Full day Mt.Fuji&Hakone Tour with Guide-Driver 11-20 guests

Experience the Majesty of Japan’s Iconic Views with the Full-Day Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour

For travelers eager to see Japan’s most famous natural landmark along with the enchanting Hakone region, this Full-day Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour with Guide-Driver offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and convenience. Priced at $1,208.75 per group (up to 15 people), the tour lasts about 10 to 11 hours, making it a full but manageable day of exploration. What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s led by a professional guide who is also a licensed interpreter, ensuring insights are both informative and engaging. Second, the flexibility of the itinerary allows your guide to tailor the experience based on your preferences, which is ideal for those wanting a more personalized adventure.

We love the stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji from Oishi Park and the 5th Station, along with the opportunity to explore Oshino Hakkai, a charming spring village filled with legends and crystal-clear waters. The Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashinoko provide spectacular vistas of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Fuji’s silhouette reflected on the water. A notable advantage is seamless transportation and the convenience of pickup and drop-off, which saves time and energy—especially important if you’re short on time or tired from other sightseeing.

One potential consideration is the group size—while 11-20 guests can participate, the vehicle is a Middle Bus that accommodates 15 guests plus luggage. For larger groups, booking the tour with fewer participants ensures comfort and avoids logistical issues. Also, the cost per group might seem steep if you’re traveling alone or as a small party, but for families or groups, the value is quite reasonable given the inclusiveness of transportation and guide services.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning or driving. If you’re keen on having a knowledgeable guide with local insights, and you appreciate flexibility and comfort, this is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors to Japan who want to get a rundown in one day.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: The guide can customize stops based on your interests, making your experience more personal.
• Expert Guide: Guides are not only drivers but also certified interpreters, offering local insights and answering questions.
• Multiple Photo Opportunities: Oishi Park, Mt. Fuji 5th Station, and Lake Ashinoko promise incredible scenery perfect for photography.
• Comfortable Transportation: The Middle Bus accommodates groups up to 15, with luggage space, providing ease and convenience.
• All-inclusive Cost: Transportation and guide fees are covered; you just pay for meals and optional attractions.
• Timing & Duration: About 10-11 hours, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

A Deep Dive into the Full-Day Experience

Starting Your Day at Oishi Park

Your adventure kicks off early with a pickup in Tokyo around 8:00 am**, heading straight to Oishi Park, famous for its sweeping views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji. We loved the way the park’s “Flower Street” showcases seasonal blooms, and it’s a prime spot for photos. The free admission makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace, whether you want to snap pictures or just soak in the scenery. The gentle, accessible walkways mean this is suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility.

Up Close at Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station

Next, the tour takes you up to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, driving as high as possible with the vehicle. Here, the views of the summit are mesmerizing, and you get a real sense of the mountain’s scale. Since the admission is free, it’s more about soaking in the environment than paying extra. Travelers have noted that this is a “must-do” for a first-timer, with some mentioning it’s “breathtaking to see the top of Fuji close-up”. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially variable weather, so dress accordingly.

Discovering Oshino Hakkai

Then, the group heads to Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village famous for its spring waters—believed to be the “spring of the gods”. The site, registered as a World Cultural Heritage asset, delights visitors with its eight springs, each with their own legends. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and photogenic Oshino Hakkai is, with some describing it as a “hidden gem” away from the more crowded tourist spots. The free springs are the main attraction, offering a glimpse into traditional Japan and its reliance on natural water sources.

The Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani

On to Hakone, where the Ropeway offers a spectacular aerial view of the volcanic landscape. The highlight is the Owakudani valley, a geothermal area with bubbling hot springs and “black eggs”, boiled in volcanic water. While the Ropeway ticket is not included, many find the ride worthwhile for the panoramic vistas. The rising steam and the smell of sulfur create a truly otherworldly atmosphere. Travelers often mention the “unique experience” of seeing the volcanic activity up close, making it a memorable part of the tour.

Serene Lake Ashi

Finally, the tour concludes at Lake Ashinoko, a caldera lake with a majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji. This area is renowned for its tranquil waters and the pirate ship cruises (not included), which are popular. The views here are arguably the most iconic, with reflections of Fuji on the water and the mountains surrounding it. The time allocated (around 30 minutes) allows for photos and a leisurely walk along the lakeside.

What Travelers Can Expect and Tips

• The entire day flows smoothly thanks to the expert guidance, making logistics one less thing to worry about.
• The group size keeps the experience intimate enough for questions and personal interaction but large enough to be cost-effective.
• The luggage allowance means you can bring a big suitcase, ideal if you’re traveling from Tokyo hotels or onwards to other destinations.
• While meals are not included, the stops at scenic spots open opportunities for snacks or lunch on your own, giving flexibility to cater to your tastes.

Value and Price Analysis

At just over $1,200 for a full group, the tour includes all transportation expenses and guide fees, which is a significant convenience. The cost per person can be quite reasonable for a guided day trip, especially considering the luxury of a private vehicle and expert guide. If you were to organize similar visits independently—renting cars, paying for entry fees, and hiring guides—the price would likely be higher and more stressful.

The flexible itinerary further enhances the value, as your guide can adjust the stops based on weather, your interests, or time constraints. Plus, the free cancellations up to 24 hours offer peace of mind, especially for unpredictable weather.

The Sum Up

This Full-day Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour offers a comfortable, insightful way to experience some of Japan’s most breathtaking sights in a single day. It caters well to travelers who appreciate guided expertise and flexibility, and who want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or driving themselves. With stunning views at each stop, from the lush flowers of Oishi Park to the volcanic activity of Owakudani, it’s a memorable journey into Japan’s natural beauty.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the convenience, expert guidance, and the opportunity to see a diverse range of sights without stress. It’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to capture the essence of Japan’s iconic landscapes.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, well-organized, and scenic day trip with a friendly guide who adjusts the experience to your interests, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All transportation expenses and guide fees are included. You only pay separately for meals, optional attractions like the Hakone Ropeway, and the Lake Ashi Pirate Boat.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for groups of 11-20 guests, with a vehicle that accommodates up to 15 passengers plus luggage. For larger groups, book with fewer participants or contact the provider for arrangements.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring comfortable clothing, especially layers, as weather can vary. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera gear are also recommended, particularly for the scenic stops.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the guide is flexible and can modify the itinerary based on your interests, making your experience more tailored.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most stops are accessible and involve light walking. However, always consider your group’s mobility and comfort levels.

Will I have time for lunch?
Meals are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to eat at a local restaurant near the stops.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour operates year-round, spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage) are particularly beautiful. Weather can influence visibility, especially of Mount Fuji.

Is it easy to access the meeting point?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour is near public transportation, making it convenient to join from most Tokyo locations.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to bad weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

In summary, this guided tour blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and convenience into a memorable day. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, insightful experience with a friendly guide, without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. If you love landscapes, photography, and authentic sights, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.