Traveling through Japan often means balancing natural beauty, cultural tradition, and modern pop culture. This tour in Hakone offers a rare chance to combine all three — especially if you’re an anime fan. For $142 per person, you’ll spend about half a day exploring the famous locations from the beloved anime “Evangelion,” guided by someone who really knows the series and its connections to Hakone.

What we love about this experience? First, visiting the actual sites that inspired key scenes — it’s one thing to watch “Evangelion” and another to stand where Shinji and Misato first met or see the NERV headquarters in real life. Second, the opportunity to shop for exclusive Evangelion merchandise at collaborating convenience stores, giving fans a tangible piece of their favorite series.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite focused — if you’re not familiar with or interested in “Evangelion,” the specific locations and themed shopping might feel less engaging. Also, given it’s a guided group activity, those seeking complete independence might find the schedule somewhat structured.

This tour suits longtime fans of “Evangelion”, anime enthusiasts, or travelers curious to see how a fictional universe ties into real-world Japan. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy pop culture sightseeing combined with beautiful scenery, as Hakone’s lush landscapes and Mount Fuji views are part of the deal.

Key Points

Unique Locations: Visit the actual sites that feature prominently in “Evangelion,” including the station where Shinji and Misato meet.
Expert Guide: Learn about the series’ plot, characters, and its ties to Hakone from someone well-versed in the anime universe.
Shopping Opportunity: Purchase exclusive Evangelion merchandise at collaborating convenience stores, a fun way to take home a souvenir.
Scenic Setting: Experience Hakone’s natural beauty and views of Mount Fuji, providing a peaceful backdrop to the anime adventure.
Clear Schedule & Price: The $142 fee covers a half-day tour, including transportation to key sites and guided commentary.
Accessible & Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The itinerary is designed to immerse fans in the “Evangelion” universe while enjoying Hakone’s natural charm. Starting in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station, you’ll meet your guide, who will be holding a yellow sign. The initial excitement kicks in when you arrive at the station where Shinji and Misato first meet — a spot that instantly makes the series feel more real. From here, the guide will lead you to several iconic locations that fans will recognize, such as the NERV headquarters and the Third New Tokyo City scenes from the anime.

What makes these stops memorable isn’t just their connection to “Evangelion,” but how they sit within the beautiful landscape of Hakone. You’ll see how a fictional city was inspired by real-world locations, blending the fantasy of anime with the serenity of Japan’s countryside.

The guide — whose name isn’t provided but is described as knowledgeable — offers detailed commentary about how each site functions within the series. For example, you’ll learn why Hakone’s geographical features lend themselves to the story’s futuristic setting, and how the series’ narrative intertwines with the actual scenery.

The tour extends to shopping at select convenience stores with Evangelion-themed products. This is a highlight for many, as some stores have exclusive merchandise you can’t find elsewhere. Fans have praised this part for offering a chance to pick up unique souvenirs that remind them of the experience.

Throughout the journey, the overall pace is manageable, with enough time at each location to appreciate the scenery and take photos. The tour lasts around half a day, making it a good addition to a broader Hakone itinerary or a stand-alone activity for dedicated fans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Transportation & Group Size

This is a group tour, likely with a small to medium number of participants, creating a friendly, informative atmosphere. The transportation is included in the tour, and starting and ending points are conveniently located in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station, making it easy to incorporate into your plans.

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Price & Value

At $142, this tour provides a well-rounded experience combining cultural sightseeing with pop culture. For fans of “Evangelion,” this fee offers access to locations that are otherwise difficult to visit independently, guided by someone who can deepen your understanding of their significance. The inclusion of shopping adds a fun, tangible aspect, allowing fans to leave with souvenirs that hold personal meaning.

Who Will Love This?

If you’re into anime, especially “Evangelion,” and enjoy visiting filming locations or scenic spots, this tour is a perfect fit. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan but interested in Japan’s pop culture and how it connects to real-world places, you’ll find this a fascinating experience. Travelers looking for a compact, themed activity that complements Hakone’s natural beauty will appreciate the balance of scenery and storytelling.

The Sum Up

This Evangelion-themed tour in Hakone offers a rare blend of pop culture immersion and scenic exploration. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that brings fans closer to the series’ fictional universe while allowing them to enjoy Hakone’s peaceful landscapes. The guided aspect ensures you gain insights into the show’s connection to real-world locations, making it more meaningful than just a sightseeing stroll.

The shopping component adds a fun and personal touch, giving fans a way to remember their adventure. The tour’s cost is reasonable considering the sites visited and the guided commentary, especially for those eager to see the locations that inspired some of the most iconic scenes in “Evangelion.”

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is best suited for those with a genuine interest in the series or Japanese pop culture. If you’re indifferent to “Evangelion,” the focus on specific locations might be less engaging, and you might prefer a more general Hakone sightseeing tour.

Overall, if you’re a fan or curious about how anime influences real-world Japan, this tour offers a unique blend of fandom and scenery that’s hard to beat. It’s a chance to see Hakone through the lens of a beloved series, surrounded by stunning views and a welcoming guide.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for a broad audience and is suitable for most age groups, especially fans interested in “Evangelion.”

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts about half a day, making it a convenient addition to your Hakone itinerary.

Do I need to know “Evangelion” beforehand?
While prior knowledge is not required, fans will appreciate the references and locations more fully.

Are transportation costs included?
Transport is arranged as part of the tour, so you won’t need to worry about extra travel expenses between sites.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some yen for shopping are recommended.

Are there any food options included?
The tour focuses on sightseeing and shopping; meal arrangements are not part of the package.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, it is offered in English, making it accessible for most international visitors.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
Any season with clear weather will enhance the scenic views, especially Mount Fuji vistas.

How many people typically join?
The group size isn’t specified, but it’s designed to be manageable and engaging.

This guided “Evangelion” tour in Hakone offers more than just sightseeing — it’s a chance to step into the fictional world of Shinji and friends, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a dash of pop culture magic. Perfect for fans, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to experience a different side of Hakone.