The (relatively) unknown Health Benefits of a Mount Fuji Tour
Mount Fuji, Japan's iconic and majestic peak, offers far more than just breathtaking views; it's a source of profound well-being, deeply rooted in its ancient volcanic geology. A journey to this sacred mountain, like the typical trip encompassing Chureito Pagoda, Oishi Park, and traditional villages, provides an unforgettable sightseeing experience combined with a unique opportunity to tap into remarkable health benefits, particularly those derived from its pristine underground spring waters.
The Wellness Journey: Sightseeing and Serenity
A standard Mount Fuji itinerary offers a powerful blend of physical movement and mental tranquility.
Arakurayama Sengen Shrine and Chureito Pagoda: The short, invigorating climb up to the Pagoda is a fantastic dose of low-impact cardiovascular exercise. Reaching the top is rewarded with the world-famous view Mount Fuji perfectly framed. The store at the shrine sells adorable good luck charms in the shape of Mt Fuji, and there are goshuin stamps that are sold with different designs depending on the season.
Oishi Park and Lake Kawaguchiko: Strolling along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, particularly the vibrant stretch of Oishi Park, provides moderate exercise amidst serene, symmetrical beauty. For those who do not usually exercise, this gentle activity in combination with the fresh crisp air promotes cardiovascular health and engages the senses, helping you ease you anxiety and bring you to a quiet place far from the noise of city life. If you would like to exercise more, you can even do the cycle-boat swans across Mt Fuji and that would be a workout as you compete with your friends or family to see who can get across the lake first.
Oshino Hakkai and Iyashi no Sato: Visiting the traditional Japanese villages, whether the water-fed ponds of Oshino Hakkai or the thatched roofs of Iyashi no Sato, grounds you in a timeless, peaceful atmosphere. At Iyashi no Sato, there are opportunities for craft experiences, and this cultural immersion enhances mental clarity and can help with creativity.
The cycle swan boats at Lake Kawaguchi
The combination of stunning views, moderate exercise, and crisp air ensures that a trip to Mount Fuji is a truly holistic wellness retreat.
The Healing Power of Fuji's Spring Water
We often share about how delicious the fresh water from the melted snow cap from Mt Fuji is to our guests, but did you know that the Mt Fuji spring water also has healing properties?
Beneath Mount Fuji lies a vast network of aquifers, fed by centuries of melted snow and rainfall that slowly filter through layers of volcanic rock. This natural filtration process imbues the water with a unique mineral composition, making it exceptionally pure and beneficial. Fuji's spring water is renowned for its high levels of vanadium, a trace mineral that has garnered significant attention in health research.
Vanadium and Metabolic Health
Vanadium is believed to play a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels, making Fuji's water of particular interest to those concerned about metabolic health. Previous studies in mice suggest that vanadium can mimic the effects of insulin, helping to improve glucose uptake in cells. While this water is not a cure for any condition, regular consumption of this vanadium-rich source may support the body's natural mechanisms for maintaining healthy blood sugar and promoting efficient energy use.
Essential Minerals for Vitality
Beyond vanadium, the water is a natural tonic, rich in other essential minerals that support fundamental body functions:
Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium: These are vital for robust bone health, efficient muscle function, and maintaining critical electrolyte balance—especially important after a day of sightseeing and light hiking.
Alkaline pH: The water's naturally alkaline pH helps to neutralize acidity in the body. Some wellness proponents suggest that an alkaline internal environment can contribute to overall wellness and heightened energy levels, promoting better cellular health.
Many local communities around Fuji have long cherished this water, attributing their longevity and vitality to its consumption. Traditional inns and modern resorts in the region often feature this natural spring water in their facilities, allowing visitors to bathe in hot springs, known as onsen, or to drink directly from these pure sources, providing a literal and figurative immersion in Mount Fuji's natural health benefits.
Specific Spots to Experience Fuji's Spring Water
Here are some specific, well-known spots near Mount Fuji where your guests can sample or bathe in the revered spring water:
Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海)
Experience: This is the most famous and accessible spot for the pristine water. Oshino Hakkai is a set of eight clear ponds, fed by Mount Fuji's underground spring water.
Health Aspect: The ponds themselves are remnants of an ancient sixth lake that dried up. Visitors can drink directly from the designated "Vanadium Water" fountain and witness the stunning purity of the water in the ponds (which often contain essential minerals).
Location: Oshino Village, near Lake Yamanakako.
Sengen Shrines (Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha)
Experience: As the head shrine for Mount Fuji, it is a spiritual gateway. Within the grounds is the Wakutama Pond (湧玉池), a sacred spring pool considered the original source of the water that flows down the mountain.
Health Aspect: Historically, pilgrims purified themselves in this water before ascending the mountain. While not for mass drinking, it is a key site to witness the source of the highly revered purity.
Local Water Outlets (Roadside Stations/Michi-no-Eki)
Experience: Many small, local businesses and roadside rest stops in the mountain foothills provide free access to spring water for filling bottles.
Health Aspect: This is the most practical way for guests to ensure they are drinking the mineral-rich water throughout their stay. Look for signs that read "湧水" (yūsui - spring water) or "名水" (meisui - famous water).
A TokudAw in-house van (Japan Private Drivers) with our guest at Mt Fuji
