Itinerary Inspo: Outdoor Excursions
Pack your hiking shoes, sunscreen and camera, because travel and outdoor enthusiast Tee George is sharing her dream itinerary. Focused on experiencing nature’s beauty and visiting culturally significant sites, Tee’s itinerary is filled with excellent inspiration for those looking to spend their Japanese vacation outside.
SHIRAITO FALLS
Tucked into the southwestern foothills of Mt. Fuji and fed by its spring water, Shiraito Falls are considered some of the most beautiful in Japan. A winding walking trail leads to the base of the falls, which is easily accessible from the road. Once at the falls, travelers can appreciate the silky waters.
273-1 Kamiide, Fujinomiya-shi, Shizuoka 418-0103SAIKO IYASHI-NO-SATO NENBA (TRADITIONAL JAPANESE VILLAGE)
In 1966 a landslide decimated this village, but it was later rebuilt as an open-air museum — complete with period architecture. Iyashi-no-Sato educates visitors, selling locally-crafted wares and offering hands-on learning opportunities.
The Omni Bus Green Line (Saiko Line) connects Kawaguchiko Station with Iyashi no Sato in about 40 minutes.
2710 Nenba, Fujikawaguchiko-machi,Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0332
SHOSENKYO GORGE
Located in Chichibu Tama Kai National Park, the gorge is most often visited in autumn thanks to its impressive fall foliage display. Visitors can hike approximately 2.5 miles along the Arakawa River from the Nagatoro Bridge to the Sengataki Waterfall to take in the views.
The hiking road is accessible from the “Shosenkyo-guchi” bus stop.
Shosenkyo, Takanari-cho, Kofu-sih, Yamanashi 400-1214MISHIMA SKYWALK
Walk on air — almost. As the longest suspension bridge in Japan, the Mishima Skywalk stretches 400 meters and offers views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. Walking isn’t the only way to experience the bridge, as a zipline runs beneath. Spring visitors can also enjoy the Hydrangea Trail.
313 Sasahara Shinden, Mishima-shi, Shizuoka 411-0012KAWAZU SEVEN WATERFALLS
One trail, seven waterfalls. Located in the mountains above Kawazu Town in southeastern Izu, this series of falls range drastically in height and can be seen from a walking trail that spans less than a mile. Along the trail keep an eye out for statues depicting the story of The Izu Dancer.
Hourly buses between Kawazu and Shuzenji stations stop at both the upper and lower ends of the trail that leads past the waterfalls.
Nashimoto, Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka 413-0501RYUGU SEA CAVE
Considered a mystery of Mother Nature, the Ryugu Sea Cave is the result of waves eroding soft soil. Eventually, the top caved in — creating something like a sunroof in the cave. The result is a stunning oceanside experience like no other, accessible from the road by a set of stairs.
Touji, Shimoda-shi, Shizuoka 415-0029