Hakone is a fantastic place for walking tours, especially if you’re drawn to rich natural scenery and tranquil landscapes. Unlike busy city streets, Hakone’s lush forests, volcanic valleys, and wide-open fields offer a peaceful backdrop for exploring on foot. I personally love the Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone because it combines gentle strolls with opportunities to spot endemic plants and wild birds, making it perfect for nature lovers. Plus, walking at a relaxed pace allows you to truly take in the scenery without feeling hurried. If you want a more personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour of Hakone offers the flexibility to tailor your route while exploring iconic sights like Lake Ashi and the Hakone Shrine. Both options highlight Hakone’s natural and cultural richness in ways that suit different tastes and schedules.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of walking tours designed to showcase Hakone’s beauty and history. From easygoing nature walks that focus on flora and fauna, to private day trips covering major sights with a guide, there’s something for every travel style. For those who prefer a relaxed, scenic stroll, the Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour is a top choice. For travelers wanting a comprehensive, customized experience, the Private Walking Tour of Hakone provides a full-day adventure. And if you’re interested in a calming riverside walk combined with afternoon tea, the Hakone: Refreshing Valley Walk Half Day Tour offers a peaceful mid-day escape.
1. Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour
This nature-focused tour is perfect if you prefer a gentle walk over steep hikes. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy Hakone’s unique environment without strenuous activity. Led by a certified professional nature guide, the tour explores relatively flat areas, allowing you to take your time observing the endemic wild plants, insects, and birds specific to this region. The highlight is the visit to the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, home to 1700 wild plants, including 200 marsh species. Visitors often comment on how this garden resembles a mini-Kew Gardens and is worth the visit even for those with limited time. Afterward, you’ll walk to the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field, where the silver waves of pampas grasses sway beautifully in autumn.
This tour’s relaxed pace and rich content make it ideal for families, older travelers, or anyone wanting a calm stroll with lots of nature insights. The tour includes admission tickets, which adds convenience. Notable reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, with one saying, “We loved our gentle nature hike. What a kind and interesting guide we saw things we would never have seen.”
Bottom Line: If you want a laid-back, educational nature walk that highlights Hakone’s flora and fauna, this tour offers outstanding value and a memorable experience.
2. Private Walking Tour of Hakone
For those who prefer an intimate, customized exploration, the Private Walking Tour of Hakone is hard to beat. This 9-hour tour is led by a guide with a national qualification, ensuring expert insights into Hakone’s culture, geology, and history. You can choose to walk or use public transport, and hotel pickup makes logistics simple. The itinerary includes highlights like the Hakone Shrine, famous for its red torii gate, and Lake Ashi, where you can take a boat cruise for scenic views. You also visit Owakudani, a volcanic valley with bubbling sulfur vents and steaming hot springs, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features sculptures from Japanese and Western artists.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Hakone’s cultural and natural highlights at their own pace. Since it’s private, you can ask questions, linger at favorite spots, or skip others. It’s a longer, more comprehensive experience that appeals to those who value personalized attention. One review mentions, “Kelly’s knowledge made the experience rich and engaging,” highlighting the quality of the guide.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, all-in-one day with expert narration and the ability to customize, this private tour offers excellent value for a full-day investment.
$462.07 per group (up to 5)
3. Hakone: Refreshing Valley Walk Half Day Tour
For a short but restorative escape, the Hakone: Refreshing Valley Walk Half Day Tour combines a riverside walk with forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) and a relaxing afternoon at a historic dessert shop. You’ll stroll along peaceful trails, feeling the calming effects of nature as you breathe in fresh air and listen to the gentle flow of the river. The walk offers numerous opportunities for photography and quiet reflection, making it an ideal choice for those seeking mental refreshment rather than an extensive sightseeing schedule.
After the walk, you’ll enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea at a longstanding local shop, chatting with the owner about the art of confectionery. This experience is perfect for travelers with limited time but who want to connect deeply with Hakone’s natural serenity and culinary culture. Reviews note the “beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere,” making it clear why this tour is popular among visitors looking for tranquility.
Bottom Line: This half-day option is well-suited for anyone craving a peaceful outdoor experience combined with a taste of local tradition, perfect for a mid-journey break.
$118 per person
How to Choose the Best Hakone Walking Tour for You
When deciding which walking tour fits your trip, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re after a slow, educational experience immersed in nature, the Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone is a great choice. For travelers wanting a personalized, full-day cultural experience, the Private Walking Tour of Hakone offers unmatched flexibility. If a short, restorative walk suits your itinerary, the Hakone: Refreshing Valley Walk Half Day Tour provides a peaceful escape.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons like spring and autumn when Hakone’s scenery is at its best. Consider your fitness level—these tours are generally moderate, but the private tour offers more control over pacing—and if you enjoy art or local food, these aspects can help narrow your choice.
Final Thoughts
Hakone offers a diverse array of walking experiences, from gentle nature strolls to comprehensive private explorations. The Easygoing Nature Walk is perfect if you want to slow down and enjoy endemic plants and wildlife, while the Private Tour suits travelers seeking an in-depth, tailored experience. The Valley Walk provides a peaceful, shorter option that fits easily into any schedule.
No matter which tour you choose, Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural treasures will leave you with lasting memories. Be sure to book early, especially during high season, and enjoy your time wandering through this captivating region of Japan.