Exploring the charming town of Hakone just got easier with the Guided Private Hakone Tour featuring green number plates. This exclusive excursion whisks visitors away from Tokyo, delivering them to the region’s picturesque landscapes in comfort. From serene lake cruises to striking open-air art exhibits, the tour showcases Hakone’s must-see attractions through the lens of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. With flexible pickup locations and a delectable local lunch, this personalized experience promises an unforgettable day trip – but the best part may come as a surprise.
Key Points
- Private guided tour of Hakone’s natural wonders, including a pirate-themed cruise on Lake Ashi and a scenic gondola ride on the Hakone Ropeway.
- Transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide/driver for pickup from hotels, apartments, or train stations within Tokyo’s 23 wards.
- Opportunity to explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing over 100 sculptures and installations in a unique setting that combines nature and art.
- Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and guidance from the knowledgeable English-speaking driver.
- Possible extra charges for pickups outside Tokyo, with live location sharing via WhatsApp for easy meetup.
Getting to Hakone
To get to Hakone, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, apartment, or train station within Tokyo’s 23 wards.
The pickup is arranged in advance, and your guide will send a live location via WhatsApp to meet up. Pickup outside Tokyo can be accommodated but may incur extra charges.
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide/driver.
While there may be a 10-30 minute delay due to road conditions, the driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to the Hakone region, which is located about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo.
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Pirate Cruise on Lake Ashi
One of the highlights of the Hakone tour is the pirate-themed cruise across Lake Ashi. Passengers board a replica of an Edo-period pirate ship and sail across the tranquil lake, taking in views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
The adult ticket price for the cruise is 1,200 yen, while children pay 600 yen. The cruise lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing a leisurely and unique way to experience Hakone’s scenic landscape.
After the cruise, the tour continues to other Hakone attractions, ensuring a well-rounded cultural and natural exploration of this popular Japanese destination.
Exploring the Hakone Ropeway
After the pirate cruise, the tour moves on to explore the Hakone Ropeway.
This scenic gondola ride takes visitors on a breathtaking journey through the mountainous landscape of Hakone. The ropeway offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the surrounding volcanic peaks.
Travelers can:
- Admire the panoramic vistas from the ropeway’s glass-enclosed cabins.
- Stop at the Owakudani volcanic valley to sample local specialty eggs boiled in the sulfurous hot springs.
- Disembark at the Sōunzan station and explore the hiking trails or visit the nearby Open Air Museum.
Visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum
As the tour continues, visitors explore the impressive Hakone Open-Air Museum. This expansive outdoor gallery features over 100 sculptures and art installations set against the scenic Hakone mountains.
Wander through the serene sculpture garden, admiring whimsical works by renowned artists. Highlights include Picasso’s famous "Bust of a Woman" and Rodin’s "The Thinker."
Guests can also visit the indoor galleries showcasing rotating exhibits. The museum’s unique setting allows visitors to enjoy both nature and art.
With ample time to explore, this stop offers a tranquil respite from the day’s activities.
Enjoying a Delicious Lunch
Following the enjoyable exploration of the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the tour group looks forward to a delicious lunch.
The tour includes a traditional Japanese lunch, which may feature:
- Seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients
- A variety of small dishes, like miso soup, grilled fish, and vegetable tempura
- Freshly prepared onigiri (rice balls) and pickled vegetables
This hearty and authentic meal provides the energy needed to continue the tour’s activities.
With the guidance of the knowledgeable English-speaking driver, the group can relax and savor the flavors of Hakone’s regional cuisine.
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Custom Pickup Locations
Where can the Hakone tour be customized for pickup?
The private tour provides pickup from hotels, apartments (Airbnb), or train stations within Tokyo’s 23 wards. Customers can specify custom pickup locations in the Special Requirements section or contact the provider directly.
For pickups outside Tokyo, advance notice is required, and extra charges may apply. The provider shares the driver’s live location via WhatsApp, allowing for easy meetup.
However, there may be a 10-30 minute delay due to road conditions. The tour offers flexible and convenient pickup options to suit the customer’s needs.
Tour Inclusions and Flexibility
The Hakone tour includes several amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
Travelers can enjoy:
- Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking guide/driver.
- A delicious included lunch to fuel the day’s activities.
- Seamless entry to popular attractions like the Lake Ashi Pirate Cruise, Ropeway, and Open Air Museum, with all fees and taxes covered.
Plus, the tour offers flexible booking and cancellation policies, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later.
With a custom pickup option and live location sharing, the experience is tailored to each group’s needs for a hassle-free Hakone adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour includes lunch, but participants can bring their own food and drinks if they prefer. However, it’s best to confirm with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions or additional fees.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour Activities?
There is no strict dress code for the tour activities. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor activities. Light layers are recommended to accommodate potential changes in weather conditions.
Are There Any Medical Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?
There are no specific medical restrictions for participating in this tour. Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues may find some activities challenging. It’s advisable to discuss any concerns with the tour provider.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional activities. The provider offers flexibility, and travelers can request special requirements or add-ons when booking the tour. Extra charges may apply for any customizations.
How Many Restroom Breaks Are Provided During the Tour?
The tour includes restroom breaks as needed throughout the day. While the specific number is not listed, the private nature of the tour allows the guide to accommodate restroom stops based on the group’s requirements during the 10-hour excursion.
The Sum Up
The Guided Private Hakone Tour with GREEN NUMBER PLATES offers an exceptional way to explore Hakone’s beauty. With convenient pickups, a knowledgeable guide, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s an unforgettable day trip. Travelers can relax on a pirate cruise, ride the Hakone Ropeway, and discover the Hakone Open-Air Museum, all while enjoying a delicious traditional Japanese lunch. It’s a hassle-free and personalized experience that ensures a memorable visit to this scenic region.
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