Hakone is famous for its scenic views, hot springs, and traditional inns, but it also offers some surprisingly unique city tours that go beyond the usual. The area is perfect for exploring with themed excursions that tie into Japan’s pop culture, like the Evangelion Hakone Tour, or more leisurely shopping trips to major outlets. We love how some tours combine sightseeing with pop culture fandom, creating a memorable experience — like visiting the Third New Tokyo City from Evangelion, or indulging in retail therapy at top shopping centers. Hakone’s combination of natural beauty and quirky attractions makes it a lively place to explore in a variety of ways.
While many travelers stick to Hakone’s hot springs and scenic train rides, these tours add a new layer of fun and practicality. Whether you’re a anime fan wanting to see the series come to life, or a shopper looking for luxury bargains, there’s something here to suit your interests. If you want a guided experience that includes local sights with a twist, these adventures are worth considering. Check out our favorites below to find your ideal Hakone city tour.
Quick Overview
This list features three of the best Hakone city tours.
- The Evangelion Hakone Tour immerses fans in the world of Neon Genesis Evangelion with visits to key locations from the series.
- The Private Shopping Tour to Grandberry Park offers a hassle-free trip to Tokyo’s largest outlet mall, filled with designer brands.
- The Private Shopping Tour to Mitsui Outlet Yokohama combines luxury shopping with a seaside atmosphere, perfect for those wanting high-end bargains.
Each offers a different way to enjoy Hakone, whether through pop culture, shopping, or a mix of both. Now, let’s dig into what makes each one special.
1. Evangelion Hakone Tour Explore The Third New Tokyo City
At number 1 on our list, the Evangelion Hakone Tour offers an anime-inspired journey through Hakone’s landscape. This tour is perfect for fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion and those curious about the series’ fictional universe. The tour lasts about 6.5 hours and takes you to key film locations, including Hakone-Yumoto Station, the place where Shinji and Misato first meet, and Gora Station, home to the “Gora Absolute Defense Line.” The guide shares insider knowledge about how these sites connect to the anime, making it more than just sightseeing.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed incorporation of Evangelion lore combined with Hakone’s scenery. You’ll visit the Hakone Ropeway, which offers spectacular views and access to the film’s landscapes. The tour also includes Evangelion-themed shopping to keep fans engaged and immersed in the series’ world. Although the price is around $327, this is a niche experience offering fans a one-of-a-kind connection between anime and real-world scenery. It’s best suited for anime fans with a sense of adventure or anybody interested in seeing Hakone through a pop culture lens.
Bottom line: If you’re a Neon Genesis Evangelion fan or want a unique way to explore Hakone, this tour offers a memorable, location-based experience unlike anything else.
$327.91 per person
2. Private Shopping Tour from Hakone City to Grandberry Park
Number 2 on our list is the Private Shopping Tour from Hakone City to Grandberry Park. This six-hour trip provides a straightforward, comfortable way to indulge in Tokyo’s largest outlet mall, located just a short drive from Hakone. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel, whisking you to Grandberry Park, which boasts more than 240 shops with collections from top local and international designers.
This tour is ideal if you love shopping or want a low-stress way to browse luxury brands without the chaos of Tokyo’s city streets. The mall’s many boutiques include both high-end labels and everyday brands, alongside a Snoopy Museum for some added fun. For approximately $292, you get a hassle-free, personalized experience with the convenience of being driven directly to and from your hotel. You’ll have about four hours on your own to shop, dine, or catch a movie, making this a flexible day for fashion enthusiasts or those looking for gifts.
Some travelers note the value of the private transfer, which simplifies logistics, especially after a day exploring Hakone. The only downside could be the limited sightseeing focus—if you prefer cultural sites over shopping, this might not be your top pick.
Bottom line: Perfect for shoppers wanting a luxury retail experience with minimal hassle and maximum comfort.
$291.82 per person
3. Private Shopping Tour from Hakone city to Mitsui Outlet Yokohama
Third on our list is the Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Mitsui Outlet Yokohama Bayside. This seven-hour trip is tailored for those wanting a high-end shopping experience at a seaside outlet. The journey starts with a friendly driver picking you up from your Hakone hotel, then transporting you to this spacious mall, which features over 100 stores including designer brands and specialty shops.
What makes this tour special is the seaside, marina atmosphere, and the variety of trendy cafes and restaurants nearby. It’s a great choice if you prefer a luxurious shopping environment combined with some relaxing scenery. The pricing is roughly $337, and the experience includes about 4 hours of shopping time, giving you plenty of opportunity to browse, buy, and enjoy the views. The outlet’s international and Japanese brands provide good value, especially if you’re after discounted designer items.
Some travelers appreciate the balance of shopping with a scenic environment, but note that this tour is best for serious shoppers or those with a penchant for upscale brands. It’s less about sightseeing and more about retail therapy, so consider whether that matches your trip goals.
Bottom line: For shoppers seeking a seaside outlet experience with premium brands, this trip offers both style and convenience.
$337.23 per person
How to Choose the Right Hakone City Tour
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of experience you want. If you’re a anime enthusiast, the Evangelion Tour provides immersive sightseeing with a pop culture twist. For luxury shopping without the stress of navigating Tokyo alone, the Grandberry Park tour offers a smooth, private ride to a major outlet. Meanwhile, the Yokohama outing is best suited for those wanting high-end fashion with scenic views, perfect for a relaxing shopping day.
Budget also matters: the Evangelion tour is more expensive but highly specialized; the shopping trips are more affordable and flexible. Consider your time—the Evangelion tour is around 6.5 hours, the Grandberry Park about 6 hours, and the Yokohama outing extends to around 7 hours. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Hakone’s diversity makes it a fantastic base for a variety of city tours. If you love anime or pop culture, the Evangelion experience is a standout. For those wanting a hassle-free shopping day with a touch of luxury, the Grandberry Park trip is excellent. And if designer bargains along the coast appeal to you, the Yokohama outlet tour won’t disappoint.
No matter which you choose, each offers a chance to see a different side of Hakone — from fictional Tokyo to seaside shopping. Consider your interests, budget, and trip schedule carefully, and don’t forget to book early so you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures.