Mt Fuji may be closed for hiking this year, but this doesn’t mean Japan’s iconic mountain is off limits. This special trekking tour lets you enjoy a view of the mountain under the stars – and you don’t even have to wake up before the break of dawn to enjoy the majestic scenery. Organised by the luxurious Hoshinoya Fuji glamping resort, this leisurely trekking excursion starts at sunset, leaving you with a moonlit view of the iconic mountain as you picnic on a full meal.
Available from September 1 to November 30, the tour only runs on evenings when there is a half moon or full moon. It can be arranged for up to two people at a time and includes a designated guide who will lead you up Mt Teppogi no Atama after departing the Hoshinoya Fuji resort grounds. Hiking gear such as trekking shoes and headlamps are provided.
After a car ride that takes you to the base of the mountain, the trek will take you past the shores of Lake Yamanaka before ascending Mt Teppogi no Atama (approximately 1,200 metres). Once you’ve reached the lookout point, you’ll be treated to a well-deserved seasonal picnic set up by your guide while you enjoy evening views of Mt Fuji under the bright moon. The entire experience takes about five hours in total, including the car ride to and from the resort.
As the tour runs in autumn, you can expect a seasonal picnic inspired by the Japanese mid-autumn festival known as Tsukimi. With dishes like warm bouillabaisse fish stew, roasted venison with a side of harvest vegetables, Tsukimi risotto, and a sweet orange crepe suzette for dessert, this is a full-on gourmet meal.
The special trek and picnic, coupled with an overnight stay at Hoshinoya Fuji, costs ¥60,000 per person. See the website (in Japanese only) for more information. Note that the tour is limited to one group per day for up to two people. In case of bad weather, there may be changes to the schedule or even cancellation.
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