Day 1: Hakone
We’ll leave Tokyo and drive to the Hakone area, a protected nature reserve set within a scenic volcanic caldera. We’ll continue to Lake Ashi, visit Hakone Shrine, stroll through cedar forests along the shore, and (weather permitting) take a boat ride with views of Mount Fuji.
We’ll then explore Hakone, known for its hot springs, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, home to an impressive collection of modern art.
Overnight in a 4 star hotel in Hakone
Day 2: Matsumoto And Japanese Alps
We’ll drive north to Lake Kawaguchi, visit the Ichiku Kubota Art Museum—where kimono artworks are inspired by Mount Fuji—and enjoy a short scenic walk along the lakeshore.
We’ll continue to Azumino to visit the Daio Wasabi Farm, then head to Matsumoto, gateway to the Japanese Alps. There, we’ll visit Matsumoto Castle, a classic example of a feudal-era “Black Castle.”
Overnight in a 4 star hotel in Matsumoto.
Day 3: Hiking In Chubu Sangaku National Park
We’ll spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Chubu-Sangaku National Park in the Japanese Alps, known for its dramatic alpine scenery, soaring peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. We’ll discover pristine hiking areas such as Mount Yake and Kengamine Mountain, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
A favorite for nature lovers, the park offers stunning seasonal beauty—from fresh spring greenery and summer alpine blooms to vibrant autumn foliage. We’ll return to Matsumoto for an overnight stay.
Hiking Trails by Distance and Walking Pace - Of Your Choice:
Ushidome Pond & Zengoro Falls Hiking Trail: Norikura Resort → Ushidome Pond → Zengoro Falls → Norikura Resort
Distance & Duration: ~3 km, 0.5-1 hours
Highlights: Ushidome Pond is a tranquil body of water reflecting surrounding forests & Zengoro Falls cascades dramatically over a rocky cliff into the valley.
Ponds Along the Ichinose River Hiking Trail: Dojo Ike Pond → Azami Ike Pond → Maime-No Ike Pond → Dojo Ike Pond
Distance & Duration: ~4.5 km, 1-1.5 hours
Highlights: A gentle and scenic walk, following clear mountain streams, a series of tranquil ponds fed by alpine springs, Surrounded by forested slopes & peaks.
Fujimi and Kengamine Mountains Hiking Trail: Mt. Daikoku → Fujimi Mountain → Kengamine Mountain → Mt. Daikoku
Distance & Duration: ~7.5 km, 3.5-4 hours
Highlights: The route combines steady ascents with scenic ridgelines, leading to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
Fukuji Mountain Hiking Trail: Fukuji Onsen → Fukuji Mountain → Fukuji Onsen
Distance & Duration: ~8 km, 4-4.5 hours
Highlights: The route winds through alpine woodland and open slopes, offering a quiet and less-traveled alternative to the region’s more famous trails.
Ponds & Falls Along Shin-Nakanoyu Hiking Trail: Shin-Nakanoyu Trail → Nunobikino Falls → Oike Pond → Shin-Nakanoyu Trail
Distance & Duration: ~9 km, 3-3.5 hours
Highlights: A peaceful trail winds past shimmering ponds and gentle waterfalls, surrounded by lush forest. Wooden bridges and mossy rocks.
Overnight in a 4 start hotel in Matsumoto
Day 4: The Alpine Nature Reserves
We’ll start the day in the historic hot-spring village of Shirahone Onsen, then continue to the stunning Kamikochi in the heart of the Japanese Alps. Here, we’ll explore scenic trails along the Azusa River, surrounded by the peaks of the Hida Mountains.
Between November and April, when Kamikochi is closed, we’ll visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to Japanese macaques. We’ll then drive through rural landscapes to Hida-Furukawa, strolling along its canals and traditional wooden houses, before continuing to Takayama for an overnight stay.
Overnight in a 4 start hotel in Takayama
Day 5: Takayama And The Traditional Village Of Shirakawa Go
We’ll begin the day exploring the well-preserved old town of Takayama, including the Miyagawa Morning Market, traditional wooden streets, small museums, cafés, and the historic Takayama Jinya.
We’ll visit Hirata Sake Brewery, a 130-year-old brewery, for a guided tour and tasting. Later, we’ll drive to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its steep thatched-roof houses and remarkable preservation
Overnight in a 4 star hotel in Takayama
Day 6: Kiso Valley, Ancient Nakasendo Route & Lake Biwa
We’ll begin the day driving through the scenic Kiso Valley, visiting the historic post towns of Tsumago and Magome along the ancient Nakasendo, which once connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period. We’ll stroll along stone paths and preserved wooden houses that offer a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
We’ll then continue to Lake Biwa, the country’s largest lake, known for its iconic torii gate and beautiful sunset views.
Overnight in a 4 star hotel in the Lake Biwa area
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Day 7: Miho Museum And Nara The Ancient Capital
Before leaving the Lake Biwa area, we’ll visit Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s few original surviving castles and a National Treasure. We’ll then drive south to the Miho Museum, an architectural gem designed by I. M. Pei, seamlessly integrated into the surrounding landscape.
Continuing to Nara, we’ll visit Kōfuku-ji, known for its five-story pagoda and historic temple complex.
Overnight in a 4 star hotel in Nara
Day 8: Nara Temples And Back To Tokyo
Nara, Japan’s first capital in the 8th century, reflects the wealth and influence of early Buddhist traditions. We’ll visit Nara Park, home to temples and freely roaming deer, and explore its highlights: Tōdai-ji, the world’s largest wooden structure housing a विशाल bronze Buddha, and Kasuga Taisha, famed for its hundreds of lanterns.
We’ll then drive back to Tokyo. End of the trip.
