Tokyo: Hakone, Owakudani & Gotemba Premium Outlet 1Day Bus tour

Explore Hakone, Owakudani & Gotemba Premium Outlets on a One-Day Bus Tour from Tokyo

If you’re visiting Tokyo but craving a taste of Japan’s stunning nature and world-class shopping in a single day, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of both. For $90.82 per person, you’ll spend about 9 to 10 hours with a comfortable, air-conditioned bus and a guide who can share local insights in English and Chinese. The itinerary covers Hakone Shrine, famed for its floating torii gate, the volcanic landscape of Owakudani, with its steaming vents and volcano-themed treats, followed by a shopping spree at Gotemba Premium Outlets, overlooking Mount Fuji.

What we like most about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with retail therapy, giving travelers a varied experience in just a day. The stunning views of Mount Fuji from Owakudani and the outlet mall are genuine highlights, offering perfect photo opportunities. Plus, the guides we’ve heard about are knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey more engaging.

One consideration is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so it’s wise to plan for a meal during the free time at Gotemba or bring snacks. Also, the tour departs early from Ueno Station and concludes there, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day on the move. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to see some of Japan’s iconic sights without renting a car, this tour fits the bill well.

Ideal for travelers who want a blend of scenic landscapes and shopping, this tour is particularly good if you’re short on time but want to experience some of the best that Japan’s nearby mountains and outlets have to offer. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a guided experience, with the added benefit of a small group environment.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines natural sights with shopping, offering variety in a single day.
• Stunning views: You’ll see Mount Fuji from Owakudani on clear days, a rare and memorable sight.
• Guided tour: Knowledgeable guides help you appreciate the significance of each stop.
• Convenient transportation: An air-conditioned bus makes long hours comfortable.
• Flexible schedule: Plenty of time at Gotemba for shopping and meals.
• No lunch included: Plan ahead for your meals during free time.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Hakone Shrine: A Serene Welcome to Nature and Spirituality

We loved the way Hakone Shrine’s iconic torii gate appears to float on the water — it’s a postcard-worthy sight that captures the essence of Japan’s spiritual harmony with nature. The shrine sits beside Lake Ashi, framed by mountains, and offers a peaceful atmosphere. For many, it’s a symbol of tranquility and a perfect starting point for the day.

Despite its popularity, the shrine remains a place of quiet reflection. The 50-minute stop isn’t long, but it’s enough to soak in the scenery and snap some photos. The admission is free, so it’s a low-cost way to experience Japan’s spiritual side amid breathtaking landscapes.

Owakudani: A Volcanic Wonderland

Next, the journey takes you into Owakudani Valley, a geothermal area formed about 3,000 years ago after the eruption of Mt. Komagatake. Here, the ground constantly steams, releasing sulfur vents and creating an otherworldly landscape. The sights and smells are distinctly volcanic, and it’s fascinating to see the earth actively bubbling and hissing – a reminder of Japan’s volcanic nature.

On clear days, the views of Mount Fuji from Owakudani are spectacular. We’ve heard visitors say, “The sight of Fuji with the steaming vents around it feels almost surreal.” If you’re feeling adventurous, trying the famous black eggs boiled in hot springs is a must. Legend says eating one can add years to your life, and they’re surprisingly tasty for such an unusual snack.

Gotemba Premium Outlets: A Shopper’s Paradise

After the natural wonders, it’s time to indulge in some retail therapy at Gotemba Premium Outlets. With over 200 stores, you’ll find a wide selection of designer brands, Japanese goods, and souvenirs at discounted prices. Whether you’re after fashion, cosmetics, or unique gifts, this is a great place to pick up high-quality items without paying full retail.

The outlet mall’s location offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji, especially from its outdoor dining areas. Many travelers appreciate having plenty of time, about 2.5 hours, to browse, eat, and relax. Keep in mind, the shopping can be quite tempting, so plan your budget accordingly.

Returning to Ueno: A Full Day of Discovery

As the sun starts to set, the bus heads back to Ueno Station. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or chat with fellow travelers about their favorites. The tour’s schedule is designed to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed, but be mindful that minor delays can happen due to traffic or weather. The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring that your plans are resilient to the weather.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and Tips for Travelers

The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long hours comfortable, especially during the summer months. The guide provides commentary in both English and Chinese, so it’s helpful if you’re bilingual or travel with someone who is. Since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, you should arrive at Ueno Station a few minutes early on the day of your trip.

Timing is key: arriving 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure helps ensure a smooth start. The tour operates with a minimum group size of 10, so if you’re traveling in a smaller group, it’s worth checking availability or booking early.

A significant benefit is the cancellation policy — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

What to Bring

Since lunch isn’t included, consider packing snacks or a light meal, especially for the busy shopping stop. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking quite a bit, especially at Gotemba. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for the incredible views — both Fuji and the volcanic vents make for memorable photos.

Weather Considerations

The tour runs rain or shine, but clear weather dramatically enhances your experience, especially at Owakudani and the outlet mall. Check the forecast ahead of time and dress accordingly. If the weather is extreme, some stops might be shortened or omitted, but you’ll be notified in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the natural beauty and shopping culture near Tokyo without the hassle of managing transport themselves. It suits those who appreciate guided tours, especially if you’re interested in learning more about the sites from a local guide. It’s also great for people with limited time who want to see Fuji’s iconic views and enjoy some retail therapy in one seamless experience.

However, if you prefer to explore more deeply at each site or want a more flexible schedule, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s not ideal for those who want to spend hours at each stop but offers a solid overview perfect for first-timers or those with tight schedules.

The Sum Up

This one-day bus tour from Tokyo strikes a practical balance between nature, culture, and shopping. It’s a straightforward way to get out of the city and see some of Japan’s most memorable sights — Hakone Shrine’s water-floating torii, the steaming vents of Owakudani with Mount Fuji in the distance, and the retail haven of Gotemba Premium Outlets. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll gain insights that enrich your experience without feeling overwhelmed.

The value lies not just in the sights but in how smoothly the day flows — comfortable transportation, ample time at each stop, and the opportunity to tick off several must-see spots in one go. It’s especially ideal if you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the iconic scenery and do some shopping without the complexity of planning every leg yourself.

In short, this tour offers a memorable, well-organized day suitable for those who want a taste of the natural and retail highlights near Tokyo, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a worthwhile addition to your Japan itinerary.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time at Gotemba Premium Outlets to find a meal or bring snacks for the day.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, beginning in the morning and returning to Ueno Station in the evening.

Are guides available in both English and Chinese?
Yes, commentary is provided in both languages, which helps make the experience accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Ueno Station. The bus will not return to Shinagawa or other locations.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider your group’s mobility and comfort with a full day of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and dress appropriately for the weather — the tour operates rain or shine.

Are there any restrictions on the group size?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, and the minimum is 10 for the tour to run.

Will I see Mount Fuji during the tour?
On clear days, yes; the views from Owakudani are famous for framing Fuji beautifully. However, weather conditions may affect visibility.