Nihondaira is a prominent hill (or plateau) in Shizuoka Prefecture, renowned for its panoramic vistas. It serves as a prime viewing spot for Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, the Izu Peninsula, and the Southern Alps, making it a significant natural landmark in the region. The area is also a gateway to the historic Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, accessible via the Nihondaira Ropeway, which adds a cultural dimension to the visit.
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views, especially on clear days when Mount Fuji is visible. Many highlight the convenience of the Nihondaira Ropeway, which provides a scenic and efficient way to reach Kunozan Toshogu Shrine without a strenuous climb. The ride itself is often described as enjoyable, offering unique perspectives of the coastline and surrounding landscapes. Reviewers frequently mention combining the ropeway trip with a visit to the shrine, noting the combined experience as a major draw. The area is generally perceived as less crowded, particularly during off-peak seasons, contributing to a more serene experience.
However, a recurring theme in reviews is the unpredictable visibility of Mount Fuji. Many visitors express disappointment when clouds obscure the iconic peak, emphasizing that a clear day is crucial for the full experience. The ropeway, while scenic, is noted for being a standing-only ride that can get crowded, potentially limiting views for those in the middle. Some find the ropeway ticket price a bit high for the short duration of the ride if not combined with the shrine visit. For those prone to motion sickness, the mountain path leading up to Nihondaira should be considered.
To make the most of your visit, aim for a clear day, ideally in the morning, to increase your chances of seeing Mount Fuji. Allocate 1-2 hours for Nihondaira itself, plus additional time if you plan to visit Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (which is highly recommended by reviewers). Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the ropeway and shrine to save money. If you are sensitive to crowds, try to visit early in the morning or during weekdays. Bring a good camera for the views and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the area around the observation deck or the zoo mentioned by some visitors.
Nihondaira is accessible by bus from Shizuoka Station. Reviewers mention a 40-minute bus ride to the cable car station. For those driving, there are parking facilities available. The Nihondaira Ropeway connects the plateau to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, with the ropeway station located at Nihondaira. The ropeway ride itself is about 5 minutes. If you are coming from the 'strawberry road' along the ocean, some visitors suggest climbing stairs to the shrine first, then taking the ropeway down to Nihondaira.
The primary complaint is the obscured view of Mount Fuji due to weather. To mitigate this, check the weather forecast meticulously before your visit, focusing on visibility. While the ropeway can be crowded, arriving early can help secure a better viewing spot within the gondola. If the ropeway is out of service, as noted in some reviews, be prepared for a long climb of over 1,000 steps to reach Kunozan Toshogu Shrine from the base.
