Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour offers an immersive journey through Japan’s rich historical landscape. Traversing the iconic Tōkaidō Road, you will discover picturesque scenery and cultural landmarks, guided by a certified expert. With a small group size and suitable terrain, this tour caters to beginners and history enthusiasts alike, promising a memorable day of exploration and learning. But what makes this hiking experience truly unique? Let’s dive deeper.

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

Key Points

• This 7-hour hiking tour along the Hakone Hachiri path showcases the natural beauty and historical significance of the Old Tokaido Highway in Japan.
• The tour includes stops at key landmarks like the Amasake Tea House, Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Checkpoint, providing cultural insights and scenic views.
• Led by a certified Japan Mountain Guide, the tour is suitable for beginners with gentle slopes and cobbled paths, but not recommended for those with mobility impairments.
• Participants can experience a combination of walking, local bus, and shared taxi transportation during the tour, which is limited to a group size of 6.
• The tour is a popular choice due to its knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the flexibility in adapting to weather conditions to enhance the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour offers participants a chance to explore the historic Hakone Hachiri path, taking them through the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

Priced from $157.90 per person, the 7-hour tour is limited to 6 participants and is available in English and Japanese.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a pay-later booking option is available.

The tour combines walking, local bus, and shared taxi, providing opportunities to visit notable sites like the Amasake Tea House and scenic Lake Ashi.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Hakone-Yumoto Station, the tour takes participants on an approximately 8km hike along the historic Hakone Hachiri path.

Along the way, visitors stop at the 400-year-old Amasake Tea House for a taste of traditional amasake.

The tour also includes scenic stops at Lake Ashi, the Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue, and the Hakone Checkpoint.

Depending on time and interest, there are optional visits to Mishima Taisha Shrine and Genbe River.

Transportation is a combination of walking, local bus, and shared taxi, with a regional lunch served at Lake Ashi.

Experience and Learning

This guided tour focuses on the natural beauty and historical significance of the Old Tokaido Highway.

Participants can learn about the geography and history of Hakone from a certified Japan Mountain Guide. They’ll gain cultural insights into the region, exploring its scenic wonders.

Along the way, hikers may catch glimpses of Mt. Fuji, weather permitting. The combination of nature and Japanese history provides an enriching experience for those interested in both the outdoors and the country’s past.

Suitable for beginners, the tour offers a chance to take in Hakone’s natural and cultural heritage.

Tour Suitability

The Hakone Hachiri hiking tour is suitable for beginners, as it mostly involves gentle slopes and cobbled paths.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with mobility impairments.

Hikers should come prepared with:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun hat to protect against the elements
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Adequate water and snacks for the duration of the tour

The tour’s combination of walking, local bus, and shared taxi transportation makes it accessible to a wide range of participants.

With the guide’s expertise and flexibility, hikers can expect a rewarding experience exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of the Old Tokaido Highway.

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Customer Reviews

What do the customer reviews say about the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour? Based on 17 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating. Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who bring the area’s natural beauty and history to life. Many highlight the rewarding combination of scenic views and cultural insights. Flexibility in adapting to weather conditions is also noted as a strength. The reviews suggest this tour provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking to explore the historic Tokaido Highway. Take a look at the highlights from customer feedback:

Positive	Negative
Knowledgeable guides	None reported
Scenic beauty and history	–
Flexibility in weather	–
Cultural immersion	–

Getting to the Starting Point

Where does the hiking tour start? The tour begins at Hakone-Yumoto Station, a quaint station located in the heart of the Hakone region.

From here, you will:

• Hop on a local bus to reach the trailhead
• Follow signs and maps to locate the start of the Hakone Hachiri path
• Catch a shared taxi if needed to reach the exact starting point
• Prepare their gear and get ready to embark on the 8km hike along the historic Old Tokaido Highway.

The tour guides will be on hand to ensure a smooth start to the day’s adventure.

What to Expect on the Hike

After reaching the trailhead, hikers embark on an 8-kilometer journey along the historic Hakone Hachiri path.

The route winds through scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of Mount Fuji and the surrounding natural beauty. Travelers walk on cobbled paths and gentle slopes, stopping at the Amasake Tea House for a traditional Japanese beverage.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into the geography and history of the Old Tokaido Highway. Hikers also have the opportunity to visit the Mishima Taisha Shrine and the Genbe River, further seeing the cultural heritage of the region.

Why Choose This Tour

Though there are many hiking options in the Hakone region, the Hakone Hachiri tour stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

This meticulously curated experience allows participants to:

• Traverse the ancient Tokaido Highway, where feudal lords once traveled
• Immerse themselves in the serene landscapes of Hakone, from the tranquil Lake Ashi to the majestic Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue
• Discover the region’s cultural heritage, including the 400-year-old Amasake Tea House
• Enjoy the flexibility to adapt the tour to weather conditions, ensuring an optimal sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Backpacks Allowed During the Hike?

Backpacks are generally allowed on the hike, as they can be useful for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and extra layers. However, it’s best to pack light and opt for a small, comfortable backpack to ensure a pleasant hiking experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Layers are advisable as the weather can vary during the tour. Bringing a sun hat and sunscreen is also a good idea.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not recommended for children. It involves an 8km hike over mostly gentle slopes and cobbled paths, which may be too challenging for young kids. The tour is better suited for adults and older teens with a good level of fitness.

Can We Bring Our Own Lunch and Snacks?

Yes, participants can bring their own lunch and snacks on the tour. The tour overview mentions that lunch is provided, but it doesn’t state that bringing your own food is prohibited. Bringing your own provisions is likely allowed.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Hike?

Yes, there are public restroom facilities at various points along the hike. This includes stops at the Amasake Tea House and scenic viewpoints like Lake Ashi and the Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue.

The Sum Up

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Guided by an expert, this tour provides an immersive experience that combines cultural insights with scenic beauty, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced hikers. With a small group size and well-maintained trails, participants can expect a memorable and enriching day along the iconic Old Tōkaidō Road.

You can check availability for your dates here: