Shine Muscat Buffet, Fuji Ice Cave & Oshino Hakkai Day Tour

Shine Muscat Buffet, Fuji Ice Cave & Oshino Hakkai Day Tour: An Authentic Day in Honshu

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that mixes natural beauty with local flavors and scenic vistas, this tour offers a lot. Priced at $72 per person, it covers Yamanashi’s stunning Shine Muscat grapes, the mysterious Narusawa Ice Cave, the idyllic Oshino Hakkai spring ponds, and a wine tasting at Katsunuma Winery. Led by a friendly guide, usually in Japanese with English or Chinese staff if needed, this tour packs a lot into a single day.

What we love most? First, the 30-minute all-you-can-eat Shine Muscat experience — these grapes are sweet, aromatic, and impressively juicy, making it a real highlight. Second, the panoramic views from Fujisan Deck—standing 13 meters high, it offers unbeatable snapshots of Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and the surrounding gardens.

A potential consideration? The itinerary can be affected by weather or crowds, especially at the ice cave, where waiting times might extend or the visit could be replaced with a nearby cave. This means flexibility is key, and some parts may be shortened or skipped.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and local produce without straying too far from Tokyo. It’s ideal if you want a full-day experience that’s more than just sightseeing — it’s about tasting, touching, and truly experiencing the region around Mt. Fuji.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Varied Experiences: Combines fruit picking, cave exploration, scenic viewpoints, and wine tasting.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Shine Muscat grapes and Katsunuma wines highlight regional specialties.
• Great Views: The Fujisan Deck offers one of the best panoramic Mt. Fuji vistas.
• Natural Wonders: Narusawa Ice Cave presents a surreal, cool escape—especially in summer.
• Flexible Itinerary: Some activities might be shortened or replaced due to weather or crowds.
• Value for Money: At $72, the tour includes transportation, several attractions, and tastings, making it cost-effective.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The day begins early at the front of Kogakuin University near Shinjuku Station, a convenient central spot in Tokyo. Meeting at 07:50 with departure at 08:00, the group boards a comfortable bus, leaving behind Tokyo’s hustle for the lush landscapes of Yamanashi. The efficiency of the transportation is key, especially since the tour is designed to maximize your time at each stop.

Shine Muscat Grape Picking

The highlight for many is the 30-minute all-you-can-eat Shine Muscat grapes. These grapes are cultivated specifically in Yamanashi, famed for their intense sweetness and fragrant aroma. The experience feels luxurious — you get to sample grapes that are often described as “bursting with flavor,” and some reviews mention the bliss of tasting such fresh, juicy fruit.

However, depending on the weather and harvest conditions, the grapes available might be pre-harvested or slightly different. It’s a small caveat, but worth noting if you’re set on picking your own. The experience is fun and offers a taste of local agriculture that you might not get on typical sightseeing tours.

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Oshino Hakkai: Reflective and Picturesque

Next, the journey takes us to Oshino Hakkai, a sacred spot renowned for its crystal-clear spring ponds fed by Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt. Here, you’ll find eight ponds reflecting Mt. Fuji’s iconic silhouette and traditional Japanese village scenery. It’s a peaceful place that feels both charming and spiritual.

Many travelers appreciate the reflections of Mt. Fuji on the water’s surface, which are so vivid that it feels like stepping into a postcard. The area also offers an opportunity to browse traditional shops and enjoy some local snacks, making it a relaxed stop.

The Herb Garden and Fujisan Deck

A short drive takes you to the Herb Garden at Fuji Kawaguchiko, where seasonal flowers and herbs bloom across expansive gardens. It’s a sensory delight—aromas, colors, and textures. Visitors often comment on the natural skincare products that make lovely souvenirs, and the Fujisan Deck, a 13-meter-high platform, provides some of the best panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. Expect sweeping vistas of the mountain, Lake Kawaguchi, and lush gardens, perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Narusawa Ice Cave: A Chilly Marvel

Probably the most atmospheric part of the tour is the Narusawa Ice Cave. This natural wonder is a cooled underground tunnel carved by volcanic activity. Inside, you’ll see translucent ice formations, stalactites, and ice crystals that seem almost otherworldly.

