Enjoy Travel to Japan!
Home

Miho no Matsubara, Shizuoka – Iconic Pine Grove with Mt Fuji and Coastal Scenery

Miho no Matsubara, Shizuoka – Iconic Pine Grove with Mt Fuji and Coastal Scenery
Miho no Matsubara in Shizuoka’s Shimizu district is a famous seaside pine grove where rows of black pines stretch along a white sand beach with Mt Fuji rising in the background. This guide explains the story of the Hagoromo pine, the best viewpoints and walking paths, how to access the area by bus or car, nearby spots such as Miho Shrine, Nihondaira and Shimizu Port, plus recommended times of day and tips for photographers and first-time visitors.

Highlights

Miho-no-Matsubara at a Glance

Miho-no-Matsubara is a scenic spot in Shizuoka where around 30,000 black pines and a white-sand beach stretch along a coastline with views of Mt. Fuji—ideal for a seaside stroll and photo stops in one visit.

Best Time for Mt. Fuji × Pine Grove Photos

The biggest draw of Miho-no-Matsubara is the view pairing Mt. Fuji with the pine grove; early morning or late afternoon often brings clearer air and softer light, making it easier to capture clean, beautiful photos.

Hagoromo Legend Spot

The area is home to Hagoromo no Matsu, linked to the “Hagoromo (celestial robe) legend,” where you can soak up the mystical atmosphere that feels unique to Miho-no-Matsubara.

Walk the Pine-Grove Path

Stroll along the walking paths through the pine grove and enjoy a relaxing seaside walk with the scent of pines and the sound of waves.

Side Trip: Miho Shrine

Nearby Miho Shrine is known as a guardian of safe voyages and fishing, making it easy to pair with Miho-no-Matsubara for a convenient set itinerary.

Access (Bus / Car)

JR Shizuoka Station → JR Shimizu Station (about 13 min) → bus about 25 min, get off at “Miho Matsubara Iriguchi” → walk about 15–20 min. By car: about 25 min from Tomei Expressway Shimizu IC / about 35 min from Shizuoka IC (may vary with traffic).

Admission & Suggested Time

Miho-no-Matsubara is free to enter. Plan about 1 hour for a simple walk, or about 3–4 hours if you include the surrounding area. With sandy beach areas and walking paths, comfortable walking shoes are a good idea.

For the latest information, please refer to official announcements or check on site.

What Is Miho no Matsubara? A UNESCO World Heritage Mt. Fuji Viewpoint in Shizuoka

Miho no Matsubara is one of Japan’s most iconic scenic spots, located on the Miho Peninsula in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture.

A pine grove stretches along roughly 7 km of coastline, and the majestic view of Mt. Fuji across Suruga Bay captivates visitors year-round.

In 2013, it was registered as a component asset of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site “Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration,” drawing travelers from Japan and abroad.

The landscape has appeared in classical poetry such as the Man’yōshū and in ukiyo-e prints, and is also known as a symbol of Japanese aesthetics.

Miho no Matsubara is counted among Japan’s Three Great Pine Groves and has also been selected for the “100 Best White Sand and Green Pine Landscapes of Japan.”

Experience the charm of Japan in Miho no Matsubara, where history, culture, and nature come together in one unforgettable place.


How to Get to Miho no Matsubara (Access Guide)

Miho no Matsubara is easy to reach from central Shizuoka, making it a convenient spot to visit by public transportation or by car.

By Public Transportation

  1. From JR Shimizu Station by bus
  2. Take the Shizutetsu Justline bus “Miho Yamanote Line” from JR Shimizu Station for about 25 minutes.
  3. Get off at the “Miho Matsubara Iriguchi” bus stop, then walk about 15 minutes to reach the pine grove.
  4. From Shin-Shimizu Station (Shizutetsu Railway) by bus
  5. You can take the same bus route from Shin-Shimizu Station as well.
  6. Depending on the time of day, there may be direct services to the Matsubara Parking Lot.

By Car

It takes about 25 minutes from Tomei Expressway Shimizu IC, or about 35 minutes from Shizuoka IC.

Nearby parking lots, including the Matsubara Parking Lot, are available free of charge.

However, weekends and peak travel seasons can get crowded, so arriving early is recommended.


Top Things to Do at Miho no Matsubara

1. Stunning Mt. Fuji Views Over Suruga Bay

The biggest highlight of Miho no Matsubara is the scenery of pine trees with Mt. Fuji rising beyond Suruga Bay.

Early morning and late afternoon are especially photogenic, with beautiful contrast between light and shadow—perfect for photography.

Winter offers crisp air and excellent visibility, making it one of the best seasons to see snow-capped Mt. Fuji.

2. Hagoromo no Matsu (Hagoromo Pine Tree)

Hagoromo no Matsu appears in the “Hagoromo” heavenly maiden legend and is cherished as a sacred pine connected to Miho Shrine (Miho Jinja).

The current Hagoromo no Matsu is the third-generation Japanese black pine.

3. Strolling Through the Pine Grove and the “Path of the Gods”

The shoreline beside the pine grove is ideal for a relaxed walk.

Enjoy a peaceful moment while the scent of pines and the sound of waves soothe the senses.

The solemn approach lined with pines for about 500 meters—known as the “Path of the Gods” (Kami no Michi)—runs from Hagoromo no Matsu to Miho Shrine and is well worth seeing.

4. Miho Shrine (Miho Jinja)

Located very close to Miho no Matsubara, Miho Shrine is an ancient shrine closely tied to the Hagoromo legend.

