Shimizu

Shimizu quietly charmed me on this short stop during my cruise. Tucked into Shizuoka Prefecture, it’s best known for two things: a working port and, on clear days, unbeatable views of Mt. Fuji. Sadly, Fuji-san stayed hidden behind a veil of clouds during my visit, but the day didn’t feel like a loss.

I joined a ship-organized excursion that took us into Shizuoka, the heart of Japan’s green tea country. There, we participated in a traditional tea ceremony led by a graceful host in a kimono. The ritual was calming and intentional, from the precise scoop of matcha powder to the soft whisking of hot water into froth. We sat quietly on tatami mats while she prepared and served each bowl. As someone who isn’t usually drawn to ceremonies, I was surprised by how grounded it all felt.

Before sipping the tea, we were offered colorful wagashi sweets, delicate little confections that balanced the earthiness of the matcha. It was thoughtful, elegant, and deeply Japanese.

Afterward, we walked the Road of God, a long pine-covered trail stretching through Tenninmori Park. At the end stands the Hagoromo Pine, a gnarled old tree wrapped in Shinto legend. According to the signage, this is the third generation of the sacred pine, believed to be about 300 years old. Just past it, I found a peaceful stretch of forest and even a small stone statue nestled among the trees, offering a quiet moment of reflection.

I also spotted a pale golden koi lazily drifting in a narrow canal, a surreal, almost magical image that stuck with me.

Though Mt. Fuji didn’t make an appearance this time, Shimizu still gave me a peaceful glimpse into Japanese tradition and nature, and I left feeling a bit more centered.