Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour

Hiking the outer rim of the Hakone Caldera offers an unparalleled experience for adventurous travelers. This full-day tour led by a certified guide takes participants on a journey through volcanic landscapes, showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the Hakone region. After conquering the trails, hikers can unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen, blending physical challenge and relaxation into an unforgettable day. With breathtaking views and a chance to immerse in the local culture, this tour promises an exhilarating exploration of the Outer Rim.

This experience made our article of Discover Hakone’s 20 Best Tours.

Key Points

1. A full-day guided hike along the outer rim of Hakone Caldera, offering stunning views of volcanic landscapes and natural scenery.
2. Relaxation in a traditional Japanese onsen after the hike, included in the tour price.
3. Led by a nationally certified guide with a maximum group size of 6, ensuring a personalized and immersive outdoor experience.
4. Suitable for active travelers with a strong fitness level, as the tour involves navigating uneven terrain and steep, rocky hiking trails.
5. Overwhelmingly recommended by previous customers, with a perfect 5.0 rating, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an adventurous and enjoyable outdoor experience in Hakone.

Tour Overview

The Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural landscapes of Hakone, Japan.

This full-day tour features a guided hike around the outer rim of the Hakone caldera, providing stunning views of the volcanic landscape. Participants will also have the chance to relax in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) after the hike.

The tour is led by a nationally certified guide and includes transportation, lunch, and onsen fees. With a maximum group size of 6, this tour is ideal for active travelers seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Hakone.

What’s Included

This hiking tour includes a nationally certified professional guide to lead the way through the Hakone caldera.

Transportation to the trailhead is provided, along with a group lunch. Participants can enjoy the soothing waters of a local onsen, with the fee included in the tour price.

A souvenir and personal expenses are also covered. The tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and a strong fitness level is required due to the uneven terrain.

No refunds are available for cancellations, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Meeting Details

Where does the tour meet? The tour meets at Hakone-Yumoto Station, Yumoto, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0311, Japan.

Look for a guide in a red jacket and red backpack with your name at the station exit, as there is only one exit available.

The meeting point is:

1. Hakone-Yumoto Station
2. Near the station exit
3. Guide in red jacket and backpack
4. Look for your name

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 AM, so be sure to arrive on time.

The ending location differs from the starting point.

Tour Schedule

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 AM at the Hakone-Yumoto Station.

Travelers will meet their nationally certified guide, who will be wearing a red jacket and carrying a red backpack.

The tour is scheduled to end at a different location from the starting point.

The entire experience lasts the full day, with a break for a group lunch.

Given the physical demands of the hike, the tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues.

Strong fitness is required to navigate the uneven terrain of the Hakone Caldera’s outer rim.

Tour Suitability

As the hike traverses the uneven terrain of the Hakone Caldera’s outer rim, it is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues.

This tour requires a strong level of physical fitness. Some key considerations for suitability include:

1. Ability to navigate steep, rocky, and uneven hiking trails.
2. Tolerance for variable weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain.
3. Comfort with elevations up to 1,200 meters above sea level.
4. Willingness to share transportation and onsen facilities with a small group of fellow hikers.

Customer Feedback

Based on the 24 total reviews, travelers have overwhelmingly recommended this Hakone Caldera hiking tour, with a perfect 5.0 rating.

Highlights noted by customers include the great views, an interesting guide, and the tour’s suitability for active families or individuals.

While the uneven terrain was mentioned, reviewers still described the overall experience as enjoyable, even in adverse weather conditions.

The tour’s high recommendation and excellent rating suggest it provides a fulfilling outdoor adventure for those seeking an engaging hike around the scenic Hakone Caldera.

Getting to Hakone-Yumoto Station

How can travelers reach the meeting point at Hakone-Yumoto Station? There are several transportation options:

1. Train: Take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The journey takes approximately 85 minutes.

2. Bus: Catch the Hakone Tozan Bus from Odawara Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The trip lasts around 45 minutes.

3. Private Transfer: Arrange a private transfer service from your accommodation in the Hakone area to Hakone-Yumoto Station.

4. Taxi: Hail a taxi from nearby hotels or the station itself to reach the meeting point.

Once at the station, look for the guide in a red jacket and red backpack holding a sign with your name.

What to Expect on the Hike

Travelers can expect a challenging yet rewarding hike around the outer rim of the Hakone Caldera. The trail traverses uneven, rocky terrain with steep ascents and descents. A strong fitness level is required, as the hike covers over 10 kilometers.

However, the journey is punctuated by stunning vistas of the ancient volcanic landscape, including views of Lake Ashi and the iconic Mount Fuji.

Hikers will also have the chance to visit a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) to soothe their muscles after the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Hike?

For a hiking tour, it is recommended to pack lightweight, moisture-wicking layers, sturdy hiking boots, a water bottle, snacks, sun protection, and any necessary medications. A small backpack or daypack can be useful for carrying these items.

Is There an Option to Do the Hike Alone?

The tour does not offer an option to hike alone. It is a group tour with a maximum size of 6 travelers. Solo hiking is not available through this specific tour package.

Can I Add Additional Activities to the Tour?

The tour does not offer the option to add additional activities. It is a pre-set itinerary that includes the hike, onsen visit, and lunch. Travelers are advised to review the inclusions carefully before booking if they wish to customize the experience.

How Many Stops Are There During the Hiking Tour?

The tour schedule does not specify the number of stops during the hiking portion. However, the overview indicates the tour covers the outer rim of the Hakone Caldera, suggesting there may be multiple viewpoints or points of interest along the way.

Is There a Way to Customize the Tour for My Needs?

This tour does not appear to offer customization options. The tour provider recommends the tour for active travelers and states it is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions. Participants should carefully review the tour details to ensure it meets their needs.

The Sum Up

The Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure. Explore volcanic landscapes, take in stunning views, and unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen for a perfect blend of challenge and relaxation. This tour is led by a knowledgeable guide and caters to active travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in the natural beauty of Hakone.