Exploring Hakone and Gotemba Premium Outlets in One Day: A Balance of Nature and Shopping
If you’re looking for a day that combines spectacular natural scenery with a bit of retail therapy, this private tour of Hakone plus Gotemba Premium Outlets might be just what you need. For $539 per group (up to six people), you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that takes you from the bustling streets of Tokyo into Japan’s lush mountain landscapes and ends with some serious shopping.
What sets this tour apart? First, the full customization allows you to pick what interests you most—whether it’s admiring Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi, riding the Hakone Ropeway, or strolling through the largest outlet mall in Japan. Second, the private vehicle and English-speaking driver make the experience smooth and conversational, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include entrance fees or meals, so you’ll want to budget some extra time and money for those. This experience would be perfect for families or groups who want a flexible, hassle-free way to enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty and indulge in some retail therapy without the stress of planning every detail themselves.
Key Points
– Customizable itinerary tailored to your interests.
– Private transportation for comfort and flexibility.
– Spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi that are perfect for photos.
– Access to Japan’s largest premium outlet, ideal for shopping enthusiasts.
– Expert driver ensures a relaxed experience.
– No fixed schedule allows you to enjoy each site at your own pace.
How the Tour Works: A Deep Dive
This private day trip offers a flexible, personalized approach to discovering Hakone’s highlights combined with a shopping spree at Gotemba Premium Outlets. Once booked, your day begins with a pick-up from your Tokyo hotel—a feature that sets this tour apart from bus or group options. Instead of cramming onto crowded buses, you’ll have your own vehicle and driver, who speaks English, making communication and adjustments simple.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Drive and Arrival in Hakone
Expect a scenic drive out of Tokyo, with your driver greeting you warmly and ready to adapt to your preferences. The trip to Hakone is usually a little over an hour, but with a private car, you can leave at a time that best suits your morning. We loved the way this setup lets you avoid the rush of group departures—your schedule is entirely your own.
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Spotlight on Hakone’s Natural Beauty
Once in Hakone, you’ll have the opportunity to choose among several breathtaking sites. The Lake Ashi is often the star of the show, with its calm waters offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. We found that the view from the lakeshore or the pirate ship cruise (if you opt for it) provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Another highlight is the Hakone Ropeway, which whisk you up into the mountains. The aerial ride offers panoramic vistas of the volcanic landscape and surrounding forests—an experience that’s both exciting and serene. If you happen to visit on a clear day, the sight of Mt. Fuji from the Ropeway or lakeside is unforgettable.
The tour can also include visits to the Hakone Shrine, famous for its torii gate standing in the lake, or the Onshi Hakone Park, which offers peaceful walking paths with views. Since this is a customizable experience, you can skip some sites and spend more time where your interests lie.
Authentic Experiences or Leisurely Observation?
One of the best features of this private tour is that it’s tailored to you. For example, some travelers might prefer to spend more time exploring the Open-Air Museum or relaxing in an onsen (hot spring), while others may want to focus solely on the scenery. The flexibility means you’re not tied to a rigid schedule.
Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets
After soaking in the natural beauty, the journey continues to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, Japan’s largest outlet mall. Located near the mountains, the mall offers a wide array of brands at discounted prices, making it a shopper’s paradise. We loved the chance to browse designer labels and find souvenirs or new clothes at a fraction of the retail cost.
Since this shopping stop is optional, you can decide how long to stay. The mall’s open layout and variety of shops make it a relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially for those who love a good deal or need to pick up last-minute gifts.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return Journey
After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, your driver will return you comfortably to your Tokyo hotel. The total duration is flexible, but most of the day is dedicated to experiencing Hakone’s landscapes and the outlets, making it a well-balanced trip.
What Travelers Say
Feedback from travelers who’ve experienced this tour highlights how special the views are. One reviewer, Marcela, praised the “kindness” of her guide, Alvin, and the overall smoothness of the experience. She noted the value of having a private driver who could adapt the schedule and help tailor the day, which she appreciated immensely.
Another traveler mentioned that their first experience with GetYourGuide was positive, emphasizing that the tour met their expectations for comfort and flexibility. Though only two reviews are available, both reflect a high level of satisfaction, particularly with the ease of the private setup and the quality of the scenery.
The Practical Side: Transportation, Pricing, and Flexibility
This tour’s main advantage is the private vehicle, which ensures you’re not rushing or waiting for others. The cost of $539 covers everything from the car, driver, tolls, parking, and fuel—no hidden extras there. Plus, passenger insurance and optional baby seats are included, making it family-friendly.
It’s worth noting that entrance fees and meals are not included, so plan accordingly. The tour does not cover airport pickups or drop-offs outside Tokyo’s 23 wards, but within Tokyo, the pick-up and drop-off are standard.
The pay later option provides flexibility, and the cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for families or groups of friends who value flexibility and want to avoid the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you want to see Hakone’s natural beauty without feeling rushed, especially if you enjoy photo opportunities like Mt. Fuji views. Shoppers will appreciate the chance to visit the largest outlet mall in Japan, making it a well-rounded day for those who love both scenery and retail therapy.
If you’re someone who prefers a set schedule or is on a tight budget, this might be less suitable, as the tour’s value really shines when you customize your day.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
For travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free day exploring Hakone’s scenic spots and enjoying some retail therapy, this private tour offers excellent value. The flexibility to choose your sites, the comfort of private transportation, and the opportunity to experience stunning views of Mt. Fuji make it a compelling option—especially for larger groups or families.
If your travel style leans toward relaxed, customizable days with a focus on authentic experiences and convenient logistics, this tour fits the bill perfectly. Just remember to budget time and money for entrance fees and meals, and you’ll be set for a memorable, scenic, and shopper-friendly day out.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour is designed to be a full-day experience, with flexible timing depending on your interests and pace.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the tour offers optional baby seats and is private, making it suitable for families who want a comfortable and flexible day.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the price, so you might want to plan for lunch or snacks during the day.
Can I customize the sites I visit?
Absolutely. The tour is 100% customizable, so you can choose to focus more on scenery, shopping, or cultural sites.
What if it rains or the weather is poor?
Since the tour is private and flexible, you can adjust your schedule or choose indoor options if needed.
Is it worth visiting Gotemba Premium Outlets?
If you enjoy shopping or want to take advantage of discounted designer brands, it’s a fantastic addition. Otherwise, you can skip it and spend more time exploring Hakone.
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve and pay later through GetYourGuide, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of customization, private transportation, and stunning views makes it ideal for those who want a relaxed, flexible, and scenic day trip from Tokyo.