Tokyo: Shizuoka Day Trip with Kimono Photoshoot & Ukiyo-e

Tokyo: Shizuoka Day Trip with Kimono Photoshoot & Ukiyo-e offers a rare chance to explore Japan’s artistic and natural beauty in a single day. For around $2,156 per group of up to two people, you’ll travel from Tokyo in a luxury vehicle, don a traditional kimono, and take memorable photos in Ginza. You’ll also enjoy a scenic walk along the Fuji River, indulge in a delicious meal featuring sashimi and sakura shrimp, and learn about ukiyo-e printmaking at the Hiroshige Museum.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic culture with personalized touches — dressing in a kimono in Ginza makes for a truly memorable photo opportunity, and the visit to the Hiroshige Museum deepens your appreciation for traditional Japanese art. Plus, the walk along the Fuji River with views of Mt. Fuji offers tranquil scenery that’s hard to beat.

The one drawback? The trip’s price is on the higher side for a day tour, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. It’s a private experience, which adds to the exclusivity but also bumps up the cost.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized cultural experiences, enjoy a mix of scenic beauty and art, and are happy to splurge a little on a comprehensive, well-organized day out. If you want a taste of traditional Japan, combined with some leisure and beautiful photography, this trip checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural blending: Kimono photoshoot and Ukiyo-e art experience in one day.
• Scenic beauty: Walks along the Fuji River with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.
• Gourmet lunch: Sashimi, tempura, and sakura shrimp rice, showcasing local cuisine.
• Expert guidance: Private driver-guide ensures a smooth, personalized experience.
• Memorable souvenirs: Original Global Kimono and hands-on Ukiyo-e printing.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What Makes This Tour Special

Traveling from Tokyo to Shizuoka in a luxury car with a dedicated driver-guide means you can relax without worrying about navigating busy streets or train schedules. The entire experience is designed to combine comfort with authenticity, giving you a true taste of Japan’s cultural riches in a single day.

The Kimono Photoshoot in Ginza: Dressing Up and Making Memories

We start our day with a kimono photoshoot at a stylish lounge in Ginza. Here, you’ll be fitted in an original Global Kimono, which you’ll also keep as a keepsake. The staff is friendly and skilled, making the process smooth even if you’re new to kimono dressing. The photos taken here turn out to be charming and natural, capturing the essence of traditional Japan with a modern twist. As one reviewer described, “Getting dressed in the kimono and walking around Ginza felt like stepping into a different era.”

This is not just about the photos; it’s about feeling immersed in the culture, even if just for a few hours, and having tangible souvenirs of your trip. The photos are taken in a beautiful, well-lit space, ensuring your memories are vibrant and shareable.

Scenic Walk Along the Fuji River and Mt. Fuji Viewpoints

Next, we head to the Fuji River, a peaceful stretch of water that offers some of the best views of Mt. Fuji. You’ll walk along the riverbank, where the scenery is punctuated by cherry blossoms in season and the drying sakura shrimp—an iconic sight in Shizuoka. One guest mentioned, “The combination of the river, the mountain, and the shrimp drying all over the place made the scenery feel alive and authentic.”

The walk is leisurely, giving you time to soak in the tranquility and snap plenty of photos. The highlight is a designated photo spot where the Shinkansen, Mt. Fuji, and cherry blossoms converge — perfect for a memorable shot. The combination of natural beauty and Japanese industrial achievement in the form of the bullet train makes for a compelling scene.

Satta Pass and Ukiyo-e Art: Connecting Land, Sea, and Art

A visit to Satta Pass allows you to see the dramatic confluence of sea, mountain, and sky—a favorite theme in ukiyo-e prints. The view here is reminiscent of what famous artists like Hiroshige captured, and it’s mesmerizing to stand where the landscape has inspired generations of artists.

The highlight of the cultural portion of the day is the visit to the Hiroshige Museum, where you’ll learn about ukiyo-e, Japan’s woodblock print art. You’ll also get to try printing your own ukiyo-e, which is both fun and educational. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with the craftsmanship behind these iconic images, making the art feel more approachable and personal. Multiple reviews emphasize how engaging and informative this part of the tour was, with one guest noting, “The ukiyo-e printing was surprisingly accessible, and I loved creating my own piece of art.”

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Delicious Lunch Featuring Local Specialties

Lunch is a hearty, course-style meal of sashimi, tempura, and sakura shrimp rice. This is an ideal way to experience local flavors, especially for seafood lovers. The sashimi is fresh, and the tempura is crispy without being greasy, showcasing skilled preparation. The sakura shrimp rice is a regional specialty, offering a taste of Shizuoka’s renowned seafood industry. Many reviews highlight how the lunch balanced quality and authenticity, making it well worth the price.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip caters best to travelers interested in art, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal if you enjoy wearing traditional clothing, exploring Japan’s natural landscapes, and learning about its artistic legacy. The private nature of the tour means it’s tailored and intimate—perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The total duration is a full day, with pick-up from your Tokyo hotel and drop-off at your preferred location within the city afterward. The transportation is in a luxury vehicle, which ensures comfort on the approximately 2-hour ride each way. The group is small and private, making it flexible and intimate.

The experience includes a dedicated driver-guide, kimono photoshoot, original kimono souvenir, sashimi lunch, and ukiyo-e printing. Notably, the experience is offered in both English and Japanese, accommodating international travelers.

While the experience is rich and detailed, it’s important to note it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and travelers should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and sunscreen. The price reflects the personalized service, unique activities, and all-inclusive nature, providing good value if you’re looking for an authentic, luxurious cultural day out.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation

You can reserve now with the option to pay later, providing some flexibility if your plans change. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour offers a lovely blend of art, scenery, and tradition, making it ideal for those who want a full culture with some luxurious touches. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized service and are willing to invest in a memorable, high-quality day trip. Those interested in traditional Japanese arts like ukiyo-e will find this especially rewarding, as well as anyone craving a unique photo keepsake dressed in kimono.

However, if your primary focus is budget travel, or if you prefer a more active or self-guided adventure, this might not be the best choice. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience designed for travelers who want to indulge a little while gaining meaningful insights into Japan’s artistic and natural heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, although the price is for a group of up to two people, solo travelers can participate, but they should be willing to pay the full cost. The experience is private, so you’ll enjoy personalized attention.

How long does the trip last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting from your hotel pick-up in Tokyo and ending with a drop-off within the city. Expect approximately 8-10 hours total, including travel and activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing depending on the season, a camera for photos, and sunscreen are recommended. Since the experience involves outdoor walking and photos, these items will enhance your comfort.

Is the kimono photoshoot included?
Yes, you’ll be dressed in an original Global Kimono, and the photos will be taken at a designated lounge. You keep the kimono as a souvenir.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Japanese?
The tour is offered in both English and Japanese, so language should not be a barrier. Your guide will help explain each activity clearly.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider your mobility needs before booking.

This trip offers a compelling way to experience parts of Japan that are often missed by typical travelers. Combining scenic walks, artistic exploration, and authentic cuisine, it’s a carefully balanced day that leaves you with beautiful memories and cultural insights. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this experience provides a meaningful look at Japan’s artistic soul and stunning landscapes—all in one well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: