Mt. Fuji & Hakone Day Tour from Tokyo with Indian Lunch

Exploring Japan’s Iconic Landscapes: Mt. Fuji & Hakone Day Tour from Tokyo

Planning a day trip from Tokyo that captures the essence of Japan’s natural beauty and cultural highlights can be tricky. This tour, run by H.I.S., promises a comprehensive experience with visits to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, the volcanic wonders of Hakone, and a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi — all with the added bonus of an Indian buffet lunch.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its focus on authentic sights and convenient logistics. The fact that it takes you up to 2300 meters at Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station indicates a real chance to get close to Japan’s most famous peak, weather permitting. The inclusion of a scenic ropeway ride and Lake Ashi cruise means you’ll enjoy both land and water views, giving you a well-rounded day in nature. Plus, the newly opened Indian restaurant offers a taste of something different amid the usual Japanese fare.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can affect visibility at Mt. Fuji, and access to the 5th Station might be restricted if operational issues arise. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, and who don’t mind a group setting. It’s also not ideal for pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues, given the walking and altitude involved.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced, value-packed day with diverse scenic experiences and a delicious, hearty lunch. If you’re after a straightforward, guided adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and comfortable transportation, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip from Tokyo covering Mt. Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Ashi
• Up to 2300 meters at Mt. Fuji 5th Station (weather dependent)
• Authentic Indian buffet lunch, including vegetarian and halal options
• Scenic Hakone Ropeway and volcanic area exploration
• Relaxing Lake Ashi cruise offering water-level views
• Optional return by bullet train for fast, efficient travel back to Tokyo

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point and Early Travel Experience

Your day begins in the Shinjuku area, a bustling hub that quickly offers a view of Tokyo’s impressive skyline. The bus departs with a sense of leaving the city’s chaos behind as it heads toward the lush greenery of the countryside. The journey on the Ch Expressway takes around two and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and anticipate what’s ahead.

Traveling through Tokyo’s residential zones before entering the mountainous regions, you’ll notice the change in scenery from crowded skyscrapers to rolling hills and forests — a visual cue that you’re heading into Japan’s natural heartland.

Mt. Fuji 5th Station: The Iconic Viewpoint

The highlight for many is reaching Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station at 2300m. This is the highest point accessible by road, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Depending on the weather, you might catch a glimpse of the mountain’s snow-capped summit or, at minimum, soak in the vast, scenic vistas of the countryside.

While some reviews mention that access can be limited by operational status, the tour offers alternatives like Oshino Hakkai or the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center if the 5th Station is closed. This flexibility ensures your day isn’t entirely clouded out by weather.

The Indian Lunch: A Welcome Change

Next up is a delicious Indian buffet at a newly opened restaurant, a refreshing departure from typical Japanese cuisine. The menu is designed to cater to diverse preferences, with vegetarian and halal dishes available. Reviewers praise the flavorful, hearty options, noting that it’s a great way to refuel after the morning’s sightseeing.

You’ll want to arrive hungry — the buffet offers enough variety to satisfy different tastes, and the setting is modern and comfortable, making it a nice break in the day’s schedule.

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Waku-dani Volcanic Area: Japan’s Fiery Side

After lunch, you’ll head to Waku-dani, a volcanic area filled with fumaroles and sulfur vents. The sight of boiling water and bubbling steam is a stark reminder of Japan’s volcanic activity. Here you get to taste the famous “kurotamago”, eggs boiled in sulfur water, turning their shells black — an unusual and fun experience that many find memorable.

The volcanic terrain is quite active, and the smell of sulfur adds an authentic touch. It’s a quick stop but packed with visual interest, particularly for geology buffs or those curious about Japan’s volcanic landscape.

Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi: Breathtaking Views

From Waku-dani, you’ll descend via the Hakone Ropeway, which offers sweeping views of the volcanic landscape, Mt. Fuji if visible, and the surrounding forests. The ride itself is quick but spectacular — many reviewers comment on how photogenic the scenery is from above.

The journey continues to Lake Ashi, where a short cruise allows you to enjoy the scenery from the water. It’s relaxing and provides some excellent photo opportunities of the mountains reflected on the lake’s surface, especially on clear days. You might even spot the iconic Hakone Shrine torii peeking out from the trees if you have a keen eye.

