Museum culture in , Japan!

Aokigahara Forest

Why Visit?

Discover the Mysteries of Aokigahara Forest

Located on Japan"s majestic Mount Fuji"s northwestern flank, Aokigahara, also known as the Sea of Trees, offers both enchanting beauty and poignant history. This unique day trip from Tokyo is perfect for those interested in natural environments intertwined with cultural folklore.

Getting There

Start your journey from Tokyo by catching the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station. From there, transfer to the Fujikyu Railway and head towards Kawaguchiko Station. The trip takes about 2.5 hours. At Kawaguchiko, you can either rent a car or hop on a local bus that will drop you at the forest"s edge.

Morning Exploration: Saiko Bat Cave

Begin your tour at the Saiko Bat Cave near the forest’s entrance. This natural cave, formed by volcanic activity from Mount Fuji, introduces visitors to the local geology and the diverse species of bats that inhabit the area. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the cave’s ecological and historical significance.

Midday Walk: Aokigahara Forest Trail

Delve deeper into Aokigahara’s dense foliage by walking one of the established trails. It’s highly recommended to join a guided walk to safely navigate the forest while learning about its botanical aspects, and intriguing myths. The tranquility and unique scenery of twisted trees and lava plateaus make it a photographer’s paradise.

Afternoon Visit: Wind Cave and Ice Cave

Conclude your museum culture tour with a visit to the nearby Wind Cave and Ice Cave, located a short drive from the main forest area. These caves serve as natural museums, perfectly preserved with ice all year round, and were historically used as refrigerators. Explore the serene, cool atmosphere and learn about their role in local history.

Essential Tips

- Always stay on marked paths.

- Respect the serenity of the forest; it"s a site of historical significance and reflection.

- Check local travel advisories for the latest access information.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Kawaguchi-ko (Lake Kawaguchi)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting museum journey near the serene waters of Lake Kawaguchi, nestled at the foot of the iconic Mount Fuji. This cultural tour is a delightful blend of art, history, and panoramic views.

Morning: Kubota Itchiku Museum

Begin your day at the Kubota Itchiku Museum, which celebrates the art of Itchiku Tsujigahana, a traditional silk dyeing technique revived and modernized by Itchiku Kubota. The museum itself, designed with timber and stone, looks out onto a tranquil garden and the lake. To get there, take the Retro Bus from Kawaguchi-ko Station, getting off at the Kubota Itchiku Museum stop. Marvel at the intricately designed kimonos that reflect the seasons, landscapes, and even the cosmos. The museum’s architecture and the surrounding gardens are as much a work of art as the exhibits themselves.

Midday: Kawaguchi-ko Music Forest Museum

Next, head to the Kawaguchi-ko Music Forest Museum, designed with a European theme, complete with elaborate gardens and charming architecture reminiscent of a quaint European village. Catch the Retro Bus back towards the station and alight at the Music Forest stop. This museum is dedicated to automatic musical instruments, like music boxes and self-playing pianos. Enjoy live musical performances, and don"t miss the Sand Picture Theater, where stories unfold to the tune of mesmerizing music.

Afternoon: Yamanashi Gem Museum

Finish your museum tour at the Yamanashi Gem Museum, a short walk from the Music Forest. It showcases an impressive collection of gems, jewels, and minerals from around the world. Learn about the geological features that give rise to these natural treasures and even purchase your own gemstone souvenir.

Each destination on this museum tour offers a unique glimpse into different facets of art and nature, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji. Make sure to check the museum timings and plan your visit accordingly to maximize your experience.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine (Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja)

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating museum tour starting at the serene Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, an essential part of Japan’s cultural and spiritual landscape, nestled in the city of Fujiyoshida, at the northern base of Mount Fuji. Known locally as Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja, this shrine forms a gateway to the sacred mountain and has been a starting point for pilgrims for centuries.

Getting There

From Tokyo, take the Chuo Expressway bus towards Kawaguchiko Station and disembark at Fujiyoshida"s Sengen Shrine bus stop. The journey offers scenic views of the countryside and Mount Fuji, setting a contemplative mood for your visit.

Your Visit Starts

Begin your tour by exploring the shrine’s expansive grounds, marked by over 500 moss-covered stone steps leading up to the main complex, flanked by majestic cedar trees. This pathway is not just a route—it"s a historical pilgrimage trail. Notice the intricate torii gates that signify the transition into a sacred space.

The shrine itself dates back to 788 AD and serves as a protector of the Fujiyoshida area. It’s dedicated to Princess Konohanasakuya, the Shinto deity associated with Mount Fuji. Her connection to the mountain and to fire prevention is depicted in various artifacts and the architecture of the shrine.

Must-See Highlights

1. Main Hall (Honden) - Admire the architectural style, which reflects the blend of Shinto and Buddhist influences.

2. Sacred Trees - Some trees in the shrine are over 1000 years old and are revered as natural deities.

3. Wakutama Pond - Purify yourself with its sacred waters, believed to have protective powers.

Insider Tip

Visit during the Fujiyoshida Fire Festival in August, a cultural explosion celebrating the shrine and its deity, providing a deep dive into the local traditions and community spirit.

Before leaving, take a quiet moment at the Shinto exhibition hall displaying relics and gifts offered to the deity. This shrine not only offers a spiritual journey but also a historical voyage into the heart of Japanese culture.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Lake Motosu (Motosu-ko)

Why Visit?

Discovering Lake Motosu: A Cultural and Historical Expedition

Embark on a captivating journey around Lake Motosu, celebrated not only for its scenic beauty but also for its cultural significance, famously appearing on the reverse side of the ¥1000 note.

Starting Point: Fujiyoshida

Begin your day in Fujiyoshida, accessible by taking the Chuo Expressway bus from Shinjuku Station, Tokyo. It"s a smooth 2-hour ride to this picturesque city at the base of Mount Fuji.

1. Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine

Your first stop is the serene Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, an important cultural heritage site nestled at the northern foothills of Mount Fuji. This shrine marks the traditional starting point for pilgrimages up the mountain. Spend a moment in reflection by the majestic torii gate and explore the historical artifacts and Edo-period architecture.

Travel to Lake Motosu

From Fujiyoshida, drive or take a local bus towards Lake Motosu, approximately 30 minutes away. The route offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, enriching your travel experience.

2. Lake Motosu

Upon arrival, soak in the tranquil beauty of Lake Motosu, the deepest of the Fuji Five Lakes. Visit the small yet informative Lake Motosu Museum, located conveniently at the lake"s edge. Here, delve into the geological history of the region, the formation of this caldera lake, and its ecological significance.

3. Fujikawaguchiko Museum of Art

Conclude your tour at the Fujikawaguchiko Museum of Art, a short drive from Lake Motosu. This museum features an array of contemporary and traditional art, focusing on works inspired by Mount Fuji and its natural surroundings. Don"t miss the outdoor sculptures and the picturesque garden that offers a panoramic view of the area.

Wrap up the Day

Reflect on the day"s enriching experiences at a local café, enjoying views of Mount Fuji at sunset. Whether through its natural beauty or cultural depth, Lake Motosu offers a profound connection to Japan"s artistic and ecological heritage.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.