Japan Nature & Adventure Tour – 8 Days
Overview:
This 8-day tour is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. It takes you through Japan’s most stunning natural landscapes, from the tranquil beauty of Mount Fuji to the lush forests of the Japanese Alps and the peaceful lakes of Hakone. Enjoy outdoor activities, scenic hikes, and visit picturesque towns surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Itinerary Summary
| Day | Place | Highlights |
| 1 | Arrival in Tokyo | Arrival and leisure time |
| 2 | Tokyo to Mount Fuji | Travel to Mount Fuji, explore the Five Lakes area |
| 3 | Mount Fuji | Hike around Mount Fuji or enjoy panoramic views from the Chureito Pagoda |
| 4 | Mount Fuji to Hakone | Travel to Hakone, enjoy hot spring baths and views of Mount Fuji |
| 5 | Hakone | Visit Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashi |
| 6 | Hakone to Nagano | Travel to Nagano, visit the Snow Monkey Park |
| 7 | Nagano to Tokyo | Return to Tokyo, explore Odaiba and shopping areas |
| 8 | Departure from Tokyo | Free time for leisure, transfer to Narita International Airport |
Itinerary
- Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to your hotel.
- Take a relaxing stroll in the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo's most beautiful green spaces.
- Explore the city’s tranquil Meiji Shrine, located in a forested area.
- Evening free for a visit to Shibuya Crossing or a casual walk through Harajuku for an introduction to Tokyo's vibrant culture.
- Travel to Mount Fuji for a day of exploration and outdoor adventure.
- Visit Lake Kawaguchi, one of the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji, offering beautiful views of the mountain.
- Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the lake and the mountain.
- In the afternoon, hike part of the Fujinomiya Trail (or a shorter, more accessible trail if preferred), getting a closer look at Mount Fuji's volcanic terrain.
- Relax in the evening at an onsen (hot spring) near the lake, enjoying the natural surroundings.
- Journey to Hakone, a popular destination for hot springs, nature, and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
- Take a cruise on Lake Ashi, offering beautiful views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing art in a spectacular natural setting.
- Explore the Owakudani Valley, a volcanic area known for its hot springs and black eggs boiled in sulfuric waters.
- Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) with access to an onsen.
- Travel to the Japanese Alps, specifically the picturesque town of Takayama.
- Walk through the charming Old Town of Takayama, with its preserved Edo-period architecture, traditional houses, and narrow streets.
- Visit the Hida Folk Village to experience traditional farmhouses and understand local cultural practices.
- In the evening, enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties such as Hida beef.
- Full-day adventure in Kamikochi, a stunning valley in the Japanese Alps known for its pristine natural beauty.
- Hike the scenic trails along the Azusa River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the iconic Kappa Bridge, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
- For those looking for a more challenging hike, venture deeper into the mountains or visit Mt. Yari.
- Return to Takayama for the night.
- Travel to Nagano, home to the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs.
- Visit the Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan's most significant Buddhist temples.
- Take a leisurely walk through the Shiga Kogen Highlands, known for its beautiful landscapes and opportunities for skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
- Head to Matsumoto, a historic city in the Japanese Alps, known for its beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s oldest and most well-preserved original castles.
- Explore the surrounding gardens and take a relaxing stroll through Nakamachi Street, a charming area with traditional merchant houses.
- Visit the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, known for its contemporary art exhibitions, including works by Yayoi Kusama.
- Return to Tokyo by train, enjoying the scenic journey back to the bustling metropolis.
- Spend your last few hours shopping for souvenirs or relaxing in a café before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
Inclusions
- 7 nights of accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and ryokan.
- Domestic train and bus tickets.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.
Exclusions
- International flights.
- Personal expenses and tips.
- Travel insurance.
