Fuji Explorer 7 Day

Our first morning sees us leaving behind the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. We head south-west with the majestic Mount Fuji getting closer and closer. We'll stop for a refreshment before riding onto Mount Fuji itself and ascending the mountain to its highest point. We'll soak in the breathtaking vistas from up high - an excellent photo opportunity. Afterward, we'll descend and retire to our cozy accommodations nestled in the tranquil beauty of Lake Yamanaka, with the iconic view of Fuji-san ever present over the lake.

Embarking on Day 2 of our adventure, we bid farewell to the tranquil shores of Lake Yamanaka. Journeying southward, we make a pit stop at the renowned Biker's Paradise Cafe, fueling up on coffee and motorbike memorabilia. We'll then continue along the picturesque north shore of Lake Ashi, with the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji ever watchful across the water. The afternoon unfolds at your leasure amidst the enigmatic landscape of the Owakudani volcanic area, where gondola rides offer breathtaking views of steaming volcanic terrain. At the summit, indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Owakudani Curry, a local specialty renowned for its spicy richness, offering a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine amid the awe-inspiring volcanic action. Or take your time strolling around ancient shrines in the area, exploring the lake, or hopping back on the bike to tackle the winding mountain roads that surround the lake.

Day 3 finds us heading south into the Izu Peninsula, famous for its scenic beauty where mountains meet the ocean. We'll ramp up the adrenaline on the exhilarating twists and turns of the coastal roads along the western edge of the peninsula (keep an eye out for Mount Fuji as the backdrop across the bay). We'll wrap up a day of amazing coastal riding by heading into the heart of the peninsula where the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls are hidden away between the mountains. After an optional short trek to take in the waterfalls, we'll rest for the night and soak our tired muscles in the geothermal onsen for which the region is famous.

Starting day 4 we'll climb the double spiral corkscrew Kawazu Loop Bridge and head north towards the Izu Skyline. Famous among motorbike enthusiasts in Japan for its riding thrills, we'll also take in panoramic vistas of the Izu Peninsula's coastline, lush greenery, and the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. We'll enjoy a typical Japanese lunch before we head north to a local place that brews sake in winter, and Japanese whiskey in Spring. We'll learn about the brewing process for both, and most importantly we'll sample some of the best alcohol in Japan!

Day 5 is heavy on the rich history of Japan. We'll head to the Nakasendo Trail - a historic route in Japan that connected Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), via 69 postal towns, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. We'll explore Narai, a town that seems stuck in the Edo period of 400 years ago with its well-preserved wooden buildings and narrow streets lined with traditional shops. As we walk through Narai, we'll experience the authentic atmosphere of an era long past, with opportunities to visit historical inns, local museums, and artisan workshops. The town's serene environment, combined with its historical architecture, provides a unique window into the daily life of Edo-period Japan. We'll close the day in Matsumoto, one of major towns on the Nakasendo that served as a hub for culture and economics in Edo-period Japan. P.S. if you want to follow in the footsteps of ancient samurai and hike part of the Nakasendo trail, join us on our 10-day Fuji Explorer tour!

Day 6 begins with a visit to Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and historic castles, often called the "Crow Castle" due to its striking black exterior. After exploring the castle in the morning, we'll depart Matsumoto, heading into the scenic mountains for some truly epic riding. We'll enjoy a delightful lunch, savoring local cuisine before venturing back into the mountains, this time taking the picturesque Venus Skyline towards Lake Shirakaba. We'll spend the night in accommodation by the lake, with an optional sunset ride offering breathtaking photo opportunities amidst the southern, central and northern Japanese alps.

Day 7 features an exhilarating final morning of riding through endlessly twisting mountain roads - encapsulating the very essence of our week-long journey together. We'll make a stop for lunch at a charming rural coffee shop that also offers a selection of locally made wares, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. After this delightful break, we'll hit the highway back to Tokyo, concluding our adventure with a heartfelt farewell party to celebrate the unforgettable journey we've shared.