Day 207 Yokohama, Japan

This morning we set out on a HAL tour to Hakone National Park for the purpose to view Mt Fuji which certainly is an iconic image of Japan. Here is the ship’s description: “Hakone National Park & Mt Fuji Views-- This tour is a great opportunity for a close-up view of one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan--Mt Fuji--viewed from Hakone National Park. You will also visit the popular resort town of Hakone. Drive to Hakone for a lovely view of Mt Fuji from one of the boats that sail the Lake Ashi, located at the foot of the mountain. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will transfer to the Mt. Komagatake Aerial Cableway, where your guide will lead you up a stairway to an observation platform providing a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, if weather permitting. You will also visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum which contains numerous sculptures by artists from all over the world. The museum is especially known for its collection of 26 pieces by Henry Moore, including one that is more than 13 feet tall. The sculpted beauty of the art creates a stark contrast with the natural surroundings.” As predicted, the weather was spectacular this morning. You could even see Mt Fuji from the aft deck of the ship. We headed out around 0830 and the ride was great. We caught some spectacular views of Mt Fuji along the way…. I was very excited and had great anticipation of what was to lie ahead for us at Hakone National Park. My optimism was short lived because as we arrived at Lake Ashi, it was clear that he clouds had rolled in….bummer. The boat ride was still wonderful. Our ride to the top of Mt Komagatake was interesting since for most of the ride all we could see was dense fog. While on the top we could faintly see Mt Fuji but it wasn’t very clear. Thank goodness I was able to get some great shots from the bus. Our final stop at the Hakone Open-Air Museum was interesting and a nice finish to a wonderful day. Now we will be heading to our last stop in Japan, Hakodate after a day at sea. This voyage is fast coming to a close…..