The Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, and Gotemba Outlets 1-Day Bus Tour is a popular day trip offering visitors an affordable way to experience some of Japan’s most iconic sights. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch included, the tour promises a convenient and hassle-free exploration of Mount Fuji, the serene Oshino Hakkai springs, and the Gotemba Premium Outlets. However, travelers should be aware of a few potential considerations that may impact their experience.
Key Points
- This one-day bus tour provides a cost-effective way to visit Mount Fuji, Oshino Hakkai springs, and Gotemba Premium Outlets from Tokyo.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and lunch, making it a convenient option for exploring these popular Japanese destinations.
- Accessibility and weather conditions are important considerations, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible and operates rain or shine.
- While the tour offers English and Chinese language support, the quality of the English commentary has been noted as an area for improvement by some travelers.
- Reviews of the tour are mixed, with some highlighting the scenic views and traditional experiences, while others express a desire for longer stays at key sites and clearer communication from guides.
Overview
The Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai and Gotemba Outlets 1-Day Bus Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Japan’s most iconic destinations.
This day tour takes travelers from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, the Oshino Hakkai springs, and the Gotemba Premium Outlets. With an average rating of 3.4 out of 5 from 19 reviews, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a convenient way to experience these remarkable sights.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and lunch, making it a cost-effective option at $74.29 per person.
However, the tour’s accessibility and weather-dependent nature are factors to consider when booking.
Looking for more options in Tokyo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s Itinerary Highlights showcase a diverse range of renowned destinations.
Travelers will visit Mount Fuji and its surrounding areas, including the picturesque Lake Kawaguchi. Next, they’ll explore the eight natural springs of Oshino Hakkai, a charming village with traditional architecture.
The tour also includes a shopping stop at the Gotemba Premium Outlets on the return trip. Lunch is provided as part of the package, and transportation is handled via a round-trip, air-conditioned bus service.
With English- and Chinese-speaking guides, this tour offers a well-rounded cultural experience for visitors to Tokyo.
Meeting Points and Accessibility
Various locations serve as meeting points for this tour, with drop-off only at Shinjuku Station West Exit. Exact pickup spots depend on the booking and may include hotels or central meeting areas.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Travelers should arrive 10-15 minutes early, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.
Weather is a key consideration, as the tour operates rain or shine, with cancellations only in extreme conditions that may impact visibility of Mount Fuji.
Guides and Language Support
English- and Chinese-speaking guides are available for this tour. They provide commentary on the sights and share insights about the history and culture of the visited locations. However, some travelers have noted that the English commentary could be improved, with a need for clearer and more detailed explanations.
To better understand the language support, consider the following breakdown:
| Language Support | Level of Proficiency |
|---|---|
| English | Varying |
| Chinese | Available |
| Japanese | Limited |
| Other Languages | Not Provided |
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Booking and receiving confirmation for this tour is straightforward. Upon reservation, travelers will immediately receive a booking confirmation.
The tour has a generous cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time.
- Booking confirmation received at the time of booking
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Minimum group size of 10 participants required; tour may be cancelled if minimum isn’t met
Travelers should arrive 10-15 minutes early, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.
- Tokyo: Senso-Ji and Surroundings
- From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Day Tour With Oshino Hakkai & Ropeway
- Tokyo: Asakusa Historical Guided and PhotoShoot Eating Tour
- Tokyo: Tea Ceremony in Shibuya Tokyo
- Tokyo: Secrets of Tokyo Hidden Legends & Cultural Property
- Tokyo: Japanese Architecture at Akasaka State Guest House
Group Size and Timeliness
A minimum group size of 10 participants is required for this tour, as the operator may cancel the tour if this minimum isn’t met.
Travelers are advised to arrive 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Late arrivals won’t be accommodated, so punctuality is crucial.
The tour operates rain or shine, with cancellations only in extreme weather conditions.
Travelers should be aware that the visibility of Mount Fuji isn’t guaranteed and may be affected by weather conditions.
Following these guidelines will ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience on the Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai and Gotemba Outlets 1-Day Bus Tour.
Traveler Feedback and Experiences
What do travelers have to say about their experiences on the Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai and Gotemba Outlets 1-Day Bus Tour? Reviews are mixed, with travelers highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the tour:
-
Scenic views, friendly staff, and memorable experiences in traditional Japan are praised.
-
However, limited time at Mount Fuji, unclear meeting point information, inadequate English commentary, and potential for traffic delays are common critiques.
-
Travelers desire longer stays at key sites and clearer communication from guides to enhance their overall experience.
Considerations for Mount Fuji Visibility
One important factor for travelers to consider is the visibility of Mount Fuji. Weather conditions can significantly impact the mountain’s visibility, with clouds and haze often obscuring the peak. The tour operates rain or shine, but there are no guarantees of clear views. To help manage expectations, the following table outlines key visibility factors:
| Visibility Factor | High Visibility | Low Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Clear skies | Clouds, fog, rain |
| Season | Winter, spring | Summer, autumn |
| Time of Day | Early morning, late afternoon | Midday |
| Altitude | Higher elevations | Lower elevations |
| Wind Conditions | Calm | Windy |
Understanding these visibility factors can help travelers prepare for and manage their expectations of the Mount Fuji sightseeing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Restroom Break Scheduled During the Tour?
The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention scheduled restroom breaks. However, it’s likely that the tour provides opportunities for participants to use restrooms at the various stops, such as at Mount Fuji and Oshino Hakkai.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Bus?
Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the bus. The tour allows personal food and beverages to be consumed during the journey, providing convenience and flexibility for participants.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a fixed, one-day package, and the itinerary and schedule are not customizable. Passengers must adhere to the tour’s set timeline and activities.
Can We Request a Specific Pick-Up Location?
Travelers can request a specific pick-up location, but the tour operators cannot guarantee accommodating all preferences. The tour has designated meeting points, and drop-off is only at Shinjuku Station West Exit. Travelers should arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure on-time departure.
What Is the Tour’s Policy on Photography at the Sites?
The tour allows photography at all sites, though visitors should be mindful not to disrupt others. Some locations may have restrictions on flash photography or the use of tripods. Participants are encouraged to check with guides for any site-specific photo policies.
The Sum Up
The Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, and Gotemba Outlets 1-Day Bus Tour is an affordable and convenient way to explore some of Japan’s iconic sights. While the tour generally receives positive reviews, travelers should be aware of potential language barriers and ensure they clearly understand the meeting point details. The tour offers a well-rounded day trip experience for those seeking to see Mount Fuji, the Oshino Hakkai springs, and shop at the Gotemba Premium Outlets.
More Dessert Tours in Tokyo
More Tour Reviews in Tokyo
Still browsing? Here are more Tokyo experiences we've covered recently
- Private Sightseeing to Mt Fuji and Hakone with English Driver
- Ginza: Private Tokyo nights of Japanese Food for Family
- Kickboxing & Body Training with EX-Pro Fighter
- Shimbashi Night Food Tour
- Kabukicho Tokyo Karaoke Booth
- Tokyo Morning Tour : Meiji Shrine, Asakusa and Fire Ritual
- Hidden Gem Food & Whiskey Night Tour near Roppongi
- Authentic Geisha Performance with Kaiseki Dinner in Tokyo
- Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
- Tokyo Morning Highlights: Shibuya, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine & More!
- Harajuku Highlights: Where Tradition Meets Tokyo Pop
- Tokyo Private Chauffeur Tour – Fully Guided