Embarking on the Mt. Fuji Views and Rural Japan Scenic Day Trip is a journey that combines breathtaking natural beauty with authentic cultural moments. For around $1,500 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring a new scenic spot called FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace, nestled at 1,600 meters elevation, and traveling through peaceful rural villages. Led by a dedicated local guide, this tour offers a rare chance to see Mount Fuji from its side, which is a perspective few travelers get to experience.

Two things we love about this experience are the exclusive panoramic terrace that provides uninterrupted views of Mount Fuji and the hands-on soba-making at a traditional farmhouse, which translates authentic Japanese cuisine into a fun, memorable activity. The other highlight is the private nature of the tour, ensuring a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

A potential consideration is the price point, especially since it’s a private tour, which might be more than some travelers want to spend. But if you’re seeking an intimate, tailored day with access to unique viewpoints and cultural insights, this experience is worth it.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mixture of natural scenery, cultural authenticity, and small-group exclusivity. If you’re looking for a unique Mount Fuji experience from Sapporo, combined with rural Japanese charm, this is a compelling choice.

Key Points

Exclusive Scenic Spot: Offers the only place to see Mount Fuji from its side at 1,600 meters elevation.
Authentic Cultural Activities: Includes a soba-making experience and a visit to traditional farmhouses.
Private Tour: Personalized, with only your group, ensuring a relaxed and tailored experience.
Spectacular Views: Panoramic vistas of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and Lake Yamanaka.
Convenient Pickup: Starts at 8:00 am, with transfer included, making it easy to plan.
Full-Day Immersion: Combines natural beauty with rural culture in one seamless trip.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Timing

Starting at 8:00 am, your private guide will pick you up in Sapporo. The early morning start is ideal to make the most of daylight and avoid afternoon crowds. Since this is a private tour, the timing is flexible for your group, but the structured itinerary ensures you see some of the most unique sights of rural Japan and Mount Fuji’s vistas.

Visiting FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace: A New Scenic Spot

The highlight of this trip is the panoramic terrace at 1,600 meters, a relatively new addition that began operations in 2024. Here, you’ll experience something quite rare: a view of Mount Fuji from its side, giving a different perspective than the classic front-facing shots from Lake Kawaguchi.

From this vantage point, the views extend from Mount Fuji’s summit down to its foothills, with the twin lakes, Kawaguchi and Yamanaka, providing stunning foreground scenery. This spot is accessible only by authorized vehicles, making it a private, exclusive experience. We love the fact that this is a newly opened location—less crowded and more authentic—allowing for some quiet reflection and incredible photo opportunities.

Rural Japan: Village Life and Traditional Farmhouses

Next, your guide takes you to a traditional Japanese village, where thatched-roof farmhouses and earthen floors evoke a nostalgic world. The guide shares stories about the village’s history, rural customs, and natural environment, giving you context that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Walking through these quiet lanes, you’ll notice the harmony of old and new, where traditional architecture still serves as homes and community spaces. The hearths and thatched roofs are not just picturesque but speak to sustainable, historic building techniques. Several reviews mention the “nostalgic scenery,” confirming that this part of the tour delivers a sense of stepping back in time.

Soba-Making and Lunch: Hands-On Cultural Experience

No authentic Japanese meal is complete without soba, and here, you get to make your own soba noodles at a rural farmhouse. The process involves kneading, rolling, and cutting, supervised by a local craftsman. The satisfaction of making your own noodles adds a personal touch to the meal.

Following the soba-making, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring the soba you prepared, paired with local tempura. This fresh, simple meal embodies the flavors of rural Japan and offers a satisfying conclusion to the morning activities. Reviewers frequently mention how delicious and fresh the soba was, and how fun it was to be involved in the preparation.

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The Return and Reflection

The day concludes with a relaxed drive back to Sapporo, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Since the tour is private, you can always ask your guide to linger at any spot or adjust the schedule a bit.

Practical Details and Value

The overall cost of $1,511.38 covers transportation, guide services, entrance fees, and the soba-making experience. While it’s a substantial expenditure, the value lies in the personalized attention, access to exclusive viewpoints, and the chance to combine natural beauty with cultural authenticity. For travelers seeking a full day of meaningful, off-the-beaten-path moments, this tour offers just that.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits those who appreciate small-group intimacy, are eager to explore authentic rural Japan, and want a unique vantage point of Mount Fuji that most visitors don’t see. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, walking, and participating in cultural activities. If your priority is a more relaxed, private experience rather than a large tour bus, this will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Sapporo to see Mount Fuji via the newly opened FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace offers a combination of spectacular views, culture, and authentic rural experiences. It stands out for its exclusivity—only accessible by authorized vehicles—and the opportunity to witness Mount Fuji from a unique side angle. The inclusion of hands-on soba-making makes it not just sightseeing but an engaging cultural activity.

While the price may seem high, the value comes from the personalized nature of the tour, the unobstructed panoramic views, and the chance to connect with rural Japan in a meaningful way. The experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize authenticity and are eager to see Japan’s countryside alongside one of its most iconic landmarks.

If you’re after a less crowded, more intimate, and culturally rich day trip that balances natural beauty with authentic local life, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that it involves a full day of sightseeing and walking around rural areas. It’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included from pickup in Sapporo, and the vehicle accesses the exclusive scenic spot and rural village.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adjust timing slightly, but the overall itinerary is designed to maximize scenic and cultural experiences.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning views.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a soba-making experience followed by a meal featuring the soba you made and local tempura.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Later cancellations will not be refunded.

This tour strikes a fine balance between natural spectacle and cultural storytelling, perfect for those who want a memorable, meaningful day exploring rural Japan’s quiet charm and Mount Fuji’s majestic beauty.