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brooke beyond

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Estado de México / Latin America / Mexico / Puebla / Tlaxcala / Veracruz

2-week Mexico volcanoes itinerary: climbing Pico de Orizaba, Izta, Malinche & Toluca

3 June 2025

Although its beaches and cenotes seem to get most of the hype, Mexico is also home to some of the tallest peaks in North America, including snow-capped volcanoes that soar above 5,000m. If you’re looking for rugged, high-altitude climbing objectives far off the gringo trail, this 2-week itinerary delivers serious elevation, dramatic landscapes, and a side of Mexico few people ever see!

Acclimatising gradually, you’ll summit Nevado de Toluca (4,680m), La Malinche (4,461m), Iztaccíhuatl (5,230m), and finally Pico de Orizaba (5,636m), the tallest volcano in all of North America. This post shares the itinerary I followed in December 2023 to successfully summit all 4 volcanoes, including extensive details (that you won’t really find anywhere else on the internet) about campsites close to the trailheads, driving directions between mountains, road trip logistics, and essential climbing beta!

What's in this guide

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  • About Mexico’s volcanos
    • Itinerary map
  • Mexico volcanoes trip logistics
    • When to go
    • Getting there
    • Getting around central Mexico
    • Where to stay
    • Food + supplies
  • Detailed Mexico volcanoes itinerary
    • Days 1-3: acclimatising in Mexico City
    • Days 4-5: Nevado de Toluca (4,680m)
    • Days 6-7: La Malinche (4,461m)
    • Days 8-9: Iztaccíhuatl (5,230m)
    • Days 10-11: Puebla City
    • Days 12-13: Pico de Orizaba (5,636m)
    • Day 14: return to Mexico City

About Mexico’s volcanos

With more than 40 major volcanoes, Mexico’s stratovolcanoes offer an incredible range of climbing conditions packed into a small geographic area. This itinerary tackles 4 of the country’s 6 tallest summits:

  • Pico de Orizaba (5,636m / 18,490ft) — 1st tallest
  • Iztaccíhuatl (5,230m / 17,160ft) — 3rd tallest
  • Nevado de Toluca (4,680m / 15,355ft) — 4th tallest
  • La Malinche (4,461m / 14,635ft) — 6th tallest

(Popocatépetl, the 2nd tallest, is an active volcano and currently closed to climbers; Sierra Negra, the 5th tallest, is climbable and could be added to this itinerary with more time.)

Each volcano offers a totally different climbing style, from crater lake hikes to ridge scrambles to glacier travel— and most volcanoes are just a few hours apart, allowing for efficient travel and natural altitude progression as you work your way toward the 5,636m (18,490ft) summit of Pico de Orizaba!

Itinerary map

Mexico volcanoes trip logistics

When to go

Climbing season in central Mexico runs November through February, when conditions are driest and most stable. It seems a bit counter-intuitive to favour climbing in winter, but this is actually the best and safest time to summit, especially on Pico where storms, snow, and ice can make conditions dangerous outside of this window!

Getting there

This itinerary begins in Mexico City and ends in Tlachichuca, Puebla— it’s about 4hrs between these two cities, so you can easily structure it as a loop itinerary from CDMX. Fly into Mexico City International Airport Benito Juárez (MEX) and spend a few days acclimatising, then pick up your hire car, drive the entire route, and return back to CDMX for your departure flight.

  • Start & finish your route in: Mexico City

Getting around central Mexico

You’ll definitely want to rent a car for this itinerary— the trailheads are remote, there’s extremely limited public transport servicing these areas, and having your own wheels gives you essential flexibility. I always use DiscoverCars to compare prices and availability across all rental companies!

🚗 IS IT SAFE TO DRIVE IN MEXICO?!

I’m a firm believer that the best way to experience any country is by driving through its small towns and remote corners at your own pace, and this is especially true of Mexico. Over the years, I’ve travelled by van or car through 22 Mexican states, including this exact road trip itinerary, and I’ve never had any safety issues!

Follow the same common-sense safety precautions that apply anywhere in the world: don’t drive at night, have a plan for where you’re going, and learn some of the local road rules. Read my extensive guide to driving in Mexico for more safety tips, important driving etiquette, advice on hiring a car, a breakdown of different types of roads in Mexico, and more!

Driving to Pico de Orizaba

Where to stay

This trip is primarily camping-based, especially near the trailheads, but there are a few nights where you can opt for local hotels or mountain huts to provide a much-needed refresh:

  • Mexico City (3 nights): Hotel MX Roma (budget rooms with an awesome rooftop) or Casa RM26 (budget co-live/co-work space with private rooms)
  • camping at Campamento Nevado de Toluca (2 nights): very basic first-come campsite below the Nevado de Toluca trailhead (150MXN / $8USD per tent)
  • camping at Centro Vacacional IMSS Malintzi (2 nights): phenomenal resort-style campsite below the La Malinche trailhead with fire pits, BBQs, cooking shelters, hot showers, clean bathrooms, and an on-site restaurant (95MXN / $5USD per person)
  • camping at La Joya (1 night): very basic but FREE first-come campsite below the trailhead; no toilets, no water source, BYO purified water
  • Puebla City (3 nights): Collection O Al Otto Lado del Río (budget hotel in a perfect location) or Hotel Boutique Casareyna (mid-range option with a pool)
  • Refugio Piedra Grande (1 night): basic but FREE first-come hut at the base of Pico de Orizaba with simple wooden bunks (BYO sleeping bag, mat, and all food & water; accessible only by 4WD from Tlachichuca)
  • Tlachichuca, Puebla (1 night): Orizaba Glacier Climbers Airbnb (includes 4WD transport to/from Refugio Piedra Grande)
Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Camping at La Joya below Iztaccíhuatl

Food + supplies

You’ll need to have your own food and occasionally even cooking supplies and water for about half of the days on this itinerary.

