1. Meet at Shizuoka Station and take a stroll to the historic Sumpu Castle Park, where the great Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu once established his base and lived until his passing. While much of the original castle has been lost, the impressive reconstruction of the turrets and gate offers a glimpse into its glorious past, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Explore the museum and the ruins of the main tower.

2. Take a bus from the station to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, where Ieyasu Tokugawa was enshrined after his death. Climb 1,159 stone steps to reach the main building of the shrine, and enjoy a beautiful view of Suruga Bay along the way. The main building, decorated with Japanese lacquer, is a national treasure. The museum displays historic items that belonged to Ieyasu. Note: You may also choose to take the ropeway round trip instead of climbing the stairs.

3. After visiting the shrine, hop on the Nihondaira Ropeway from the shrine. This 5-minute ride connects two mountains, reaching 90 meters above the ground. Enjoy  beautiful natural scenery of the surrounding mountains and Suruga Bay. At the Ropeway Station, you can also pick up souvenirs to remember your visit.

4. Next to the ropeway station is Nihondaira Yume Terrace, an open-air observatory with a stunning 360-degree panoramic view. Nihondaira, a national scenic spot and one of Japan’s top 100 tourist destinations, offers breathtaking views, including Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay, often seen in traditional Ukiyo-e prints. From this deck, you can see the land Tokugawa Ieyasu ruled 400 years ago and reflect on that time in history. Please note: Mount Fuji may not be visible due to weather conditions, and refunds will not be offered in such cases.

5. Take a bus back to Shizuoka Station.