Our Picks For The 6 Best Tours & Experiences In Gotemba

Gotemba is a fantastic base for exploring Japan’s iconic sights and enjoying some well-earned leisure. Its proximity to Mount Fuji, Hakone, and the Gotemba Premium Outlets makes it a hub for diverse tours, whether you’re after cultural insights, shopping, or natural beauty. We love tours like the Hakone: Full day private tour with an English-speaking Guide for its personalized touch and stunning scenery, especially the Lake Ashi views and the Owakudani Valley black eggs.

While some travelers prefer organized group outings, others appreciate the flexibility of private tours. Whatever your style, Gotemba offers options that cater to different interests and budgets. For example, you might enjoy the Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Tokyo for a straightforward shopping day, or opt for the Naka-Izu: 2 Days Gourmet Journey if you want a luxurious, multi-day experience focused on gourmet food, wine, and nature. Below is a detailed look at each top-rated tour.

1. Hakone: Full day private tour with an English speaking Guide

This full-day private tour of Hakone is perfect for those wanting a tailored experience of one of Japan’s most scenic regions. For $549 per group (up to 6 people), you’ll get a personalized day that includes highlights like the Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Ropeway. The tour also features the chance to try “Kuro Tamago” (Black Eggs) from Owakudani Valley, a fun local specialty said to add seven years to your life.

What sets this tour apart is the flexibility. Your guide, who speaks excellent English, customizes the itinerary based on your interests. You’ll cruise on a pirate ship across Lake Ashi, enjoy photo stops at scenic points, and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. While the day includes some guided sightseeing, it also offers free time for shopping or relaxing in hot springs.

Guests love the seamless organization and the personal touch of having a dedicated guide who can adapt the day—perfect if you’re after a stress-free way to see Hakone and Mount Fuji without the hassle of navigating solo. Be aware that weather can affect some activities, like the ropeway, but your guide will adjust plans accordingly.

Bottom line: A flexible, intimate way to experience Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural sights with a knowledgeable guide. Ideal for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke day.

2. Naka-Izu: 2 Days Gourmet Journey Wasabi, Wine, Tea, Glamping

For those who want more than just sightseeing, the Naka-Izu Gourmet Journey offers a luxurious two-day immersion in Japan’s food culture. At $1,516 per person, it’s a splurge, but it covers a lot of ground: visiting wasabi terraces, touring Nakaizu Winery, enjoying tea farm experiences, and even glamping among stunning scenery.

What makes this tour unique is its focus on authentic food and drink experiences. You’ll learn how wasabi is cultivated and taste fresh slices, explore the history of Nakaizu Winery with tastings of fine wines, and pick tea leaves at a traditional farm where you can try hand-rolling tea. The accommodations are upscale and set amid beautiful nature, making the entire experience both indulgent and relaxing.

This tour is best suited for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a mix of culture and comfort. Keep in mind it’s a fairly intensive experience, so a decent level of mobility and an appetite for gourmet food are recommended.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for couples or solo travelers who want a deep dive into Japan’s culinary traditions paired with luxury lodging. Perfect for those with a generous travel budget.

3. Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Tokyo

Sometimes, the best way to spend a day is just shopping. The Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour offers a straightforward, no-frills experience—perfect if your main goal is to browse and buy from over 200 international brands. For $472 (up to 4 people), you get a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a driver who can also make stops at other locations on request.

This tour is flexible: you can request extra stop-overs, making it easy to hit other nearby sights or enjoy a leisurely lunch. The outlet mall is renowned for its variety and discounts, set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, which makes for a spectacular shopping environment. The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to browse and find some great souvenirs or fashion items.

This is ideal for fashion shoppers, families, or anyone who wants a relaxing day dedicated solely to shopping. The value is high considering the convenience of transportation and the chance to avoid Tokyo’s busy streets.

Bottom line: A practical, value-packed choice for shopping enthusiasts looking for a day of retail therapy with minimal fuss.

4. Tokyo Mount Fuji Hakone Ropeway Lake Ashi Private Day Tour

If your goal is to see Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Ashi in a single day, this private day tour from Tokyo offers a comprehensive experience. For around $549 (per group), it combines multiple highlights, including the Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Shrine, and a cruise on Lake Ashi. The tour also visits the Owakudani Valley, famed for bubbling hot springs and volcanic activity.

The itinerary allows flexibility with a pickup from various locations, including Tokyo, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. The guide will take you through scenic stops, with photographs of Mt. Fuji and the chance to explore Hakone’s volcanic landscapes. Guests particularly appreciate the personalized attention and the convenience of door-to-door service, which makes this a good value.

Weather can sometimes impact the visibility of Mt. Fuji, but your guide will adapt to maximize your experience. The tour includes visits to Hakone Shrine and the Open-Air Museum, blending cultural and artistic elements into your day.

Bottom line: An excellent private option for travelers who want a well-rounded, flexible day trip with the comfort of personalized service.

5. From Tokyo: Mount Fuji Full Day Private Customized Tour

This customizable private tour is designed for travelers who know what they want to see around Mount Fuji and Hakone. Starting from Tokyo, it typically runs 10-12 hours and includes stops at Oshino Hakkai, Kitaguchi-hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, and Chureito Pagoda—all listed favorites for their classic views of Fuji. It also includes a visit to the Gotemba Premium Outlets for shopping.

What makes this tour appealing is the ability to tailor the route based on your interests—whether that’s more time at the lakes, cultural sites, or shopping. The itinerary allows for free time at several stops, providing flexibility. Guests appreciate the convenience of pickup from multiple locations like Shibuya or Ginza, and the private vehicle means you avoid the crowds and schedule stress.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience, have a full day to explore, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and shopping. The tour offers a good balance of natural beauty, cultural insights, and retail therapy.

Bottom line: Ideal for self-directed travelers who want a flexible, private day around Fuji and Hakone, with the option to customize their highlights.

6. From Tokyo: Mount Fuji Private Customized Tour English Guide

For travelers wanting a completely personalized experience, this private tour from Tokyo offers a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Covering 10-12 hours, it can include Mt. Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes, Shiraito Falls, and Gotemba Premium Outlets.

A dedicated English-speaking guide helps you craft the perfect day, whether you’re after the classic views, cultural sites, or shopping. Stops like Oshino Hakkai, Chureito Pagoda, and Lake Kawaguchi can be included or skipped based on your preferences. The private vehicle also allows for quick adjustments, making sure you see what matters most to you.

This tour is excellent for travelers who want maximum flexibility and are comfortable with a more relaxed, personalized pace. It suits those with a clear idea of what they want to see and do, and offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for independent-minded travelers seeking a private, customizable day exploring Mount Fuji and its surroundings.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Gotemba

If you’re trying to decide among these options, think about your priorities. Budget travelers might prefer the Gotemba Premium Outlets Shopping Tour, which offers a straightforward shopping day, while culture enthusiasts may favor the Hakone private tour for its scenic stops and cultural insights. Food lovers will appreciate the Naka-Izu Gourmet Journey, especially if they’re after a mix of outdoor activity and excellent cuisine.

For those wanting a personalized experience, the private Mount Fuji Tours provide the flexibility to craft your perfect day. If your schedule is tight, a full-day tour like the Tokyo Mount Fuji Hakone Ropeway tour offers a comprehensive snapshot without the need for multiple days away.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and autumn, when these tours are in high demand. Consider your fitness level and interests—some tours involve walking and outdoor activity, while others focus on shopping and scenic drives.

Final thoughts

Gotemba offers a variety of superb tours and experiences that can suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a private, personalized day exploring Mount Fuji and Hakone, or just want to spend a day shopping at the outlets, these options deliver memorable moments. Two standout choices are the Hakone: Full day private tour with an English-speaking Guide for its mix of scenic highlights and flexibility, and the Naka-Izu Gourmet Journey for a luxurious, food-focused adventure.

Whatever you choose, be sure to book early and prepare for an unforgettable day in one of Japan’s most beautiful regions. Happy travels!