On February 12, international and Japanese students from our university and Sophia University participated in a study tour exploring local industries that leverage Suruga Bay's geography and resources. This tour, part of our COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) project, marked its sixth edition since 2019.
In the morning, students visited Nihondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, learning about the area's unique terrain and historical background. They then toured the stone-walled strawberry farms in the Kuno district, studying traditional cultivation methods adapted to the hillside landscape and warm climate.
In the afternoon, the group visited Miho no Matsubara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to understand the value of scenic resources and their connection to tourism. They also toured the Shimizu Port container terminal, learning how Suruga Bay's geographic advantages support international shipping and the regional economy.
Through this tour, students gained a multifaceted understanding of how Suruga Bay's natural environment contributes to the development of diverse local industries, including agriculture, tourism, and maritime logistics.
In the morning, students visited Nihondaira and Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, learning about the area's unique terrain and historical background. They then toured the stone-walled strawberry farms in the Kuno district, studying traditional cultivation methods adapted to the hillside landscape and warm climate.
In the afternoon, the group visited Miho no Matsubara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to understand the value of scenic resources and their connection to tourism. They also toured the Shimizu Port container terminal, learning how Suruga Bay's geographic advantages support international shipping and the regional economy.
Through this tour, students gained a multifaceted understanding of how Suruga Bay's natural environment contributes to the development of diverse local industries, including agriculture, tourism, and maritime logistics.
Tour Destinations
Nihondaira Yume Terrace, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine (Suruga Ward, Shizuoka City)
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, National Treasure Hall
View of Suruga Bay from Kunozan
Ishigaki Strawberry Farm, Yamauchiya (Suruga Ward, Shizuoka City)
Learning Kuno strawberry history
Tasting stone-wall strawberries
Shimizu Port Cruise, Miho no Matsubara (Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City)
Students enjoying Suruga Bay cruise
Cultural experience at Miho no Matsubara
Shimizu Container Terminal Co., Ltd. and Suzuyo Co., Ltd.（Shimizu-ward, Shizuoka City）
Students learning about port logistics
Commemorative photo with gantry crane
Comments from Participating Students
I think the tour was a good gateway to learning Shizuoka as a whole. In just one day, we were able to experience and learn different aspects of Shizuoka, the history, the economy, agriculture, landscaping and how Shizuoka connects with Japan and the rest of the world. The visit to the Kunozan Toshogu shrine deeply encapsulates the tradition and history of Japanese people in Shizuoka, showcasing how rich the culture and traditions maintain until today. Visiting Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira Yume Terrace really made me understand how much Japan cherishes and preserves the natural landscapes of Shizuoka. Visiting the strawberry farms helped me to deeply understand local efforts in working with the natural terrain and honestly make a living. The hard work of local agricultural workers and families is honestly something to look up to. Besides that, Shizuoka also ensures that its constantly connected to the rest of Japan and the world, with its global standard ports connecting business from in and out of Japan. Overall, this tour has been a good collection of aspects of Shizuoka that may not be accessible just as a normal tourist and I'm really grateful for that.
University of Shizuoka / International Student
Since I had never been to Shizuoka before, it was great to learn with international students about Shizuoka’s container industry, strawberry farms, and the history of Miho no Matsubara. Making friends not only from other prefectures but also from other countries is a treasure for life.
Sophia University / Japanese Student
On this tour, we were able not only to experience nature at places like Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira Yume Terrace, and learn about history at Kunozan Toshogu, but also to gain insights into industry through a visit to Shimizu Port. I feel that the designated observation times at each site helped deepen our understanding. Experiencing things firsthand, rather than just through textbooks or books, made me realize the importance of direct observation, and I was able to spend a truly meaningful time.
University of Shizuoka / Japanese Student
【Website】
US-COIL University of Shizuoka
https://www.us-coil.jp/english/index.html
(2/20/2026)
University of Shizuoka / International Student
Since I had never been to Shizuoka before, it was great to learn with international students about Shizuoka’s container industry, strawberry farms, and the history of Miho no Matsubara. Making friends not only from other prefectures but also from other countries is a treasure for life.
Sophia University / Japanese Student
On this tour, we were able not only to experience nature at places like Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira Yume Terrace, and learn about history at Kunozan Toshogu, but also to gain insights into industry through a visit to Shimizu Port. I feel that the designated observation times at each site helped deepen our understanding. Experiencing things firsthand, rather than just through textbooks or books, made me realize the importance of direct observation, and I was able to spend a truly meaningful time.
University of Shizuoka / Japanese Student
【Website】
US-COIL University of Shizuoka
https://www.us-coil.jp/english/index.html
(2/20/2026)