Exploring Shizuoka Prefecture brings Japan’s best natural and cultural experiences within easy reach. The region’s standout tours center around Mount Fuji, offering incredible views and cultural insights without the Tokyo crowds. I love the Gotemba food tours – they’re practical evening excursions that combine street eats with local haunts most travelers miss. The seakayaking tours along the Global Geopark coast are surprisingly affordable and perfect for active travelers. For a deep cultural experience, try the Atami cooking classes, where you’ll learn real home-style Japanese cooking, not just sushi rolls. The countryside fishing tours are especially great for families and first-timers to Japan. Let’s look at our favorite tours that make the most of your time in Shizuoka.
Key Points
- The Mount Fuji Full-Day Tour provides a scenic, cultural experience with knowledgeable guides and a high recommendation rate.
- The Gotemba Food and Nightlife Tour offers an immersive exploration of local cuisine and nightlife in a small-group setting.
- The First Seakayak Tour along the Izu coastline, a UNESCO Global Geopark, provides an adventurous outdoor activity.
- The Atami Culinary Culture Walking Tour introduces visitors to traditional food shops in a personalized, intimate setting.
- The Japanese Countryside Fishing Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore and fish in the scenic Yaizu Port area.
Full Day Tour to Mount Fuji in English
Although the weather can be unpredictable, this full-day tour to Mount Fuji offers visitors a comprehensive experience. With 233 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour is clearly a hit with travelers.
The tour departs from Mishima, in Shizuoka Prefecture, at 8:00 am and returns to the same meeting point, with a maximum of 9 travelers per group. At $94.88 per person, the tour includes snacks, drinks, lunch, and all fees and taxes.
Knowledgeable guides provide engaging explanations of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, while adjusting the itinerary to ensure the best possible views of Mount Fuji based on weather conditions.
Travelers rave about the personalized attention, memorable experiences, and excellent organization. The tour features a variety of scenic locations, including landscapes, towns, forests, and waterfalls, providing a well-rounded experience.
Warm clothing is recommended for cooler spots, and the guides’ photography skills help capture the day’s highlights.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Mount Fuji in English Review
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3-Hour Gotemba Food and Nightlife Izakaya Walking Tour
This 3-hour walking tour through Gotemba offers visitors a chance to enjoy the local food and nightlife scene.
Priced at $254 per person, the tour is operated by Arigato Japan KK and can accommodate up to 10 travelers. It includes snacks, some drinks, and dinner at local restaurants, as well as the services of an English-speaking guide.
The tour starts at either Gotemba Station or the Gotemba Tourism and Welcome Center, and ends back at the meeting point. It runs daily, with a start time of 4:30 PM, and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour does cater to infants who can sit on laps.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the tour has received excellent reviews, earning a perfect 5-star rating from 4 reviewers.
It offers a unique opportunity to explore Gotemba’s vibrant food and nightlife scene, making it a must-try for visitors to Shizuoka Prefecture.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Gotemba Food and Nightlife Izakaya Walking Tour Review
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First Seakayak Tour
Embarking on the First Seakayak Tour provides visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning coastline of Izu, a UNESCO Global Geopark. The guided kayak tour takes participants along the beautiful caves, deserted coves, and crystal blue waters of the region.
From July to September, an optional snorkeling activity allows travelers to enjoy the vibrant marine life.
The tour is suitable for junior high/high school students and adults, and a moderate physical fitness level is required. Kayak equipment, including one-seater kayaks and safety gear, as well as snorkeling equipment during the season, are all included. Lunch is also provided, ensuring a complete and convenient experience.
The meeting point is SURFACE KayakGuideService in Minamiizu, with options for direct arrival or pickup upon request. The activity ends back at the starting point.
Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Prices start from $104.70 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: First Seakayak Tour Review
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Explore Atamis Culinary Culture Walking Tour
Visitors eager to enjoy Atami’s rich culinary heritage can embark on the Explore Atamis Culinary Culture Walking Tour. This 3-hour excursion takes participants to three traditional Japanese specialty food shops in the Shizuoka Prefecture.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour allows travelers to explore Atami’s vibrant culinary culture up close.
The tour begins at the Sakurabashi (Sakura Bridge) on the Itogawa River, where a staff member will greet the group, holding a sign with the tour name. With a maximum of 6 travelers, the walking tour provides an intimate experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness. Infants can join, sitting on their parents’ laps.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option. Priced at €43.96 per person, the Explore Atamis Culinary Culture Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the flavorful traditions of this Japanese coastal town.
