Tokyo: Mount Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise and Owakudani Day Tour

Planning a day trip from Tokyo that packs in natural beauty, cultural highlights, and stunning views? This tour offers a balanced mix of all three, taking you beyond Japan’s bustling capital to explore the serene landscapes around Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Enoshima. While some may find the itinerary a bit packed, many travelers appreciate the accessibility and variety packed into a single day.

What we love most about this experience are the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, the fun and informative guides, and the opportunity to visit multiple iconic sites without the hassle of organizing transport ourselves. However, it’s worth noting that on some days, weather conditions can affect views of Fuji, and the duration means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on a bus. This trip suits those eager to see a broad slice of Japan’s natural and cultural gems in a single, value-packed package.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic spots like Lake Ashi and Enoshima Island offer picturesque views and cultural experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with engaging commentary and helpful translations.
• Good value for money considering the number of attractions visited within the ticket price.
• Limited flexibility and potential weather-related view restrictions may influence your experience.
• Comfortable transportation and small group size (max 45 travelers) help keep the day manageable.
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to Japan’s scenic spots near Tokyo.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers an efficient way to explore some of Japan’s most iconic sights near Tokyo, all in one 10-hour journey. The price of around $65 per person represents a reasonable deal when you consider the transportation, guide, and multiple stops included. It’s especially appealing if you want an organized, hassle-free day without the need to navigate public transport or worry about logistics.

While the highlight is often the chance to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, it’s crucial to remember that weather conditions can impact visibility. Some reviewers express disappointment when Fuji remains hidden behind clouds, but the tour’s other attractions, like Hakone’s volcanic fields and Lake Ashi, still deliver plenty of visual interest.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Lake Ashinoko

The tour kicks off at Lake Ashi, a tranquil caldera lake formed around 3,000 years ago after volcanic activity. Surrounded by lush mountains, the lake is best known for its stunning scenery and the iconic Hakone Shrine nestled along its shores. Many visitors comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the photos they capture of Mount Fuji framed by the lake on clear days.

Expect a brief stop here (about 20 minutes), making it a perfect opportunity for quick photos or just soaking in the nature. Reviewers highlight the lake’s beauty and the chance to see Mount Fuji reflected on its surface when the weather cooperates.

Stop 2: Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

Next, you’ll hop aboard the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, inspired by European battleships, which provides a fun, leisurely ride across Lake Ashi. The boat’s design adds a dash of historical charm, and the panoramic views are a highlight, especially of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.

This cruise lasts around 25 minutes. Some travelers mention that the boat’s open-air decks allow for great photo opportunities, but the experience hinges heavily on weather—cloudy days may obscure Fuji but still offer dramatic landscapes.

Stop 3: Owakudani Valley

One of Hakone’s geological wonders, Owakudani is a volcanic valley full of bubbling springs and sulfur vents. Known for its black eggs, cooked in the hot springs, this site offers a chance to see active volcanic activity up close. Many visitors tell us the sulfur smell can be quite intense, but it’s part of the adventure.

You’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring here, which is enough to walk around and sample the famous black eggs. The views of the volcanic landscape are impressive, and some reviewers note that despite the cloud cover, the site’s raw natural power is palpable.

Stop 4: Hakone Ropeway

From Owakudani, you’ll take the Hakone Ropeway, a gondola that offers sweeping views of the area’s volcanic terrain and Lake Ashi. The ride takes around 25 minutes, and on clear days, you’ll get spectacular vistas of Mount Fuji, Owakudani’s steaming vents, and the surrounding mountains.

This mode of transport is practical and fun, especially for those who enjoy cable cars. However, weather can again impact the visibility, so some travelers might find the scenery less dramatic if the sky is cloudy.

Stop 5: Enoshima Island

After returning from Hakone, the tour heads to Enoshima Island, a charming spot connected to Kamakura by a bridge. The island boasts beautiful sea views, shrines, and a lively shopping street. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.

Expect around 30 minutes on the island, which is enough to visit key sites like Enoshima Shrine or walk along Benzaiten Shopping Street. Reviewers often mention the island’s relaxed vibe and the stunning views of Sagami Bay, especially if the weather is clear.

Stop 6: Enoshima Shrine

You’ll visit the Enoshima Shrine, a complex of three main shrines dedicated to deities of fishing and maritime life. The walk up involves some stairs but offers scenic views along the way. Many visitors find the shrine’s historical significance and the peaceful surroundings a highlight of their trip.

The time allotted (about 50 minutes) allows for a good exploration, including time to learn about the local culture. Some mention that the shrine’s setting provides great photo opportunities.

Stop 7: Benzaiten Shopping Street

Lastly, a stroll along Benzaiten Shopping Street completes the day. This old-fashioned alleyway is lined with small shops selling snacks, souvenirs, and local crafts. It’s a lively spot to pick up gifts or just enjoy the local atmosphere.

Most reviews praise the street as charming and authentically Japanese, perfect for a quick browse and some last-minute photos before heading back to Tokyo.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned bus, ensuring comfort during the long day. The group size caps at 45 travelers, which strikes a balance between social atmosphere and manageable logistics. The guides are generally well-reviewed—many mention their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to handle unplanned stops or questions.

Practical Considerations

• Timing is tight, especially if weather affects visibility of Mount Fuji, which some reviewers found disappointing. However, even when Fuji isn’t visible, the other sites still impress.
• Additional costs like cruise and ropeway tickets (1,200 yen and 1,500 yen respectively) are paid separately, so budget accordingly if you want to experience everything.
• Lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is advisable if you want to stay energized.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews mention the guides’ efforts to make the day enjoyable and informative. One reviewer praised Jimmy for his bilingual support, translating into both English and Chinese, making the experience more inclusive for international guests. Others appreciated the friendly and helpful attitude of guides like Pin and Nakajima, who shared insightful stories along the way.

A few travelers highlighted the comfort of the transportation and the ease of pickup locations, especially in Shinjuku, which is a major plus for visitors unfamiliar with Tokyo’s transport system.

Challenges & Considerations

While most reviews are positive, some travelers experienced disappointment with views of Mount Fuji due to weather or crowded roads affecting the itinerary. One reviewer pointed out that the trip is more of a bus ride through scenic areas rather than a constant visual feast.

Others found the vehicle cramped or the day too packed, so if comfort or relaxation is your priority, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s also good to be prepared for some walking at the shrines and sites.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers a fantastic introduction to the natural beauty and cultural sites near Tokyo, especially for first-timers. It balances sightseeing, culture, and landscape photography in a cost-effective package. The guides’ expertise and friendly attitude add a lot of value, turning what could be a hectic day into an enjoyable, educational experience.

It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re eager to see Mount Fuji’s distant silhouette, explore volcanic valleys, and enjoy seaside charm, this trip delivers in spades.

However, if you’re after up-close Fuji views or more leisurely pacing, you might want to consider alternative options. The weather-dependent nature of some stops is also worth keeping in mind.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, but some walking at shrines and sites may be best suited for those with moderate mobility.

How long is the travel time between locations?
The bus covers quite a bit of distance, with stops spread out over the day. The total duration is around 10 hours, with the majority spent on the bus.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included. You can bring snacks or plan to buy food at the stops like Enoshima or Hakone.

What if the weather isn’t clear?
Visibility of Mount Fuji depends heavily on weather conditions. Even on cloudy days, the other sites like Owakudani and Lake Ashi still offer impressive scenery.

How much do additional tickets cost?
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise costs about 1,200 yen, and the Hakone Ropeway ticket is approximately 1,500 yen, payable separately.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned and generally comfortable, which helps manage long hours on the road.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility to travelers.

This full-day trip offers a well-rounded look at the natural and cultural highlights around Tokyo. With experienced guides, scenic stops, and manageable group sizes, it’s a worthwhile option for travelers wanting quick access to Japan’s iconic landscapes. Just keep your expectations in check regarding weather and the packed schedule, and you’ll come away with plenty of memorable moments.