It is said to bring blessings such as safe voyages and good relationships, and is also popular as a spiritual power spot.

Shrine treasures connected to the Hagoromo legend have been handed down here.

5. Mihoshirube (Shizuoka City Miho Matsubara Cultural & Creative Center)

At the World Heritage guidance facility “Mihoshirube,” you can learn about the history and culture of Miho Matsubara through videos and exhibits.

Admission is free, and there are no closed days.

On winter weekends and public holidays, a footbath may be available, but it can be canceled depending on weather conditions.

Even on days when Mt. Fuji is not visible due to bad weather, you can still experience Miho Matsubara’s four seasons in the video theater.


Nearby Attractions

1. Nihondaira Plateau (Nihondaira)

Nihondaira, about 30 minutes by car from Miho no Matsubara, is one of Shizuoka’s best viewpoints.

You can also access Kunōzan Tōshōgū Shrine via the Nihondaira Ropeway, making it a great sightseeing route.

Nihondaira Yume Terrace offers a 360-degree panoramic view.

2. Shimizu Port & S-Pulse Dream Plaza

Shimizu Port is close to Miho no Matsubara and is a great place for fresh seafood, dining, and shopping.

At Magurokan, you can enjoy local specialty tuna rice bowls made with fresh tuna from Shimizu.


Helpful Tips for Travelers

Best Time of Day & Best Season to Visit

Mt. Fuji looks especially beautiful at sunrise and around dusk.

Early morning is recommended because it’s quieter, letting you enjoy sightseeing at a relaxed pace.

Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather for walking and exploring.

Entrance Fee

Miho no Matsubara is free to visit.

Mihoshirube is also free to enter.

Parking is available free of charge as well.

How Much Time to Plan

Allow about 60–90 minutes for walking around Miho no Matsubara, or about 2 hours if you also visit Mihoshirube.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes (for sandy beaches and pine-grove paths)
  • A camera or smartphone (to capture Mt. Fuji views)
  • Sunscreen and a hat (especially essential in summer)
  • Warm layers (winter coastal winds can feel very cold)

Etiquette & Safety Tips

Miho no Matsubara is a component asset of a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

To protect pine roots, do not enter fenced areas.

Please take your trash home and help preserve the natural environment.

Pay attention to wave conditions on the beach, and avoid swimming outside designated areas.

Summary

Miho no Matsubara is one of Shizuoka’s top destinations, where Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage come together.

The scenery of Mt. Fuji, the pine grove, and the Hagoromo legend will stay with you as a lifelong memory.

If you visit Shizuoka, be sure to stop by Miho no Matsubara.

Enjoy Shizuoka’s signature panorama—Mt. Fuji and the pine grove woven into a UNESCO World Heritage landscape!


Frequently Asked Questions

A. Miho no Matsubara is a coastal pine grove in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, and it is a component property of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site "Mount Fuji," which reflects Fuji worship and artistic traditions. The sand spit stretches about 7 km with long rows of pines, so on a clear morning, aiming for Mount Fuji across the sea can make for great photos. If it is your first visit, check a map and narrow down your must-see spots to two or three to get around more smoothly.
A. Strolling around Miho no Matsubara itself is free, and you can walk freely from the pine grove to the shoreline. If you stop by the tourist information center "Miho Shirube," you can pick up a map, so confirming your route first helps you avoid getting lost. Even if entry and walks are free, items like goshuin stamps, charms, and food/drink may require a separate offering or fee.
A. From the JR Shimizu Station area, you can take a local bus toward the "Miho Matsubara Iriguchi" area. If you have a lot of luggage, the sandy paths after getting off the bus can be hard to walk on, so using station coin lockers and traveling light is more comfortable. There is some walking involved, so on rainy days, choose shoes with good grip for peace of mind.
A. Hagoromo Park Parking is available and can accommodate 173 standard cars, and it is free to use. It can fill up easily during the day, so if you are going mainly for photos, arriving early and walking "Kami no Michi" (the Path of the Gods) first makes it easier to shoot with fewer people around. In peak seasons, not only entry but also exit can get congested, so it is reassuring to allow extra time for your departure.
A. If you focus on a few highlights, you can enjoy the pine grove in a short time, but if you plan to walk all the way to the beach, it is safer to build in some extra time. Sandy ground can get into your shoes, so comfortable sneakers and a spare pair of socks can make the walk more pleasant. There is some walking involved, so on rainy days, choose shoes with good grip for peace of mind.
A. Miho Shirube is open from 9:00 to 16:30. If you check the exhibits before your walk to understand the background of the Hagoromo legend, the landscape can feel different on-site, and it is also handy as a rest stop on the way back. Near closing time, exhibits and the shop can feel rushed, so arriving with time to spare helps you enjoy it calmly.
A. Mount Fuji tends to be more visible on winter mornings when the air is clear, or after rain. If you want to frame Fuji through the pines, head out toward the beach side and include more of the horizon to emphasize the "Matsubara" feel. To reduce people in your shot, a vertical composition or shooting from a slightly higher position can be effective.
A. Nearby, you can visit Miho Shrine (Miho Jinja), "Kami no Michi" (the Path of the Gods), and Hagoromo no Matsu (the Hagoromo Pine), known from the Hagoromo legend. The approach from Miho Shrine to the pine grove has a great atmosphere, so taking this route for either your outbound or return walk can boost overall satisfaction. Visiting places in the same area together reduces travel time and helps you use your day efficiently.

Nearby Recommended Spots

Check out recommended articles in this area

※ The article content is based on information at the time of writing and may differ from the current situation. In addition, we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the published content, please understand.