Explore iconic Mt. Fuji from a different perspective
In the eastern area of Shizuoka, nestled at the foot of Mt Fuji, is the small city of Fujinomiya. The area around Fujinomiya is home to a way of life that has remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years. Generations of shop owners have dedicated their lives to pursuing their craft – whether that be kimono fitting, traditional sweet making or sake brewing – and are now ready to share that culture with visitors to their town providing eco-tours that offer a glimpse into unique authentic Japanese artisian crafts. With tourism increasing exponentially to Japan over the recent years, many visitors have been increasingly funneled into the traditional tourist areas of Kyoto and Tokyo. However, the area of Fujinomiya, home to traditional villages, ancient culture and a vibrant community has been relatively untouched by overseas visitors. The founder of Ecologic Japan, Masa Shinitani, is hoping to attract more people to the area and share a uniquely local and authentic experience of Japan, while still encouraging tourism that respects the local community’s ways and supports the village in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. With this in mind, Masa created Enya Mt Fuji Ecotours, to showcase the unique culture and local people, and offer Japanese experiences that are more than simply the cookie cutter offerings tourists might see in Kyoto, Tokyo or other more popular areas. Where ever you go in Fujinomiya City Mount Fuji is a constant presence (although quite often may be shrouded in clouds – especially Summer) and there is no escape its influence on the people and their lives.
Add that to the fact that the mountain has been revered as a deity by people in Japan for just as long as they have been around and it is no wonder people come from all over the world to sample some Fuji water.
POPULAR FUJINOMIYA BASED ECOTOURS:
1. A relaxing day hike up Mt Fuji starting at the Sengen Taisha shrine (one of the most important shrines in the Japanese religion of Shinto)
2. A township and culture ecotour featuring a personalised kimono fitting, visiting a shrine and the town in your kimono, then a lesson in making Japanese sweets
3. And then a relaxed cycle tour where there are different seasonal activities, ranging from exploring the amazing shiraito falls in summer or learning how to brew sake autumn through to spring, or simply enjoying deliciously battered tempura with handmade soba noodles in any season.
Of course, if your group is large enough, such as an international school group, or a group visiting for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in 2019, and you would like a private and customised tour, Masa is more than happy to hear from you and plan your amazing Japanese experience. Professional and knowledgable english speaking guides are available as well, so language is not a problem.
With Shizuoka being right between Tokyo and Kyoto, and only an hour by Shinkansen from Tokyo, why not get in touch with Masa and explore Mt Fuji away from the crowds with an Enya Mt Fuji Ecotour today!
For more information on things to do in Fujinomiya please check:
Fujinomiya Tourism Board Website (English)
For more information on Mt Fuji Eco Tours please check:
