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Japan Adventure Group

Japan Adventure Group

4.8

(65)

Guide Agency

Hanno-shi, Saitama, Japan

We provide fun, and affordable adventure activities in the Kanto region in and around Tokyo and Yokohama.

Our Guides:

David Niehoff – Owner & Lead Guide

David has 20+ years in outdoor education, with a degree in Outdoor Experiential Education from Appalachian State University. He has instructed climbing, hiking, and kayaking in the US and Japan, managed adventure programs, and taught at Toin University of Yokohama. He founded Japan Adventure Group in 2012. Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, Mountain Leader (AHGA), Single Pitch Instructor (PCIA), AST Level 2, ISIA Japan Level 1 Ski Instructor.

Kento Okamura – Mt. Fuji Summer Guide

Born and raised in Japan, Kento has traveled and hiked in 30+ countries. He spent multiple seasons working in a hut on Mt. Fuji and has deep knowledge of its weather and altitude conditions. He also works as a tour leader sharing Japan's culture with international visitors. Speaks Japanese, English, and Spanish. Certification: Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA).

Moto Hayashi – Mt Fuji off-season Guide

Moto's passion for mountains began in Nepal's Himalaya. After working for Ultimate Hikes in New Zealand, he returned to Japan to guide others through its peaks. He has guided Mt. Fuji for multiple seasons, is an active ski patroller in Hakuba, and is based in Matsumoto — gateway to the Northern Alps. Certifications: Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA), Japan Mountain Guides Association Trekking Guide Stage 1.

Contact the guide

English and Japanese

Programs

 

Reviews with photos

David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. 5
Japan Adventure Group5
Everything went GREAT! It was FUN and most importantly we managed to hike up and down safely. Kento was an amazing guide and well equipped with information to ensure that all of us are safe. Thank you Kento for making this trip a memorable hike.5
My guide Kento was great. He could not have done better. He is very personable, patient, good communicator, took care of everyone.5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
Do not underestimate mount Fuji. You need sunscreen just as much as a waterproof jacket. Pack as light as you can. No need for lots of spare clothing. Just a few lightweight layers. Mountain huts sell drinks so no need to carry masses of water. Head torch, sunglasses, woolly hat, sun hat. Snood/ neck warmer. Power bank for your phone. You’ll take lots of photos. Take Japanese cash. A walking pole is good, especially for descending. Some people like two poles but one is enough for me. You must wear well worn boots and good socks. Hiking shoes won’t protect your ankles. Wear your boots on the plane so if your luggage is lost, you can still do the hike. At the first mountain hut, buy a small wooden stick (there are different sizes but a small one will fit in your luggage). Every hut on the way up mount fuji will burn a brand onto the stick. At the summit they can see all the brands and they will finally stamp the stick it to confirm you successfully climbed fuji. 
Good boots and a positive attitude will rule the day. Good luck. David, UK. 
5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
My daughter and I had a great time. Kento our guide was very friendly and helpful. When I started to cramp he assisted me by taking my bag till I recovered 5
Kento was such a nice and insightful guide and friend!5
Kento was such a nice and insightful guide and friend!5
Kento was such a nice and insightful guide and friend!5
Kento was such a nice and insightful guide and friend!5
Kentaro es una excelente guía, una gran persona y sin duda que ayudó a que la experiencia sea más memorable.5
It was my first time hiking a mountain. Having a great guide Kento played an important role. So grateful and appreciative of all the support. 5
Moto was a fantastic guide, with great mood, interesting anecdotes and insights about the route and Japan, and we shared a wonderful day together!5
Kento is an excellent guide. We are very very happy to have the chance to climb with him.5
Kento is an excellent guide. We are very very happy to have the chance to climb with him.5
Halfway through I had calf issues and guide was extremely attentive to me. He makes sure that I am alright throughout the climb. He even helped to carry my hiking bag for awhile. Top notch service. 5
Halfway through I had calf issues and guide was extremely attentive to me. He makes sure that I am alright throughout the climb. He even helped to carry my hiking bag for awhile. Top notch service. 5
Halfway through I had calf issues and guide was extremely attentive to me. He makes sure that I am alright throughout the climb. He even helped to carry my hiking bag for awhile. Top notch service. 5
Kento was a wonderful guide, he was positive, enthusiastic and supportive. Perfect mix of professionalism and relaxed nature that means you can really enjoy the experience. He made the trip even better and helped the group feel relaxed. He brought us on routes that weren't crowded roo which was great.Thank you Kent and food was delicious.5
Kento was a wonderful guide, he was positive, enthusiastic and supportive. Perfect mix of professionalism and relaxed nature that means you can really enjoy the experience. He made the trip even better and helped the group feel relaxed. He brought us on routes that weren't crowded roo which was great.Thank you Kent and food was delicious.5
Climbing Mount Fuji was a truly unique experience that I will never forget. Beyond the physical challenge, it was a human journey filled with generosity, connection, and unforgettable moments. From the very beginning, everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned, allowing us to focus on enjoying the adventure and the breathtaking beauty around us.

I had the privilege of being in Kento’s group, and I can honestly say that he made a huge difference. Kento is not only an extremely professional and experienced guide, but also an incredibly kind and generous person. You feel safe around him. He takes care of every little detail, checks in on everyone, encourages you, and does it all with warmth and humility.

There were moments of exhaustion, and moments of pure silence, watching the sunrise from above the clouds is something I’ll carry with me forever.

If you’re thinking about doing Mount Fuji, don’t hesitate. I recommend this experience to absolutely everyone.5
Climbing Mount Fuji was a truly unique experience that I will never forget. Beyond the physical challenge, it was a human journey filled with generosity, connection, and unforgettable moments. From the very beginning, everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned, allowing us to focus on enjoying the adventure and the breathtaking beauty around us.

I had the privilege of being in Kento’s group, and I can honestly say that he made a huge difference. Kento is not only an extremely professional and experienced guide, but also an incredibly kind and generous person. You feel safe around him. He takes care of every little detail, checks in on everyone, encourages you, and does it all with warmth and humility.

There were moments of exhaustion, and moments of pure silence, watching the sunrise from above the clouds is something I’ll carry with me forever.

If you’re thinking about doing Mount Fuji, don’t hesitate. I recommend this experience to absolutely everyone.5
Climbing Mount Fuji was a truly unique experience that I will never forget. Beyond the physical challenge, it was a human journey filled with generosity, connection, and unforgettable moments. From the very beginning, everything was well organized and thoughtfully planned, allowing us to focus on enjoying the adventure and the breathtaking beauty around us.

I had the privilege of being in Kento’s group, and I can honestly say that he made a huge difference. Kento is not only an extremely professional and experienced guide, but also an incredibly kind and generous person. You feel safe around him. He takes care of every little detail, checks in on everyone, encourages you, and does it all with warmth and humility.

There were moments of exhaustion, and moments of pure silence, watching the sunrise from above the clouds is something I’ll carry with me forever.

If you’re thinking about doing Mount Fuji, don’t hesitate. I recommend this experience to absolutely everyone.5

What people are saying about Japan Adventure Group

Naomi

The weather on the trip was fabulous and allowed me to complete it. I was surprised that the hut had no water for cleaning up. Perhaps the gear list can list large wet wipes. The guide owned his company, was experienced and I trusted him to get me down safely but he seemed to have absolutely no interest in me and my family. Spent all the time at the hut chatting with others.

Dr

David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide.

David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide. David was an excellent guide. He managed our group and our expectations well. He navigated very challenging weather and kept us safe. He shared his insights from his vast experience and having witnessed some of the not so minor pitfalls that can happen on the mountain in other hikers going awry, I was very grateful for all the expertise. He also gave great advice re packing and preparing for the trip. I would highly recommend both explore-share for anyone wishing to hike Mt Fuji and David Niehoff, our terrific guide.

Wendy

This was a wonderful trip - we travelled with our teenage children (aged 16 and 13), and Kento, our guide was absolutely brilliant. He was so friendly and helpful, with lots of good facts. He ensured the kids were having a good time, and allowed them to walk up ahead as they were much quicker than the rest of of the group! The facilities were basic, but good - food at the overnight hut was great, and it was all very well organised. We would highly recommend booking this, if you want an easy, thoroughly well-planned trip up Mount Fuji.

Katarzyna

Review Image

Mathieu

Trop was really wonderful. Fuji summit was absolutely stunning 🤩


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