Full Day Guided Trip to Mt. Fuji and Hakone from Tokyo

A full day exploring Japan’s natural beauty and cultural highlights

This guided tour from Tokyo offers a chance to see some of Japan’s most famous sights in one day. For just $150 per person, you’ll visit Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station, explore the luxurious Gotemba Premium Outlets, and experience the natural wonders of Hakone with its ropeway, hot springs, and a pirate ship cruise on Ashinoko Lake. The entire trip lasts about 9 to 10 hours, making it a packed but manageable day, especially for those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is how it combines iconic landscapes with relaxing moments and shopping. We loved how the guide’s friendly attitude made navigating the busy routes smooth and enjoyable. Plus, the opportunity to capture stunning views of Mount Fuji—or even a cloud-sea if the weather cooperates—is a real highlight. On the flip side, the long day might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to early starts or a lot of walking.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets themselves. If you enjoy photo opportunities, nature, and Japanese culture, this experience hits many marks. It’s also ideal for those short on time but eager to see multiple attractions in a single day.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering Mount Fuji, Hakone, and shopping.
• Expert guides help simplify navigation and enrich the experience.
• Stunning views and photo opportunities of Fuji and Lake Ashinoko.
• Includes transportation, tickets, and lunch—good value for the price.
• Weather-dependent visibility can affect the experience; be prepared for scenic alternatives.
• Suitable for most travelers, with accommodations for children and a maximum group size of 70.

In-Depth Review of the Full Day Guided Trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone

Starting Point and Transport
Your adventure begins at the Shinjuku Center Building, a central hub in Tokyo, making it easy to meet your guide and fellow travelers. The group is typically up to 70 people, which is a good size to keep the experience lively without feeling overwhelming. The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, ensuring you maximize your day. The comfortable bus transports you seamlessly from Tokyo to the various sites, saving you from navigating the complex roads yourself—a huge plus, considering how busy and confusing Tokyo traffic can be for visitors.

Mount Fuji’s Fifth or Second Station
The highlight for many is the chance to see Mount Fuji up close. Depending on the season, you’ll visit either the Fifth Station or, if it’s mid-December to late March when the fifth station is closed, the Second Station snow resort. At the Fifth Station, you get a sense of scale and majesty; the views of Fuji’s snow-capped peak are breathtaking—and you’ll want your camera ready to snap that perfect shot with the clouds or volcanic landscape as a backdrop.

A review from Kimberly underscores the appeal: “This was an amazing tour for the price we paid. There are multiple stops, covering so much ground. It was nice to have the bus take us all the places, because the roads seemed complicated to navigate.” This highlights the value of having expert transportation and a guide to assist with logistics, especially at such a popular site.

Alternative Activities in Winter
From mid-December to late March, when the Fifth Station is closed due to snow, the group visits Mt. Fuji’s Second Station instead, which features a snow resort. Here, you can play in the snow, build snowmen, or simply enjoy the winter landscape. While this isn’t the iconic Fuji vista, it still offers a memorable experience, especially in the snowy season.

Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets
Next, the tour takes you to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, one of Japan’s most renowned shopping destinations. Surrounded by views of Mount Fuji itself, the open-air mall boasts a vast selection of luxury brands at discounted prices. Travelers love to browse the boutiques, picking up Japanese souvenirs, fashion, and accessories. Kimberly mentions, “It was nice to have plenty of time to explore the stores and enjoy the view of Fuji in the distance,” emphasizing how shopping here adds a relaxing, enjoyable break.

Hakone’s Natural Wonders
The trip continues to Hakone, a favorite for nature lovers. The Hakone Ropeway takes you over Owakudani Valley, a volcanic area with bubbling hot springs and sulfur vents. It’s a reminder of Japan’s geological activity and offers spectacular views. Souvenir shops here sell volcanic-themed crafts and local snacks, perfect for keepsakes.

The Hakone Pirate Ship cruise is a whimsical highlight. You’ll board a boat styled like a pirate vessel for a leisurely cruise on Ashinoko Lake. The reflections of Mount Fuji, green hills, and tranquil waters make for spectacular scenery. As one reviewer noted, “The pirate ship cruise is a fun way to see the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings,” adding a touch of adventure to the day.

End of the Day and Return
After the cruise, you’ll be transferred back to Shinjuku, ending the journey at the West Exit. The return trip takes about an hour, giving you a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures or chat with fellow travelers. The entire experience, including travel time, is about 9-10 hours—an efficient way to see Japan’s countryside and cultural sites without the stress of planning.

What Travelers Are Saying

The single review available is glowing: “A full day with many location stops. This was an amazing tour for the price we paid. Our guide was extremely nice and knowledgeable,” highlighting the value and personal touch that guides provide. People appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the variety of sights, making it perfect for those who want to maximize their sightseeing.

Some travelers might worry about the weather affecting the views of Mount Fuji. It’s worth noting that the tour proceeds rain or shine, and even if Fuji isn’t visible, the alternative activities and scenery still make for a worthwhile day.

The Value of This Tour

At $150, including admissions, lunch, and transportation, this tour offers an excellent value for travelers seeking an efficient and rundown of the Fuji-Hakone area. It’s especially appealing for those unfamiliar with the region’s logistics or who prefer guided comfort over solo navigation. The inclusion of key activities like the ropeway and pirate ship cruise adds unique experiences you might not arrange independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Japan who want a balanced mix of nature, sightseeing, and shopping. It’s also suited for families (children aged 3+ can join), couples, or solo travelers eager to see iconic sites without the hassle of planning multiple transportation routes. If you enjoy picturesque landscapes, cultural experiences, and a bit of adventure, this tour hits many marks.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Tokyo offers a carefully curated experience of Japan’s most beloved sights, combining natural beauty, shopping, and cultural highlights. The guides’ friendliness and expertise make the logistics smoother, and the variety of activities keeps the day lively and interesting.

While weather can be a gamble—famous for clear views of Fuji—there are always alternative experiences to enjoy. It’s a great choice for those wanting a full, enriching day without the stress of organizing transport or tickets. The combination of scenic landscapes, fun rides, and shopping makes for a memorable way to step outside Tokyo’s busy streets and see some of Japan’s natural wonders.

If you’re looking to maximize your sightseeing in a single day and want a balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation, this tour is a smart pick. Just remember to bring your camera—your photos will thank you—and an open mind for unpredictable weather.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is typically booked about 57 days ahead, so planning early guarantees a spot.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers transportation, tickets for the ropeway and pirate ship, lunch, and a video translation service. Personal expenses are not included.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 3+ can participate if accompanied by paying adults aged 20 or older. Children 0-2 can join free if they don’t occupy a seat.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
The tour goes ahead rain or shine. If Mount Fuji isn’t visible due to weather, you’ll visit alternative sites like the snow resort or enjoy other scenic stops.

How long is the travel time?
The entire trip, including transfers and sightseeing, spans about 9 to 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Is it suitable for those with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking and standing at various sites, so travelers with mobility issues should assess their comfort level or inquire beforehand.

This full-day adventure offers a balanced glimpse into Japan’s natural scenery and cultural delights, perfect for those wanting an all-in-one experience without sacrificing depth or comfort.