Explore Shizuoka has developed Japan’s first heli-hike tour to the Southern Alps National Park, offering an unparalleled journey into Japan’s untouched wilderness. Usually off-limits to vehicles, this luxury tour gives guests exclusive access to the Southern Alps National Park via helicopter for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the remote landscape.
The 4-day/3-night tour offers an adventure where guests can partake in mountain climbing, hiking, touring a whisky distillery and soaking in hot springs, all while travelling in comfort and style.
The tour starts at the Nihondaira Yume Terrace where visitors are treated to views of Mt. Fuji’s peak from the terrace’s vantage point before relaxing at Nippondaira Hotel. On the second day, the true adventure begins as guests depart Nippondaira Hotel heliport and travel to the summit of Mt. Ogochidake via helicopter, taking less than 20 minutes – a journey that would take three days one way on foot.
Atop Mt. Ogochidake, guests can take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views of Japan’s Southern Alps and Mt. Fuji before being transported to the Sawarajima Lodge photo gallery and Ikawa Distillery, through combination of a return helicopter flight and private transfer by road. Nestled halfway up Mt. Ogochidake, the Ikawa Distillery stands as one of the most remote distilleries in all of Japan and is typically not open to the public. Guests are granted special access and a private tour for an exclusive opportunity to learn about and try the whisky distilled at Japan’s highest altitude.
Day three is brimming with adventure as guests embark on a one-hour private car ride to the Senmai-goya Hut, usually accessible only by foot. From here, travellers will ascend to the summit of Mt. Senmaidake, accompanied by an English-speaking guide showcasing the area’s rich history and unveiling stunning viewpoints along the way. Following the hike, guests visit Sumatakyo Onsen Hot Spring to rest and recuperate.
The four-day tour ends on a high with a short stroll through the emerald-green Sumatakyo Gorge and a visit to the Bridge of Dreams suspension bridge.
Kazuyoshi Ueda, Director General of Tourism Shizuoka Japan is pleased to see such interest in Japan’s wild landscape. “We are thrilled with the interest travellers have had for this new tour. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Japan’s wilderness, complemented by luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences.”
For more information on the tour, click here.
