Your land operator in Japan

When Staying in Tokyo:

- 09:00 - 11:30: Transfer to the Mount Fuji area.

When Staying in a Ryokan in Kawaguchiko/Izu:

- 10:00 - 11:00:Transfer to the Mount Fuji area.

- 11:00 - 16:30: Excursion to Mount Fuji with a Yamabushi monk.

Kawaguchiko and Hakone are popular tourist destinations, but they can be crowded and may lack picturesque scenery.

To explore the spiritual significance of Mount Fuji and ancient worship practices, we recommend a guided walk through the forests on its slopes with a Yamabushi monk. In a sacred cave formed by Fuji's eruptions, the monk will conduct rituals and share the meaning of Fuji in Japanese culture, as well as insights about the Yamabushi tradition. Participation in these rituals is educational and open to everyone, regardless of religious beliefs.

Walk Options:

Participants can choose a trail along the slope of Fuji, in Aokigahara Forest, or along a panoramic route with views of the mountain. The duration ranges from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the group’s preferences and fitness levels, as well as weather conditions.

If time allows, you may also drive to a lake that reflects Mount Fuji on clear days or visit the Shiraito Waterfalls.

Optional Experience (additional payment and advance booking required):

Visit the monk's mountain hut, where a forge is located, to learn about sword-making and even try cutting rolled mats. The monk will only allow sword handling if he believes you are prepared.

This tour takes place on the less crowded side of Fuji, offering stunning views of the mountain. A portion occurs at altitudes of 2,000 to 2,200 meters, so warm clothing and comfortable shoes are necessary. If you are sensitive to altitude,the visit to the slope. will be substituted with a tour of the forest at its base.

Important: Mount Fuji is only visible in clear weather!

Tour overview:

Duration: 2 hours

Departure From: Tokyo

Areas Visited: Tokyo-Kanto (Tokyo and surrounding area)

Language: Japanese

Itinerary:

- 10:00 Meet with the guide at the hotel.

- 10:00 - 11:00 Transfer to the master’s workshop by private transport.

Workshop Visit:

Visit a blacksmith shop where a master sword maker, a cultural asset of the prefecture and a solo exhibitor in London, creates swords. This unique opportunity allows for direct engagement with authentic Japanese artistry in a traditional home setting. The master is eager to discuss his craft, and his son assists with demonstrations.

This is not a gallery; the decor in the workshop and at home is simple yet authentic. The visit is meaningful, because it offers a genuine experience rather than a tourist show.

- 12:30 - 13:30 Enjoy a simple yet delicious homemade lunch prepared by the master’s wife.

- 14:00 - 15:00 Transfer back to Tokyo.

- 15:00 - 17:30 Guided walk around Tokyo.

- 18:00 Return to the hotel.

Etiquette Guidelines:

The master is very open and hospitable, but it’s important to respect the following guidelines during your visit:

- Out of respect for the master, please avoid being late, canceling, or shortening your visit. This is not a mass tour, so maintaining a good relationship with the master, who has dedicated time to meet with you, is essential. Remember, this visit revolves around the master, and it should be treated as an invitation rather than a service. It involves traditions and customs that deserve respect, even if they may not be immediately clear.

- The house and workshop are authentic, modest, and traditional Japanese spaces. This is not a luxurious gallery; rather, the visit is unique because it offers a rare glimpse into Japanese life.

- The master’s spouse prepares a simple homemade lunch, such as baked sweet potatoes or other traditional dishes. If you have any allergies, please let her know, and she will do her best to accommodate them. However, this is not a restaurant, and you cannot order from a menu. If you do not enjoy any of the dishes, please refrain from expressing it.

- Since we are guests, we kindly ask you to be polite and appreciative to the hosts, even if some aspects of the visit are unusual or difficult to understand.

Included in the Price:

- Workshop visit, master’s lecture, and demonstration

- Guide-translator services for 8 hours

- Transport

- Homemade lunch prepared by the master’s wife

Not Included:

- Personal expenses

Itinerary:

- 10:00 - 11:00 Transfer to the Miho Museum.

- 11:00 - 13:30 Guided tour of the museum led by a historian-archaeologist.

The Miho Museum's collection began with tea ceremony tableware and has since expanded to include Shinto-Buddhist art, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, lacquerware, and other Japanese artistic treasures. Founded by Mihoko Koyama, her collection reflects over 40 years of dedication to art.

What started as a private collection evolved into a museum project, embodying Koyama's belief that beauty, peace, and joy can be found through art. Collaborating with architect Yo Ming Pei helped bring this vision to life, and the collection now features ancient artworks from around the globe.

The museum showcases approximately 3,000 works of art, with 250-500 available for viewing at any given time.

- 13:30 - 15:00 Lunch at the museum café, featuring products from natural agriculture - one of the museum’s initiatives. (Note: Lunch is not included in the price, and the menu is simple.)

- 15:00 - 16:00 Return to the hotel.