Hi Everyone,Things have been very hectic around our house with Hubby over in Europe for work so it's just me running the household. Everything seems to have settled down so I can get a quick moment to update on here. I've permed my hair which changed my hairstyle which the kids didn't like at first >.<"

Hi Everyone,Gotemba Factory Outlet is one of my favourite factory outlet in Japan. Gotemba Premium Outlets is one of Japan’s largest outlet with over 200 stores. You’ll find everything from high end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Burberry to sportswear brands we like including Nike and Adidas. There are also plenty of Japanese brands like Beams and Comme des Garçons and more. Many stores offer up to 70% off retail prices, and if you’re a tourist, you can take advantage of tax-free shopping. Some stores like Nike and Adidas will have additional discounts if you buy over a certain amount of items so watch out for this extra discounts. I have allocated a full day to make the most out of our visit.

Hi Everyone,We wanted to have some good sushi after our hike up the mountain so hubby found 沼津魚がし鮨 as it had a pretty good rating online. We wanted an early dinner to avoid the crowds. This restaurant provides mainly sushi sets but they do have various sushi available depending on what is available at the fish market on the day.

Hi Everyone,One of the hightlight of our trip to Yamanashi was to finally visiting the Chureito Pagoda. Many Mount Fuji shots where it appears on magazines or posters were taken from this particular stop with the mountain and red pagoda in view. This spot is one of the most scenic locations in Japan in my opinion. Be prepared to climb just under 400 steps up the mountain to reach this beautiful place.

Hi Everyone,A popular shrine around Mount Fuji surroundings is Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. Located within Arakurayama Sengen Park, it is a nice stop on the way to see the Chureito Pagoda which is a huge hike up the mountain. This shrine is famous for its stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji and its peaceful natural surroundings. The shrine is also part of the Fuji Sengen Shrine network, which consists of numerous shrines scattered around the base of Mount Fuji, all dedicated to the beautiful mountain.

Hi Everyone,One of the places I wanted to visit this time around Mount Fuji was Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba. Right along the shores of Lake Saiko, this cute little village is a perfect place to see a bit of of history, culture, and stunning nature of Fujikawaguchiko. The traditional thatched-roof houses with Mount Fuji in the backdrop make this village a must-visit location.