Mt. Fuji: Small Bus Day Trip from Shimizu Port with Lake & Falls

Summary

Mt. Fuji lakeside, waterfalls and sacred shrine day tour by small bus

You’ll ride from Shimizu Port in a small group minibus with an English-speaking guide, stopping first at peaceful Lake Tanuki for views of Mt. Fuji before visiting Shiraito and Otodome Falls—both part of World Heritage sites—and ending at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine where locals still come to pray beneath ancient trees.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air around Mt. Fuji to feel so different—almost damp and sweet, like moss after rain. Our guide, Yuka, met us right at Shimizu Port (she had this bright scarf I could spot a mile away) and got us onto the little bus. Only about a dozen of us, which felt good—no shouting over crowds or anything. The drive up to Lake Tanuki was quiet except for someone’s kid giggling at the back and Yuka telling us how locals come here to camp or just stare at the mountain when it’s clear. She said most cruise tours skip this lake; honestly, I’m glad they do.

When we stepped out at Lake Tanuki, there was this soft wind that made the water shiver a bit—no big boats or tourist noise, just some families grilling lunch under pines. I tried to take a photo of Mt. Fuji’s reflection but got distracted by the smell of charcoal and someone playing old J-pop on a tinny radio nearby. We didn’t rush; Yuka let us wander, even pointed out where photographers usually set up for sunrise shots (not that I’d ever wake up that early). The main keyword here is “day trip Mt. Fuji from Shimizu Port,” but what stuck with me was how normal everything felt—like you could just stay all afternoon if you wanted.

The waterfalls came next—Shiraito and Otodome Falls are almost side by side but sound totally different. Shiraito is all mist and this hissing curtain of water; Otodome is louder, more like thunder in your chest. The path was easy enough for everyone (someone in our group had a stroller), and there’s even a spot for wheelchairs with a pretty decent view. I leaned over the railing and got sprayed in the face—cold!—and heard an older couple debating if the water really comes straight from Mt. Fuji (Yuka confirmed it does). There were schoolkids practicing their English nearby; one waved shyly at me.

Last stop was Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine—a mouthful to say, but Yuka helped us get it right (I still probably butchered it). She explained how people used to pray here so Mt. Fuji wouldn’t erupt, which made me look up at the mountain differently for a second—like it’s not just scenery but something people have worried about for centuries. There was incense drifting around and these bright red gates that looked almost fake against all the green trees. On the way back to Shimizu Port I kept thinking about that quiet moment by Lake Tanuki—the kind you don’t really plan for but remember anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mt.Fuji area tour from Shimizu Port

• Travel from Shimizu Port to Lake Tanuki
• Visit Lake Tanuki photo spot
• Travel from Lake Tanuki to Shiraito Falls
• Visit Shiraito Falls and Otodome Falls
• Travel from Shiraito Falls to Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine
• Visit Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine
• Return to Shimizu Port by bus

Top questions

Is pickup included from Shimizu Port?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at Shimizu Port are included in this tour.

How many people are on the small bus tour?

The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers per group.

Are the stops wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and there are viewing spots suitable for wheelchairs at Shiraito Falls.

How long does the day trip last?

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours round-trip from Shimizu Port.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is provided; however, you may see locals picnicking or grilling near Lake Tanuki during your stop.

What are the main attractions visited?

You’ll visit Lake Tanuki, Shiraito & Otodome Falls, and Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine—all near Mt. Fuji.

Can infants join? Are strollers allowed?

Infants can join; strollers/prams are welcome but please inform organizers about size/number in advance.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation by small bus from Shimizu Port with highway tolls covered, an English-speaking local guide throughout, parking fees taken care of, and accessible arrangements for wheelchairs or strollers if needed before returning you comfortably back to port in time for your ship’s schedule.