Mount Fuji Sightseeing tour with English speaking guide

Planning a trip to Japan and eager to see the iconic Mount Fuji? This private sightseeing tour might just fit the bill. While it promises a flexible, personalized experience with a dedicated English-speaking driver, some travelers have found it to be hit-or-miss—particularly with logistics.

What we love about this tour is its customizable nature, allowing you to tailor the day to your interests. The private transport makes for a comfortable ride, especially after long days of sightseeing, and the knowledgeable guides can help bring the area’s highlights to life.

However, a key concern is the reliability of pickup, as some reviews have reported issues with punctuality or contactability. This could be a dealbreaker if you’re on a tight schedule or highly dependent on punctuality.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and local insights—especially if you’re staying in Tokyo and want a hassle-free day trip to see Mount Fuji and its environs.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary: Choose your own stops and explore what interests you most.
• Comfortable private transport: Relax in air-conditioned vehicles with a driver.
• Expert guidance: Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Arabic, and Hindi.
• Includes tolls and fuel: No hidden costs for transportation.
• Limited group size: Small group experience with a maximum of 9 participants.
• Potential pickup issues: Some reviews highlight problems with pickup punctuality and contact.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

At $109 for the entire group, this private tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the inclusions like petrol, tolls, and a dedicated driver. The opportunity to customize your day means you can prioritize the spots most appealing to you.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees for Mount Fuji (¥2,100) and personal expenses like meals or drinks aren’t included. This makes the overall cost slightly variable depending on what you choose to do, but it also offers flexibility. The tour is designed to be family-friendly and accessible for most, with some restrictions for those over 287 lbs, over 70, or with high blood pressure.

Transportation and Punctuality

The tour’s main draw is its private, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you from Tokyo to Fuji country comfortably. This is a big plus, especially compared to crowded bus tours.

That said, one review from Isabelle vividly describes a less-than-ideal experience where the pickup didn’t happen, and she couldn’t contact the company. This underscores the importance of confirming your pickup details and possibly having backup plans or contacts ready.

The Itinerary and Its Flexibility

The beauty of this tour is its customizability. The itinerary includes a variety of stops, from the awe-inspiring Mount Fuji itself to scenic lakes, shrines, and even shopping outlets.

Mount Fuji is the star attraction. The tour offers a chance to see the mountain, weather permitting, and visit the Fifth Station, where panoramic views and photo ops are plentiful. The area around the mountain is dotted with sights like the Oshino Hakkai springs and the Fujiyoshida Shrine, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural sites.

Lake Kawaguchiko is another highlight, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views. The Kachi Kachi Ropeway gives a bird’s-eye view of the lake and Mount Fuji, providing a memorable perspective.

The tour also includes stops at Owakudani Valley, known for its volcanic activity and black eggs, and Hakone, famous for hot springs and natural scenery. For those interested in shopping or souvenirs, the Gotemba Premium Outlets are included, offering a chance to shop designer brands at discount prices.

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What You’ll Experience at Each Stop

• Mount Fuji: Depending on weather, you’ll get to see Japan’s most iconic peak from the Fifth Station or nearby viewpoints. It’s a chance for stunning photos and to appreciate the mountain’s majesty without the need for strenuous hikes.

• Lake Kawaguchiko: Relax by the lakeshore, walk along the promenade, or take in the mountain reflections in the water. Many find this spot the most tranquil part of the day.

• Oshino Hakkai: Known for its pristine spring water, the village of Oshino offers a quiet, authentic glimpse into rural Japan. It’s a favorite for photographers and those wanting to see traditional water wells.

• Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: Famous for its picturesque pagoda overlooking Mount Fuji, this shrine provides a peaceful setting and a chance for cultural insight.

• Owakudani Valley: The volcanic valley’s steaming vents and black eggs—cooked in volcanic hot springs—offer a unique, almost surreal landscape. Be prepared for some sulfur smells.

• Hakone: Known for its hot springs and scenic views, this area offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, perfect for a short exploration or photo stop.

• Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba: An open-air museum showcasing traditional thatched-roof houses, ideal for photos and a taste of old Japan.

• Kitaguchi-hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine: A spiritual site with a history linked to Mount Fuji, providing insight into local religious traditions.

• Gotemba Premium Outlets: For shopping enthusiasts, this outlet mall offers a variety of international brands at discounted prices, a good way to end the day.

Pacing and Timing

Most stops are scheduled for about an hour, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The tour typically lasts around one day, with start times varying based on availability. The small group size means more personalized attention, but it also requires timely transitions between sites.

The Experience of Guides

Based on the available reviews and descriptions, guides seem to be knowledgeable and capable of providing insights in multiple languages. This is particularly helpful for non-Japanese speakers who want to understand the cultural or natural significance of each site.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While the tour offers flexibility, the reliability of pickup appears to be a concern. One reviewer explicitly warns against using this company due to a missed pickup, which could throw off your entire day. It’s advisable to confirm arrangements the day before and have contingency plans.

Plus, some sites like Mount Fuji may be inaccessible due to weather, which is outside the tour’s control. In such cases, guides might suggest alternative viewpoints or skip certain spots.

Pricing and Value

At $109, this tour is competitively priced for a private experience that covers transportation, tolls, and a guide. The ability to customize your itinerary adds value, especially if you’re keen on specific sites. However, the extra costs for attractions like Mount Fuji’s entrance fee or meals will need to be budgeted separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized day with a flexible schedule, and who prioritize comfort and insider knowledge. It’s suitable for families, couples, or small groups who prefer avoiding large tour buses. If punctuality or detailed planning is crucial, you might want to double-check arrangements or consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Mount Fuji sightseeing tour offers a personalized way to experience Japan’s most renowned mountain and its surrounding sights. The private transport and multi-lingual guides make it an attractive choice for those who want a more relaxed, customizable day.

However, the potential issues with pickup reliability highlight the importance of confirming details and having patience or backup plans. The stops included are well-chosen, providing a good mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and shopping, all within a manageable day trip.

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible, and comfortable way to see Mount Fuji and its environs—and are willing to navigate some logistical uncertainties—this could suit you very well. For travelers who value personalized experiences and local insights, it’s worth considering, especially if you don’t mind the risk of occasional hiccups.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 9 participants, making for a more intimate experience.

Does the tour include transport?
Yes. You’ll be picked up in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, with all tolls and fuel fees included.

Can I choose my own itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers the option to customize your stops and focus on what interests you most.

What is the price for the tour?
It costs $109 per group, regardless of size (up to 1 person), making it a cost-effective private experience.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. The Mount Fuji entrance fee (¥2,100 per group) and personal expenses like food or souvenirs are not included.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
It’s wheelchair accessible and suitable for most, but not for those over 287 lbs, over 70 years old, or with high blood pressure.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera (unless explicitly prohibited), some snacks or water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Note that cameras, food, drinks, and strollers are not allowed on the bus.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent access to Mount Fuji or certain spots, the guide may suggest alternative viewpoints or modify the itinerary accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: