Mt Fuji & The Japanese Alps

13 days - from $4380

The Japanese Matterhorn and Mt Fuji, plus magnificent Kyoto and Tokyo
Japan's blend of old and new is given a unique twist by this superb trekking itinerary. We incorporate a day in Kyoto, one of Japan's ancient capitals with its peaceful Zen gardens and Shinto temples, a day in ultra modern Tokyo, and a short walk on the Nakasendo Way - an ancient trading route. The trip concentrates on two of Japan's most famous peaks; Mt Yarigatake and Mt Fuji. Yarigatake is locally known as the Japanese Matterhorn, rising 3180m out of the Kita Alps in central Honshu, while Fuji, Japan's highest mountain at 3776m, is one of the most photographed peaks in the world.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Kyoto. 2 Free day to explore the delights of Kyoto, one of Japan's ancient capitals. 3 Transfer by train to Nakasendo; walk a section of the ancient Nakasendo Way. 4 Transfer to Kamikochi via Matsumoto. Afternoon walk to Yarigasawa. 5 Climb Mt Yari (3180m) and descend to Yarigatake Mountain Hut. 6 Descend to Kamikochi, and transfer to Matsumoto. Here we can relax in a local hot spring or explore the magnificent Black Castle. 7 Transfer from Matsumoto to Kawaguchi, at the base of Mt Fuji. 8 Transfer to Station Five on Mt Fuji; climb slowly to Honhachigome - close to the summit of Mt Fuji. 9 An early start for sunrise at Japan's highest point (3776m); descend and transfer to the nearby Lake Kawaguchi. 10 Free day to relax and explore. 11 Morning transfer to Tokyo. 12 Time to explore Tokyo, one of the world's most spectacular capital cities. 13 End Tokyo.

Mode of travel: 4 day and 2 half day walks. Altitude maximum 3776m, average 1000m.
Group size: Normally 6 to 16, plus leader.
Accommodation: 8 nights comfortable hotel with en suite rooms, 3 nights mountain hut, 1 night Ryokan (traditional local guesthouse) with shared facilities.
Food: 4 breakfasts and 4 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $280.00
Trip Reference: TOP
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: TOP