Shimizu, Japan

Tōkaidō Hiroshige Art Museum & Sumpu Castle Park

Spotlight on Japanese Art and Nature Discover the aesthetics of the Edo period during an excursion showcasing Japan’s history and nature. Drive to Yui Honjin Park, located at the 53rd station along the famous Tōkaidō road, where you will enjoy a cup of tea at a traditional teahouse before visiting Shizuoka’s Tōkaidō Hiroshige Museum of Art. View the delicate lines and vivid depictions of the ukiyo-e , a genre of woodblock printing—many of which are by the famed master Utagawa Hiroshige. Continue to Sumpu Castle; originally built by Tokugawa Ieyasu during the late 16th-century, it was restored after a fire but left to decline during the Edo era. Today, it operates as a park, famed for its cherry tree blossoms during spring and the vivid azaleas that bloom in May. Explore with your guide and learn about its history and former grandeur, with time to appreciate the grounds before returning to your ship. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.