Evangelion Hakone Tour Explore The Third New Tokyo City

Evangelion Hakone Tour Explore The Third New Tokyo City

Planning a trip to Hakone and a fan of the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion? This Evangelion-themed tour offers a chance to explore Hakone’s stunning landscapes while stepping into the fictional universe of the series. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or simply looking for a day of innovative sightseeing, this tour blends animation with real-world scenery in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on authentic locations from the series, combined with the convenience of guided transportation and themed shopping. Plus, the access to lesser-known spots like the Gora Absolute Defense Line or the scenic Lake Ashi makes it a well-rounded adventure. On the flip side, the price point of around $330 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering the absence of included lunch. But for fans, the value of visiting series-specific sites and enjoying Hakone’s famous views makes it worthwhile. This tour is best suited for anime enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to see Hakone through a different lens.

Key Points

• Unique blend of anime and scenery: Visit iconic Evangelion locations amid Hakone’s natural beauty.
• Guided and organized: The tour includes a professional guide, transportation, and admission tickets, simplifying planning.
• Themed shopping and experiences: Evangelion merchandise and character meet-and-greets are part of the fun.
• Limited lunch options: Lunch isn’t included, so packing or planning for a meal is recommended.
• 6.5-hour duration: Plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed, but be prepared for a full day.
• For fans and curiosity seekers: It’s ideal if you love anime, enjoy scenic rides, or want to see Hakone differently.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at Hakone-Yumoto Station

The adventure kicks off at Hakone-Yumoto Station, which is more than just the entry point into Hakone — it’s the gateway to the Third New Tokyo City in the Evangelion universe. This spot is significant because it’s where Shinji and Misato first meet, making it a meaningful starting line for fans. The station itself is a lively hub with shops and a traditional feel, setting a tone of both familiarity and anticipation.

Pro tip: The admission ticket is included here, so you’ll want to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere. The station’s location near public transportation makes it a convenient meeting point.

Gora Station and the Mountain Railroad

Next, the group heads to Gora Station via the famous Hakone Tozan Railway. This mountain railway isn’t just scenic — it’s an integral part of the series’ universe, representing the Gora Absolute Defense Line, a key film location. The train’s twists and turns through lush landscapes make it a highlight, especially for photos.

Insight from reviews: “The ride offers views that are almost cinematic,” notes one traveler. The train’s history of being damaged by apostate attacks adds a layer of authenticity to the series’ narrative.

Hakone Ropeway and Owaku-dani Valley

From Gora, visitors take the cable car and ropeway, offering spectacular vistas of Hakone’s volcanic terrain. The Owaku-dani Valley stop is particularly atmospheric: smoke rising from the volcano, bubbling springs, and a landscape filled with drama. This is where Shinji, wandering alone in the series, arrives after fleeing his home.

Travel tip: The views are breathtaking, so bring your camera. Also, be prepared for the sulfur smell, which is part of the charm but might bother sensitive noses.

Togendai View Restaurant and Lake Ashinoko

After exploring the volcanic area, the tour pauses at Togendai for a relaxed lunch. The restaurant offers views of Lake Ashi, a central location in the anime where many scenes of NERV headquarters’ proximity are set. You can enjoy a meal while taking in the tranquil waters, which contrast with the chaos of the series’ battles.

Authentic experience: Many reviews mention the scenic dining as a highlight, noting the peaceful setting after the more intense sightseeing.

Sengokuhara and Evangelion Collaborations

Post-lunch, the group visits Sengokuhara, famous for its silver grass fields. Here, fans will recognize it as the place where Kensuke camps and meets Shinji. The landscape’s openness and natural beauty make it a perfect spot for reflection — and for fans to imagine the series’ characters in their environments.

Special note: The collaboration store in Hakone-Yumoto, Eva-ya, is a treasure trove for Evangelion merchandise. The store’s exclusive items make it a must-visit for collectors or those seeking souvenirs that truly tie the series to Hakone.

Lake Ashi and the Sightseeing Cruise

Back at Togendai, the tour includes a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi. This is a highlight, with the boat’s reflective surface reminiscent of many scenes from the anime. The views of Mt. Fuji on clear days add a wow factor, and the cruise offers a different perspective on the series’ fictional NERV headquarters near the lake.

Authentic touch: As one reviewer observed, “You can almost see Evangelion’s battles reflected in the water,” emphasizing how well the scenery ties into the anime’s visuals.

End at Evangelion Store

Finally, the day concludes with a visit to Eva-ya, the Evangelion-themed store in Hakone-Yumoto. Here, fans can browse an extensive collection of exclusive merchandise, making it a perfect last stop. With no admission fee, it’s a relaxed way to round off the tour with some shopping.

Valuable insight: Many travelers find that the merchandise here is the best Japanese souvenir for Evangelion fans, with items you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s transportation is a major selling point. It’s designed to take the hassle out of figuring out Hakone’s complex transit system, with all tickets included. The group size tends to be small and private, allowing for a personalized experience, and the timing ensures each stop gets enough attention without feeling rushed.

The total duration of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes is just enough to cover all the highlights without exhaustion. Starting at 10:00 am, it allows for a full day of exploration, finishing back at the starting point.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $327.91 per person, this tour is not cheap, but the value is in the curated experience. You gain access to series-specific locations that would be hard to piece together alone, along with guided commentary that adds context to each spot. The inclusion of admission tickets and the convenience of transportation make it a hassle-free day, especially for those unfamiliar with Hakone’s transit.

While lunch isn’t included, the stop at Togendai offers options for a leisurely meal with scenic views; bringing snacks or planning ahead could enhance the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for Evangelion fans looking for a unique way to connect with the series in a real-world setting. It also appeals to scenic travelers who enjoy combining anime with Hakone’s natural beauty. If you prefer flexibility or are on a tight budget, arranging your own itinerary might be more suitable. But for those wanting a guided, themed adventure with all logistics handled, this tour offers a memorable day.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time to visit all the key locations without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll visit a scenic spot where you can buy or bring your own meal for a relaxing break.

What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes rides on the Hakone mountain railroad, cable car, ropeway, and a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, all with tickets provided.

Are the tickets for attractions included?
Yes, admission tickets for stops like Gora Station, Hakone Ropeway, Owaku-dani Valley, Togendai, and the sightseeing cruise are included in the price.

What makes this tour special for Evangelion fans?
It offers a guided visit to filming locations, iconic scenery, and exclusive merchandise stores, allowing fans to see their favorite series come to life.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should note the walking and transportation involved. Confirm with the provider if in doubt.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, some snacks or a packed lunch, and weather-appropriate clothing. Also, bring a sense of adventure and curiosity!

Can I book a private experience?
Yes, this is a private tour, ensuring your group has personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

Final Thoughts

This Evangelion-themed Hakone tour offers more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to walk through a world where animation and reality intersect. With carefully curated stops, scenic transportation, and a dash of fandom magic, it’s a day that appeals to both anime lovers and those who appreciate Hakone’s natural beauty.

While the price may seem high, the experience’s exclusivity and the convenience of guided travel make it a solid investment for fans eager to see their favorite series in an authentic setting. For anyone keen on combining pop culture with scenic Japan, this tour is a compelling choice. If you’re looking to make your Hakone trip both memorable and meaningful, this could be just the ticket.