Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha & Calligraphy Shimizu Port

Shizuoka , Japan

Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha & Calligraphy Shimizu Port

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(14 reviews)

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About this experience

4-in-1 Shizuoka shore tour from Shimizu Port: temple, Zen meditation, matcha & calligraphy.
Meet at Shimizu Station – English-friendly, no long walking.

A relaxing cultural shore excursion designed for cruise travelers.
Visit Seikenji Temple, experience Zen meditation, enjoy matcha with seasonal sweets, and learn Japanese calligraphy with a local English-speaking guide.

Highlights
- 4-in-1 cultural experience: temple, Zen, matcha & calligraphy
- Small group (max 10) / ~4 hours / easy pace
- Cruise-friendly schedule & meeting point
- Local guide with cultural insight

Details
- Duration: ~4 hours
- Meet 10:20 → take the 10:40 bus together
- Comfortable clothing recommended (chairs available)
- After booking: map + meeting photo + step-by-step directions provided

Available options

Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha & Calligraphy Shimizu Port

What's included

Seiken-ji Temple entrance fee The admission fee to Seiken-ji Temple is included in the tour price.

Calligraphy experience: Write your kanji name with brush and ink

Round-trip local bus fare between Shimizu Station and the temple is included in the tour price.

Guided zazen (Zen meditation) experience at Zuiun-in Temple is included.

Matcha green tea and a seasonal Japanese sweet are included as part of the cultural experience.

Detailed itinerary

Visit Seiken-ji Temple, a historic Zen Buddhist temple with over 1,000 years of history. The temple is famously associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, who studied here as a child. Guests will explore the serene temple grounds, admire its traditional wooden architecture, and gain insight into the role this temple played in shaping Japanese history and culture.

At Zuiun-in Temple, you'll enjoy a peaceful introduction to Japanese Zen culture.

Start with a zazen (seated meditation) session guided by a Zen monk. Focus on your breath and posture to experience a calm moment of mindfulness.

After meditation, enjoy matcha green tea and seasonal Japanese sweets in a traditional tatami room. Learn the basics of Japanese tea culture and hospitality.

Next is a unique calligraphy experience. Based on the sound of your name, you’ll be offered several beautiful kanji characters, each with a positive meaning such as “love,” “peace,” or “smile.” Choose your favorite, and learn to write it with brush and ink. You’ll take home your own handmade art as a special souvenir.

For those interested, we can also explain the traditional concept of stroke count balance, used in Japan to select kanji characters with good fortune and harmony.

This experience is a perfect way to relax, learn, and connect with Japanese culture in an authentic and personal way.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests are responsible for arriving at the meeting point on their own.

Meals are not included other than the matcha tea and Japanese sweet provided during the experience.

Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, extra food or drinks)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

13 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point – From Shimizu Port:
Take the free shuttle near the Ferris wheel to JR Shimizu Station (5 min). Cruise ship buses may also be available—please confirm with ship staff. Taxi takes 5 min. Our staff waits at the station bus stop with a welcome sign.

About Shizuoka

Shizuoka is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, traditional Japanese culture, and world-renowned green tea. It offers a blend of urban attractions, natural beauty, and historic sites, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Mount Fuji

One of Japan's most iconic landmarks, Mount Fuji offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Nature Full day Free to view, hiking permits may be required

Shizuoka Sengoku Castle

A historic castle with beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing the region's history.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥300

Miho no Matsubara

A scenic pine tree-lined beach with stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shizuoka Sushi

Fresh sushi made with local seafood, including tuna and yellowtail.

Dinner Contains fish and seafood.

Houtou

A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat, a local specialty.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Green Tea Soft Serve

A sweet and refreshing treat made with locally grown green tea.

Dessert Vegan and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mount Fuji Surfing at Miho no Matsubara Kayaking in Shimizu Port Onsen (hot springs) in Hakone Tea tasting in Shizuoka Beach relaxation in Numazu Visiting Shizuoka Sengoku Castle Exploring the Shizuoka Tea Museum

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Shizuoka is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.