4 Days Japan Tour Package: From Tokyo to Mount Fuji Tour

Konnichiwa(こんにちは)！Welcome to Tokyo, the capital city of Japan! Upon your arrival at the airport in Tokyo, your driver (not English-speaking) will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel. You can have a good rest in your hotel and get ready to explore Tokyo with your guide the next day.

As one of Japan and Asia's largest economic centers, Tokyo is a hub for Japanese culture and art, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural venues, serving as a vital platform for artistic activities and cultural exchanges. Tokyo stands as a significant base for technological advancement, nurturing numerous high-tech companies and innovative talents, holding leading positions globally in areas like electronics, automotive, and robotics technology.

Situated at the southern end of the Kanto Plain, Tokyo is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes including Mount Fuji, providing residents with leisure and outdoor activity spaces. At one point, the population of the Tokyo metropolitan area reached 36 million, accounting for one-third of Japan's total population. Despite the high cost of living, Tokyo provides residents with convenient living conditions, offering a plethora of shopping centers, entertainment facilities, and a rich culinary culture ranging from fine dining to street food.

Arrival Ideas:
1. Japan has two commonly used international airports. Narita International Airport, located 63.5 km from the center of Tokyo, is the primary international air hub for Tokyo, where flights from China to Tokyo usually land. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), is situated 17 km from the center of Tokyo and mainly serves domestic flights within Japan and some international flights, including flights to South Korea and other East Asian regions.
2. Cities that have Direct Flights to Tokyo include, but are not limited to: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and more. Please note that flight information is subject to changes based on time and market demand. Contact us to obtain the latest flight information and prices.
3. In Japan, using public transportation such as the Subway JR trains is Recommended to save costs, avoid traffic congestion, and help reduce carbon emissions. Taxi Fares in Japan are relatively high, with a starting fare of around 660 Japanese yen and 140 yen per km. Waiting time is also charged. Surcharges are applicable during nighttime and peak hours (+20%), and expressway tolls are additional. Extra fees are levied for large luggage. For instance, a taxi ride from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport, covering about 60-70 km,might cost around 25,000-35,000 Japanese yen (roughly 170-237 USD).

Full day explore Tokyo. You will visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (a Shinto Shrine; meet Japanese Wedding Procession), Shibuya Crossing (Hachiko, the loyal dog Statue), Senso-ji Temple (a Buddhist Temple; view Tokyo Skytree), Akihabara (Electric Town), Tsukiji Outer Market (Tsukiji Fish Market).

First to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (Meiji Shrine), a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914), who played a crucial role in modernizing Japan while excelled in writing Waka (traditional Japanese poems of 31 syllables in the pattern 5-7-5-7-7). Meiji Shrine is a popular venue for traditional weddings, where you will have the opportunity to witness a Japanese Wedding Procession, experiencing the charm of Japanese traditional culture.

Founded in 1915 and finished in 1920, Meiji Shrine features a unique architectural style, with the main hall adopting traditional Japanese Shinto Shrine architecture infused with modern elements in its details. You will walk through Japan's Largest Wooden Torii Gate, standing in its natural wooden hue and weighing up to 13 tons. The Torii gate serves as the Symbol of Shinto Shrines, marking the transition from the worldly to the sacred. Walking through this gateway symbolizes stepping into the divine realm, evoking a profound sense of mystery and reverence.

As a peaceful oasis in the city, Meiji Jingu Shrine is the largest green space in the center of Tokyo. In the land-scarce city of Tokyo, the vast area occupied by the Meiji Shrine is truly astonishing! The sacred forest (170,000 trees) surrounding the main shrine buildings of Meiji Jingu is man-made, planted by 110,000 volunteers in honor of their beloved Emperor Meiji (established Shinto as the state religion) and Empress Shoken. The forest serves also to separate the sacred from the profane world.

Take a stroll along the paths and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty. Then, you will notice the impressive Sake Barrel Wall along the South Approach, which features offerings from sake breweries and believers across Japan, including barrels of sake and Western liquor, reflecting Emperor Meiji's fondness for Western culture. At the main hall of Meiji Shrine, you can witness locals washing their hands and rinsing their mouths at Purification Font before worship as a sign of respect. You can offer a 5-yen coin (symbolizing a connection) like locals and pray for blessings. In the eyes of the Japanese, Meiji Shrine is considered to have such boundless capabilities, from naming ceremonies for newborns, to coming-of-age ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, seek marriage partners, pray for world peace, family well-being, safe travels, good health, warding off calamity, etc. In addition to immersing yourself in Japanese Shinto traditions and architecture, revel in the enchanting surroundings filled with lush trees, serene ponds, graceful bridges, and stone pathways that epitomize the essence of traditional Japanese garden art. You should visit here to enjoy the vibrant bloom of cherry blossoms in spring, the verdant beauty of summer, the fiery hues of autumn leaves, and the serene snowy landscapes of winter.

Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine:
1. Wear modest clothing: Respect the sacred nature of the shrine by dressing appropriately.
2. Be mindful of noise levels: Maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere.
3. Inner Garden (Optional; self-pay; once Imperial Property), and Meiji Jingu Museum (Optional; self-pay; items used by the imperial couple).

Then, move to visit Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, accommodating approximately 3,000 people per minute. As one of Tokyo's iconic locations, Shibuya attracts tourists and photographers from around the globe who come to observe and capture its essence. Numerous movies, TV shows, commercials, and music videos are filmed at this location, such as "Detective Chinatown 3" and "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift." Additionally, the well-known story of Hachiko the Loyal Dog originates here. Hachiko, an Akita dog, continued to visit the station daily to await his deceased owner's return. The Hachiko Statue located in front of Shibuya Station stands as a significant cultural landmark in the Shibuya area, attracting numerous visitors annually who come to pay their respects and honor his loyalty.

In the afternoon, head to Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), a must-visit for anyone traveling to Tokyo. Here, you can experience the heart of old Tokyo and its vibrant atmosphere. You can take photos that frame Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree;(Japan's Tallest Tower; 634 meters) together.

Senso-ji Temple was built in 628 AD and has a history of over 1300 years, making it one of Japan's oldest temples. It not only witnesses Japan's historical changes but also carries a rich Buddhist culture. The architectural style of Senso-ji Temple blends Japanese traditional culture and art, with rich colors and exquisite carvings. The main buildings include the main gate (Kaminarimon; a landmark of Tokyo), the bell tower, the Five-story Pagoda (a landmark of Tokyo), and the main hall, all reflecting ancient Japanese architectural style and religious beliefs.

Kaminarimon is the iconic structure of Senso-ji Temple, towering at 11.7 meters high and 21.7 meters wide, truly spectacular. Giant Red Lanterns hang in front of the gate, with the words "Kaminarimon" prominently displayed. Kaminarimon is not only a symbol of Senso-ji Temple but also one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks. You may have seen the work of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e," in his piece "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Asakusa Kaminarimon," depicting a snowy scene of the Kaminarimon gate, celebrated for its delicate portrayal and profound imagery, becoming a masterpiece of Ukiyo-e art. The area is bustling, and crowded with people coming to pray and seek blessings for health, peace, and happiness. Around Senso-ji Temple, you can taste various Japanese cuisines, purchase unique souvenirs, and participate in various celebratory activities.

After that, you can explore Akihabara (Electric Town) & Tsukiji Fish Market (Now Toyosu Market). Akihabara is a district in Tokyo renowned as the center of anime, manga, video games, and electronics. It's a paradise for tech enthusiasts, you'll find countless stores selling anime merchandise, computer parts, and electronics. On the streets of Akihabara, you can see various cosplay enthusiasts showcasing and interacting while dressed in costumes of their favorite anime or game characters. Tsukiji Fish Market was once the world's largest fish market, famous for its tuna auctions. However, in 2018, it relocated to a new, larger facility called Toyosu Market. You can still enjoy fresh seafood (sashimi, sushi, or seafood rice bowls), purchase kitchenware, and learn about a variety of seafood, including the characteristics, cooking methods, and nutritional value of different types of seafood.

Today, it will be a full-day round trip (300 km) to admire the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the Mount Fuji 5th Station, Lake Kawaguchi & Owakudani.

Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan. It's a famous volcano with a perfectly symmetrical cone shape. Visiting Mount Fuji is essential for any traveler in Japan. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fuji (3,776 m) stands as an iconic symbol of Japan, a cultural and spiritual landmark (recognized as a holy mountain in Shintoism), and a natural marvel. When picturing Mount Fuji, its distinctive perfect cone shape and snow-capped peak likely come to mind. Among the most renowned depictions is Katsushika Hokusai's 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji'. Hokusai, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e," is best known for his masterpiece "The Great Wave off Kanagawa."

Start your journey to Mount Fuji 5th Station (3.5 hours,153 km) for a close-up Mount Fuji view. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji (if weather permits) and the surrounding area, including the Fuji Five Lakes. For those adventurous enough, the 5th Station is the starting point for climbing Mount Fuji. Experience the unique alpine environment and the thrill of being so close to Japan's iconic mountain.

Then, head to Lake Kawaguchi for a leisurely walk along the lakeside. Lake Kawaguchi is renowned for its clear waters that often reflect the majestic Mount Fuji (if weather permits), creating a postcard-perfect scene and making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

In the afternoon, you can visit Owakudani Valley. You can take the cable car (ropeway) from Owakudani Station to Togendai Station (near Hakone Pirate Ship Togendai Port). The cable car ascends through a beautiful valley, offering stunning views of Lake Ashi, lush forests, and volcanic landscapes. Owakudani is a unique and fascinating destination in Hakone, you can experience the raw power of nature as you witness active volcanic activity, steaming vents, and sulfurous hot springs. The area is a result of a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Don't forget to try the famous "Kuro-tamago" (Black Eggs; Self-pay), boiled in the volcanic hot springs, which are said to add seven years to your life.

After that, head back to Tokyo overnight and have a good rest.

Notes:
1. It is a long day trip, and there will be a surcharge if the tour exceeds 8 hours (For Guide, driver & vehicle).
2. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy a good view of Mt. Fuji. However, if the weather is not favorable, Mt. Fuji may not be visible.
3. The best time to view Mount Fuji is generally from Nov. to Feb. when skies are clearer and the peak is snow-capped. Nevertheless, it's important to keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, and even during these months, there is no guarantee of a clear view.
4. Early mornings often provide the best visibility before clouds obscure the view. Different locations around Mount Fuji offer varying perspectives, with some spots known for their clear views.

It is time to end your 4 Days Japan Tour. You will have some free time in Japan to explore further on your own until your driver escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

If you prefer to travel longer in Japan, you can extend your Japan Trip to other highlighted parts of Japan, such as Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, etc.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your Asia Tour. We are always here working for you and hope to see you again on your next trip to Asia. Safe journey!