Return Options and Flexibility

The tour ends with a choice: those with a Japan Rail Pass or looking for a quicker return can opt to disband at Odawara Station and catch a Shinkansen back to Tokyo. The guide provides the tickets, though the actual train journey isn’t guided. For others, returning via bus to Tokyo is the default plan.

This flexibility makes the tour appealing to a variety of travel plans and schedules.

Transportation and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The entire day is spent on a large, comfortable bus operated by Yamato Kanko, known for reliable service. The group size is generally manageable, and the schedule allows for ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

The tour’s duration is about 10 hours — a full but not overwhelming day. The early start and well-placed breaks help keep fatigue at bay. The meeting point at Shinjuku is accessible via walking from the West Exit or a quick metro ride, making it convenient for most travelers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes as there’s some walking involved, especially around the 5th Station and volcanic areas.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a camera — the views are photo-worthy.
• The weather can be unpredictable; layers are advisable, and be prepared for possible fog or rain at higher altitudes.
• If you have specific lunch preferences, inform the tour provider when booking, as they try to accommodate dietary needs.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the surprisingly delightful elements of this tour is the inclusion of authentic volcanic activity at Waku-dani. Many travelers love this tactile experience, and the black eggs are both fun and tasty. The scenic ropeway ride is often praised for offering “breathtaking views,” with some reviewers mentioning how it’s the perfect way to see the Hakone area from above.

The Lake Ashi cruise is a highlight for many, providing a peaceful, water-level perspective of the mountains and forests, with some comparing it to a tranquil escape from the busy city.

Reviewers have also appreciated the new Indian restaurant, calling it a “welcome surprise,” especially after a morning of mountain and volcanic activity. The fact that vegetarian and halal options are available adds to its appeal for diverse groups.

Price and Overall Value

While the tour’s cost might seem steep for a full-day outing, it includes transportation, entrance fees, the Indian buffet, and the lake cruise — making it a comprehensive package. The option to return via bullet train adds extra convenience and saves time, particularly appealing for those with tight schedules.

The sense of ease, guided commentary, and scenic variety make it a good value, especially for first-time visitors eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Tokyo who want a well-organized, diverse day trip. It suits travelers interested in natural scenery, volcanic activity, and cultural sights without the stress of arranging transport or multiple tickets.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate authentic cuisine and scenic cruises, providing a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. However, it’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to walking and altitude considerations.

FAQs

How long is the bus journey from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station?
The bus ride takes about 2.5 hours, giving you a scenic preview of Japan’s countryside before reaching the mountain.

Can I see Mt. Fuji from the 5th Station?
Weather-dependent, but on clear days, you might get a great view of the mountain’s summit and surrounding scenery. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll visit alternative spots like Oshino Hakkai.

What kind of lunch is included?
An Indian buffet featuring vegetarian and halal options, served at a newly opened restaurant. Expect flavorful curries, rice dishes, and other hearty fare.

Is the volcano area active?
Yes, Waku-dani is a volcanic area with fumaroles and sulfur vents. You can taste black eggs boiled in sulfur water, an iconic activity there.

What do the Lake Ashi cruise and ropeway offer?
The ropeway provides panoramic views of the volcanic terrain and possibly Mt. Fuji, while the cruise offers a peaceful water-level perspective of the scenic lake and surrounding mountains.

Can I return to Tokyo by Shinkansen?
Yes, you can disband at Odawara Station and take the bullet train back, with tickets provided by the guide. Note that the guide won’t accompany you on the train.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended. Dress in layers as weather can vary, especially at higher altitudes.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, but be aware of the walking involved and altitude. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What happens if Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station is closed?
The tour provider offers alternative stops like Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center or Oishi Park to ensure your day remains enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

This Mt. Fuji & Hakone day tour is a well-rounded experience that combines Japan’s iconic mountain scenery, volcanic activity, and serene lake views. Its thoughtful inclusions — from the scenic ropeway to the water cruise and authentic Indian lunch — add value and variety to a single day of exploration.

It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to see natural wonders without the hassle of detailed planning. While it’s not for everyone, especially those with mobility concerns, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors and nature lovers alike. Expect a full, engaging day that leaves you with plenty of photos, memories, and perhaps a new appreciation for Japan’s volcanic landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: