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First ever helicopter tour of Japan’s Southern Alps to launch
A brand-new helicopter and hiking tour has launched in Shizuoka, Japan which explores the Southern Alps.
The helicopter tour includes views of Mt. Fuji and surrounding peaks, as well as stops at a mountain onsen resort.
The itinerary also includes a stay in traditional ryokan inn and a visit to Japan’s most remote whisky distillery.
The four-day Japan Southern Alps National Park Adventure Tour from DMC Local Network Service Shizuoka is the first of its kind in Japan’s Southern Alps National Park.
The helicopter tour launches in September this year.
Departing Shizuoka Station, the tour begins by private car to the Nihondaira Yume Terrace where guests check in to the nearby Nippondaira Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
They depart the next morning from the hotel’s heliport to the summit of Mt. Ogochidake, which has an elevation of around 2,000m.
After descending by helicopter to an elevation of around 1,000m, a private car will transport guests to the photo gallery at Sawarajima Lodge.
The gallery showcases the Japanese Southern Alps in images across all four seasons.
Guests explore the local Ikawa Distillery where rare whisky is made at a high altitude from mountain water.
The distillery is the most remote in Japan and not usually open to the public.
After an overnight stay at the lodge, the tour moves on by private car to the Senmai-goya Hut at an elevation of 2,500m, where guests will then ascent by foot to the summit of Mt. Senmaidake.
Guests then visit the Sumatakyo Onsen which is nestled within the mountains to soak in the hot springs.
Guests will then enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner and an overnight stay at a local ryokan inn.
On the helicopter tour’s final day, guests will stroll through the Sumatakyo Valley, where they will visit the spectacular Yume no Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge – known as the ‘Bridge of Dreams’.
Helicopter tour prices start from ¥920,000 per adult including taxes, based on two adults sharing a room inclusive of the helicopter ride, private car/taxi transfers listed and three nights’ accommodation.
An adjusted itinerary of 2 nights/ 3 days is also available.
The tour will be available annually between early September and late October.
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