Zen Journeys Temples and Mount Fuji - 2 Days

We leave Tokyo for Kamakura – an oasis of peace that served as Japan’s capital for two centuries and is known for its shrines, temples and gardens. At Hokoku-ji Zen Temple we stroll through its serene bamboo grove – admission included – and enjoy a cup of green tea. We also visit Sugimoto-dera, founded in 734 and considered the oldest temple in the city. You then have free time to explore the pleasant city centre before we continue to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) – admission included.

We follow a scenic coastal road along the Pacific Ocean to Enoshima, a small island linked to the mainland by a bridge. You have free time here for lunch and a walk. We then continue to Odawara to visit its castle – admission included – an impressive medieval fortress from the Edo period, restored in the 20th century. Overnight stay. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We depart Odawara for the Hakone region – a landscape of lakes and mountains near Mount Fuji – and begin with an ascent to Owakudani, the “Valley of Hell”, a volcanic crater marked by steam vents, bubbling mud and sulphur gases. Access to Owakudani can occasionally be closed due to heightened volcanic activity – in that case, we visit Arakurayama Sengen Park instead. We then continue to Oshino Hakkai, a small, picturesque village with eight clear ponds that offer fine views of Mount Fuji.

Next, we head to Kawaguchiko, a lakeside town of small houses and mountain scenery, where we enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko. Later, we begin our ascent towards Mount Fuji along the road to the Fifth Station at 2,305 metres – 7,562 feet – passing through beautiful forest and viewpoints. In winter, the road is often closed due to snow or weather – during those times, we go as far as permitted. We return to Tokyo at the end of the day.

Our journey concludes here. Please check your flight time in case you require an additional night. Departure transfer to the airport is not included – our guide will recommend the best public transport options for your onward journey.