This is the 2nd part of our road trip in Japan and you may click here for the 1st part.
Day 7 (Shizuoka – Nippondaira Hotel)
We set our course for the Shizuoka prefecture, making our way to the picturesque Makaino Farm Resort. Here, the kids relished the opportunity to feed and ride horses, learn the art of cow milking, and interact with a variety of animals including sheep, guinea pigs, rabbits, and more. Nestled amidst this lively farm was the majestic Mount Fuji, offering breathtaking views and numerous photogenic spots. The farm also boasted a few dedicated kids’ play area, complemented by a selection of eateries and cafes where we indulged in a sumptuous buffet lunch before continuing our journey.
On our journey to our next lodging, we made a stop at the magnificent Shiraito Falls, nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and widely celebrated as one of Japan’s most stunning waterfalls. Spanning an impressive 150 meters in width and standing tall at 20 meters, this cascading wonder creates an serene and idyllic waterfall curtain.
The last part of today’s journey led us to the luxurious Nippondaira Hotel overlooking Suruga Bay in Shizuoka prefecture. This ultra-modern, upscale hotel finds its home atop the scenic Nihondaira hill—a location revered as one of Japan’s 100 Landscapes of Japan. From this vantage point, guests are treated to breathtaking panorama view that encompass Mount Fuji, a revered UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the tranquil waters of Suruga Bay.
Day 8 – (Suruga Bay – Akaneironoumi Arujisu)
We embarked on a journey via the Nihondaira Ropeway to reach the revered Kunozan Toshugu Shrine. This sacred site, boasting a rich history spanning over four centuries, serves as the final resting place of Lord Tokugawa Ieyasu, the visionary leader who established the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603—a period marked by 265 years of peace and prosperity in Japan. Renowned for its exquisite architecture, the shrine’s intricately adorned buildings earned the prestigious title of National Treasure in 2010. As we ascended on the ropeway, a thrilling experience for the kids, we were treated to panoramic views of the rolling hills and the picturesque Suruga Bay, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for our excursion.
Initially, our plan was to cross the Suruga Bay via ferry; however, inclement weather forced the cancellation of ferry services. Consequently, we had to alter our route and take a scenic drive around the bay to reach our destination—a journey that consumed a similar amount of time. Despite the comparable duration of the trip, we were eager to partake in the unique experience of ferrying across the bay, with the added bonus of transporting our vehicle alongside us. Better luck next time!
Following that, we proceeded to check in at the traditional ryokan-style Akaneironoumi Arujisu, featuring a private Onsen on the balcony overlooking the sea. The sunset view from the balcony offered a breathtaking panorama view of Suruga Bay, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Our accommodation package included a delectable seafood dinner and breakfast. Entranced by the private Onsen overlooking Odoi Beach, we indulge ourselves in its relaxing waters for an extended period. Post our delightful seafood feast, the attentive staff prepared the futon for our family, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. While the staff’s English proficiency was limited, their exceptional service surpassed language barriers, leaving us thoroughly impressed. We wholeheartedly recommend this establishment to fellow travelers seeking a memorable retreat.
Day 9 – 11 (Hakone – Hakone Villa)
Transitioning from the coastal town of Shizuoka prefecture to the mountainous terrain en route to Kanagawa prefecture, our journey led us to the renowned Mishima Sky Walk. This iconic attraction features a 400-meter-long bridge that spans between two peaks, offering a thrilling traverse with panoramic views. The experience of crossing the bridge was both exhilarating and bracing, with the gusts of wind adding a touch of chill to the adventure. Accompanied by our children, we embarked on the high obstacle course, a challenging yet enjoyable activity that is suitable for family with young kids. Our visit ended with a delightful ramen meal at the charming Sky Garden cafe perched atop the hill.
