Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Half-Day Tour

Hiking along the ancient Tokaido highway in Hakone offers a unique chance to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. This half-day tour takes participants on a scenic 4km trek, revealing the charming woodcarving village of Hakone-Hatajuku and a historic 400-year-old tea house. Suitable for beginners, the tour promises breathtaking vistas and valuable insights into the region’s storied past. Those seeking an enriching outdoor adventure won’t want to miss this captivating exploration of the Hakone Hachiri.

This experience made our article of Discover Hakone’s 20 Best Tours.

Key Points

• This half-day tour takes participants on a 4km hike along the scenic Tokaido highway, showcasing the historical and cultural significance of the ancient trade route.
• The tour includes a visit to a 400-year-old tea house, where participants can enjoy local snacks and learn about the site’s rich heritage.
• The hiking experience is suitable for most participants, with gentle, beginner-friendly terrain, and is not recommended for children under 9, pregnant women, or those with back problems.
• Participants will receive a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance, and no upfront payment is required for reservations.
• The tour includes a 15-minute taxi ride to the trailhead and a bus ride to the tea house, with the meeting point at Hakone Yumoto station.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Half-day tour offers participants a chance to explore the natural beauty and historical significance of the region.

Priced from $114.76 per person, the 3.5-hour tour is limited to 6 participants and conducted in English.

Highlights include hiking along the ancient Tokaido highway, visiting a wood carving village, and enjoying local snacks at a 400-year-old tea house.

Cancelations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

Itinerary and Highlights

Beginning at Hakone-Yumoto Station, the tour takes participants on a journey through the region’s natural and historical wonders.

First, a 15-minute taxi ride leads to the Sukumo River, where the hiking portion begins.

After an hour of walking, the group visits the wood carving village of Hakone-Hatajuku for a 30-minute stop.

Next, they enjoy local snacks and learn about the 400-year history of the Amasake Tea House.

The tour then continues with 45 minutes of hiking on the Old Tokaido Highway, taking in scenic views of Lake Ashi and the Ancient Cedar Avenue before finishing at the Hakone Checkpoint.

Cultural and Historical Context

As the tour explores the natural and historical wonders of the region, it also provides an opportunity for participants to understand the cultural and historical context of the Tokaido highway.

The Tokaido was a major transportation route between the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo period (17-19th century).

Travelers along the Hachiri (32km mountain path) would have experienced the same scenic views and relished the opportunity for "forest bathing" or Shinrin-yoku.

This half-day tour offers a glimpse into the journeys of past travelers and the significance of the Tokaido highway in Japan’s history.

Physical Activity and Accessibility

The total hiking distance on this tour is approximately 4km. This gentle, beginner-friendly route features cobbled paths and relatively easy slopes, making it suitable for most participants. However, the tour is not recommended for children under 9 years old, pregnant women, or those with back problems. For your reference, here is a table outlining the accessibility of this experience:

Criteria	Suitability
Total Hiking Distance	4km
Terrain	Gentle slopes, cobbled paths
Recommended Age	9+ years
Not Suitable For	Children under 9, pregnant women, back problems
Physical Ability Level	Beginner

This half-day Hakone Hachiri tour allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the old Tokaido Highway.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Bring and Important Information

Comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, and sunscreen are recommended items for participants to bring on the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour.

The meeting point is at Hakone Yumoto station, where the tour guide wearing a yellow cap and blue backpack will be waiting.

Transportation costs include a shared taxi to the trailhead, costing 2000 yen per group, and a bus fee to the teahouse, less than 400 yen.

Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

Following these packing and logistical tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the historic Tokaido highway hiking adventure.

Exploring the Old Tokaido Highway

Although the Tokaido Highway‘s history dates back to the 17th century, this half-day hiking tour allows visitors to explore its scenic mountain paths and cultural legacy.

Hikers follow the ancient route, passing through the wood carving village of Hakone-Hatajuku and stopping at a 400-year-old teahouse.

Along the way, they’ll witness the magnificent ancient cedar trees lining the old highway and learn about the Hakone Checkpoint, where travelers were once inspected.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty that defined travel between Kyoto and Edo during the Edo period.

Discovering Hakone-Hatajuku’s Woodcarving Village

As the hiking group makes its way along the ancient Tokaido Highway, they soon arrive at the charming wood carving village of Hakone-Hatajuku.

The village is renowned for its skilled artisans who craft intricate wooden figurines, masks, and other creations. The group explores the quaint streets, peeking into workshops where carvers skillfully shape the wood with hand tools.

They marvel at the delicate designs and learn about the centuries-old tradition. After 30 minutes of wandering, the group moves on, eager to continue their journey along the historic highway.

Taking in Hakone’s Serene Landscapes

After leaving the charming wood carving village, the hiking group ventures deeper into Hakone’s serene landscapes.

They traverse along the historic Tokaido highway, surrounded by towering ancient cedars. Underfoot, the cobbled path meanders through the lush, verdant forest. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a warm glow.

As they ascend, panoramic views of Lake Ashi and the volcanic peaks beyond unfold. The group pauses to admire the scenic vistas, savoring the tranquility.

They then continue hiking, immersed in the restorative ambiance of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. This peaceful journey through Hakone’s natural wonders rejuvenates the senses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is generally mild and pleasant. Hikers can expect temperate temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, allowing them to fully enjoy the scenic views along the Old Tokaido Highway.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food or Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, they’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy local snacks and tea at the Amasake Tea House during the tour.

Is There a Restroom Available Along the Hike?

Yes, there are public restrooms available at the Amasake Tea House stop during the tour. Participants can use the facilities there to manage their needs throughout the 3.5-hour hiking excursion.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. Private tours allow for more flexibility in the itinerary and group size. Customers can contact the tour operator to discuss their specific needs and preferences.

Can We Extend the Tour to Include More Sites?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include more sites. Private groups can customize the itinerary to visit additional historical and cultural landmarks along the old Tokaido highway, subject to availability and tour guide approval.

The Sum Up

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Half-Day Tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore Japan’s historical landscape, discover the charming Hakone-Hatajuku woodcarving village, and savor local delicacies in a serene setting. This tour combines scenic hikes, cultural insights, and breathtaking views, making it an enriching adventure for both beginners and experienced hikers aged 9 and above.

You can check availability for your dates here: