Tokyo: Fuji 5th St & Hakone Day Trip with Cable Car & Cruise

Experience the Best of Honshu on the Fuji 5th St & Hakone Day Trip

This full-day tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, shopping, and cultural sights, all within a manageable itinerary designed for travelers eager to see Japan’s iconic landscapes. For just $98 per person, you’ll visit Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, explore the volcanic Wakudani Valley, ride a cable car, and enjoy a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashinoko—think of it as a sampler platter of Japan’s scenic treasures.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it combines stunning panoramic views with authentic experiences like riding the ropeway and sailing on a lake with a pirate ship. The guides, especially the one called Yui, are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making each stop informative and lively. Plus, the inclusion of shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets adds a nice touch for those wanting to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy some retail therapy.

One thing to consider is that weather can be unpredictable—cloud cover or rain might obscure views of Mount Fuji, which is a common issue but beyond the tour’s control. Also, the itinerary can change or be shortened depending on traffic or seasonal conditions, so flexibility is key. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized, engaging day with a variety of sights and don’t mind a packed schedule.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet accessible day trip that balances nature, shopping, and cultural sights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the Fuji-Hakone region without the hassle of organizing multiple transports themselves.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Ashinoko with shopping and scenic rides.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience with helpful explanations.
• Scenic highlights: Experience breathtaking views at Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station, volcanic valleys, and a lake cruise on a pirate ship.
• Value for money: For $98, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, a guided experience, and lunch.
• Weather considerations: Cloud cover can obstruct Mount Fuji views, especially in winter.
• Seasonal adjustments: Some activities, like snow sledding, are season-dependent and may vary or be unavailable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Departure and Group Atmosphere

Your day begins early, with a meet-up at 7:15 am in front of the Shinjuku Center Building, a central and convenient Tokyo location. From there, a comfortable bus whisks you out of the city, giving you a chance to relax and soak in views of the Japanese landscape during the roughly two-hour ride. The group is typically small enough for personalized attention, but large enough to foster a lively, communal atmosphere.

The guide, often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge—like Yui—sets the tone for a smooth and enjoyable day. You’ll find that the guide’s explanations are clear, and the bus driver ensures safety and comfort throughout the trip.

Visiting Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station

The highlight for many is the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, perched around 2,300 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll walk on well-maintained paths and get close enough to feel the mountain’s majesty. The views are spectacular, especially if the weather cooperates—if you’re lucky, you’ll see a sea of clouds that makes it look like you’re floating above the world.

However, some travelers, like Ricardo, mention that weather can obscure the view. This is a common challenge with Mount Fuji trips, as fog or clouds often roll in unexpectedly. Still, the experience of being at such an iconic spot, with the chance to take photos of the rugged landscape, is worthwhile even if the mountain itself is hidden behind clouds.

Gotemba Premium Outlets

Next, the tour stops at the Gotemba Premium Outlet, which is a favorite for those interested in shopping for branded items at discounted prices. It’s a good break to stretch, browse, and pick up souvenirs. But note that on February 15th, the outlet is closed, so check beforehand or be prepared for a different activity if visiting during that time.

Many reviewers appreciate this stop as a chance to unwind after the mountain visit, with ample time allocated for shopping or grabbing coffee. It’s not the highlight of the tour for everyone, but it adds a practical and relaxing element to the day.

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Hakone and the Volcanic Valley

Afterward, you arrive in Hakone, famed for its volcanic activity and natural hot springs. The Wakudani Valley is a particular highlight, where you’ll ride a ropeway cable car over bubbling hot springs and steaming vents. The birds-eye view of these geothermal wonders is both fascinating and a little surreal.

Reviewers love the informative commentary about the volcanic activity, and the chance to see hot springs and sulfur vents up close. The cable car ride offers a different perspective on Hakone’s natural landscape, and many find it to be a highlight of the day.

Lake Ashinoko and the Pirate Ship Cruise

The final major activity is a cruise on Lake Ashinoko aboard a pirate-themed ship. This is a fun and memorable way to end the day, with serene water and views of mountains surrounding the lake. It’s a relaxing contrast to the bus rides and hikes, offering a chance to unwind while taking in the scenery.

Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this part of the trip is, and some praise the friendly crew and informative commentary during the cruise. It’s a favorite among travelers who enjoy the mix of scenery and a bit of playful fun.

Additional Activities & Seasonal Variations

Depending on the season, you’ll find some activities may vary. During winter (Late December to mid-March), snow sledding is included at the second station of Mount Fuji, adding a playful element that kids and the young at heart will enjoy. In summer or other seasons, this activity might be replaced with different options, or omitted altogether.

Practical Details and Value

At $98 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusions: round-trip transportation, admissions to the ropeway and cruise, lunch (except during late December to late April when lunch isn’t provided), and insurance. The small group size and the guides’ attentiveness make for a comfortable, engaging experience.

However, keep in mind that traffic and seasonal conditions can impact the schedule. Some stops may be shorter or skipped if time runs tight, and the itinerary may be adjusted, which is typical for tours relying on natural and traffic-dependent factors.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the guides—Yui, Ayumi, and others—for their friendly, helpful nature and detailed explanations. Many mention that their guides made the trip both fun and educational.

While weather can sometimes obscure views of Mount Fuji, travelers like Ricardo still call the experience “amazing,” emphasizing that the other sights more than make up for it. The scenic rides, informative commentary, and the chance to capture stunning photos make it a worthwhile day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits first-time visitors looking for a rundown of the Fuji-Hakone area without the stress of planning individual transportation. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic outdoor activities, such as cable cars and lake cruises, and appreciate authentic experiences like shopping at outlets.

It also benefits travelers who don’t mind a full, busy schedule—the day is packed with sights, and some activities might be shortened due to weather or traffic. If you’re interested in photo opportunities, learning about volcanic activity, or just relaxing on a boat, this tour hits many of those notes.

Final Thoughts

For $98, this tour offers a good balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and practical convenience. The combination of Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Ashinoko covers some of Japan’s most iconic landscapes, making it a wise pick for travelers who want a broad taste of the region.

While weather can be unpredictable, the experience of being at the Fifth Station and cruising on the lake remains special. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add to the value, turning a sightseeing trip into an engaging cultural encounter.

If you’re after a well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Japan’s natural wonders, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. Just remember to bring your camera, stay flexible, and enjoy the scenic ride.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers to and from the meet-up point in Shinjuku are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting there.

What should I bring?
A camera is recommended to capture the breathtaking views, especially at Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station and Lake Ashinoko.

Will I see Mount Fuji?
It depends on the weather. Many travelers, like Ricardo, mention that clouds can obscure the view. But even when hidden, the other stops offer plenty of stunning sights.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Fuji Mountain Bento is provided, with vegetarian options available. During certain late-season periods (Dec 21 to Apr 25), lunch may not be provided.

Can I do snow sledding?
Yes, during winter months, snow sledding is available at the second station of Mount Fuji. If visiting outside that season, this activity might not be offered.

Are there any seasonal variations?
Yes, some activities like the outlet shopping or snow sledding may be unavailable or replaced depending on the time of year. The itinerary may also be shortened or rearranged based on traffic or weather conditions.

How long is the tour?
The tour departs early at 7:30 am and is designed to return by evening, with some variation due to traffic or seasonal changes.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small-group atmosphere, which allows for a more personalized experience.

In all, this tour provides a well-rounded glance at Japan’s natural beauty and cultural highlights, making it perfect for those looking to maximize their day without the hassle of planning each detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: