Tokyo Mt. Fuji Hakone Shrine, Owakudani, Lake Yamanakai Day Tour

Traveling through Japan’s scenic landscapes and historic sites is a dream for many, and this day tour offers a balanced taste of both. Focused on iconic locations like Mt. Fuji, Hakone Shrine, and Owakudani, it’s designed to give travelers a snapshot of Japan’s volcanic beauty and cultural heritage in just over eight hours.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the stunning views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko are often a highlight for visitors. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the trip, making each stop both educational and fun—something confirmed by reviews praising their friendliness and insight. Lastly, variety in the itinerary ensures you get a mix of nature, history, and local flavor, including the chance to sample the famous black eggs of Owakudani.

That said, one thing to consider is the tight schedule and group size—with many stops packed into a single day, it can feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, weather conditions, especially around Mt. Fuji or during the cable car ride, can impact the views and experience, as some travelers noted.

This tour suits travelers looking for a cost-effective, organized day trip that hits all the major sights without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good if you want an overview of Hakone and Mt. Fuji in one go, but don’t mind a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $76.96, this tour offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Balanced Itinerary: Covers major highlights from Mount Fuji views to cultural temples.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides like Jack and Kousei for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Variety of Experiences: From sacred shrines to volcanic valleys and lakes, there’s visual and cultural diversity.
• Weather Dependency: Viewpoints, especially Mount Fuji, depend on weather conditions, which can limit visibility.
• Limited Free Time: The schedule is tightly packed, so plan to make the most of each stop.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Hakone Shrine and Lake Ashinoko

The day kicks off at Hakone Shrine, a site founded in 757, with a history intertwined with Japan’s samurai and shogunate eras. You get about 80 minutes here, which is enough to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and take photos of the iconic red torii floating on Lake Ashinoko. This lake was formed 3,000 years ago, making it the largest in Kanagawa and a favorite for capturing views of Mt. Fuji in the distance.

Many reviewers say this part is particularly picturesque. One traveler remarked, “Very pretty locations, a lot do,” emphasizing the calming vibe of the shrine and the lake. The shrine’s reputation as a guardian of traffic safety and good luck adds a sprinkle of spiritual significance to your visit.

Hakone Ropeway: Crater Views and Mt. Fuji

Next, you’ll hop onto the Hakone Ropeway, which takes about 30 minutes from Togendai Station to Owakudani. The real treat here is the chance to see Mount Fuji from a different perspective—many reports mention how the views between the ropeway stations are spectacular, especially on clear days.

The ropeway also offers a glimpse of Owakudani’s volcanic landscape, with smoke rising from the crater. It’s an excellent opportunity for photos, and the experience of riding a cable car over a volcanic area is both fun and educational. One reviewer highlighted, “The best views of Hakone’s cable car can be found near Owakudani, with Mt. Fuji visible in the background.”

Owakudani Valley: Volcanic Wonders & Black Eggs

Owakudani is often the highlight for those who enjoy a touch of adventure. It’s a 50-minute stop that combines natural awe with local delicacies. The volcanic valley, formed roughly 1,000 years ago, still emits smoke and steam, giving visitors a real sense of the Earth’s power.

If weather permits, you can hike along the Nature Research Trail, which takes around 15 minutes, or explore the small shops, including Tamago Tea House, where you can buy the famous black eggs—boiled in volcanic water, turning their shells black and supposedly extending your life by seven years.

One guest noted, “The smoke was rising from Tamago Tea House, and we enjoyed tasting the black eggs,” capturing the sensory appeal of this stop. Keep in mind that, as some reviews suggest, poor weather might limit visibility or the ability to enjoy the cable car ride fully.

Lake Yamanaka: Swans and Mount Fuji

The journey continues to Lake Yamanaka, one of Fuji’s famed Five Lakes. Here, you’ll find Shiratorihama, a lakeside area renowned for its swans and panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. You’ll have around 20 minutes, which is enough to snap photos of the elegant swans with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.

Reviewers mention the friendliness of the swans, often feeding them and capturing memorable photos. It’s a peaceful moment amid your busy day, and many find it a perfect chance for some light, nature-focused relaxation.

