Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Tokyo

Introducing the Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Tokyo

If you’re looking to combine some retail therapy with stunning vistas of Mount Fuji, the Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour offers a practical and scenic day out. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an appealing option for travelers wanting a hassle-free day of shopping and sightseeing outside Tokyo.

What we love about this experience is the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle, the flexibility to request stop-overs at other attractions, and the opportunity to browse over 200 stores at some of Japan’s most popular outlet brands. It’s a trip that balances shopping, sightseeing, and convenience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include meals or entry fees—so you’ll want to plan for snacks or lunch independently. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed day trip with minimal planning and are eager to enjoy Mount Fuji’s iconic views while shopping. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, read on for a detailed look at what you can expect.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle and driver.
• Flexible stop-overs along the route to include other sights or attractions.
• Visit over 200 stores at Gotemba Premium Outlets, one of Japan’s largest outlet malls.
• Great for shoppers who want a day outside Tokyo without the hassle of navigating public transport.
• Includes highway tolls, parking fees, and fuel, making it a straightforward, all-in-one package.
• Potential for picture-perfect moments with views of Mount Fuji and surrounding scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour promises a full-day escape that’s as much about scenery as it is about shopping. Managed by LARS TRAVEL, the tour is designed to offer a seamless experience with transportation, convenience, and the chance to absorb some of Japan’s most beautiful vistas.

The main highlight is the outlet mall itself—located near Mount Fuji in Shizuoka, the site boasts over 200 stores managed by Mitsubishi Estate Simon Co., Ltd., offering brands and products at discounted prices. But what we love about this tour is the scenery and flexibility. Travelers can request stop-overs in other locations, turning a straightforward shopping trip into a more personalized adventure.

The Transport and Convenience

On the day of the tour, you’ll be picked up in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver. This means you avoid the hassle of navigating crowded public transport or dealing with parking, especially since the journey from Tokyo involves highway tolls and parking fees that are included in the cost.

The total duration is around 8 hours, which offers plenty of time for shopping, photos, and perhaps a snack or quick meal on your own (since food and drinks aren’t included). No need to worry about timing either, as the schedule is flexible enough to accommodate stop-overs or additional sightseeing.

The Shopping Experience

Once at the outlets, expect to find a wide variety of brands and styles, from luxury labels to everyday favorites—all at discounted prices. Shoppers often find the outlet a worthwhile visit for both quality and value, making it a good choice for those looking to stretch their budget further.

Many reviews point out that the mall is spacious and well-organized, with a good mix of direct shopping and walking around. The view of Mount Fuji from certain parts of the mall adds an extra layer of enjoyment, especially for Instagram-worthy photos. It’s a prime location for combining shopping with scenic photography.

Scenic Views and Stop-overs

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is the opportunity to capture breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, which is visible from the outlet mall on most clear days. Travelers have noted that the opportunity to take photos of Mount Fuji with the mall or nearby scenery is a highlight of the trip.

On top of that, the flexibility to request stop-overs means you can add other sights to your itinerary. Some travelers choose to visit nearby attractions or scenic spots, making this a customizable experience tailored to your interests.

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Price and Value

At $472 for up to four people, this tour offers good value, especially considering it includes all transportation costs—fuel, highway tolls, parking fees, and the driver. For travelers who prefer a stress-free day with a dedicated vehicle and driver, this package simplifies the logistics and usually costs less than renting a car plus paying for tolls and parking separately.

While there’s no admission fee for the outlet mall itself, the cost covers the convenience of door-to-door service, which many find worth the price. For families or groups, the per-person rate becomes even more economical.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for shoppers eager to explore Gotemba Premium Outlets without the hassle of planning transport or navigating busy Tokyo. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible schedule, with the ability to request stop-overs and customize their experience.

It also appeals to photographers and sightseeing enthusiasts who want a scenic backdrop of Mount Fuji alongside their shopping. Plus, if you’re traveling in a group of four or fewer, the cost per person offers solid value.

However, if you’re looking for a guided tour that includes specific attractions or cultural sites, this might not be the best fit. It’s all about shopping, scenery, and comfort, rather than culture or guided sightseeing.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Transfer: The experience begins with a convenient pickup from your Tokyo accommodation. Your driver, speaking multiple languages including English, will take you via highway to Gotemba, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.

Stop at Scenic Points: You can request stop-overs at other attractions along the way—whether it’s a quick photo stop at a viewpoint, a visit to a local shrine, or any other spot your driver can assist with. This flexibility helps you tailor the day to your interests.

Arrival at Gotemba Premium Outlets: Once at the mall, you’ll have around 4-5 hours to explore the 200+ stores. The layout is straightforward, with shops arranged along well-marked pathways, making it easy to find your favorite brands.

Shopping Tips: Many reviewers mention that discounts are significant at outlets, especially for designer brands. Some recommend arriving early or late in the day to avoid crowds, although most visitors find the mall manageable throughout.

Photo Opportunities: The view of Mount Fuji from various vantage points can be a highlight. Travelers suggest bringing a camera or smartphone with good zoom capabilities to capture the mountain against the shopping backdrop.

Return Journey: After your allotted time, your driver will head back towards Tokyo, with potential stop-overs if you’ve requested them. The total time out is approximately 8 hours, giving you a full day outside the city.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring snacks and drinks: Since food isn’t included, pack some snacks to keep your energy up.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Expect to walk quite a bit in the mall and possibly during stop-overs.
• Check the weather forecast: Clear days offer better Mount Fuji views; cloudy weather might limit photo opportunities.
• Plan for photos: Bring your camera or smartphone, and consider a portable tripod if you’re serious about capturing the scenery.
• Flexibility: Feel free to ask your driver about additional stops or sightseeing options—they’re generally accommodating.

The Sum Up

The Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Tokyo offers a fantastic balance of comfort, convenience, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for groups who want to shop at Japan’s premier outlet mall while enjoying views of Mount Fuji without the hassle of travel planning. The inclusion of transportation, tolls, and parking fees simplifies the experience, providing good value for the price.

If you’re an avid shopper, a photography enthusiast, or someone craving a relaxing day outside Tokyo with guaranteed spectacular scenery, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to combine shopping, sightseeing, and a taste of Japan’s natural beauty.

For those who prefer guided cultural insights or a more structured sightseeing schedule, this might not be the best fit. But if what you’re after is a stress-free shopping adventure with Instagram-worthy moments, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes a private, air-conditioned vehicle, along with driver services, fuel surcharge, highway tolls, and parking fees.

Can I request stop-overs at other attractions?
Absolutely. Travelers can ask for stop-overs along the route, allowing for additional sightseeing or photo opportunities en route to or from Gotemba.

How long do I spend at the outlets?
You’ll have approximately 4-5 hours at Gotemba Premium Outlets, giving plenty of time to browse shops and take photos.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the outlet mall.

What languages are supported for booking and during the tour?
The tour provider offers services in Japanese, English, Spanish, German, French, Russian, Italian, Portuguese, and Chinese.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This shopping and scenic adventure is a practical choice for travelers seeking a day outside Tokyo with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. Whether you’re here for the brands, the views, or both, this tour offers a straightforward, value-packed option.

You can check availability for your dates here: