Your friendly guide will meet you at your hotel in central Tokyo in the morning. (If your hotel is located outside our pickup area, we may still be able to arrange pickup for an additional cost.) Together, you will travel by subway or local train to Tokyo Station to board Japan’s world-famous bullet train (Shinkansen). Sit back and enjoy the smooth and comfortable ride on one of the fastest trains in the world. In just about 45 minutes, you will arrive at Mishima Station. Along the way, keep an eye out the window—on a clear day, you may be rewarded with a spectacular view of majestic Mt. Fuji.

Mishima is a charming small city located just south of Mt. Fuji. Upon arrival at the station, your guide will arrange a rental car and drive you to the day’s first destination, Hongu Sengen Taisha Shinto Shrine. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. The type of vehicle will vary depending on the size of your group.

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine is the head shrine of the many Sengen shrines found throughout Japan and is one of the country’s most important shrines dedicated to Mount Fuji. As you explore the shrine grounds, you will discover beautiful elements of traditional Shinto architecture and scenery, including vibrant torii gates, elegant wooden structures, ancient trees, and serene ponds. Your guide will also introduce you to Japan’s religious traditions, including Shinto and Buddhism, and explain how these beliefs have influenced Japanese culture and daily life.

Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 2013. Rather than being listed as a natural heritage site, it was recognized for its profound historical and cultural significance, especially its influence on Japanese art, spirituality, and religious traditions. At the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, you will learn about the history, culture, and spiritual importance of Mt. Fuji and why this iconic mountain holds such a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people. The center’s unique wooden architectural design is also a highlight in itself. On a clear day, the observation floor offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Fuji.

Our next stop is Shiraito Falls, one of the components of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site. The name Shiraito literally means “white threads,” referring to the delicate streams of water that cascade down the cliff like strands of silk. The crystal-clear water originates from the snow and rain that fall on Mt. Fuji and slowly filter through layers of volcanic lava rock over many years before emerging at the falls. Surrounded by lush nature, the breathtaking scenery and mystical, sacred atmosphere of this beautiful waterfall never fail to captivate visitors.

After the visit, your guide will drive you back to Mishima Station to board the return Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tokyo Station. Avoiding heavy highway traffic, you can relax and enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride back to Tokyo while reflecting on the day’s wonderful experiences with two of Japan’s most iconic symbols—Mount Fuji and beautiful Cherry Blossom. Upon arrival at Tokyo Station, your guide will accompany you by subway back to your hotel.