  • For the 2 nights at Nevado de Toluca, 2 nights at La Joya (Iztaccíhuatl), and 1 night at Refugio Piedra Grande (Pico de Orizaba), there’s no water access, no cooking facilities, and no food options nearby
  • For the 2 nights at IMSS Malintzi (La Malinche), you’ll have access to BBQs and water, but still may want to BYO burgers, sausages, or something to grill!

I’d recommend freeze-dried backpacker meals cooked with a camp stove on some of these nights, particularly the freezing cold evenings at Nevado de Toluca and when you’re staying in the popular Refugio Piedra Grande below Pico de Orizaba— but for other dinners and some remote mountain lunches, I’d recommend picking up fresh ingredients when you arrive in Mexico.

Once you get outside of Mexico City (ideally somewhere around Toluca), make your first supermarket trip to stock up on snacks, sandwich or wrap ingredients, WATER, and ice + an esky to store cheese or meat that needs to be kept cool. Walmart is widely available and I also really like the local supermarket chain Chedraui— either will have everything you need!

🗺️ TRAVEL TIPS FOR MEXICO

→ Language: some level of Spanish is strongly recommended for this itinerary (or at least frequent use of Google Translate)

→ Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), approximately 20MXN = $1USD as of May 2025

→ Tourist visa: 180-day tourist visa on arrival for most nationalities, including USA, Canada, Australia & EU; no need to apply in advance

→ SIM card: install an eSIM for Mexico via Airalo (use code BROOKE2994 for $3 off); coverage is good even in rural areas, though limited at high-altitude trailheads

→ National park fees: 58MXN ($3.5USD) per person per park, payable in cash at official CONANP visitor centres near the trailheads; no other permits needed!

→ Essential apps: CalTopo or other GPS app (offline route nav); iOverlander (trailhead & road condition info); Google Maps (offline road nav); WhatsApp (used for booking transport & communication with locals)

Climbing Pico de Orizaba Mexico
Incredible textures on Pico de Orizaba

Detailed Mexico volcanoes itinerary

  • Days 1-3: Mexico City (acclimatisation & exploration; 2,240m)
  • Day 4: drive 3.5hrs from Mexico City to Nevado de Toluca & camp at the trailhead (4,000m)
  • Day 5: climb Nevado de Toluca (7hrs; 4,680m) & camp a 2nd night
  • Day 6: drive 5hrs to Centro Vacacional Malintzi & camp (3,100m)
  • Day 7: climb La Malinche (7hrs; 4,461m) & camp a 2nd night
  • Day 8: drive 3hrs to Izta-Popo National Park & camp at La Joya (4,000m)
  • Day 9: climb Iztaccíhuatl (12hrs; 5,230m) & drive 3hrs to Puebla
  • Days 10-11: Puebla
  • Day 12: drive 2hrs to Tlachichuca, 4WD transport to Piedra Grande & sleep in the free hut (4,260m)
  • Day 13: midnight wake-up to climb Pico de Orizaba (9hrs; 5,636m summit), transport back to Tlachichuca
  • Day 14: drive 4.5hrs back to Mexico City, fly out
Paseo de la Reforma, one of the major avenues in CDMX

Days 1-3: acclimatising in Mexico City

With a large international airport and an endless list of things to do, start your trip with a few days in vibrant, endlessly captivating Mexico City. At 2,240m (7,350ft), the capital is high enough to jumpstart the acclimatisation process— yes, even wandering through street markets and eating tacos counts as altitude prep!

🌋 Read more about the importance of acclimatising: A climber’s guide to preventing & treating altitude sickness

What to do in Mexico City

You could easily spend weeks in CDMX, but for this itinerary, 3-5 days is perfect— enough time to soak in the culture, eat some incredible food, and kickstart your high-altitude adaptation. A few of my favourite activities:

  • visit the National Anthropology Museum or Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul
  • explore the Centro Histórico and discover the BEST street tacos
  • stroll through Chapultepec Park or float on ancient Aztec canals in Xochimilco
  • watch the spectacle of lucha libre (Mexican wrestling) at Arena México

🌮 Read more about CDMX (from someone who’s spent 6 weeks exploring): Mexico City travel guide

Where to stay in Mexico City

Roma Norte is hands-down my favourite neighbourhood in Mexico City— trendy, walkable, close to the Centro Histórico, and packed with amazing restaurants, cafes, and cocktail bars.

For a comfy, well-located stay, I recommend Hotel MX Roma (perfectly located, affordable, and with an awesome rooftop where you can enjoy takeaway tacos and a cold cerveza after a long day of city adventures) or Casa RM26 (a trendy co-live/co-work space with private rooms and apartments).


Nevado de Toluca Laguna del Sol
Laguna del Sol on Nevado de Toluca

Days 4-5: Nevado de Toluca (4,680m)

After a few days of acclimatising in Mexico City, it’s finally time to tuck in your first volcano! Although it’s not the lowest summit overall (it’s about 200m higher than La Malinche), Nevado de Toluca gains the smallest amount of elevation and is the only summit on this list located west of Mexico City, so it makes the most sense to start here and work your way east.

