Day 1
Begin at Mishima Station in Shizuoka Prefecture, some 40 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen bullet train. Travel by private vehicle around Mt. Fuji to the shore of Lake Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture. At music venue Nasubiza, which looks out over the lake to Mt. Fuji, enjoy the sounds of traditional Japanese musical instruments. Through close proximity to the performers, immerse yourself in the music and soul of the Japanese.
After a satisfying lunch, head to the Aokigahara “sea of trees” at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Explore the forest and caves while learning from your personal guide about the history and culture of Mt. Fuji. Gain a deeper appreciation for the mountain, which, as home to the gods, has long been a spiritual locus for the Japanese.
Day 2
Visit a tea farm at the foot of Mt. Fuji that has been in business for over 300 years. Learn from the farmers here about traditional and modern methods of tea production and try your hand at the age-old “temomi” method of kneading tea. From spring through to autumn, you can also enjoy the experience of picking tea in the shadow of magnificent Mt. Fuji.
Next, travel by private vehicle to Izu Nagaoka on Izu Peninsula, a popular destination for both Japanese and visitors from overseas. The peninsular is recognized as a World Geopark and known for its many high-quality hot springs. In the old days, writers and prominent figures from the political and financial world frequented the area. This gave rise to a culture of geisha, who entertain guests with shamisen, song and dance. Izu Nagaoka is known for having the only geisha school outside Kyoto. Learn the history of geisha from an actual geisha before being entertained during lunch with a performance of dance. After lunch, experience Japanese hospitality through traditional geisha games.
Later, head to the center of Izu Peninsula to visit a wasabi farm nestled in the Amagi mountains. Known to have the second highest rainfall in Japan, the region has produced premium wasabi for well over a century. The wasabi fields, which are made by stacking stones by hand, are fed by an abundance of spring water. Cultivation is also done by hand using traditional methods. No fertilizers or agro-chemicals are used. Instead, the constantly flowing spring water enables the wasabi to mature over time, resulting in a high-quality product. Enjoy tasting this authentic wasabi and, if you wish, pick some yourself to take home.
The “Gold Highway” connects Toi, a town in Shizuoka Prefecture famous for its gold mines, and Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture. The people of this historically rich region, which runs vertically through four central Japan prefectures, still live lives that benefit from the abundance of nature around them. As you travel a route once used to transport gold, enjoy a “golden experience” that brings you close to lush nature and the spirit of old Japan.