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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nihon-daira is a hilly area located in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, at an elevation of approximately 307m, and is known as a spectacular spot offering panoramic views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji. It has long been popular as a utamakura (traditional Japanese saying) and scenic spot, and was also known as a place associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu during the Edo period. In recent years, a new observation facility called "Nihon-daira Yume Terrace" has been built, as well as restaurants, accommodation facilities (Nihon-daira Hotel), making it an even more convenient tourist base.
Features and attractions:
- A panoramic view of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, Shimizu Port, and Miho no Matsubara (visible in the distance) all at once.
- Because the sea and mountains are close together, you can enjoy magnificent scenery that changes dramatically with the light of morning and evening.
- It is packed with attractions such as an observation deck, cafe, hotel, and a ropeway sightseeing route (to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine).
Highlights
- Nihondaira Yume Terrace: A glass-enclosed observation deck with a 360-degree view. A great spot for taking photos of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay.
- View of Mt. Fuji: Mt. Fuji is easily visible on clear winter days and in the early morning and evening (on the other hand, there are also days when a sea of clouds or fog occurs, creating a fantastical view).
- View of Suruga Bay and Shimizu Port: You can see the port, the Bay Bridge, and the movement of fishing boats and cargo ships in the distance.
- Route to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (ropeway): A ropeway connects Nihondaira to Kunozan, making it convenient for round-trip sightseeing. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is a historic building dedicated to Ieyasu.
- A stroll around the Nihondaira Hotel: The views from the gardens, cafes, and hotel lounges are also appealing.
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves, views of Mt. Fuji in the clear air of winter, and the contrast between the greenery and the sea from early summer to summer.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Nearest station and main transportation:
- Train + Bus: Approximately 25-40 minutes by bus (bound for Nihondaira) from JR Shizuoka Station or JR Shimizu Station. Please check the timetable in advance as the number of buses is limited.
- Ropeway: You can access Mount Kuno via the Nihondaira ropeway (Nihondaira Ropeway). The one-way trip takes about 5 minutes (operating every 10-15 minutes).
- By car: Access from the Tomei Expressway or Shin-Tomei Expressway is approximately 30 minutes from Shizuoka IC or Shimizu IC (depending on road conditions). Parking is available (fee required, limited number of spaces).
- Taxi: Taking a taxi from Shizuoka Station or Shimizu Station is also convenient. Travel time varies depending on traffic conditions from the station.
* Bus and ropeway operating times and parking lot congestion may vary depending on the season and time of day, so we recommend checking in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short-term viewing only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (photography and rest on the observation deck)
- View + Relaxing at the cafe: 1.5 to 2 hours
- View + Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (round trip ropeway): Half a day (approximately 3-4 hours)
- If you want to take your time to explore the surrounding historical sites and eat at restaurants: 1 day
Nearby spots
- Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: A round trip is possible via the Nihon-daira Ropeway. The highlight is the gorgeous shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Miho no Matsubara (Hagoromo no Matsu): A scenic spot related to the World Heritage Site "Mount Fuji - A Place of Sacred Worship and a Source of Artistic Inspiration." Approximately 20-30 minutes by car.
- Shimizu Port Riverside Market (fish market and restaurant): A spot where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
- Nihondaira Hotel: Enjoy the views and meals at the hotel and restaurant.
- Tourist spots in Shizuoka City (Shizuoka Sengen Shrine, Sunpu Castle Park, etc.): Day trips are possible by car.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Weather Dependence: The visibility of Mt. Fuji is greatly affected by weather and meteorological conditions. In particular, in summer, there are many days when it is difficult to see due to haze and clouds, while in winter the air tends to be clearer and visibility is better.
- Crowds: It tends to get crowded on weekends, holidays, Golden Week, during the autumn foliage and cherry blossom seasons, and during the evening hours. Parking lots and observation decks tend to be crowded, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Clothing and cold weather: The wind can be strong and cold, so please bring warm clothing, especially in the early mornings, evenings, and winter.
- Bus and ropeway times: There are times when there are fewer public transport services. Please check the return bus and final operating times in advance.
- Manners: To protect the natural environment, please take your trash with you or dispose of it in the designated area. Please follow the signs and prohibitions on the observation deck and within the facility (no entry areas, smoking rules, etc.).
- Photography etiquette: When it is crowded, please refrain from using tripods or occupying the space for long periods of time, and be considerate of those around you so as not to cause a nuisance to others.