  • state: Estado de México
  • full details: Nevado de Toluca Climbing Guide

Getting to Nevado de Toluca

On Day 4 of this itinerary, drive 4hrs from Mexico City to Nevado de Toluca National Park, located in Estado de México (State of Mexico).

The majority of this journey is on paved highways, but the final half-hour ascends steeply on a rough dirt road to reach the park entrance— the drive is manageable in any car (we did it in a compact sedan), but prepare to drive very slowly and carefully without high clearance!

💸 PERMITS & FEES FOR NEVADO DE TOLUCA

As of 2024, entry to the Nevado de Toluca Wildlife Protection Area is 58MXN ($3.5USD) per person, payable at the little office as you drive up to the trailhead and the camping area. You do not need any advance reservations or permits to climb Malinche!

Camping at Nevado de Toluca
Very rustic camping at Nevado de Toluca

Camping at Nevado de Toluca

There’s very basic camping available just below the Nevado de Toluca trailhead at 4,000m, and I’d recommend staying here both before AND after your climb (Nights 4 & 5). In addition to the entrance fees mentioned above, it costs 150MXN ($8USD) per tent to camp at Nevado de Toluca.

The camping area is just off the dirt road in a flat area that the staff will direct you to— we were the only people here both nights that we stayed! Be warned that it is extremely cold at this elevation and there’s no shelter or cooking area, so you’ll probably be boiling water for dinner in your tent vestibule. There are bathrooms at the entrance about 5min up the road, as well as 24/7 medics, but no other amenities to speak of, so come prepared!

Snow on Nevado de Toluca hike
Snow around the rim of Nevado de Toluca
Nevado de Toluca crater rim hike
Class 3 scrambling on Nevado de Toluca

Climbing Nevado de Toluca

  • hike time: 6-7hrs
  • distance: 8km (5mi)
  • elevation gain: 750m (2,461ft)
  • difficulty: moderate (sustained Class 2-3)

On Day 5, set off to climb Nevado de Toluca (4,680m), a spectacular crater-rim loop with panoramic views and some airy Class 2-3 scrambling. After a short but steep ascent to Paso del Quetzal, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Laguna del Sol, one of two glittering alpine lakes nestled inside the volcano’s massive 2km-wide crater. From here, the anti-clockwise loop runs the ridge, climbing across a string of rugged peaks to Pico del Fraile, the high point and official summit.

Expect a little bit of everything: scree, snowfields, boulder-hopping, and even some fun scrambling. Navigation can get tricky and the ridgeline is rough in places, but this is easily one of the most spectacular hikes in central Mexico— and a perfect warm-up for the remaining 3 summits!

🌋 Full breakdown of the route here: Nevado de Toluca hiking guide


View of Iztaccíhuatl & Popocatépetl from Malinche
View of Iztaccíhuatl & Popocatépetl from Malinche

Days 6-7: La Malinche (4,461m)

  • state: Tlaxcala
  • full details: La Malinche Trail Guide

Straddling the border between Puebla and Tlaxcala in one of central Mexico’s most beautiful national parks, La Malinche is a dormant volcano named for the Nahua woman who acted as an interpreter and intermediary for Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. Once seen as a controversial figure, we now remember her as a strong woman navigating impossible circumstances— and this soaring peak is honoured by her name.

La Malinche is the most accessible and least technical volcano on this itinerary, but at 4,461m (14,635ft), it’s still a serious summit. Roughly 200m lower than Nevado de Toluca (but with double the elevation gain), it makes for a perfect second acclimatisation hike!

Getting to La Malinche

On Day 6, drive 5hrs east from Nevado de Tolocua to Centro Vacacional Malintzi, a campground right below the trailhead (2min walk). The entirety of the drive is on well-maintained paved roads suitable for any vehicle— stop in the town of Toluca for brekky and/or Tlaxcala for lunch on the way.

With traffic, food stops, and some inevitable slowdowns, expect the journey to take most of the day— but it’s a relaxed, scenic drive that still gives you time to check in, set up camp, and prep for tomorrow’s hike.

Camping at La Malinche
Camping at La Malinche
Camping at La Malinche

Camping at La Malinche

Centro Vacacional IMSS Malintzi is a truly phenomenal government-owned campsite right below the trailhead (2min walk in the morning). Plan on staying here Night 6 & Day 7, no advance reservations needed.

Having camped fairly extensively around Mexico in a variety of locations and situations, I can say that this is among the best campsites I have ever seen— even by international standards. For a minuscule 95MXN ($5USD) per person, you’ll get access to fire pits, BBQs, cooking shelters, hot showers, clean bathrooms, and grassy campsites separated by neatly trimmed hedges. There’s even a tasty restaurant and a little market on-site selling firewood, cold drinks, and basic snacks!

La Malinche views of Pico de Orizaba
Views of Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s highest mountain, from La Malinche

Climbing La Malinche

  • hike time: 6hrs
  • distance: 12km (7.5mi)
  • elevation gain: 1,300m (4,265ft)
  • difficulty: easiest (mostly trail, 10min of Class 2-3 at summit)

💸 PERMITS & FEES FOR LA MALINCHE

As of 2024, entry to Parque Nacional La Malinche (La Malinche National Park) is 58MXN ($3.5USD) per person, payable in cash at the CONANP booth right before the trailhead. You do not need any advance reservations or permits to climb Malinche!

Rocky terrain on Malinche hike
La Malinche trail

On Day 7, climb La Malinche via a well-marked trail that winds from pine forest to volcanic scree, culminating in a short scramble to the summit at 4,461m. The route begins just 2min from last night’s campsite on an old access road, cutting uphill through the trees before breaking above the treeline for a wide-open view of the peak. From here, the trail steepens and the terrain becomes looser, but it’s straightforward to follow and rarely technical.

The real highlight is the view— Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl to the east, Pico de Orizaba to the south, and sweeping ridgelines all around. There’s a short Class 2 section just below the summit block, but it’s easy and secure. This is the least technical climb of the itinerary, and a great opportunity to test how you’re feeling at elevation before moving on to Mexico’s bigger objectives.

🌋 Full breakdown of the route here: La Malinche hiking guide


Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Climbing Iztaccíhuatl with views of Popocatépetl

Days 8-9: Iztaccíhuatl (5,230m)

Mexico’s third-tallest mountain, Iztaccíhuatl (pronounced izz-talk-SEE-watt-uhl) marks a serious jump in both elevation and difficulty— but after after a week of acclimatisation and two successful climbs around 4,500m, you should be up for the challenge of the Sleeping Lady!

🌋 THE LEGEND OF IZTA & POPO

According to local legend in Tlaxcala, Iztaccíhuatl was a princess who died of heartbreak after receiving false news that her beloved, Popocatépetl, had perished in battle. On his return, Popo was devastated and carried her body to the mountains, where he built her a tomb and knelt beside her with a flaming torch as a sign of his eternal devotion.

Over time, the gods turned their bodies into mountains: Iztaccíhuatl lies dormant, shaped like a sleeping woman, while Popocatépetl remains active, his fiery plume said to be the flame of love that never went out.

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Iztaccíhuatl, the sleeping woman

Getting to Iztaccíhuatl

On Day 8 of this itinerary, drive 3hrs from La Malinche to Izta-Popo National Park, where you’ll need to check in at the Visitor Centre at Paso de Cortés. The first section of this drive is on paved roads in good conditions, but the latter half is a mess of rough dirt roads through the forest— it’s passable in any vehicle (I’ve personally done it in a small sedan and in a van), but requires some patience!

💸 PERMITS & FEES FOR IZTACCÍHUATL

As of 2024, entry to Parque Nacional Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl is 58MXN ($3.5USD) per person, payable in cash at the CONANP Visitor Centre located at Paso de Cortés. You do not need any advance reservations or permits to climb Iztaccíhuatl, BUT you may need a reservation to drive to the trailhead at La Joya— I highly recommend reading my detailed post on Izta to learn more about the weekend reservation system and road restrictions!

From Paso de Cortés, it’s a further 30min (9km) drive on a rough dirt road up to the trailhead and campsite at La Joya. Note that this road is only open from 9am-6pm and access is reservation-only on the weekends, so plan accordingly!

Camping at La Joya Iztaccíhuatl
free Camping at the La Joya trailhead

Camping at Iztaccíhuatl

The trailhead at La Joya offers very basic FREE camping at 4,000m and I’d highly recommend staying here on Day 8 to get some additional time at elevation and a 2-3am start for this long climb.

Both times I’ve been to La Joya, the toilets were locked, but there are a few small cooking shelters with tables, rubbish bins, and ladies selling hot tortillas at an absolute bargain. It’s also important to note that there is NO water here (or elsewhere on Iztaccíhuatl), so you must bring all the water you need to drink at camp AND on the climb, plus water for cooking.

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Scrambling on Iztaccíhuatl with Popo in the background

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl

  • hike time: 11hrs
  • distance: 12km (7.5mi)
  • elevation gain: 1,400m (4,593ft)
  • difficulty: challenging (sustained Class 2-3, most of route above 5,000m)

Departing La Joya around 2–3am, the trail climbs steadily for several hours through Los Portillos (a series of four saddles) en route to Refugio Grupo de los Cien, a rustic mountain hut (free to use, but not one I’d recommend sleeping in).

From here, the terrain steepens into Class 2–3 scrambling, marking the start of the rugged Arista del Sol, or “Ridge of the Sun.”

Iztaccíhuatl glacier
Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano
Rough trail approaching Iztaccíhuatl

The route winds its way across Iztaccíhuatl’s body— up the knees, across the glacier-covered belly, and finally to the summit on her breast at 5,230m. Between route-finding, exposed scrambling, steep scree, and a dizzying number of false summits, this is a demanding climb and, in many ways, harder than Pico de Orizaba. Helmets are essential throughout and microspikes/crampons are needed to safely descend/ascend the Glacier del Vientre.

With nearly half the day spent above 5,000m, the altitude is unrelenting, but Izta was my favourite of all the Mexican volcanoes— both for the fun scrambling and the unforgettable view of Popocatépetl steaming in the distance!

🌋 Full breakdown of the route here: Iztaccíhuatl climbing guide


What to do in Puebla, Mexico
Spend a few days resting in Magical Puebla!

Days 10-11: Puebla City

You’ll finish climbing Iztaccíhuatl around 2-4pm on Day 9 and I’d recommend driving down to Puebla that afternoon to enjoy 2 full days (and 3 nights) resting up ahead of Pico de Orizaba— ideally with a cold drink in hand and a plate of tacos árabes in front of you.

While Oaxaca gets all the hype, Puebla is one of my absolute favourite cities in Mexico; it’s more laid-back, less touristy, but every bit as vibrant and cultural! And the FOOD… mind-blowing.

Getting to Puebla

The drive from La Joya to Puebla takes about 2.5hrs and much of it is rough and slow-going, but once you reconnect with the main highway, it becomes much easier. Again, this is passable in any vehicle, but you’ll need to be patient and do a bit of manoeuvring!

If you’re too tired to tackle it after the climb, you could always camp again at La Joya and drive to Puebla the next morning, but I think a hot shower, comfortable bed, and real food sound pretty irresistible after a tiring 12hr climb and 6 straight nights of camping in the cold.

What to do in Puebla, Mexico
Mole tasting in Puebla at Mural de los Poblanos

What to do in Puebla

Spend your days resting and recuperating, wandering around the picturesque Centro Histórico, and digging into Puebla’s legendary culinary scene. Some must-try dishes (and drinks) in Puebla:

  • mole poblano: this rich, complex dish was invented in Puebla, but there are countless types of mole to appreciate!
    • Mural de los Poblanos— classic, long-standing restaurant offering a Degustación de Moles to try classic mole poblano, pipián verde, pipián rojo, adobo, and manchamanteles
    • Augurio— elevated, modern interpretations of this classic dish in a super trendy space
    • Restaurante Casareyna— upscale spot, get the Plato de Dugustación to try mole poblano, pipián verde, pipián rojo, and mole blanco
  • chile en nogada: Poblano chile stuffed with spiced meat and dried fruit, topped with creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, considered to be the national dish of Mexico (and available at most restaurants, including those listed above)
  • tacos árabes: invented in Puebla by Lebanese immigrants, these are essentially Middle Eastern tacos, with spit-roasted pork in pita bread topped with yogurt and Arabic spices— a fantastic fusion and one of my favourite taco variations in all of Mexico!
    • Tacos Árabes Bagdad Centro— awesome local shop with multiple locations
    • Tacos Árabes Bariq— worth walking outside the Centro for these tacos
  • pulque: a traditional fermented agave drink with over 2,000 years of history— slightly sour, lightly fizzy, and often served curado (flavoured with fruit, nuts, or spices)
    • La Cálendula— stylish bar offering creative pulque cocktails alongside classic flavours
    • El Nahual— cosy pulquería with the most extensive range of curados I’ve ever seen (think Blue Raspberry ICEE, Key Lime Pie, Mint Chocolate, and Blackberry Cheesecake)
  • mezcal: small-batch agave spirit made by hand according to ancient techniques
    • Urban Distillery— trendy bar serving beautiful cocktails and curated mezcal flights
    • Mezcalería Miel de Agave— incredible selection of mezcal in a bright cafe
    • San Pedrito Licorería— relaxed rooftop bar serving a range of mezcal and cocktails, often with live music
What to do in Puebla, Mexico
What to do in Puebla, Mexico

Where to stay in Puebla

Book 3 nights in Puebla at Collection O Al Otto Lado del Río, a lovely budget hotel perfectly located within the Centro Histórico. The rooftop bar and restaurant may come in handy if you’re too tired to venture out that first night after Izta! Alternatively, Hotel Boutique Casareyna is a great mid-range hotel with a pool, also in a great location.


Climbing Pico de Orizaba Mexico
Pico de Orizaba– you’re climbing that!

Days 12-13: Pico de Orizaba (5,636m)

After nearly 2 weeks of progressive acclimatisation and three successful summits, it’s finally time to attempt the crown jewel of this itinerary: Pico de Orizaba. At 5,636m (18,490ft), this is not only the highest peak in Mexico, but also the tallest volcano in North America and third-highest mountain on the continent— an unforgettable alpine objective that demands fitness, technical skill, and mental grit.

Getting to Pico de Orizaba

On Day 12, drive 2hrs from Puebla to Tlachichuca, a sleepy town nestled at the base of the volcano. From here, it’s another 2hrs by 4WD to reach Refugio Piedra Grande, the main base camp below Pico de Orizaba at 4,260m.

You’ll need to arrange high-clearance transport, and I strongly recommend booking through Orizaba Glacier Climbers, who can also assist with luggage storage, accommodation in Tlachichuca after the climb, gear rental, and experienced mountain guides. Aim to arrive to the hut by ~1pm to grab a good bunk, squeeze in some additional acclimatisation at 4,260m, and sleep early ahead of a midnight alarm.

💸 PERMITS & FEES FOR IZTACCÍHUATL

As of 2024, entry to Parque Nacional Pico de Orizaba is 58MXN ($3.5USD) per person, payable in cash before you reach Refugio Piedra Grande. All local companies offering 4WD transport will know where to stop for you to pay for a CONANP bracelet and sign in with a few details.

Pico de Orizaba base camp at Rifugio Piedra Grande
Climbing Pico de Orizaba Mexico

Staying in the hut at Pico de Orizaba

Although it’s possible to camp in your own tent at Base Camp, there’s also a very basic (but surprisingly cozy) mountain hut located at Piedra Grande that is entirely free to stay in! You’ll need to haul up your own sleeping bag, pad, food AND water, plus bag out all waste (including toilet paper), but it’s wonderful to stay inside and depart for the climb warm and semi-rested.

Pico de Orizaba shadow
The iconic Pico de Orizaba shadow

Climbing Pico de Orizaba

Setting off from Refugio Piedra Grande around 1am, Pico de Orizaba is a true alpine climb, and the route unfolds in three distinct stages:

  • the approach on scree: typically a rocky ascent, but depending on conditions, this section might be completely covered in snow (which will either make it much easier or much harder to follow the trail, depending on how many people have climbed since the snowfall)
  • the Labyrinth: after ~2hrs of steady climbing, put on crampons and grab ice axes to help navigate the snow and ice; there are 2 ways to ascend the Labyrinth, either the steeper/shorter route that sticks to the right or a more gradual/longer route that leads off towards the left (we took the direct route since it was so cold)
  • the Jamapa Glacier: approximately 3.5hrs from the hut, you’ll reach the base of the Jamapa Glacier and rope up; it’s a further ~2hrs to the summit, often in brutally cold, windy conditions

Despite the cold and altitude, climbing through the dark is a memorable experience— quiet, focused, and physically demanding. As you near the summit, the sunrise casts Pico’s distinctive pyramid shadow over the valley below, offering a spectacular view to mark the final push to the highest point in Mexico!

🌋 Full breakdown of the route here: Pico de Orizaba climbing guide

Climbing Pico de Orizaba Mexico
approaching the summit of Pico de Orizaba
Climbers on the summit of Pico de Orizaba
On the summit of Pico de Orizaba
What to wear for climbing Pico de Orizaba

Staying in Tlachichuca

After descending the glacier and returning to Piedra Grande, catch your 4WD back to town in the afternoon and stay the night in Tlachichuca— Orizaba Glacier Climbers have an Airbnb or can help you organise other accommodation.

There’s not much in town, but you should be able to find some good food and cold beer to celebrate climbing all four of Mexico’s major volcanoes! If you want a bigger celebration, you might consider staying in Puebla (2hr drive), but I probably wouldn’t recommend the full 4hr drive back to Mexico City right after the climb.


Tlachichuca, Puebla below Pico de Orizaba
The charming town of Tlachichuca, Puebla

Day 14: return to Mexico City

Drive 4.5hrs from Tlachichuca back to Mexico City via the MEX-150D cuota (toll road), a fast and safe highway that bypasses Puebla. If you’re feeling energetic, make a detour into Cholula to grab brunch near the massive pyramid topped by a yellow church with Popocatépetl looming behind— otherwise, cruise straight back to CDMX to catch your flight!

If you have more days in Mexico City, be sure to read my 5-day CDMX itinerary for inspiration!


Read more about climbing Mexico’s volcanoes

Nevado de Toluca hiking guide

La Malinche hiking guide

Iztaccíhuatl climbing guide -> Izta packing list

Pico de Orizaba climbing guide -> Pico packing list

High-elevation climbing: preventing & treating altitude sickness above 4,000m

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brooke beyond

Hey, I'm Brooke and I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (joined by my life/climbing partner, James). Whether it’s road-tripping through Mexico, climbing alpine peaks in the Andes, scuba diving in the Red Sea, or tackling epic via ferrata in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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hi, I’m brooke!

I'm obsessed with getting off the beaten path, exploring backcountry gems & travelling beyond the ordinary! I left Australia 5 years ago after finishing a PhD in Biomechanics & have been travelling the world full-time ever since (now joined by my life/climbing partner, James). I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

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recent posts

  • Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano

    2-week Mexico volcanoes itinerary: climbing Pico de Orizaba, Izta, Malinche & Toluca

    3 June 2025
  • Mexico City: the perfect 5-day itinerary for CDMX

    31 May 2025
  • Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano

    Driving in Mexico: essential road trip guide for foreigners

    28 May 2025
  • 10-day Rwanda road trip itinerary: gorillas, volcanoes & Lake Kivu

    25 May 2025
  • 2-week Patagonia itinerary: best of Torres del Paine & Los Glaciares/El Chaltén

    22 May 2025

@brookebeyond_
brooke ✨travel & mountain gal

@brookebeyond_

  • Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
  • More than 200,000 people climb Mt Fuji every year, but only a few dozen in the winter— it’s a notoriously dangerous ascent on steep snow and ice with insane winds, music to my ears. 

It was a gorgeous day, blue skies, not another climber on the mountain (except for me and my partner), and by all accounts it was PERFECT conditions for a Fuji summit. But then those infamous winds picked up… 🌬️

By the time we were 100m below the summit, gusts were up to 60km/hr and we dropped onto the snow every few minutes, axes dug in to brace against wild wind that threatened to rip us right off the mountain. Fuji is just a big sheet of ice at the top and the final part of the climb is a very exposed ridgeline where a slip would be fatal. We put up a good fight, but in the end, there was absolutely no way to continue safely. So we made the call to turn around.

And although this is far from the first mountain I’ve failed to summit, it was probably the most painful. 

Knowing when to turn back is one of the most important skills in climbing, but it’s still one I struggle with— the feeling of being SO close, of “failing” because you didn’t stand on the summit, is such a challenge for me because I’ve tied so much of my self-worth, particularly as a young female climber, to being strong enough/tough enough to *keep pushing*

But pushing through dangerous conditions isn’t really admirable, it’s just stupid…

And when you’re so fixated on the end goal, it’s easy to feel like the effort & accomplishment of the other 2,500m don’t mean anything without the final 100m. 

But a climb is so much more than the summit. And our worth as climbers (or hikers or PEOPLE) cannot come only from the successes. It has to come from the genuine pursuit, too. From the moments we try our best and don’t quite make it. And certainly from the moments we are strong enough to accept “not this time, but hopefully sometime in the future”.

This was a lesson I didn’t really want but certainly needed in celebrating every metre— NOT just the final ones— and climbing like I care about (staying alive for) the next summit.

So cheers from climbing & not summiting Fuji, because that’s ok to celebrate too 🍻
  • NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
  • Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
  • FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
  • QUICK GUIDE TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN TOKYO 🚆 

📲 the easiest way to tap on & off the metro in Tokyo is with a virtual SUICA transit card on Apple/Google Pay
—> go to the Wallet app
—> tap the + icon and select Transit Card
—> search for SUICA
—> add 1,000¥ to start (foreign VISA doesn’t work for some people, so use MasterCard or AMEX to add value to card)

💴 most inner-city trips cost 150-250¥ ($1-2)
—> with Suica loaded on Apple Pay, you’ll see the exact cost of your journey as soon as you tap off

🗺️ Google Maps is the absolute easiest way to navigate public transport in Tokyo. Some of the handy information provided:
—> entrance & exit directions— some of these stations are like small cities! Google Maps will tell you “enter at B15” or “exit 8” & these are always well signed around the station. 
—> which line you’re taking (ex. Maranuchi Line)— look for corresponding signs in the station
—> platform 
—> which train car to board for fastest exit
—> cost
  • tokyo on film ✌🏼

I almost always shoot mountain landscapes, so it was super fun taking my camera around the city (and editing with a film sim) to capture what it FEELS like to be in Tokyo.

📸 which is your favourite?? mine might be the 4th… but so hard to choose!
  • I don’t think I’ve ever arrived anywhere with higher expectations than I did Japan. 

For years, people have been appalled that I hadn’t been to Japan— a favourite country for just about everyone and therefore a glaring hole in my travel resume.

I’ve found myself gravitating more and more towards Latin America over the years, pulled to Europe for the climbing and occasionally to Africa for a bit of variety, but it’d been nearly a decade since I spent time in Asia. 

Even so, I’m not sure Japan can really be compared to these other places— the chaos of motorbiking through southern Vietnam, the wild jungle of barely inhabited Thai islands, the smoky shores of the Mekong River as it winds through Laos, the experience of train travel through China that I still don’t have an appropriate adjective for… Japan is a place entirely its own. 

And I finally understand why it has captivated the hearts of so many travellers.

Ok ok, I get it. Japan is mind-blowing, magical, incomparable, INCREDIBLE 🌸🇯🇵
  • I’ve been travelling the world full-time for nearly 5 years (with my fiancé for the last 2), and we explore 10-20 countries per year on an average budget of $80/day 💃🏻👏🏻✨

One of the ways we’ve found to maximise bucketlist travel on a budget is BALANCE— we can afford to stay in $3000/week Norwegian cabins because we also spend part of our year in AirBnbs that cost just $17 per night ($8.50 each)!!

** if you want to see a super-detailed breakdown of our spending as full-time travellers, check out the BUDGET highlight on my profile 💸
follow @brookebeyond_

travel beyond the ordinary

Explore my travel guides, custom itineraries & blog posts with an interactive world map ✨

all destinations

  • Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
  • More than 200,000 people climb Mt Fuji every year, but only a few dozen in the winter— it’s a notoriously dangerous ascent on steep snow and ice with insane winds, music to my ears. 

It was a gorgeous day, blue skies, not another climber on the mountain (except for me and my partner), and by all accounts it was PERFECT conditions for a Fuji summit. But then those infamous winds picked up… 🌬️

By the time we were 100m below the summit, gusts were up to 60km/hr and we dropped onto the snow every few minutes, axes dug in to brace against wild wind that threatened to rip us right off the mountain. Fuji is just a big sheet of ice at the top and the final part of the climb is a very exposed ridgeline where a slip would be fatal. We put up a good fight, but in the end, there was absolutely no way to continue safely. So we made the call to turn around.

And although this is far from the first mountain I’ve failed to summit, it was probably the most painful. 

Knowing when to turn back is one of the most important skills in climbing, but it’s still one I struggle with— the feeling of being SO close, of “failing” because you didn’t stand on the summit, is such a challenge for me because I’ve tied so much of my self-worth, particularly as a young female climber, to being strong enough/tough enough to *keep pushing*

But pushing through dangerous conditions isn’t really admirable, it’s just stupid…

And when you’re so fixated on the end goal, it’s easy to feel like the effort & accomplishment of the other 2,500m don’t mean anything without the final 100m. 

But a climb is so much more than the summit. And our worth as climbers (or hikers or PEOPLE) cannot come only from the successes. It has to come from the genuine pursuit, too. From the moments we try our best and don’t quite make it. And certainly from the moments we are strong enough to accept “not this time, but hopefully sometime in the future”.

This was a lesson I didn’t really want but certainly needed in celebrating every metre— NOT just the final ones— and climbing like I care about (staying alive for) the next summit.

So cheers from climbing & not summiting Fuji, because that’s ok to celebrate too 🍻
  • NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
  • Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
  • FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨

Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person!

We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!!

Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge:
- the site is open 8am-5pm
- entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby
- reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!)
- the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall
- free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat

Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
Takachiho Gorge, the most beautiful place in Japan 🇯🇵🌸✨ Cut by the bright turquoise Gokase River, this magical little gorge in central Kyushu is lined with towering basalt cliffs, their warped columns shaped by ancient lava flows from nearby Mt Aso, all leading towards the sparkling Minainotaki Waterfall. It’s one of those places that looks surreal in photos and somehow even better in person! We stopped here on a 2-week Kyushu road trip and this spot completely blew us away— many people consider it the most beautiful place in Japan and I have to agree!! Tips for visiting Takachiho Gorge: - the site is open 8am-5pm - entry is ¥1,000 per person + parking is available nearby - reserve a row boat (30min) for ¥4,000 on weekdays or ¥5,000 on weeekends (boats do sell out!) - the best light is after 10.30am, when sun hits the waterfall - free paths run along both sides of the gorge, so you can enjoy great views even if you don’t hire a boat Did you know Japan looked like this?! 🤩
14 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/5
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
More than 200,000 people climb Mt Fuji every year, but only a few dozen in the winter— it’s a notoriously dangerous ascent on steep snow and ice with insane winds, music to my ears. It was a gorgeous day, blue skies, not another climber on the mountain (except for me and my partner), and by all accounts it was PERFECT conditions for a Fuji summit. But then those infamous winds picked up… 🌬️ By the time we were 100m below the summit, gusts were up to 60km/hr and we dropped onto the snow every few minutes, axes dug in to brace against wild wind that threatened to rip us right off the mountain. Fuji is just a big sheet of ice at the top and the final part of the climb is a very exposed ridgeline where a slip would be fatal. We put up a good fight, but in the end, there was absolutely no way to continue safely. So we made the call to turn around. And although this is far from the first mountain I’ve failed to summit, it was probably the most painful. Knowing when to turn back is one of the most important skills in climbing, but it’s still one I struggle with— the feeling of being SO close, of “failing” because you didn’t stand on the summit, is such a challenge for me because I’ve tied so much of my self-worth, particularly as a young female climber, to being strong enough/tough enough to *keep pushing* But pushing through dangerous conditions isn’t really admirable, it’s just stupid… And when you’re so fixated on the end goal, it’s easy to feel like the effort & accomplishment of the other 2,500m don’t mean anything without the final 100m. But a climb is so much more than the summit. And our worth as climbers (or hikers or PEOPLE) cannot come only from the successes. It has to come from the genuine pursuit, too. From the moments we try our best and don’t quite make it. And certainly from the moments we are strong enough to accept “not this time, but hopefully sometime in the future”. This was a lesson I didn’t really want but certainly needed in celebrating every metre— NOT just the final ones— and climbing like I care about (staying alive for) the next summit. So cheers from climbing & not summiting Fuji, because that’s ok to celebrate too 🍻
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/5
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸

The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods!

Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!)

DIY walking tour highlights:
- Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426)
- Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!)
- Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns
- Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!)
- Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth
- Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate
- Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing)
- Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
NARA, JAPAN 🦌🌸 The first permanent capital of Japan in the 8th century, Nara is packed with ancient temples, mossy lanterns, and wide-open parks full of sacred deer, who are believed to be messengers of the gods! Of course we’d seen seen videos of bowing deer on Instagram before visiting, but we spent 2 days in Nara and fell in love with so many parts of this charming little city (and yes, ALSO fell in love with the deer, who were even CUTER in person!!) DIY walking tour highlights: - Kofuku-ji Temple: 5-story pagoda & Buddhist temple from 730AD (rebuilt in 1426) - Nara Park: the main deer zone 🦌 (look for shikadamari, deer clusters relaxing in the grass + buy bags of deer feed for a few hundred ¥!) - Kasuga Taisha: 8th century Shinto shrine draped in wisteria & stone lanterns - Todai-ji: home to the Great Buddha (16m tall, 437 tonnes of bronze!) - Daibutsu-den Hall: built without nails, once the largest wooden structure on Earth - Nandaimon Gate: Japan’s largest temple gate - Yoshiki-en Garden: peaceful, perfect for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) - Nakatanidou: famous red-bean mochi, must try!
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/5
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos.

2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future!

In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
@brookebeyond_
@brookebeyond_
•
Follow
Tokyo is the largest city in the world and it is many, MANY things all at once— steeped in history, dominated by incredible cuisine, bursting with alt-culture… an electric mosaic of tradition, innovation, and chaos. 2 weeks was hardly enough time to scrape the surface of the city (and 20 photos was not even close to enough for this round-up!!!), but we will 100% be back for more Tokyo magic in the future! In the meantime, here are some of my absolute favourite things to do in Tokyo 😍🌸🍜
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/5
FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌

Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯

GETTING HERE
Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15)

GETTING AROUND
The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12)

WHAT TO SEE
- Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥)
- Tenjosan Komitake Shrine
- Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore)
- Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥)
- Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum)
- Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views)
- hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!!

HOW MANY DAYS?
I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing.

WHERE TO STAY
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
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FUJI FIVE LAKES 🌋🌸🎌 Just north of Mt Fuji & a few hours from Tokyo, this scenic region is made up of five volcanic lakes formed by ancient eruptions— Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji & Motosu— all offering incredible vantage points of Japan’s most iconic mountain. Here’s how to explore ↯ GETTING HERE Train 2hrs from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (direct train every 30min; 2200¥ = $15) GETTING AROUND The Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus is a super easy hop-on-hop-off service that loops around Mt Fuji’s northern lakes and major sights (departing Kawaguchiko Station). Start with the Red Line and if you’ve got more time, transfer to the Green or Blue Lines for Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji (¥1,800 for 1-day pass = $12) WHAT TO SEE - Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (900¥) - Tenjosan Komitake Shrine - Lake Shoji (quiet views along the lake shore) - Lake Kawaguchi Excursion Boat (1000¥) - Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (traditional village & open-air museum) - Kawaguchiko Train Station & Lawson (excellent views) - hike/climb Mt Fuji, depending on the season!! HOW MANY DAYS? I spent 5 days in Fuji Five Lakes region (including a winter ascent of Mt Fuji ❄️), but most people will find 2–3 days plenty for sightseeing. WHERE TO STAY Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel was one of my favourite stays in Japan, with budget-friendly private pods or rooms, plus an awesome on-site restaurant, all an easy walk to the train station
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