Mt Fuji (alt. 3776m) and Mt Ontake (alt. 3036m) are two of the most sacred mountains in Japan and have been the focus of worship for centuries. Even today, we can still witness pilgrims from all over Japan, clad in white, making their way to the summit of Mt. Ontake. Mt Fuji — Japan's highest peak — is one of the country's most iconic emblems and was famously captured in 19th century woodblock prints by Hokusai. This 10 night, 11 day, tour starts with an exploration of the bustling and neon-lit metropolis of Tokyo, before we move to the refined, cultural, heart of Japan, Kyoto. Here we are guided through a tea ceremony by a tea master and take a hike in the surrounding mountains as well as visiting some of Kyoto's must-see temples. We then spend two days on the ancient Nakasendo highway walking through atmospheric villages in the beautiful Kiso valley before climbing to the summit of Ontake. After hiking near the picturesque former post town, Narai, and visiting one of Japan's most famous castles, in Matsumoto, we make our ascent of Mt. Fuji at night, arriving at the summit in time for sunrise. This tour starts and ends in Tokyo and we stay in a range of Western and traditional Japanese-style accommodation. It is ideal for those seeking to combine their interest in Japanese culture with something more physically demanding.
Meet your tour leader at accommodation in Tokyo. A tour briefing is followed by dinner at a local Japanese-style restaurant.
Dinner is included.
Accommodation: a centrally located Western-style hotel.
Tour of Tokyo. We begin our guided tour of Tokyo with a visit to the fascinating and informative Tokyo Edo Museum followed by a trip to Asakusa Sensoji Temple — Tokyo's oldest temple — and then make our way to one of the tallest buildings in the city for a breathtaking view. From here we head for a stroll through Omotesando and Harajuku, a fashion and shopping centre where young Japanese congregate, parading the latest street fashion. This evening is free to explore the variety of cuisine that Tokyo has to offer. Your guide is available to assist you in choosing a restaurant and making any bookings.
A Western-style buffet breakfast is included.
Accommodation: a centrally located Western-style hotel.
Transfer to Kyoto on the shinkansen "bullet" train. Check into your accommodation, followed by a tour of Kyoto. Walking through the Gion district, we visit the popular Yasaka shrine and from there continue to Kiyomizu temple. This is one of the oldest temples in Kyoto, and a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views from its famous wooden terrace. After lunch, we make tracks to the mountains surrounding Kyoto to escape the heat with a walk in the forest. Back in Kyoto, this evening is free to explore the city's wide range of culinary offerings Your guide will be available to assist you in choosing a suitable restaurant.
Breakfast is included.
Accommodation: a comfortable and centrally located Western-style hotel.
Continue tour of Kyoto. This morning we enjoy a traditional tea ceremony under the expert instruction and explanation of tea master. We then visit two of the best known temples in Kyoto — Kinkakuji (the magnificent Golden Pavilion) and Ryoanji with its famous zen rock garden. After lunch, we take a walk through Nishiki koji fish and produce market. This bustling market dates back to the 1600s and is a delightful showcase of Japanese food and culture. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore Kyoto further and the evening is yours to sample Kyoto's culinary offerings.Your guide will be available to assist you in choosing a suitable restaurant.
Breakfast is included.
Accommodation: a comfortable and centrally located Western-style hotel.
This morning we travel to beautiful Tsumago in the Kiso valley by train and taxi. We explore this former post town and hike to neighbouring Magome, another picturesque former post town on the historic Nakasendo road. After dinner we visit an onsen — hot spring bath — nestled on the side of the nearby mountains for a relaxing soak.
Breakfast and a delicious Japanese dinner prepared by the inn are included.
Accommodation: a traditional Japanese inn.
Today we spend hiking on the Nakasendo through the beautiful Kiso Valley. We pass through villages and quiet little hamlets on this 23 km (14.3 mile) walk through the Japanese countryside.
A Japanese-style breakfast and dinner are included.
Accommodation: a traditional Japanese inn.
This morning we have an early morning start. A taxi will transport us halfway up Mt. Ontake. From here it is about a four hour climb to the summit with magnificent views of the surrounding Japan Alps range. After a three hour descent we return to our lodgings in a taxi for a well earned rest.
A Japanese-style breakfast and dinner are included.
Accommodation: a traditional Japanese inn.
Today we walk a short 7 km (4.3 mile) section of the Nakasendo from the lovely town of Narai. On a clear day, views of Mt. Ontake in the distance can be admired from the pass along the route.
A Japanese-style breakfast and dinner are included.
Accommodation: a traditional Japanese inn.
This morning we visit Matsumoto, a former castle town and centre of silk production during the Meiji period. We visit the spectacular Matsumoto castle and continue onwards to Tokyo. From here, a bus will take us to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji. We begin our evening ascent of Mt. Fuji aiming to reach the summit for dawn. We will rest at one of the mountain huts along the way.
A Japanese-style breakfast at the inn is included.
This morning we start the final approach at around 2 am, reaching the summit of Mt. Fuji in time to see the sun rise. Breakfast is served at the top. Time to explore and then start the descent and journey back to Tokyo, arriving at our hotel in the afternoon for some well earned rest.
Breakfast is included. This evening is free to sample the wide choice of restaurants that Tokyo has to offer. Your guide is availble to assist you in choosing a suitable restaurant.
Accommodation: a centrally located Western-style hotel.
Tour ends after breakfast.
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This itinerary is subject to change.