here near Fuji or somewhere new on your travels. Until then, take good care and safe journeys!
With gratitude,
Takumu
D
Dan_J
October 15, 2025 · via Viator
Superb!
We do many of these private tours and this was the best. Before we even met Tamuku, he was very communicative to ensure we could meet up easily and that the tour was just what we hoped for. He was well-groomed (without cologne- yay!) and his car was comfortable and spotless. Tamuku’s English is outstanding and we were all able to hear him clearly and easily. The stops he chose were spot on and we enjoyed them very much. He also stopped for personal needs for 2 of us. He was a wonderful ambassador for Japan today. You would be lucky to share a day with him.
Operator response
Dear Mr. Johnson,
Thank you so much for your wonderful words and for taking the time to share your experience.
It genuinely means a lot to hear that you enjoyed the day and felt comfortable throughout the tour. I’m very grateful for the trust you placed in me to guide you around Mt. Fuji.
I’m glad the itinerary and small stops made the day special for you and your kind and very fun friends. I was the one who enjoyed having you all on the day.
I'm looking forward to seeing you in Japan again:)Japan will always welcome you back!
I hope you have a safe and wonderful journey ahead.
Warmest regards,
Tamuku
