<!–
The 15 Best Tours in Hakone
Hakone isn’t just about views of Mount Fuji or steaming hot springs—though it has plenty of those. This mountain town in Japan’s Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers a wide range of experiences, whether you want a private guide to tailor your day, a challenging hike, or a cultural dive into samurai and ninja lore. We’ve tried to find options that suit all tastes, from the personalized to the adrenaline-fueled, always highlighting what makes each tour unique. If you're a self-confessed history nerd, an active hiker, or just someone who loves soaking in onsen scenery, Hakone has a tour for you. And yes, some of the guides here are so good they’ll make you wish you’d booked a longer trip.
One tour that really stands out is the Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with a Government-Licensed Guide. It’s perfect for travelers craving flexibility—skip the crowds, customize your day, and visit only the sites that matter most to you. Meanwhile, the Hike Japan Heritage Hakone Hachiri offers a deep dive into Japan’s ancient routes, with stunning views and historical insights along the way. Whether you’re in for a relaxed walk or a full-on mountain trek, Hakone’s tours deliver.
Quick Overview
Hakone’s top-rated tours cover a broad spectrum, including private guided walks, customizable half-day and full-day trips, historic hikes along the old Tokaido Highway, and adventure-filled activities like Skywalks and onsen calligraphy. For a deep cultural experience, the Odawara Ninja & Samurai Tour puts you in the shoes of feudal Japan, while the Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking combines mountain scenery with relaxing hot springs. For nature lovers, the Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone offers a gentle introduction to the local flora and fauna. Whatever your style, Hakone’s array of tours guarantees a memorable day.
1. Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
This private walking tour is designed for those who want tailored flexibility. You get to pick 3 to 4 sites based on your interests—be it Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, or the Open-Air Museum—and your guide will help craft your ideal day. With multiple morning start times, you’ll avoid the crush of guided bus groups and explore at your own pace. The tour is around 6 hours, and reviews highlight how capable and friendly guides like Shovon and Kumiko make all the difference. The highlight, of course, is Lake Ashinoko—formed in a caldera of Mount Hakone—with stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Visitors love the personalized touch, with comments praising guides who are knowledgeable and attentive. This tour is perfect for travelers who want control over what they see, skipping the crowded group experience.
Bottom Line: Great for customized experiences and flexible schedules, especially if you prefer walking and private guidance.
2. Custom Private Tour in Hakone with a Certified Local Guide
If you want to craft your own adventure, this custom private tour is the way to go. Your guide will ask about your interests—whether it’s the Hakone Shrine, Yosegi Zaiku craft village, or a traditional teahouse—and build an itinerary around your preferences. You can also opt for iconic activities like riding the Hakone Ropeway, with views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, or soaking at a local onsen. Reviews mention guides like Hiroko and Koto, who make the experience memorable by sharing personal insights. You’ll visit Owaku-dani Valley, cruise on Lake Ashi, or explore the Tokaido road, depending on your priorities. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a curated, intimate day without the constraints of preset schedules.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a personalized, flexible experience with expert guidance.
3. Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
At number 4, the Hakone 8 hour Private Tour offers an expanded itinerary that covers more ground. Your guide will help you explore Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, the Open-Air Museum, and other highlights, tailoring the day to your pace. Guests praise guides like Yoshi and Hide for their thorough explanations and ability to navigate the area efficiently. With a full day, you can enjoy the scenic boat cruise, visit art galleries, or even fit in a quick onsen stop. The reviews emphasize how well-organized and friendly guides make a relaxed yet comprehensive experience. This tour suits travelers wanting a full-day experience with flexibility and depth.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a thorough overview without rushing, combining cultural sights and scenic views.
4. Private Tour – Hakone Day Trip! A Tour to Explore All Must-Sees!
For around $197, the Hakone Day Trip hits the mark for a classic overview. Your personal guide takes you through Ajisai Bridge, Hakone Shrine, and the Lake Ashi cruise, plus top viewpoints for total picture-perfect moments. Guests rave about how the guide’s planning ensures all the highlights are covered comfortably, with plenty of time for photos and local insights. The tour includes visits to the Hakone Open-Air Museum and some of the best spots to see Mount Fuji if the weather permits. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a full, well-paced day but prefer private guidance. The reviews mention a great balance of culture, scenery, and fun.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a comprehensive yet relaxed sightseeing experience with a personal touch.
5. Hike Japan Heritage Hakone Hachiri with certified mountain guide
This 7-hour guided hike takes you on part of the historic Hakone Hachiri, a trail that was once part of the Tokaido connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. The tour includes walking around Lake Ashi, visiting the Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and exploring the Hachiri heritage path. Guides like Aki or Tony share stories about old travelers and local legends. The highlight? The chance to see Mt Fuji from different angles, weather permitting. Reviews mention how well the guides blend history and nature, making the hike both educational and scenic. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with 8 km of walking—think of it as a cultural workout with spectacular views built in.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and avid hikers wanting a meaningful mountain experience.
6. Hike Hakone Hachiri
This full-day hike covers about 9 hours and 215 km but focuses on a deep immersion into the Old Tokaido Highway. Your guide, such as Tony, will take you past cobbled paths, cedar avenues, and teahouses like the Amasake Chaya, which has been serving travelers for over 400 years. The trail offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and historic sites, with reviews noting the guide’s detailed storytelling about Japan’s past. This tour is best suited for fit travelers who enjoy long walks and want a fully engaged cultural and natural experience.
Bottom Line: A serious day for hikers with a love of history and nature, and a taste for authentic Japan.
7. Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour
This 7-8 hour tour involves 4-5 hours of hiking along the caldera’s outer rim, with amazing panoramic views like Mt Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani. The ascent is about 500 meters, and the ridge walk provides sweeping vistas of Hakone’s volcanic landscape. Afterward, enjoy a soak in a local onsen and a traditional lunch. Reviews highlight guides like Tony for their energy and expertise, making this an excellent choice for active travelers with a good fitness level. Note that the trail is somewhat challenging, so it’s not for everyone.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers craving mountain scenery and hot springs in one trip.
8. Odawara: Guided Ninja & Samurai Tour of Odawara Castle
Stepping into feudal Japan, this 2.5-hour tour combines Odawara Castle, the Samurai Museum, and ninja training. Guides like Jeff and Shidou make history lively, with hands-on ninja weapons classes and storytelling about Hojo clan legends. Visitors love the interactive ninja experience, calling it “the best activity” they did in Japan. It’s suitable for families and history enthusiasts wanting a fun, engaging way to learn about samurai and ninjas. The tour is compact but packed with culture, history, and action.
Bottom Line: Great for families and those wanting a lively, participatory experience in Japan’s ninja legends.
9. Private Hakone Half-day Tour with Hotel Pickup and Japanese guide
This 4-hour private tour offers personalized flexibility. Your guide will customize the itinerary—perhaps visiting Hakone Shrine, exploring Owakudani, or enjoying Lake Ashi—based on weather and your interests. With reviews praising guides like Kumi for their friendliness and expertise, it’s perfect if time is limited but you want a rich experience. The tour’s strength is its ability to adapt, making even a half-day feel substantial. Whether you want the iconic views or cultural insights, this tour delivers.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a flexible, personalized experience.
10. Hike Japan Heritage Hakone Hachiri (Half Day)
This 4-hour hike is tailored for those who want a shorter but still immersive experience. You’ll walk 2-3 hours along cobbled and forest trails, passing Hatajuku village and the Amasake Tea House. The guide shares stories about Hakone’s past and its connection with the Edo period. Reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Akihiro make the history come alive—making it suitable for active travelers who appreciate cultural storytelling in a natural setting. Expect views of Mount Fuji if the weather cooperates.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced, shorter option for active travelers interested in history and scenery.
11. 2 Hour Onsen Calligraphy Experience
This two-hour cultural activity is perfect for those wanting a relaxing break. Using real onsen water, you practice Japanese calligraphy—writing on traditional paper or a fan. It’s a calming, artistic experience that allows you to connect with Hakone’s onsen culture in a peaceful ryokan setting. It’s simple but memorable, especially for travelers seeking a quiet moment away from sightseeing chaos.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, artistic cultural activity in Hakone’s onsen town.
12. Hakone: Day Tour to View Mt Fuji & Wooden Culture Experience
For those interested in Japanese wooden craftsmanship, this tour combines marquetry workshops and visits to historic houses with scenic views of Mt Fuji. Starting at Hakone-Yumoto Station, you’ll explore Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and a 400-year-old tea house. Reviews praise guides like Munetaka for their detailed planning and storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural activities and photography, with stops at key scenic spots. The tour balances tradition and scenery, making it a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft lovers and scenic photo enthusiasts looking for a cultural deep dive.
13. Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour
This gentle 3.5-hour walk is for nature lovers wanting a calm experience. Visiting Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands and the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, you’ll see endemic plants, wild birds, and seasonal flowers. The guide emphasizes education about local flora and wildlife, making it perfect for travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer a relaxed pace. Reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and ability to adapt to weather, turning even rainy days into memorable nature walks. You’ll walk on flat terrain, making this suitable for families or seniors.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, educational stroll through Hakone’s unique natural environment.
14. Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour
This 7-hour trek takes you along the historic Tokaido Highway, with cobbled paths and ancient cedar avenues. Your guide, such as Akihiro, shares stories about Edo-era travelers and the significance of the Hakone Checkpoint. The tour includes visits to Hatajuku village and teahouses like the Amasake Chaya—a 400-year-old tea house serving traditional amasake. Known for stunning views of Mt Fuji and immersive history, reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the authentic experience of walking ancient trails. It’s best for physically fit travelers interested in Japan’s past and scenic mountain landscapes.
Bottom Line: For hikers with a curiosity for history and heritage trails.
15. Do You Want to Try Skywalk? A New Way of Enjoying Hakone!
This 7.5-hour private tour takes you from Hakone to Mishima for the Skywalk, an exhilarating suspension bridge with views of Mount Fuji. The tour covers Ajisai Bridge, Hakone Shrine, and a mountain teahouse. Visitors love the combination of scenic views, local culinary stops, and personal guidance. The Skywalk itself is a thrill, offering unobstructed vistas that photo buffs will adore. This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a mix of scenic drives and outdoor thrills, with the convenience of a private guide making it all seamless.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of scenic and adrenaline, with personalized attention.
How to Choose Your Hakone Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For those wanting a comprehensive full-day experience, the Hakone 8 hour Private Tour offers depth without rushing. Active travelers who love hiking might prefer the Hike Japan Heritage Hakone Hachiri, which combines history, scenery, and exercise. If your focus is on culture, the Ninja & Samurai Tour provides fun and education in a compact format. For a relaxing, artistic experience, try the Onsen Calligraphy, or book a private guide for maximum flexibility.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage, to secure your preferred date and guide.
Final Thoughts
Hakone’s tour options cover everything from cultural adventures and scenic hikes to luxurious onsen experiences and adrenaline-inducing Skywalks. For families, the Ninja & Samurai tour is both fun and educational, while active travelers should not miss the challenging Hike Hakone Hachiri. If you want a personalized approach, the private tours offer tailored experiences, ensuring you get exactly what you want out of your day. No matter your style, these tours promise to give you a genuine taste of Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking early—Hakone’s popularity means availability can fill quickly, especially in spring and fall. Now, get planning, pack your walking shoes, and prepare for a memorable day in this captivating mountain town.