Oshino Hakkai: Natural Springs & Scenic Beauty

Your final stop is Oshino Hakkai, a series of eight spring-fed ponds formed by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji. It’s a favorite for its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery, with Mt. Fuji often reflected perfectly in the ponds.

This 40-minute visit offers a tranquil ending to your day, with natural beauty that photographers and nature lovers will appreciate. One reviewer called it “a beautiful natural scenery” that draws countless photographers from around the world.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practical Aspects

This tour includes all transportation fees, tolls, and fuel costs, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The tour lasts around 8 hours and 20 minutes, with most of this time spent traveling and enjoying each stop.

It is important to note that the tour requires a minimum of four participants to proceed, so it might be canceled if not enough people sign up. For convenience, the tour offers mobile tickets and picks up nearby public transportation options, making it easier for travelers to meet up.

Timing is tight; many reviewers have remarked that the schedule is busy, and there’s little free time aside from the scheduled stops. This means if you’re a slow walker or want to linger at each location, you might feel rushed.

Weather and Views

One of the biggest variables on this tour is the weather. Multiple reviews mention poor weather, rain, or wind affecting the visibility of Mt. Fuji, which can disappoint if your main goal is to see the mountain. Some travelers felt that they couldn’t fully enjoy the cable car or view the mountain clearly, so it’s worth keeping expectations flexible.

Price and Value

At just under $77 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to visit several major attractions in one day. Given the transportation, guide service, and entry to the ropeway included, it’s a sensible option for travelers who want a guided experience without worrying about logistics.

However, some reviews suggest that optional activities like a boat cruise or lunch are upsold, which could add to the cost if you choose to indulge. The tour doesn’t include meals or personal expenses, so bring cash for snacks or souvenirs.

What Real Travelers Say

The reviews paint a picture of a tour that can be highly rewarding or somewhat rushed, depending on weather and expectations. A traveler named Idaelena praised the trip, especially the locations, saying, “Very pretty locations, a lot do,” and complimented guide Kousei’s friendliness.

Conversely, Peter expressed disappointment, noting that heavy rain limited what was visible and that the guide didn’t offer much detailed commentary. He also mentioned feeling pressured into optional activities, which might not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed pace.

MariaElena, on the other hand, loved her guide Jack, describing him as “friendly, fun and informative,” which elevated her experience despite the weather challenges.

Dario appreciated the chance to see the lakes and the cherry blossoms still in bloom, highlighting the guide Tom’s expertise and the overall value of the scenic stops.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day tour is a solid choice if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in one day and want the convenience of a guided experience. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a structured schedule and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves.

If you’re visiting Japan for a short trip and want a snapshot of Mount Fuji and Hakone’s natural beauty, this tour offers a good blend of scenery and cultural sites at an accessible price.

However, if your priority is photography or enjoying the sights at your own pace, the tight schedule and weather dependency might be frustrating. It also works well for those traveling with family or a group who don’t mind a busy day packed with sightseeing.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $76.96 per person, which includes transportation, the ropeway fee, and guided commentary.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, covering multiple scenic stops and travel time.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for optional purchases like black eggs or snacks, and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the sites.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 years old can join free of charge without occupying a seat. Children over 3 are treated as adults.

What happens if the weather is poor?
View of Mount Fuji might be limited, and some activities like the cable car ride could be affected. The tour operates rain or shine.

What is included in the price?
Vehicle service fees, fuel costs, tolls, highway tolls, and the driver’s service fee are included. Meals and personal expenses are not.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, a minimum of four participants is required for the tour to proceed.

How do I receive my booking details?
You’ll get a confirmation with a mobile ticket, and the night before, a reminder email with pick-up details and guide contact information.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a concise, organized way to enjoy Japan’s natural and cultural highlights, especially suited for those wanting a guided, hassle-free day. While weather and schedule might pose minor challenges, the experience provides a memorable glimpse of Mount Fuji, Hakone’s volcanic wonders, and serene lakes—and all at a reasonable price. Perfect for travelers eager to tick off major sights without the stress of planning each detail themselves.