EP 7 Hie Shrine, Mount Fuji, Mount Fuji Museum, Ashinoko Lake Cruise, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani.

Hie Shrine is a renowned Shinto shrine located in Nagatachō, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. It has a long history and is dedicated to the worship of Oyamakui-no-kami. The shrine is known for its grand stone staircase and hosts vibrant festivals, including the Sannō Matsuri. It provides a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience Japanese culture.
Mount Fuji is a majestic stratovolcano in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). It is renowned for its symmetrical shape, snowy summit, and stunning views. A popular pilgrimage site, it offers scenic beauty, hiking trails, and a sense of spirituality.
The Mount Fuji Museum, also known as Fujisan World Heritage Center, is a museum in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, dedicated to the iconic Mount Fuji. It offers interactive exhibits, panoramic views, and information on the mountain’s geological, historical, and cultural significance. Visitors can learn about its formation, explore the surrounding ecosystems, and find practical advice for climbing. The museum also features a gift shop and a café or restaurant.
The Ashinoko Lake Cruise in Hakone, Japan, offers scenic boat rides on traditional Japanese-style boats. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Ashinoko and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Fuji. Daytime and evening cruises are available, providing different perspectives and atmospheres. It’s a popular tourist attraction and offers a relaxing experience on the water.
The Hakone Ropeway in Hakone, Japan, is a scenic cable car system that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It connects Togendai, Owakudani, and Sounzan, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic vistas of Lake Ashinoko, Mount Fuji, and the Hakone mountains. The ropeway also stops at Owakudani, known for its volcanic activity and hot springs. It’s a popular attraction for tourists seeking stunning views and unique experiences.
Owakudani is a volcanic valley in Hakone, Japan, known for its active volcanic activity and steaming hot springs. Visitors can witness sulfurous fumes, bubbling pools of boiling water, and enjoy the famous black eggs boiled in the hot springs. The valley offers stunning views and a unique experience of the raw power of nature.
Black eggs, or “kurotamago,” are a specialty of Owakudani in Hakone, Japan. They are regular chicken eggs boiled in the hot springs of Owakudani, which gives their shells a black color. Eating these eggs is believed to add seven years to one’s life. They are a popular and unique culinary experience for visitors to Owakudani.
When visiting a traditional Japanese public bathhouse, known as a “sento,” it’s essential to follow certain rules and customs to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Separate Facilities: Sento typically have separate bathing areas for men and women. Make sure to enter the appropriate section.

2. Remove Shoes: Before entering the bathhouse, remove your shoes and place them in the designated area or shoe lockers.

3. Entrance Fee: Pay the entrance fee at the reception or ticket machine upon arrival.

4. Undress in Changing Room: Proceed to the changing room and undress completely. Store your clothes and personal belongings in the lockers provided. It’s common to carry a small towel with you for modesty or to place on your head while bathing.

5. Wash Before Entering: Use the shower stations or wash basins in the bathing area to thoroughly cleanse your body before entering the communal bath. Take your time to ensure you are clean and free of any soap or shampoo residue.

6. Bathing Etiquette: Once you enter the communal bath, remember to be respectful and considerate of others. Keep your voice low, avoid splashing water, and refrain from using electronic devices or cameras.

7. No Clothes or Swimwear: Sento baths are meant to be enjoyed without clothing or swimwear. It’s customary to be completely naked while bathing.

8. Respect Personal Space: When entering a crowded bath, find an available space while maintaining a comfortable distance from other bathers.

9. Hot Water Temperature: Be mindful of the water temperature, as it may vary from bath to bath. Start with the cooler baths and gradually move to hotter ones if you desire. Take breaks if you feel too hot or lightheaded.

10. Rinse Before Exiting: Before leaving the bath area, rinse off any remaining soap or shampoo from your body using the shower stations.

11. Dry Off Before Entering Changing Room: Ensure that you are dry before entering the changing room to avoid wetting the floor. Use the provided towels or your personal towel for drying.

12. Relaxation Area: Some sento facilities offer relaxation areas where you can rest, have a drink, or socialize. Feel free to make use of these spaces if available.

Remember that specific rules and customs may vary slightly between different sento establishments.