Itinerary
Highlights
~ Visit Sado Island, where islanders work together to conserve biodiversity.
~ Tour the World Heritage-listed Sado Gold Mine and other national historic sites.
~ Visit a sake brewery and wasabi fields that use spring water from the Northern Alps.
~ Visit Suwa Taisha, one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
~ Enjoy views of Suruga Bay, the deepest bay in Japan and Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan.
~ Tour the World Cultural Heritage Site of Mt. Fuji, “a sacred place and source of artistic inspiration”.
Day 1 Arrive Niigata – Sado Island
Ride the ferry from Niigata Port to Sado Island. The journey takes about one hour.
Sado Island, located in Niigata Prefecture, is separated from the mainland approximately 16 million years ago. It is home to the historic Sado Gold Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the atmospheric Kitazawa Flotation Facility, where lush greenery now blankets the weathered concrete ruins. The island’s charm extends to its traditional handcrafted boats drifting in serene coves and the graceful ibises that thrive in its abundant countryside. Surrounded by nutrient-rich ocean waters where warm and cold currents converge, Sado Island boasts breathtaking natural beauty and a distinct culture that continues to flourish through the ages.
Observe the majestic Crested Ibis, a bird that symbolizes Japan’s resilience. Once extinct in the wild, these graceful creatures now soar freely over Sado Island’s lush countryside. Sado is a place where nature and tradition harmoniously coexist. The island lies at the confluence of warm and cold ocean currents, fostering a uniquely rich and diverse ecosystem.
After enjoying a rare and exquisite serving of Sado Beef for lunch, visit the historic Sado Gold Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once Japan’s largest gold producer, it played a vital role in supporting the nation’s economy from the 17th to the 19th century, operating from the late 16th century until the late 20th century. The remnants of this once thriving mine, where gold and other valuable minerals were extracted and used to mint coins, offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich industrial past, bridging history with the present.
At the Kitazawa Flotation Plant, a national historic site, nature and history intertwine in a breathtaking display. Lush grass blankets the concrete ruins, evoking an enchanting atmosphere from a beloved animated scene.
Check in to a refined Japanese hotel perched on a scenic hillside overlooking the ocean. As the sun sets, watch the sky ignite with vibrant hues over the tranquil sea. Savor a gourmet feast crafted from the finest treasures of the land and sea, then unwind in a soothing hot spring bath, where breathtaking ocean views enhance the ultimate moment of relaxation.
Meal: Lunch, Dinner
Stay: hotel, Sado Island
Day 2 Sado Island – Obuse, Nagano
Head to Shukunegi, the town of boatbuilders in the Middle Ages.
The intricate alleys are densely packed with over 100 wooden houses made of boat boards creating a unique landscape. You may hop aboard a handmade boat for a leisure cruise around the rocky shallows in the cove.
After enjoying a delightful French-style lunch in a beautifully preserved traditional building in Shukunegi, board a ferry back to the mainland. From there, transfer to Obuse, a charming town in Nagano Prefecture.
Nagano Prefecture is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders. In the picturesque mountain town of Obuse, tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering charming streets, historic sake breweries, and artisanal crafts. The region’s pristine spring water, sourced from the majestic Northern Japanese Alps, nourishes lush wasabi farms and is also the lifeblood of a serene hot spring inn hidden deep within the forest—said to be a place where the gods themselves once came to rest.
Masuichi Kyakuden, located beside the Hokusai Museum, is a stunning fusion of history and comtemporary elegance. Comprising three meticulously preserved storehouses and seven traditional wooden houses, this hotel captures the essence of Obuse – a town where heritage and modern design exist in perfect harmony.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Stay: Masuichi Kyakuden, Obuse
Day 3 Obuse – Matsumoto City
Visit Ganshoin, a historical temple located at the foot of the mountain in Obuse. The ceiling painting that Hokusai painted when he was 89 years old is still vividly preserved here.
In Matsumoto City, visit a historic sake brewery that has been crafting fine sake for nearly 150 years. Here, experience the artistry of traditional sake-making, where pure well water and locally grown rice come together to create exquisite, handcrafted brews. Next to the brewery, step inside a beautifully preserved 140-year-old traditional house, where a collection of antique brewing tools offer a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship and way of life of generations past.
Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino City is one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms, spanning a vast landscape that was painstakingly cultivated over 20 years, beginning a century ago. Fed by crystal-clear snowmelt waters of the Northern Japanese Alps, the farm’s lush and green wasabi fields create a breathtakingly picturesque scene.
Your accommodation for the night is Myojinkan, a secluded hot spring inn nestled deep in the forest, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Matsumoto. Steeped in legend, this tranquil retreat is said to be a place where the gods once came to heal. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, unwind in the soothing hot springs, and indulge in a luxurious stay where time slows down and relaxation takes over.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Myojinkan, Matsumoto City
Day 4 Matsumoto City – Mount Fuji – Shizuoka City
Visit Suwa Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest and most sacred shrines, a spiritual complex of four shrines surrounding the vast Lake Suwa, covering an area of over 12 square metres. What makes this shrine truly unique is that three of these shrines have no main structure, instead venerating nature itself as a sacred body, reflecting Japan’s deep-rooted ancient Japanese belief that continues to thrive today.
Next, journey to Yamanashi Prefecture to visit Lake Shoji, the smallest yet most tranquil of the Five Fuji Lakes and a recognized asset of the Mount Fuji World Cultural Heritage Site. Nestled among towering mountains on three sides, with its open waters offering a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, this serene lake provides the perfect setting to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. As you stand by its quiet lakeshore, listen to the whispers of the wind and the gentle lapping of the water, feeling the profound beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Halfway around Mount Fuji to Nihondaira, a scenic hilltop area along the coast of Shizuoka City. From this spectacular vantage point, marvel at the rare sight of Japan’s highest and deepest points—Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay—unfolding before you in perfect harmony. Here, you’ll stay at the renowned Nihondaira Hotel, often called the “Landscape Art Museum” for its breathtaking panoramic views. A place of timeless beauty, Nihondaira has captivated visitors for centuries, offering a serene retreat where nature and legend intertwine.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Nihondaira Hotel, Shizuoka City
Day 5 Shizuoka City – Izu Peninsula – Tokyo. Depart Tokyo or extend
Descend from the hotel to the breathtaking Miho Peninsula. Home to the legendary pine forest of Japanese mythology, this sacred landscape has been cherished for centuries and is recognised as a one of the Mount Fuji World Cultural Heritage Sited. This enchanting setting has inspired countless stories, songs, and artworks throughout history. Take in the serene beauty of the windswept pines, the glistening sea, and the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji, all coming together in a view that feels like a living masterpiece.
Embark on a scenic 75-minute ferry journey from Shimizu Port, renowned as one of Japan’s three most beautiful ports and the nation’s top hub for tuna fishing and processing. As you glide across the water, take in stunning coastal views before arriving at the Izu Peninsula, a beloved retreat for both Japanese and international travellers. Designated as a World Geopark, Izu boasts a striking volcanic landscape, breathtaking coastlines, and some of Japan’s finest hot springs, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation.
Savour the unique ferry journey, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to see Mount Fuji from the sea, with the possibility of encountering playful dolphins or majestic whales along the way. Arriving at Toi Port, make your way to Izu Nagaoka Onsen Town, a historic hot spring destination once favoured by writers, politicians, and influential figures. This rich cultural history gave rise to a tradition of geisha, masterful entertainers skilled in music, dance, and song. Izu Nagaoka is renowned for housing the only geisha school outside Kyoto. Delight in a traditional lunch accompanied by captivating geisha performances, and join in to play traditional games. This unforgettable experience will immerse you in the warm, welcoming spirit of Japanese hospitality, leaving you with cherished memories.
The golden journey concludes when you arrive back in Tokyo.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch