Kayaking next to Mount Fuji
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrival in Lake Kawaguchiko
Today, you’ll travel to Lake Kawaguchiko, at the foot of Mount Fuji. If you’re coming from Tokyo, we will arrange a bus for you, and in just under two hours, you’ll be looking at the iconic Mount Fuji (if the weather is on your side). For the next few days, you’ll stay in a holiday home just outside the town, giving you a taste of a typical Japanese holiday. The house is fully equipped with a barbecue and kitchen for family meals, and the lake is just a few minutes walk away.
Day 2 – Canoeing on Lake Kawaguchiko
You can spend today exploring the lake, as we have prepared canoes for you to paddle across the calm waters and soak up the peaceful mountain scenery. Make sure you prepare a packed lunch so you can stop for a picnic at one of the nearby coves.
This canoeing experience is suitable for children of all ages. Children will share a canoe with an adult.
In the afternoon, you can visit Chureito Pagoda, which is one of Japan’s most iconic viewpoints, known for the incredible backdrop of Mount Fuji. It’s a bit of a walk up the hillside to reach the viewpoint, but manageable for most families with well-maintained paths and plenty of rest stops along the way. There is also a huge amusement park for those adrenaline seekers, with a great mix of extreme rides and more gentle coasters for younger children. Many of the rides at Fuji-Q Highland have jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji, if you’re brave enough to keep your eyes open!
Day 3 – Departure from Lake Kawaguchiko
There is so much to discover in the Kawaguchiko area, so if you have more time, it’s definitely worth extending your stay here. When you do decide it’s time to move on, you can head up into the Alps and visit the historical Matsumoto, or glide across the river on a pirate ship in Hakone.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Kawaguchiko - Volcanic forest and cave tour
If you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, we can arrange a guided hike through the Aokigahara Forest. You’ll follow narrow trails under a dense canopy of trees covered with thick moss, where the stillness of the forest creates a mysterious atmosphere. Before long, you’ll arrive at a large hole, which you will climb down into using a ladder. Armed with a flashlight, you’ll walk along a rocky path until you reach shimmering ice formations that shine in the torchlight.
This tour is perfect for children aged 12+
Kawaguchiko - Wildlife watching
Together with a guide, you’ll search for flying squirrels and learn more about these animals in their natural habitat. As these cute creatures are nocturnal, you’ll be taken to a quiet forested area after sunset, hoping to spot them gliding silently in the trees above. Depending on the season, it’s also possible to spot other nocturnal animals, including owls, bats, frogs and insects.
This tour is suitable for children of all ages
