The great outdoor of Japan is no stranger to world. Nearly 70% of its land are covered by mountains and lush green forests. It is through these mountains and nature that since ancient time, the Japanese draws their source of inspiration, dream and spiritual strength.
Three of the mountains in particular are known as Sanreizan (三霊山) or the Three Holy Mountains. Each believed to possess specific spiritual force which flows through the mountains and their rivers, from the peaks to the foothills, giving life to the land.
Mount Fuji being one of them, boast the greatest height of domestic single peak mountains in the country. As one of the the iconic symbol of Japan, the mountain is well loved as a sightseeing attraction representative of Japan throughout the world. More than 300,000 mountaineers flock to it every year. In addition to being registered as a World Cultural Heritage in 2013, recent years have once more seen various features in the media seeking to express the allure of the mountain, further calling attention to it.
In this journey, we will take on the to experience unconventional way up the Mt Fuji to discover some of the less known aspect of Mount Fuji trail related to its past history and spirituality. It might be mystical, weird or tougher but it is an experience not to be missed.
Check out our video from previous adventures in Japan here
Mount Fuji- Interest Facts
Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is the most prominent of the three holy mountains and considered the holliest. More famously known as the the highest mountain in Japan, it rises to a height of 12,388 feet (3776.34masl) and on a clear day can be seen from Tokyo. This beautiful cone-shaped mountain is surrounded by lakes in a national park. The solitary, often snow-capped Mount Fuji, rises above villages and tree-fringed sea and lakes, inspiring artists and poets and has been the object of pilgrimage for centuries.
Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is the most prominent of the three holy mountains and considered the holliest. More famously known as the the highest mountain in Japan, it rises to a height of 12,388 feet (3776.34masl) and on a clear day can be seen from Tokyo. This beautiful cone-shaped mountain is surrounded by lakes in a national park. The solitary, often snow-capped Mount Fuji, rises above villages and tree-fringed sea and lakes, inspiring artists and poets and has been the object of pilgrimage for centuries.
Some says that the mountain is likely named after the the Ainu Fire Goddess Fuchi and located at the summit is a shrine of Shinto Goddess Sengen-Sama. Most people would have missed this temple by going direct to fifth station. It has more than 1900 years of history, serving as a focal point of Mt. Fuji worship during the Edo Period (1603-1868). It is UNESCO world heritage constitution assets and this historic setting marks the beginning of the Yoshida Trail. Even today, the shrine is an important gathering place, hosting many events including the Yoshida Fire Festival and the opening ceremony for the Mt. Fuji climbing season.
The hike from Station 1 to 10 is challenging as you will cover additional 10km on top of the usual Fuji-Yoshida route. However, it is a very rewarding hike, as there are much fewer people on the bottom half, and the ecology is lush and green, the polar opposite of the monotonous switchback moonwalk of the second well-traveled half.
And only by going through this ancient trail that we will encounter unique pilgrimage landmarks such as the climbing gates “Kanadorii” & “Otorii”, remains of Asama and Omuro ancient shrines. Truly a relaxing, healing and spiritual walk in a way as this is the true pilgrimage route long before road and modernization sets into Fuji.
And only by going through this ancient trail that we will encounter unique pilgrimage landmarks such as the climbing gates “Kanadorii” & “Otorii”, remains of Asama and Omuro ancient shrines. Truly a relaxing, healing and spiritual walk in a way as this is the true pilgrimage route long before road and modernization sets into Fuji.
Once you hit station FIVE, the serenity is quickly replaced with the hectic crowd and back to civilization where you can find a sort of tiny town at this point, set up and meant to fuel the journey to summit. Despite the contrasting atmosphere, the facilities are much welcomed as the next 5 stations are no joke either. Though they can be monotonous endless switchback, the altitude exertion will take it is toll and the trail switched from lush green stones to sandy volcanic scree zapping your energy further. Thankfully, from here onward every station is well equipped with 24 hours huts, drink vendors and toilets providing the much needed respite.
THE REWARDS WHEN YOU REACH THE SUMMIT!!
(Especially with your loved ones)
(Especially with your loved ones)
Kawaguchiko Lake
Before and after the hike, we will have a chance to explore Kawaguchiko lake. It is one of the five lakes in the ‘Fuji Five Lakes’ region, and is one of the best spots to stay if you plan on viewing Mt Fuji. You will be spoiled for choice on how to spend your day, from onsen hopping; instagramm-able landmarks hopping; the unique museums; cafe hopping for the coffee connoisseur; fruits pickings at farm for the healthy food lovers or if you don't have enough of heights, hop into rope-ways that will bring you to fantastic views of the Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko Lake and surrounding town. Most which can be easily reached via the Kawaguchiko sightseeing bus connecting the region.
Before and after the hike, we will have a chance to explore Kawaguchiko lake. It is one of the five lakes in the ‘Fuji Five Lakes’ region, and is one of the best spots to stay if you plan on viewing Mt Fuji. You will be spoiled for choice on how to spend your day, from onsen hopping; instagramm-able landmarks hopping; the unique museums; cafe hopping for the coffee connoisseur; fruits pickings at farm for the healthy food lovers or if you don't have enough of heights, hop into rope-ways that will bring you to fantastic views of the Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko Lake and surrounding town. Most which can be easily reached via the Kawaguchiko sightseeing bus connecting the region.
THE ITINERARY (2020)
Day 1- 11 JULY
Arrival in Tokyo (NARITA AIRPORT)
Journey to Kawaguchiko via Fujikyo Highway bus
Overnight at accommodation near Kawaguchiko Lake
Day 2- 12 JULY (B)
Morning Free and Easy and get ready for the hike
Check out and depart to Sengen Shrine (Base 0)
Start Hike from Sengen Shrine to Station 5
Rest stop at station 5, explore the stations, have your meals and quick nap*
Start climbing to summit in the evening
Day 3- 13 July (D)
Sunrise viewing at Mt Fuji Summit ~5am
Estimated everyone to descend by 10 AM at Subaru 5th station
Descend back to Kawaguchiko station via Fuji Mountain Bus.
Return to accommodation, free and easy time.
Celebratory Dinner! (included)
Day 4- 14 July (B)
Free and easy day at Kawaguchiko lake. Explore the area via sightseeing bus (pass provided)
Day 5- 15 July (B)
Depart back to Narita at 1300pm via highway bus at Kawaguchiko station
Depart back to Singapore
*There are local mountain huts at 5th stations where you can rent bed space to take a nap for a few hours (own cost). Otherwise, we can rest at the sheltered lounge area.
Arrival in Tokyo (NARITA AIRPORT)
Journey to Kawaguchiko via Fujikyo Highway bus
Overnight at accommodation near Kawaguchiko Lake
Day 2- 12 JULY (B)
Morning Free and Easy and get ready for the hike
Check out and depart to Sengen Shrine (Base 0)
Start Hike from Sengen Shrine to Station 5
Rest stop at station 5, explore the stations, have your meals and quick nap*
Start climbing to summit in the evening
Day 3- 13 July (D)
Sunrise viewing at Mt Fuji Summit ~5am
Estimated everyone to descend by 10 AM at Subaru 5th station
Descend back to Kawaguchiko station via Fuji Mountain Bus.
Return to accommodation, free and easy time.
Celebratory Dinner! (included)
Day 4- 14 July (B)
Free and easy day at Kawaguchiko lake. Explore the area via sightseeing bus (pass provided)
Day 5- 15 July (B)
Depart back to Narita at 1300pm via highway bus at Kawaguchiko station
Depart back to Singapore
*There are local mountain huts at 5th stations where you can rent bed space to take a nap for a few hours (own cost). Otherwise, we can rest at the sheltered lounge area.
LAND COST
Early Bird cost of SGD999/pax if you paid deposit and confirm your spot by 30 December 2019 or if you register in a group of 4 and above , after which it is SGD1200/pax
Registration and Payment Details:
Step 1- Deposit of $500 via ATM/Bank transfer to ADVENTURES UNLIMITED, DBS CURRENT A/C - 0039351950
Step 2: Whatapp proof of payment receipt to Jane +65 9102 0550 (IMPORTANT: PLEASE INDICATE "2020 07 11 FUJI).
Step 3 Receipt for payment will be issued and you will be added into a dedicated whatsapp chat for this trip latest four months prior to the trip.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Cost Includes
Return Highway bus from NARITA to KAWAGUCHIKO station (11 July and 15 July)
*If you choose to take alternative transport, it will be at your own cost
Fuji Bus to Base 0 (12 July)
Fuji Bus from Station 5 to Kawaguchiko station (13 July)
Two days sightseeing bus pass for Kawaguchiko region (valid for 13-14 July)
Three nights shared accommodation in Kawaguchiko guesthouse or inn, 4-5pax per room (private room may be available, subject to additional cost)
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Logistic support from Adventures Unlimited
Mount Fuji entrance (maintenance) fee
On the ground support from Adventures Unlimited trip leaders who will be accompanying and leading the team
Cost doesn't include
International Flight tickets
Early Departure from Trek, Airport and to city, related cost that deviate from the itinerary
Transport back to Airport from Tokyo (*our trip leader can advise/help to arrange depending on your departure schedule)
Travel insurance
Personal equipment
Visa fee (if applicable)
Personal shopping and laundry, shower etc.
Refund Policy
Deposit (non-refundable)
Until 18 weeks prior to departure – 100% Refund of balance paid
16 weeks prior to departure – 50% Refund of balance paid
14 weeks prior to departure – 0% Refund of balance paid
Training
Participants are expected to make the effort to attend to training programmes and opportunities conducted by Adventures Unlimited and our partners.
Others:
1. This event is organised by Adventures Unlimited (TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.
2. Insurance
From 15 July 2015, a travel agent is required to inform and ask attending participants if it is their wish to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for business insolvency of travel agencies when:
– they are buying a leisure travel product/package; or
– their travel product/package costs at least S$1,000 (including GST) per person; or
– they are paying a deposit or payment of at least S$500 per person.
Early Bird cost of SGD999/pax if you paid deposit and confirm your spot by 30 December 2019 or if you register in a group of 4 and above , after which it is SGD1200/pax
Registration and Payment Details:
Step 1- Deposit of $500 via ATM/Bank transfer to ADVENTURES UNLIMITED, DBS CURRENT A/C - 0039351950
Step 2: Whatapp proof of payment receipt to Jane +65 9102 0550 (IMPORTANT: PLEASE INDICATE "2020 07 11 FUJI).
Step 3 Receipt for payment will be issued and you will be added into a dedicated whatsapp chat for this trip latest four months prior to the trip.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Cost Includes
Return Highway bus from NARITA to KAWAGUCHIKO station (11 July and 15 July)
*If you choose to take alternative transport, it will be at your own cost
Fuji Bus to Base 0 (12 July)
Fuji Bus from Station 5 to Kawaguchiko station (13 July)
Two days sightseeing bus pass for Kawaguchiko region (valid for 13-14 July)
Three nights shared accommodation in Kawaguchiko guesthouse or inn, 4-5pax per room (private room may be available, subject to additional cost)
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Logistic support from Adventures Unlimited
Mount Fuji entrance (maintenance) fee
On the ground support from Adventures Unlimited trip leaders who will be accompanying and leading the team
Cost doesn't include
International Flight tickets
Early Departure from Trek, Airport and to city, related cost that deviate from the itinerary
Transport back to Airport from Tokyo (*our trip leader can advise/help to arrange depending on your departure schedule)
Travel insurance
Personal equipment
Visa fee (if applicable)
Personal shopping and laundry, shower etc.
Refund Policy
Deposit (non-refundable)
Until 18 weeks prior to departure – 100% Refund of balance paid
16 weeks prior to departure – 50% Refund of balance paid
14 weeks prior to departure – 0% Refund of balance paid
Training
Participants are expected to make the effort to attend to training programmes and opportunities conducted by Adventures Unlimited and our partners.
Others:
1. This event is organised by Adventures Unlimited (TA02844), a licensed travel agent registered with the Singapore Tourism Board.
2. Insurance
From 15 July 2015, a travel agent is required to inform and ask attending participants if it is their wish to purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for business insolvency of travel agencies when:
– they are buying a leisure travel product/package; or
– their travel product/package costs at least S$1,000 (including GST) per person; or
– they are paying a deposit or payment of at least S$500 per person.
Please contact either host to find out more details
CONTACT YOUR HOST BELOW FOR ANY ENQUIRIES
Sucan (83668989) or Kimberly (83668989)
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