Tokyo: Mt Fuji, Tatoo OK Onsen, Sake Tasting & Hoto Lunch

Exploring the Tokyo: Mt Fuji, Tatoo OK Onsen, Sake Tasting & Hoto Lunch Tour

Planning a day trip from Tokyo to see Mount Fuji often feels like a must-do for visitors, but many tours focus solely on the iconic mountain, overlooking richer experiences nearby. This particular tour from VAS LLC offers a well-rounded day that combines scenic views, cultural highlights, authentic local cuisine, and even a unique onsen experience — with the added bonus of being a small-group tour, which makes for a more personalized adventure.

What caught our eye about this experience? First, the variety of sights, from multiple viewpoints of Fuji from different angles. Second, the authenticity of the local experiences—like tasting Japanese sake at a distillery and enjoying a traditional Hoto noodle lunch. And third, the opportunity to relax in a mountain onsen with a surprisingly quirky twist: the Tatoo OK policy. All this for $179 per group feels like a fair deal considering the rich itinerary.

That said, a noteworthy consideration is the weather dependency—since Mount Fuji views can be obscured by clouds, and some stops may be less visually striking if fog rolls in. Still, if you’re eager for Japanese culture, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life, this tour hits many marks.

It’s best suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy, are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, and want a mixture of cultural, culinary, and relaxation experiences in one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Drive & Expert Local Guide: You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with insights from a knowledgeable guide.
• Multiple Mount Fuji Views: Several viewpoints offer a chance to capture Fuji from different perspectives.
• Authentic Lunch & Tasting: Savor Japanese cuisine, sake, and traditional confectionaries for a genuine local flavor.
• Unique Onsen Experience: Dip in a mountain onsen, with the added Tatoo OK policy—rare and welcoming to more travelers.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine and Shimoyoshida Townscape for a glimpse of local traditions.
• Flexible & Convenient: Meet in Shinjuku, with a straightforward itinerary that balances sightseeing and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Shinjuku, the tour begins with a quick walk to the meeting point in front of the Shinjuku Post Office—a convenient central location, just about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West/South. From there, you hop into a comfortable vehicle, typically a car or minibus, which makes all the difference in terms of flexibility and comfort compared to larger buses.

The drive takes you through the Mount Fuji Highway, which is renowned for its stunning vistas and scenic curves. During the journey, your guide—who is usually knowledgeable about local history and geography—will point out key spots and share stories about the region, enhancing the overall experience.

Visiting Key Landmarks

One of the first stops is the Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine, a serene location that’s both historically significant and visually appealing. Here, you get a chance to appreciate local spiritual traditions and snap some photos of the shrine with Mount Fuji looming in the background if the weather permits.

Next, you’ll explore the Shimoyoshida Townscape, a charming area full of traditional shops, cafes, and local architecture. This gives you a taste of everyday life near Fuji, away from the tourist-heavy spots.

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Multiple Mount Fuji Views

Throughout the day, you’ll visit various viewpoints such as the Kana Torii Mount Fuji View and the Farmer Village Mount Fuji View, each offering distinct angles of the mountain—whether from open fields, lakesides, or parks. The Oishi Park provides a particularly scenic vantage point, perfect for photography and appreciating Fuji’s majestic presence.

The Must-Try Hoto Lunch & Japanese Confectionaries

A highlight for many is the Hoto lunch, a hearty bowl of thick, flat udon noodles simmered with seasonal vegetables in a miso-based broth. It’s a comforting dish, perfect after some brisk sightseeing, and provides a taste of regional cuisine from the Yamanashi area.

Post-lunch, you’ll enjoy Japanese confectionaries, which might include wagashi (traditional sweets) that beautifully complement the sake tasting. Speaking of which, you’ll visit a local sake distillery, where a knowledgeable staff guides you through the intricate process of sake brewing—an authentic insight into Japan’s national beverage.

The Onsen Experience & Tatoo OK Policy

After the cultural stops, the tour takes you to a mountain onsen—a relaxing hot spring bath with views of Fuji, if the weather cooperates. The Tatoo OK policy is a rare feature, making this onsen more accessible to travelers who might have tattoos, which traditionally are frowned upon at many Japanese hot springs. This inclusive approach boosts the appeal for a broader range of visitors and makes the experience more liberating.

Practical Details & Group Size

This tour is designed for up to one person per group for $179, so it’s quite intimate. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which many travelers find valuable when exploring a region as scenic and culturally rich as Fuji.

The Value and Considerations

At $179, this package offers a good value considering the diverse activities and exclusive experiences. You get transportation, multiple viewpoints of Mount Fuji, a traditional Japanese meal, sake tasting, and a relaxing onsen—covering cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights in one day.

However, since views of Fuji are weather-dependent, there’s always a chance some sights may be less dramatic if clouds obscure the mountain. Travelers should be prepared for changing weather and dress accordingly, especially considering the mountain altitude and variable climate.

Also, note the meeting point in Shinjuku is straightforward to reach, but the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation to the meeting point ahead of time.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that balances sightseeing with culture. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a small-group experience for more interaction and tailored commentary. The inclusion of a mountain onsen with a Tatoo OK policy makes it a great choice for travelers who might feel unwelcome at traditional hot springs due to tattoos.

It also suits foodies and sake enthusiasts eager to explore regional flavors, as well as those who appreciate authentic Japanese culture beyond the typical tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point in front of the Shinjuku Post Office. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from this location.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a full day of sightseeing, likely around 8 hours, considering travel, stops, and meals.

Are views of Mount Fuji guaranteed?
No, views depend on weather conditions. Cloud cover can obscure the mountain, but multiple viewpoints increase your chances of a good sighting.

What should I bring?
A towel is recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy the onsen. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are also advised.

Is the onsen family-friendly?
The tour description emphasizes the Tatoo OK policy, making it more inclusive; however, always check the specific onsen policies for children or family groups.

Can I participate if I have tattoos?
Yes, the onsen explicitly welcomes tattooed guests, a rarity in Japan, making this experience more accessible.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, but be prepared for the possibility of limited mountain views if fog or rain occur. Dress accordingly.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
The tour features a traditional Hoto noodle dish, which is typically vegetarian, but confirm with the provider if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel planning.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Mount Fuji beyond just a quick photo stop, including authentic Japanese culinary delights and a soothing onsen session—all within a small, friendly group setting. While weather can affect the mountain views, the variety of stops and experiences ensures a memorable, enriching day.

For travelers craving a personalized, culturally rich journey with the added comfort of a guided experience, this tour hits many points on the list. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate local flavors, scenic vistas, and inclusive wellness experiences like the tattoo-friendly onsen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Embark on this thoughtfully curated day trip for a genuine taste of Japan’s iconic sights, flavors, and relaxation, all in the company of a friendly local guide.