Mountains of the Rising Sun

Typical itinerary

1. Day 1: Depart the UK

   Depart the UK for Japan on an overnight flight, arriving in Tokyo the following day.

2. Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing

   Upon arrival in Tokyo, you will take the train from the airport to your overnight accommodation at one of Japan’s iconic capsule hotels.

   In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Tokyo and the many wards that make up the metropolis. The tour will include locations such as the Asakusa Sensoji Temple and the Ameyoko shopping district.

   The remainder of the day will be at leisure.

3. Day 3: Travel to Nagano

   Today, transfer north by bullet train, across the spine of Japan, to the historic city of Nagano. On arrival at Nagano station, meet your guide for the next few days and then enjoy a sightseeing tour across Nagano, including sites such as the famous Zenko Temple.

   After your trip across Nagano, take a local train and coach to your overnight accommodation at Nojiri Lake or around Shinanomachi. You will then have the chance to go to a local supermarket to pick up supplies before taking part in a Japanese BBQ with locals at the local café, Hiro’s Café.

4. Day 4: Togakushi Ninja Trail

   This morning, transfer by coach to Togakushi Ninja Village where you will then take part in a trek through the beautiful and historic Ninja Trail. The trail winds through a 900 year old cedar forest to the Okusha Shrine and also includes stops at locations such as the Chusha Shrine and Nenbustu-ike. You will also have the chance to visit the Ninja museum before you set up camp for the night in a local village. During your time at the ninja museum, there may be the opportunity to take part in some activities to teach you the essential skills to become a ninja!

5. Day 5: Trekking Mount Karamatsu

   Transfer to Hakuba Station before starting a trek from Happoike to the summit of Mount Karamatsu (2,695 metres). This is a part of the Japanese Alps and is widely regarded as one of the most picturesque regions in the whole country. With stunning views, plenty of wildlife, and unique flora, this part of Japan is unlike anywhere else.

   You will overnight in a mountain hut on Mount Karamatsu.

6. Day 6: Transfer to Matsumoto

   After enjoying sunrise and breakfast in the mountain hut, hike back down to the Station, via Hakuba Village. You will then have a train journey from Hakuba to Matsumoto, in the heart of Japan, giving you an incredible trip through the Japanese mountains and countryside.

   Once you arrive at Matsumoto, students will be shown around Matsumoto, including a visit to the famous Matsumoto Castle. The evening is at leisure to explore and relax after the short trek.

7. Day 7: Matsumoto & Mount Fuji

   This morning will be at leisure, giving you the chance to see the parts of Matsumoto you didn't see on the previous day. Later in the morning, you will have a train journey of approximately three hours to the famous Mount Fuji.  Once you arrive, you will check-in to your overnight accommodation at another capsule hotel.

8. Day 8: Start to Climb Mount Fuji

   It is a short bus journey to the fifth station of Mount Fuji to meet your guides and begin a day of trekking. As you make your way up the mountain, you will be greeted with incredible views of countryside and even Tokyo in the distance.

   Overnight will be at a hut on Mount Fuji near the eighth station before summiting the following day.

9. Day 9: Summit & Descend Fuji

   After a stunning morning on the mountain, you will continue with your trek to the summit of Mount Fuji where you can enjoy unsurpassed views of the country and experience a part of the country that has been sacred to Japanese people for hundreds of years.

   You will then descend to the fifth station where you will then have a short bus journey back to the Capsule Hotel for an overnight stay and a well-deserved rest.

10. Day 10: Return to Tokyo

    You will have a three hour train journey through the Japanese countryside and back into the city of Tokyo for a final night. When you arrive in Tokyo, the rest of the day will be at leisure to explore, relax, and enjoy yourselves before your return flight the following day.

11. Day 11: Depart Tokyo

    This morning, you will transfer back to the airport in time for your return overnight flight, arriving back in the UK the following morning.

12. Day 12: Arrive UK