In the morning, rent a kayak at Lake Biwa, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Japan. Paddle through the clear water and admire the surrounding mountains. Take a break on the lake's largest island, Chikubushima, and explore the ancient Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine. Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant and then head to the nearby Hikone Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles.
Rise early and hike to the top of Mount Ibuki, one of Japan’s highest peaks. The trail starts at the base of the scenic rope way and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests. After reaching the summit, rest at the mountain top cafeterias and try the local delicacy, soba (noodles) made from the fresh mountain water before heading back down. Relax in the afternoon at Sunomata Castle and observe how it was built within just one night!
Start the day with a visit to the Ryusendo Cave, one of Japan's three largest limestone caves. Descend 98-meters on foot to explore the natural beauty of underground limestone pools and illuminated waterfalls created by the constant drips of calcified limestone formations over the centuries. Afterward, have lunch at a local restaurant along the Kitakami River that serves freshwater fish. Then, head to the Geibi Gorge, famous for its 200m-high cliffs and take in the stunning views from a sightseeing boat.
End the trip with a thrilling half-day white-water rafting adventure down the Yoshino River, one of the top rafting spots in Japan. Enjoy the stunning scenery of towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls as you raft through the rapids. Choose between a beginner or advanced course that guides you safely through the river. Take a dip in the onsen (hot spring) before heading back to Puna, refreshed for some souvenir shopping at the Gotemba Premium Outlets.
For an extended trip, spending a night in the castle city of Hikone and participate in an eye-opening samurai sword experience. Or consider visiting the Shiga Kogen Highlands, and see snow monkeys soaking in hot springs and experience the thrill of Ziplining. For those with less time, consider cutting out Ryusendo Cave, or Yoshino River in the itinerary and spend an extra day exploring Kyoto and Nara.