Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

Experience the Best of Japan in a Day: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour by Bus and Bullet Train

Imagine a full day away from Tokyo’s hustle—standing beneath the towering silhouette of Mt. Fuji, cruising across Lake Ashi, and riding the soaring Hakone Ropeway—all in about 11 hours. This $175.99 tour offers a well-paced itinerary, with a professional, friendly guide (our favorite was Levin) who enriches your journey with cultural insights. It’s a perfect choice if you want a taste of Japan’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort or time.

Two aspects we love: First, the balanced mix of transportation modes—deluxe coach, cable cars, boat cruise, and the Shinkansen bullet train—which keeps the day dynamic and exciting. Second, the small-group feeling on a comfortably-sized bus, often praised in reviews for their knowledgeable guides and humorous anecdotes.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can impact the views and activities, especially at Mt. Fuji. If the weather is stormy or foggy, some highlights could be missed or altered, which is a common theme in traveler reviews. Still, the effort to see Japan’s most iconic mountain and the Hakone area is worthwhile for those who appreciate scenery, culture, and efficient touring.

This tour is especially suited for travelers eager to maximize a single day—who want to see the mountain’s summit, enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty, and experience Japan’s high-speed rail system. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive, engaging overview of this stunning region.

Key Points

Stunning scenery and panoramic views make this trip memorable, even if Mt. Fuji’s visibility depends largely on the weather.
Expert guides like Levin and Lisa are regularly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling ability.
A diverse itinerary that includes Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi cruise, and a bullet train ride back to Tokyo offers excellent value.
Food options include a buffet with local ingredients, vegetarian, and Muslim-friendly meals—just remember to specify dietary needs when booking.
Weather can be unpredictable, affecting some activities, so flexibility and patience are key.
A well-organized experience with Wi-Fi on the bus, multilingual audio guides, and clear logistics ensures a smooth day out.

A Thorough Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early, with pick-up from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku—both conveniently accessible locations. The air-conditioned coach, equipped with free Wi-Fi, makes the nearly 2-hour drive to Mt. Fuji pleasant, with the guide providing cultural and historical tidbits along the way. Travelers often comment on how the drive itself offers a captivating introduction to Japan’s countryside, blending urban and rural landscapes.

Mt. Fuji 5th Station

Your first major stop is the 5th Station of Mt. Fuji, sitting at about 2300 meters. It’s an essential part of the experience—standing beneath the towering volcano, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and soaking in views that can be spectacular, weather permitting. Many reviews mention the sacred atmosphere and the Shinto shrine, which add a spiritual dimension to the visit.

However, some travelers expressed disappointment if clouds blocked the summit, as Mt. Fuji’s visibility is only guaranteed about 100 days a year. One traveler noted, “Mt. Fuji is only clear 100 days/year but clouds parted and we were able to see the top briefly.” If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the tour offers alternatives like Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village with traditional thatched houses and clear spring water.

Local Lunch: Fresh, Local, and Flexible

Next is the buffet lunch at the mountain’s base, featuring local fresh ingredients. The offerings are described as plentiful, with vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options available—just be sure to request these when booking. Several reviews highlight how surprisingly good the buffet was, with some calling it a “great experience.” However, the timing can be tight—some mention rushing through the buffet because of the short 40-minute window.

If you have dietary restrictions not covered by the tour, it’s wise to bring your own lunch. The tour notes that allergy-friendly, vegan, or Halal meals are not available in the standard buffet, given that all meals are prepared in the same kitchen.

Hakone: Nature and Iconic Views

Following Mt. Fuji, your journey continues to the Hakone area—famous for its beautiful landscapes and relaxing atmosphere. The highlight here is the Hakone Ropeway, offering spectacular panoramic views over Hakone’s volcanic terrain and, on clear days, a glimpse of Mt. Fuji.

Many travelers praise the exhilarating ride and how it captures Hakone’s rugged charm. You might also visit Mt. Komeitake or another vantage point for additional scenic vistas. Lake Ashi is next, where a cruise across the caldera lake offers a peaceful, scenic break, with some reviews describing the experience as “refreshing” and “beautiful”—though cloud cover can sometimes obscure the famous views of Mt. Fuji from the lake.

The End: Bullet Train and Tokyo Return

After a full day exploring mountains, lakes, and volcanic landscapes, the tour culminates with a bullet train ride from Odawara back to Tokyo. Travelers often find this part of the trip exciting—riding Japan’s world-famous Shinkansen provides a sense of modern efficiency and pace. The tour concludes at Tokyo Station, typically around 6:10 pm, leaving plenty of time to continue exploring Tokyo or head back to your hotel.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide, Wi-Fi on the coach, all major activity fees (Ropeway, Lake Ashi cruise), the buffet lunch if selected, and your bullet train ticket. Extras like tips, additional food or drinks, and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Weather is the biggest wild card—if it’s foggy, rainy, or stormy, your experience might feel underwhelming. Several reviews point out that activities like the cable car or boat cruise can be canceled or limited in poor conditions. The tour provides vouchers or alternative options, but some travelers still felt disappointed when views were obscured.

Another consideration is the short time at each stop—some find that only about an hour per site feels rushed, especially at Mt. Fuji and Hakone. While the itinerary covers many highlights, it doesn’t leave extensive time for leisurely exploration, which might frustrate those wanting a deeper experience.

Authentic and Practical Insights from Travelers

Numerous reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Levin and Lisa get special mention for their storytelling, humor, and cultural insights, making the long day more engaging. One traveler noted, “Our guide Hiro pointed out interesting facts with humorous anecdotes,” which highlights how guides can make or break the experience.

Some reviews mention the quality of the food—the buffet is generally well-received, offering an authentic taste of local ingredients. Vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options are available, but dietary restrictions outside these categories may require you to bring your own provisions.

Final thoughts on Value and Suitability

At $175.99, this tour offers a comprehensive and efficient way to see some of Japan’s most iconic sights in a single day. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want a guided experience—with expert narration and seamless logistics—without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating public transit.

However, it’s not the best choice if you’re seeking deep dives into each site or if the weather forecast predicts poor conditions. Flexibility and patience are necessary, especially when activities are weather-dependent. In good weather, the views and experiences can be breathtaking, making it a worthwhile splurge for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits busy travelers wanting a snapshot of Japan’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks, especially if they prefer guided tours for ease. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic vistas, cultural insights, and convenience, and who are okay with a packed schedule that squeezes a lot into one day. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and modern Japan, this tour fits well.

It’s also perfect if you’re short on time but eager to tick Mt. Fuji, Hakone, and Lake Ashi off your bucket list without sacrificing comfort or safety. Just keep in mind that views depend heavily on weather, and some activities may be limited in fog or rain.

FAQs

Will I get to see Mt. Fuji’s summit?
Rain or shine, the view depends on the weather. Clear days give the best visibility, but clouds often obscure the top, and activities like the cable car or boat cruise could be affected by weather.

Is vegetarian or Muslim-friendly lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options can be requested in advance. However, all meals are prepared in the same kitchen, so strict vegan, Halal, or allergy-sensitive diets might require you to bring your own food.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be altered or activities canceled for safety. You might visit alternative sites like Oshino Hakkai or receive a voucher. Refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to weather.

How long is the bus ride from Tokyo?
The journey to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The return includes the bullet train from Odawara back to Tokyo, adding roughly 30-40 minutes.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most major activities and transportation are included. Food, drinks, tips, and hotel transfers are extra, if not specified. The buffet lunch is optional, so bring your own if you prefer.

How big are the tour groups?
The maximum size is about 43 travelers, but many reviews mention a comfortable, small-group feel, especially on the bus.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and perhaps a small umbrella—especially if rain is forecast. Carry your own snacks or dietary needs if you have restrictions.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, but be prepared for some walking and potentially variable weather. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of travel and outdoor stops.

In essence, this tour offers a well-organized, enjoyable day immersed in some of Japan’s most recognizable sights. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable hosts, you’ll gain a snapshot of Japan’s natural beauty with the comfort of modern transport. While weather remains a wildcard—common in mountain sightseeing—the overall value, variety, and authenticity make it a strong choice for travelers eager to experience Japan’s scenic treasures compactly and comfortably.