‘Terry and I had a great time in Japan in late April/early May, prime cherry blossom time. Our hosts, Tanaka-san and Mayumi Tsukamoto Suzuki, were fabulous, as were the horses, horse riding, food, and places to visit and enjoy.’

“An absolutely brilliant combination of wonderful riding against the background of stunning scenery and an immersion into Japanese culture. Riding through lush green forest trails on highly trained and responsive endurance horses, eating beautifully cooked Japanese food, enjoying the company of fellow riders and our perfect hosts (and champion endurance riders) Tanaka san and Mayumi san. Can’t wait to go do it again!”

“Words do not accurately describe how breathtakingly beautiful the mountains of Japan are from the back of horse. It felt like a dream riding through blossom covered avenues of trees and snow dusted mountain ranges. Tanaka and Mayumi made sure our adventure was nothing short of perfect and I felt so lucky to ride such sweet, sure footed horses like Sebastian and Boy. I cannot think of better way to experience Japan and I’d go back in a heart beat!”

“This was a truly unique experience! The location amongst the mountains and forests was breathtakingly beautiful. It was lovely to be picked up each morning and taken to the stable to groom the horses and set off on a new adventure. Each day we passed shrines, waterfalls, so many cherry blossoms and cute little houses. The horses were so good – calm, responsive, willing. I miss my Dasha! Tanaka and Mayumi were so generous with their time and did everything they could to make sure we were well looked after. Oh, and the food – delicious!”

“Riding in Japan was a unique experience. The scenery was absolutely stunning – although we were at the end of blossom time, there were still beautiful blossom trees everywhere. Riding through the little village was such fun. Having a private onsen in our accommodation was much appreciated and well used after our rides.”

“A totally enjoyable ride and cultural experience. Our guides were professional, considerate and charming. I was very happy with my horse. He was safe but energetic and I felt comfortable and confident, yet challenged and exhilarated. I especially enjoyed riding around the local villages, farms and rice fields. All the meals were varied and delicious and I loved having lunch at the treehouse guest house. Worth every cent!”

“When I arrived in Japan for the first time with my mum we struggled to comprehend the fact that we were going to be embarking on a horse riding trip in this country amongst all the hustle & bustle of crazy Tokyo. All my doubts subsided when we arrived by train to the picturesque country side ‘town’ of Kobuchizawa. Completely surrounded by mountains, it felt like an equestrian oasis, complete with amazing restaurants, shops and breathtaking scenery and trails rich with Japanese history. We were welcomed and looked after by our superb hosts, Tanaka san & Mayumi from the minute we stepped off the train. Their excellent hospitality continued throughout the trip from taking us on a mountain trek overlooking Mt Fuji to riding bareback in the forest aboard their beautiful Arabian horses. We were also treated to the most amazing Japanese cuisine, a traditional tea ceremony and origami making in their excellent company. I would not have wanted to see Japan any other way; on beautiful horses with superb company. Would do it again in a heart beat!”

“The Kobuchizawa ride in Japan is absolutely wonderful – brilliant horses, amazing riding, terrific food, incredible and very flexible hosts, cultural experiences and jaw dropping scenery each and every day. All in a magnificent precinct a couple of hours from Tokyo at the base of the mountains, with daily views of Mt Fuji. Utterly awesome!”

‘Horse riding in Japan during cherry blossom season was more incredible than I could ever have imagined. We had four riders in our group and it was perfect. The guides were friendly, helpful and spoke excellent English. The food was fantastic and the accommodation was nice, clean and welcoming. My horse Dasha was excellent. I enjoyed being able to ride the same horse each day and got to know her very well. The ride to the top of the mountain to see Mount Fuji in the background was very cool!’