Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha & Calligraphy Shimizu Port

Shizuoka Shore Excursion: Zen, Matcha & Calligraphy at Shimizu Port

Imagine stepping off your cruise ship in Shimizu and finding yourself deeply immersed in Japanese traditions, all within a few hours. That’s exactly what this Shizuoka shore excursion offers — a balanced mix of history, mindfulness, and hands-on cultural activities designed for cruise travelers looking to make the most of their port stop.

The experience combines a visit to a historic temple linked to Tokugawa Ieyasu, a calming Zen meditation session, authentic matcha with seasonal sweets, and a calligraphy lesson where you get to craft your own name on a traditional washi scroll. We love that it’s a small-group tour with cruise-friendly timing—ideal for those wanting an authentic yet relaxed cultural taste.

One thing to keep in mind is the limited walking involved; it’s suited for those with moderate mobility and comfortable attire for meditation. While the tour packs in a lot, it’s relatively short and priced at around $95, making it a valuable way to connect with Japanese traditions without overextending your time ashore.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who seek meaningful cultural experiences, enjoy hands-on activities, or want a gentle introduction to Japan’s Zen and artistic roots. It’s perfect if you prefer intimate groups, authentic insights, and a well-organized schedule.

Key Points

• Cultural depth: Combines temple history, Zen practice, matcha, and calligraphy in one tour.
• Short & sweet: Around 3.5 hours, ideal for cruise schedules.
• Small-group experience: Max 10 travelers for personalized attention.
• Cruise-friendly: Starts at Shimizu Station with easy meeting instructions.
• Inclusive transportation: Round-trip bus fare included, no hidden costs.
• Authentic but relaxed: No long walks, chairs available for meditation, casual attire suitable.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meet at Shimizu Station and Ease into the Day

Your journey begins at Shimizu Station’s East Exit, where you’ll meet your local, English-speaking guide at 10:20 am — arriving a few minutes early is recommended. From there, a short local bus ride at 10:40 takes you to your first stop, Seiken-ji Temple. The fact that transportation is included is a real plus, removing any guesswork about logistics and allowing you to relax and focus on the experience ahead.

Visiting Seiken-ji Temple: A Window into Japan’s Past

This temple isn’t just a pretty photo op — it’s a 1,000-year-old Zen Buddhist site tied to Japan’s most famous shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu. As you wander its wooden corridors and traditional structures, you’ll get a sense of the spiritual and historical significance. One reviewer notes that the guide provided a lot of background detail, helping bring the temple’s story alive. The admission fee is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs here.

Zen Meditation at Zuiun-in Temple: Calmness in Practice

Next, you step into Zuiun-in Temple for a guided zazen session. Here, you’ll sit on tatami mats, focusing on your breath and posture — a relaxing, grounding moment that many find unexpectedly moving. Guests say the experience is very impactful, with one reviewer mentioning how peaceful they felt afterward. Chairs are available, making it accessible for those who prefer or need seated meditation.

Enjoying Matcha and Seasonal Sweets

Post-meditation, it’s time for a taste of Japan’s iconic matcha green tea paired with seasonal sweets. It’s a relaxed moment where you can chat with your guide and fellow travelers, soaking in the calm atmosphere. This part of the tour is appreciated for its authentic presentation of Japanese hospitality and tea ceremony basics, making it more than just a snack.

The Calligraphy Challenge: Writing Your Name in Kanji

The highlight for many is the calligraphy experience. Based on the sound of your name, you’ll select from several Kanji characters, each carrying a positive meaning such as love or peace. Using brush and ink, you’ll write your chosen character and take home your very own washi scroll—a tangible memory of your trip. Reviewers mention that this activity offers a delightful dose of creativity and personal achievement, with one calling it a “very special, unique challenge.”

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up around 2:00 pm, returning you to the meeting point at Shimizu Station. The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, fitting comfortably into a port day while leaving you with meaningful memories and new skills.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included:

• Round-trip bus fare between Shimizu Station and the temples
• Guided Zen meditation at Zuiun-in Temple
• Matcha, sweets, and calligraphy materials
• Entrance to Seiken-ji Temple

Not Included:

• Hotel pickup or drop-off (you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point)
• Additional meals beyond the matcha and sweets
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra food/drinks)

The tour’s cost of $95.89 per person offers good value considering the depth of activities and inclusion of transportation. The small group size (max 10) ensures a personalized, intimate experience, which reviewers say makes for an especially engaging visit.

What Past Travelers Say

One reviewer, Douglas, described the day as “delightful,” praising the guide’s detailed background and the impactful meditation. They also appreciated the calligraphy challenge, describing it as “very special” and “rewarding.” Many highlight how authentic and meaningful the activities felt, and the fact that chairs are available for meditation makes it accessible.

The limited walking makes this experience suitable for most, and the carefully curated schedule means you won’t feel rushed or exhausted. If your cruise dock is at Shimizu Port and you want a taste of Japanese culture that’s both hands-on and historically grounded, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This is an excellent choice for travelers eager to connect with Japanese traditions in a relaxed setting. It suits those who enjoy participatory experiences like calligraphy and meditation, rather than just sightseeing. It’s also perfect for cruise visitors with limited time but a desire for authentic culture.

If you’re after a small-group, personalized experience that’s easy to fit into a port day and offers genuine insight into Japan’s Zen and artistic heritage, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and meaningful engagement over flashy attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I meet the tour?
You meet your guide at the Shimizu Station East Exit at 10:20 am, with a provided photo and map to help find the exact spot.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the round-trip local bus fare between Shimizu Station and the temples is included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable option for a port day.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, especially for meditation — chairs are available if you prefer to sit during Zen practice.

Do I need to bring anything?
No special items are required; all calligraphy materials and instructions are provided. Just bring a sense of curiosity and an open mind.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with light walking and sitting for meditation.

Are there any extra costs?
No, the tour fee covers all activities, transportation, and entrance fees. Souvenirs and extra food are not included.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Shizuoka shore excursion offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Japanese culture in just a few relaxing hours. With its focus on history, mindfulness, tea, and calligraphy, it balances educational content with hands-on fun. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the inclusion of transportation and materials makes it straightforward and stress-free.

It’s perfect for travelers craving a meaningful, culturally rich experience that won’t take up your whole day. Whether you’re a history buff, a tea lover, or simply curious about Zen and calligraphy, this tour promises a genuine taste of Japan’s artistic and spiritual traditions — all in a friendly, intimate setting.