Mt. Fuji Says, “Good Morning, ms Westerdam” from Shimizu, Japan

---

Tour Day 128, Cruise Day 26 – Shimizu, Japan – We had a notably topsy-turvy night getting to Shimizu, and, indeed, the captain announced we had aborted our first approach to the harbor because of the persistent high winds. Our second approach was successful, we arrived under brilliant blue skies and were greeted by a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji. My shore excursion didn’t begin until 1200 hours, so I circled the ship on the walking deck, watching the docking proceedings and taking several pictures I hope you enjoy.

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion

Begin this spiritual day with a coach ride to Nihondaira Park Outlook -- a Prefecture Natural Park and the perfect spot to take in views of Suruga Bay and magnificent Mt Fuji (weather permitting). Board the scenic ropeway (cable car) for a stunning ride to the top of the mountain.

Visit the Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616) -- the famous leader who brought peace to Japan after a long period of civil war. His extensive shrine complex features bright red buildings ornately decorated and constructed in the Shinto shrine style. A designated Cultural Landmark, its grounds include a massive front gate, a drum tower, copper lanterns and a main building with three magnificently decorated halls. Within a secluded, wooded area, you'll find the tomb of Ieyasu.

The ropeway returns you to the coach for the drive back to port.

Notes:

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Participants must negotiate 120 steep steps at the shrine. The small museum near the tomb of Ieyasu is not included in the tour. Views of Mt Fuji are weather permitting. No guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day, as weather and atmospheric conditions vary and are beyond the tour operator’s control.

---

Photos

Arriving in Port – Shimizu, Japan
Mt. Fuji Took Center Stage from the Outset

Securing Our Place at the Pier – Shimizu, Japan
Starboard Side – A "Tug" Boat Getting Ready to "Push" Us Closer to the Pier

Arriving in Port – Shimizu, Japan
Port Side

Securing Our Place at the Pier – Shimizu, Japan
The Small Rope Is Thrown to the Dock Hand and Is Attached to the Bigger Rope

Securing Our Place at the Pier – Shimizu, Japan
The Truck Pulls the Bigger Rope and the Attached Mooring Line to the Pier

Securing Our Place at the Pier – Shimizu, Japan
A Loop in the Mooring Line Is Placed Over the Cleat and the Mooring Line Is Pulled Taut by Gear on the Ship

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Finally, Some Cherry Blossoms

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Folding Seats Maximize the Bus Capacity

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
From the Parking Area, We Took a Tram to the Shrine Area

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Left Panel – 90 Steps to he Shrine; Right Panel – 1068 Steps to the Beach

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Alright, 90 I Can Navigate

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
More Cherry Blossoms

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Cloud Cover Increased with Each Passing Minute

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
But It Never Rained

“Nihondaira Outlook & Kunozan Toshogu Shrine“ Shore Excursion – Shimizu, Japan
Just Obscured Mt. Fuji