Read our full review: Explore Atamis Culinary Culture Walking Tour Review
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Fishing Tour of the Japanese Countryside in Shizuoka
The Japanese Countryside Fishing Tour in Shizuoka provides a private fishing experience around the port city of Yaizu. Ideal for keen anglers, the tour includes three different fishing spots at Yaizu Port.
Beginners receive hands-on assistance from the guide. The half-day tour starts at Yaizu Station, a 7-10 minute walk to the port. Participants can enjoy scenic views, including Mt. Fuji on clear days. The tour provides all necessary fishing gear. Travelers should bring sunglasses to reduce ocean glare.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s open to most travelers. However, one recent review describes an awful experience where the guide didn’t show up.
The tour is operated by Waris Bee and has a total of one review, with a rating of 1.0 out of 5. Despite this negative feedback, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Japanese countryside and try your hand at fishing.
Read our full review: Fishing Tour of the Japanese Countryside in Shizuoka Review
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Atami Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
Situated along the scenic Izu Peninsula, the Atami Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of this historic coastal town.
This private tour allows guests to customize their itinerary, choosing 3-4 sites from a list of must-see attractions. Led by a licensed local guide, the tour covers key landmarks like hot spring resorts, shrines, and scenic viewpoints.
While personal expenses, lunch, and entrance fees are excluded, the tour includes the licensed guide’s services. Participants must use public transportation or local taxis, as a private vehicle isn’t provided.
Though wheelchair-accessible, travelers should have Japanese yen on hand for transportation costs. With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the tour starts at $143.96 per person, varying by group size.
Suitable for most visitors, the Atami tour provides a well-rounded introduction to this picturesque region of Shizuoka Prefecture.
Read our full review: Atami Full-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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Mountain Area in Hamamatsu Tour With Lunch & Seasonal Project
This guided English tour whisks visitors away to the untouched mountain villages of Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Operated by Chill&Joy, the tour costs from $503.86 per person and includes a private transportation.
It starts at Tenryū-Futamata Station, with an approximate 60-minute transfer from JR Kakegawa Station. The day kicks off with seasonal and wild vegetable appetizers, followed by a handmade soba lunch.
Guests will also partake in a tea picking workshop and visit an up-and-coming ceramic artist’s studio to view jet-black pottery. The tour concludes back at the meeting point.
While lunch is included, the tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations. This isn’t a private tour, as other guests may join. Most travelers can participate, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Mountain Area in Hamamatsu Tour With Lunch & Seasonal Project Review
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Zen Experience and Walking Tour to Gotemba Local Hidden Gems
Eager to discover Gotemba’s lesser-known gems? This Zen Experience and Walking Tour promises an immersive cultural adventure.
Operated by Arigato Japan KK, the tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience. Priced from $496 per person, the tour includes a Zen experience led by an expert, a craft session at an indigo artist’s studio, and both lunch and dinner at local eateries.
Transportation is provided, with meeting points at Gotemba’s Tourist Information Center or a local cafe. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the tour is easily accessible from Gotemba Station.
Moderate fitness is required, as the tour involves walking. Guests can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
With a focus on local hidden gems, this Zen-inspired exploration of Gotemba promises an enriching and memorable adventure.
Read our full review: Zen Experience and Walking Tour to Gotemba Local Hidden Gems Review
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Atami Half-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide
A half-day private tour of Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture offers travelers the chance to explore this coastal city with a government-licensed guide. Priced from $98.15 per person, the tour is customizable, allowing visitors to select 2-3 sites from a list of options.
The private nature of the tour ensures that only your group will participate. While transportation between sites isn’t reserved, the guide will discuss the exact costs with you after booking.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and transportation. Travelers can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.
However, please note that tour dates may change up to 2 days before the experience, potentially resulting in a different guide or tour unavailability.
Read our full review: Atami Half-Day Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide Review
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The Sum Up
Shizuoka Prefecture offers a diverse range of tours catering to different interests. From adventurous Mount Fuji trekking to immersive cultural experiences, visitors can explore the region’s natural beauty and local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a full-day excursion or a shorter guided tour, Shizuoka provides ample opportunities to discover the best of what the prefecture has to offer.