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Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate: View-O

Experience panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay from View-O, Numazu Port's iconic tsunami barrier and observation deck.

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The Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate, nicknamed View-O, is a towering tsunami barrier and observation deck offering panoramic views of Suruga Bay, Mt. Fuji, and the surrounding Numazu port area. Constructed in 2004 as a critical defense against earthquakes and tsunamis, it's become a popular tourist destination, especially noted for its views and the integration of modern engineering with the natural landscape.

A brief summary to Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate

  • Monday 10 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-2 pm
  • Friday 10 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a clear day for the best views of Mt. Fuji.
  • Try fresh seafood at the nearby restaurants.
  • Go in the evening to see the water gate lit up.
  • Check the operating hours, as they are shorter on Thursdays.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Numazu Station, take a bus to Numazu Port. Get off at the 'Numazu Port' bus stop, which is approximately a 10-minute ride. From there, it's a short walk to the Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate. Bus fare is around ¥200-300.

  • Walking

    From the Numazu Fish Market INO, walk along the port towards the water gate. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering views of the harbor and surrounding shops. No costs are involved for walking.

  • Car

    From the Tomei Expressway Numazu IC, drive towards Numazu Port, following signs for the port and the observatory. The drive is approximately 25 minutes. Parking is available near the observatory, but fees may apply. Parking costs around ¥200-300 per hour.

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Discover more about Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate

The Numazu Port Observatory Water Gate, known as View-O, stands as a testament to both engineering ingenuity and scenic beauty. Erected in 2004, this structure serves as a crucial tsunami barrier for Numazu Port while also providing visitors with a stunning observation deck. View-O is one of Japan's largest water gates, designed to automatically shut within five minutes of a major earthquake. The gate itself measures 40 meters in width and 9.3 meters in height, weighing a massive 406 tons. During normal conditions, the structure remains open, allowing ships to pass freely, but it stands ready to protect the city from potential tsunami waves. Ascending to the 30-meter-high observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view. From this vantage point, visitors can admire Mt. Fuji, the Hakone mountains, and the Numazu Alps. Suruga Bay stretches out to the horizon, and closer views include the bustling fish markets and the activity within Numazu Port. The views are particularly captivating at sunrise and sunset. In the evening, View-O is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere and a popular date spot. The surrounding area features charming shops and restaurants where visitors can savor local delicacies like fresh sashimi. The Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium and the Minato Hachijyusan-banchi shopping facility are also nearby.

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