Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle

A Complete Look at the Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle

Imagine spending six hours exploring one of Japan’s most scenic mountain resorts, comfortably traveling in a private vehicle with an expert guide. This Hakone Full Day Tour offers just that — a chance to see the highlights of Hakone without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own. For $783.03 per group (up to two travelers), you gain access to this curated experience, led by a multilingual, licensed guide who customizes your day to your interests.

What we love most about this tour is the intimate, flexible approach that allows you to focus on what excites you most—whether it’s the natural beauty of Lake Ashinoko or the art museums overflowing with masterpieces. Also, the comfort of private transportation means no waiting around for public transit or crowded buses.

A small consideration is that entrance fees to certain attractions aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately. Still, this tour is ideal for those who prefer a tailored, relaxed pace and enjoy having an expert guide to highlight the stories behind each site. It suits travelers eager to see Hakone’s top sights efficiently, especially if time is limited or you prefer a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Private, Guided Experience: Your own multilingual guide ensures personalized insights and flexible scheduling.
• Comprehensive Highlights: From Lake Ashinoko to art museums, you get a well-rounded view of Hakone’s natural and artistic treasures.
• Flexible Itinerary: You can choose 3-4 sites from a long list, tailoring the day to your interests.
• Value for Money: While the upfront cost is higher, the convenience and expert guidance make it worthwhile.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private vehicle pickup and drop-off save time and energy, especially if traveling with luggage or family.
• Not Included Fees: Entrance fees to specific attractions like museums and the ropeway are extra; plan accordingly.

Exploring Hakone with a Private Guide

This tour is all about efficiency and personalization. When we think of Hakone, we picture the iconic Lake Ashinoko, the steaming vents of Owakudani, and the vibrant art scene. Instead of wasting precious time figuring out how to get between spots, a private guide takes care of all logistics, leaving you free to soak in the scenery and learn about the area’s many wonders.

The itinerary is flexible, based on your preferences. The official plan includes stops at the picturesque Lake Ashinoko, the sacred Hakone Shrine, and the renowned Pola Museum of Art, along with several other cultural and natural sites. Since you can select 3-4 sites from a list, you’ll get an experience tailored to your interests. For example, if you’re an art lover, you might focus on the Pola Museum and the Hakone Museum of Art. If you’re more into natural beauty, you could opt for the scenic ropeway and Owakudani.

The Highlights in Detail

Lake Ashinoko

The tour begins at Lake Ashinoko, a caldera lake created after Mount Hakone’s last eruption 3,000 years ago. We loved the way this spot combines natural beauty with a sense of history. The views of Mount Fuji behind the lake, especially from Moto-Hakone or the sightseeing boats, are unforgettable. The lake’s shores are mostly quiet, dotted with small towns and lakeside resorts, making it a peaceful spot to start your day.

You’ll enjoy photos of Mt. Fuji framed perfectly by the lake, a favorite among travelers. One reviewer appreciated how their guide rearranged the itinerary when the weather cleared, leading to even better photo opportunities.

Hakone Shrine

A short walk from the lake, Hakone Shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere that feels like stepping into a different world. Its history stretches over 12 centuries, and the shrine has been rebuilt several times due to fire. The lush forest and quiet grounds provide a contemplative space, perfect for a break from sightseeing.

Many visitors mention the mysterious, almost mystical feeling that surrounds the shrine and its torii gate that appears to float on the water. It’s a classic spot, ideal for photos and reflection.

Art Museums and Cultural Stops

For art enthusiasts, Hakone’s museums don’t disappoint. The Pola Museum of Art features works by Monet, Cezanne, Picasso, and Renoir, all set amid a forest of 300-year-old beech trees. Its underground construction minimizes environmental impact, allowing it to blend seamlessly into nature.

The Okada Museum of Art showcases East Asian ceramics and sculptures, with a sprawling, modern setting that includes a Japanese garden and a hot spring foot bath. Visitors rave about the extensive collection and the spacious, tranquil environment.

The Hakone Museum of Art primarily displays Japanese ceramics from prehistoric times through the Edo period, including significant cultural artifacts like a haniwa burial statue. The museum’s peaceful setting and focus on traditional art give visitors a deeper understanding of Japan’s ceramic heritage.

Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani

One of the true highlights is the Hakone Ropeway, which offers breathtaking aerial views of the active sulfur vents of Owakudani and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. Traveling from Sounzan to Togendai takes around 30 minutes with stops, giving enough time to take photos of steaming vents and volcanic activity.

Owakudani is famous for its black eggs, boiled in the sulfurous hot springs until they turn black, believed to bring good luck and long life. The views over the valley are lively, with bubbling vents and the smell of sulfur in the air. Many reviews mention how the guide led visitors directly to the best viewpoints, avoiding the crowds.

Other Notable Stops

Depending on your preferences, you might enjoy a stroll through Sengokuhara, with its tall pampas grass, especially beautiful in fall. The Hakone Venetian Glass Museum provides a colorful setting with Italian-style buildings and glass art, perfect for a slow afternoon.

The Gora Park offers a tranquil escape with its rose gardens, greenhouses, and craft activities like glass blowing, which could be a fun addition if you’re traveling with family or simply want a hands-on experience.

How It Works and What to Expect

The tour includes a licensed, multilingual guide, who will personalize your day based on your interests. You’ll travel comfortably in a private vehicle, with pickup included, which is a major perk for making the most of your limited time.

While the admission fees for museums, the ropeway, and other attractions are not included, the tour’s value lies in the convenience and tailored experience. You’ll appreciate how seamless the day is when you don’t have to wait for buses or worry about transportation logistics.

Travelers praise their guides’ knowledge and flexibility. For instance, Robyn noted how their guide Hiro was “so friendly and well prepared,” even rearranging plans for better photo opportunities. Others appreciated how guides waited patiently at each site, making the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day in Hakone, especially if you prefer not to navigate public transportation or carry all the planning yourself. It’s well-suited for those eager to skip the crowds and dive into the highlights with an expert who can offer authentic insights. It’s also a great choice for couples or small groups looking for a private, flexible experience that adapts to your pace and interests.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, curated day in Hakone with the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour delivers. It’s especially valuable if you want to see the main sights without the stress of planning or waiting for public transport. The flexibility to customize the itinerary means you can focus on the things that matter most to you—be it art, nature, or cultural sites.

However, bear in mind that entrance fees to attractions are extra, so it’s wise to budget accordingly. Also, this tour is most suitable for those comfortable with a full day’s activity, as the itinerary can be quite packed depending on your choices.

This private Hakone tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and artistic discovery. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your limited time in Hakone, especially if you appreciate having an expert guide along to enrich the experience with stories and local tips.

FAQ

Is this tour only for two people? Yes, the price is for up to two travelers, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking a private experience.

Can I choose which sites to visit? Absolutely. The tour is customizable; you can select 3-4 sites from the provided list based on your interests.

Are entrance fees included? No, the admission tickets to sites like museums and the ropeway are additional. You’ll want to budget for these separately.

Does the tour include transportation? Yes, a private vehicle is included for the entire day, with pickup and drop-off services for convenience.

How long does the tour last? Around six hours, giving you ample time to explore each site comfortably without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues? While it’s private and flexible, some sites involve walking on uneven terrain or stairs. Check with your guide about specific needs.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or fog, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Can I book this tour in advance? Yes, it’s typically booked around 46 days in advance, so early planning is recommended.

Are food and entrance fees included? No, meals and entrance fees are not covered, giving you the freedom to choose your own options.