Upon our arrival, we reached our next Airbnb lodging, Hakone Villa, boasting four bedrooms to comfortably accommodate our group of seven, ideally positioned just a short distance from the scenic Lake Ashi. The vicinity offered access to the renowned Hakone sightseeing lake cruises, featuring pirate-style ships that meandered through picturesque mountain . Seeking dinner options, we dined at the Indian Cuisine Restaurant, “The Bistro,” boasting an impressive Google rating of 4.8! It stood out as the sole open establishment within walking distance from our lodging, as most nearby shops shuttered their doors early before nightfall. The restaurant’s tasteful naans paired with flavorful curry provided a satisfying meal, particularly enjoyable as the evening temperatures dipped to the low single digits, creating a cozy dining experience against the freezing backdrop.
The following morning, a crisp cold had settled, evident in the faint ice formations enveloping on our car at daybreak. Concerned about the effect of the freezing weather on the well-being of the children and grandparents who were experiencing some cold virus, they opted to remain at our Airbnb for the day, prioritizing rest. Meanwhile, Kate, her sister, and I set out for the expansive Gotemba Premium outlets, where we indulged in a full day of retail therapy. Boasting a vast array of international brands and dining options, the outlet mall provided a mecca for shoppers seeking a diverse and satisfying experience.
The subsequent day unfolded as a leisurely affair, affording us the freedom to explore Hakone at our own pace. We commenced our day with a visit to the Hakone Ekiden Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the prestigious and time-honored relay race that embodies tradition, competition, and sporting excellence in Japan. We went for a very nice bowl of Soba at a very traditional shop Denbei Soba. Eager to delve into the region’s rich history, we proceeded to the nearby Hakone Checkpoint Exhibition Hall, where we gained insight into Hakone’s pivotal role as a checkpoint between Osaka and Tokyo in bygone eras.
Day 12 – 13 – Chiba – Tokyo Disney Resort
Before our return journey to Singapore, we made sure to end our vacation on a high note, especially for the kids who were eagerly anticipating the magic of Disneyland as the “Happiest Place on Earth.” Embarking on a 1.5 hour journey to Chiba, we arrived at Tokyo Disney Resort around 3 pm, our final destination.
Having secured our Tokyo Disney Resort reservation four months in advance, we learned from friends about the high demand for rooms once they become available for booking. Upon check-in, we would also confirm our entry tickets to both Disneyland and Disney Sea. Drawing from previous experiences at Hong Kong Disneyland, which, although smaller, still exuded that whimsical Disney charm, we were excited to immerse ourselves in the enchanting atmosphere of the parks.
The spacious rooms at Tokyo Disney Resort were equipped with two double beds, a sofa bed, a bathtub, and a thoughtful array of complimentary Disney-themed souvenirs such as toothbrushes, cups, and slippers. Nestled on the second floor, the hotel’s prime location near the Tokyo Disneyland Train Station offered convenient access to both Disneyland and Disney Sea, enhancing the overall Disney experience for our family.
Immersing ourselves in the festive Christmas ambiance, we opted for a more spontaneous approach, foregoing strategic ride planning like others, and instead seizing the opportunity to hop on attractions with shorter queues as we went along, aided by the Disney app displaying real-time wait times.
Having explored both Disneyland and Disney Sea, we found the latter to be more captivating for our children, offering a variety of intriguing attractions. What truly left a lasting impression was Disney Sea’s spectacular night show, a production that astounded us with its meticulous planning, seamlessly synchronized music, performances, and intricate details that elevated the overall enchanting ambiance of the show.
Day 14 Narita Tobu Airport
On our final day, we drove to check in at the Narita Tobu Airport, conveniently located within walking distance of the car rental return point. Opting for a hotel near the airport alleviated any rush for our next morning’s flight, allowing us to simply take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service that seamlessly transported us to Narita airport. The room features a generous size, equipped with two double beds and one single bed, along with an ensuite bathtub for added convenience and comfort.
Reflecting on the entire journey, it brought great enjoyment to all, despite the challenges of planning a trip catering to both the elderly and the youngsters. The two-week duration felt just right, offering a perfect balance that allowed us to disconnect from our daily routine and start pining for the comforts of home. For me, the most memorable experiences unfolded outside Tokyo, where we embarked on scenic drives to marvel at the wonders of nature. These road trips revealed hidden gems not easily accessible by public transport, solidifying our preference for exploring by car as it opens up access to stunning destinations off the beaten track.
Please click here for first part of our Japan Road Trip