It’s an experience that appeals to those interested in natural phenomena and is especially refreshing in summer. The cave’s cool, damp air offers a relief from the summer heat, and the mysterious ambiance makes it a memorable highlight.

Keep in mind that children under 100 cm and pregnant women are not allowed to enter for safety reasons. Also, if crowds are large, the visit might be limited to 30 minutes, or you might be directed to the nearby Fugaku Wind Cave instead.

Wine Tasting at Katsunuma

The tour wraps up at a Katsunuma Winery, a renowned region for Japanese wine. You’ll have the chance to sample several kinds of wine and juice directly from the onsite shops. For wine lovers, this is an opportunity to try regional products and buy a bottle as a souvenir. The vineyards on the hills provide a lovely backdrop, and the tasting experience can be quite rewarding.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good glass of wine or wants to learn about Japan’s emerging wine scene, this stop is a rewarding finish to your day.

Final Return

The bus returns to the original meeting point in Tokyo, usually in the late afternoon, making it a full and satisfying day. The entire experience is designed to be easy and accessible, with transportation included and guides to help make each stop meaningful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking diversity in their sightseeing — combining nature, local agriculture, and scenic views — without having to arrange multiple separate trips. It’s especially suited for those who love authentic regional flavors like Shine Muscat grapes and Japanese wines or want to experience the magic of Mt. Fuji from different angles.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer organized transport and guided explanations rather than navigating public transport or car rentals. However, keep in mind that some activities might be affected by weather or crowd levels, so flexibility and patience are helpful.

The Sum Up

This day tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, cultural touches, and fun experiences. From the glow of Mt. Fuji reflected in Oshino Hakkai to the cool, mysterious Narusawa Ice Cave, each stop provides a distinct flavor of the region’s natural and cultural richness. The all-you-can-eat Shine Muscat grapes are a real treat, giving you a taste of Yamanashi’s famous orchards, while the wine tasting showcases a less-known but growing part of Japan’s alcohol scene.

For travelers who enjoy beautiful vistas, local food, and engaging activities, this tour delivers a memorable experience without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited to those who want a comprehensive day trip that balances sightseeing with authentic tastes and stunning views.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, 30 minutes of all-you-can-eat Shine Muscat grapes, entrance to Narusawa Ice Cave, wine tasting at Katsunuma, and a Japanese-speaking guide.

Can I pick my own Shine Muscat grapes?
The tour offers a 30-minute all-you-can-eat experience, which may involve pre-harvested grapes depending on conditions. Actual grape picking might be limited or replaced if weather does not permit.

What should I bring?
You should bring cash for personal expenses or souvenirs. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are children allowed on the Ice Cave?
No, children under 100 cm or pregnant women are not permitted inside Narusawa Ice Cave** for safety reasons**.

What if the cave visit is crowded?
If wait times for the Narusawa Ice Cave exceed 30 minutes, the tour may visit the Fugaku Wind Cave instead, which is also volcanic and scenic.

Is the tour suitable for seniors?
The route includes some long stairs and uphill sections, so it may not be optimal for those who require crutches or have mobility issues.

How long does the entire tour last?
It starts early in the morning and returns late afternoon, making it a full-day experience.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The operator can cancel or reschedule due to weather, especially for outdoor activities like the ice cave or vineyard visits. No refunds are issued if the itinerary is affected by weather.

Will I be guided in English?
The guide speaks Japanese, but for groups of 10 or more foreigners, a Chinese or English staff member joins to facilitate communication.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The views from Fujisan Deck and the reflections at Oshino Hakkai** make for memorable photos. Just be mindful of the lighting and crowds during peak times.

This comprehensive day tour offers a nice mix of scenery, local flavor, and adventure, perfect for those wanting a taste of Honshu’s natural beauty without fuss. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan explorer, it’s a satisfying way to spend a day in the shadow of Mt. Fuji.

You can check availability for your dates here: