Japan's highest peak is only the beginning. This week's KBS1 "Backpack Travels" ventures beyond Mount Fuji's iconic silhouette, uncovering hidden spring villages, pulse-racing attractions and the regional flavors that define Yamanashi and Shizuoka.
Airing July 18 at 9:40 a.m. (KST), Episode 944 follows two neighboring prefectures whose landscapes, traditions and cuisines have all been shaped by Japan's most recognizable mountain. Rather than simply admiring Mount Fuji from afar, the program explores the communities that have flourished around it, revealing experiences that extend well beyond the familiar postcard view.
From crystal-clear ponds and world-class roller coasters to centuries-old wasabi farms and bustling seafood markets, the episode presents a travel itinerary where nature, adventure and local culture intersect.
Yamanashi Balances Tranquility With Adrenaline
The first stop is Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight spring-fed ponds created by snowmelt from Mount Fuji that has filtered through volcanic rock over decades. The remarkably clear water and preserved village setting have made the area one of Japan's best-known scenic destinations.
Beyond its picturesque landscape, the program introduces the history and traditions that continue to shape life in the village, offering a closer look at a community built around Mount Fuji's natural resources.
The pace changes dramatically at Fuji-Q Highland, where the spotlight turns to Takabisha, the amusement park's signature roller coaster. Famous for its steep drops and high-speed twists, the ride delivers both breathtaking thrills and sweeping views of Mount Fuji from above.
The production team experiences the attraction firsthand, capturing the excitement from the front row while showcasing the mountain from an entirely different perspective.
Shizuoka Serves Up the Flavors of Mount Fuji
The journey continues into Shizuoka Prefecture, where Mount Fuji's pristine spring water supports one of Japan's most celebrated food cultures.
At a traditional wasabi farm, viewers see how the region's cool, crystal-clear streams create ideal conditions for growing premium wasabi. The visit continues at a century-old restaurant, where freshly grated wasabi takes center stage in dishes prepared using recipes passed down through generations.
The program also visits Shimizu Fish Market, where the energy of the early-morning tuna auction sets the tone for one of Japan's busiest seafood hubs.
Local specialties, including generous tuna rice bowls and dishes featuring sakura shrimp, offer another taste of the region's rich culinary identity.
A Different Side of Mount Fuji
The itinerary extends beyond the headline attractions with stops at Fujinomiya's famous yakisoba shops, local matcha ice cream vendors and the sweeping tea fields of Obuchi Sasaba, where vibrant green plantations stretch toward Mount Fuji.
Together, these destinations reveal a side of the mountain that reaches far beyond its famous skyline. Throughout the episode, Mount Fuji emerges not only as Japan's most recognizable landmark but also as the force that continues to shape the landscapes, traditions and everyday lives of the communities surrounding it.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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