Mount Fuji – Hakone & Onsen Full Day Private Tour

A Closer Look at the Mount Fuji – Hakone & Onsen Full Day Private Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Mount Fuji up close, soaking in a hot spring, and exploring the scenic Hakone area without the hassle of crowded groups, this private tour offers a promising option. For around $470 per group, up to five people, you get a full 10-hour journey led by an English-speaking driver, tailored to your interests. The highlights include a lake cruise, visits to Hakone Shrine and Owakudani’s volcanic valley, plus time to relax in a traditional Onsen and marvel at outdoor sculptures at the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

What we love most about this experience is the personal touch—with a private vehicle, you get flexibility and a chance to customize your day. The scenic Lake Ashi cruise provides some of the best views of Mt. Fuji when the weather cooperates, and the Hakone Ropeway offers exhilarating panoramas of the volcanic landscape and surrounding mountains. The opportunity to sample the black eggs boiled in hot spring water is a fun, local culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

One potential drawback is the variability of the experience, largely dependent on weather and the driver’s familiarity with Hakone. As one reviewer noted, if your driver isn’t well-versed in local sights, your day might be less smooth. Also, the tour’s price covers only the essentials; extras like entrance fees or onsen charges are additional, which could add up.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value privacy and flexibility. It’s ideal if you prefer to avoid large tour groups and want a more authentic, personalized day exploring Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural sites. However, it may not be the best choice for those with mobility issues or those seeking a guided commentary throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored for your group.
• Scenic highlights include Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Owakudani, and the Open-Air Museum.
• Views of Mount Fuji are possible but weather-dependent.
• Luxury vehicle and English-speaking driver enhance comfort and communication.
• Additional costs may include entrance fees, onsen charges, and parking.
• Mixed reviews highlight the importance of driver knowledge for a smooth trip.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup in Tokyo

The tour begins with hotel pickup within Tokyo’s 23 wards, and optional pickup from Haneda Airport. This makes it easy for travelers already based in the city to start their day without additional hassle. You’ll be greeted by your English-speaking driver, a key feature that sets this experience apart from more impersonal bus tours. The driver’s role is not just transport but also a source of local insights—if they’re well-informed.

Hakone Shrine & Kuzuryu Shrine Singu

Your first stop is the Hakone Shrine, established over 1,200 years ago. It’s a site famed for its red torii gate that appears to float on Lake Ashi during calm days—an iconic view. The shrine is considered a place of divine benefits, according to local tradition, offering good luck, purification, and blessings for safe travel or childbirth. Expect about 30 minutes here for photos, prayers, or a quick look around.

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Lake Ashi Cruise: Scenic and Photogenic

Next, you’ll hop on the pirate-style cruise across Lake Ashinoko. This is the moment to relax, breathe in fresh mountain air, and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, with Mount Fuji sometimes visible in the distance. The cruise lasts around an hour, giving you time to enjoy the natural scenery. One review captures the charm well: “We enjoyed the boat ride, and the views of Mt. Fuji were breathtaking when the weather was clear.”

Hakone Open-Air Museum: Art and Nature Collide

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is the final major stop, established in 1969. It features sculptures from some of the world’s most significant modern artists, set against the backdrop of Hakone’s lush landscape. You can take a short walk through the outdoor exhibits, and there’s an outdoor foot bath where you can soak your tired feet—scented with floating oranges and lemons, with pebbles to massage your soles. This blend of art and nature makes for a unique experience that appeals to many travelers.

Owakudani and the Black Eggs

A highlight for many is the volcanic valley of Owakudani, accessible via the Ropeway. The view from the cable car is impressive, with sulfur vents and steaming hot springs. Here, you can sample the famous black eggs, boiled in the hot springs—whose shells turn black from iron and sulfur. These eggs are said to add seven years to your life, a fun and tasty local tradition.

Relaxing in a Hot Spring (Onsen)

A key part of the Hakone experience is visiting a hot spring. While the tour doesn’t specify which onsen you’ll visit, the opportunity to soak in mineral-rich waters with views of nature adds a calming end to your busy day. Keep in mind that onsen fees are not included and vary by location.

Ending the Day and Drop-off

After a full day, your driver will return you to your Tokyo hotel or Haneda Airport. The flexibility of a private tour means you can choose to extend or adjust your stops if desired, although additional charges may apply.

Practical Insights for Your Trip

Transportation & Comfort: Traveling in a luxury vehicle with only your group means more space and comfort than a typical bus. It also allows for more spontaneous stops or delays without disrupting others. The driver will handle tolls and fuel, so your focus remains on enjoying the scenery.

Timing & Duration: The 10-hour schedule includes travel time, sightseeing, and some flexibility. Expect some variability based on traffic and weather, especially around popular spots like Lake Ashi and Owakudani.

Cost & Value: At around $470 for up to five people, this tour offers good value, especially for those who prefer a private experience. The price covers transportation and an English-speaking driver, but entrance fees, onsen charges, and meals are extra.

Weather Considerations: Clear skies are crucial for seeing Mount Fuji. Sometimes, clouds obscure the peak, which can be disappointing if capturing that perfect photo is your goal. Hakone’s views are often spectacular but unpredictable.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared a less positive experience, describing their driver as “lost and silent,” which made the day frustrating, and they missed seeing Fuji altogether. This underscores how critical a knowledgeable and engaged driver is for a smooth and enjoyable day.

In contrast, another guest praised their guide Mas, who “taught us a lot about Japanese culture” and made the day memorable. These comments highlight the importance of driver expertise and friendliness.

Most travelers seem to agree that the scenic beauty of Hakone, combined with the opportunity to relax in a hot spring or enjoy local foods like black eggs, makes for a worthwhile day. The art at the Open-Air Museum also offers a memorable cultural touchpoint.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private Hakone tour suits those who prioritize personalized service and flexible scheduling. It’s perfect for families or small groups who want to avoid the chaos of larger tours and enjoy the scenery at their own pace. If your main goal is to get a good view of Mount Fuji and enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot spring, this tour delivers.

However, travelers seeking a highly guided experience with detailed commentary or who have specific mobility needs may want to clarify what’s included or consider alternative options. Also, if weather is poor, views of Fuji might be limited, so plan accordingly.

Overall, for a balanced look at Hakone’s natural beauty, art, and culture—delivered in comfort and style—this private tour has plenty to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but note that children under 6 need a child/booster seat, which should be requested at booking.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off within Tokyo’s 23 wards, a luxury vehicle, an English-speaking driver, tolls, fuel, and passenger insurance. Entrance fees, onsen charges, and food are extra.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can ask your driver to modify stops or extend certain parts, though extra hours cost 5,000 JPY per hour.

What if the weather is cloudy?
Your chances of seeing Mount Fuji depend on the weather. Clear days offer the best views, but Hakone’s other sights are still worth exploring if Fuji’s peak is hidden.

How long is the drive from Tokyo to Hakone?
It can take around 2 to 3 hours each way, depending on traffic. The driver will handle the navigation, so you can relax during transit.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, entrance fees to attractions, hot spring charges, parking, and food are not included and vary by location.

In essence, this private tour offers a comfortable, flexible way to explore Hakone’s most iconic sights while enjoying the company of a knowledgeable guide. It’s a great choice for travelers who value personalized service and want to experience the region’s natural and cultural highlights without feeling rushed or crowded. Just watch the weather forecast and clarify what’s included before booking to ensure a smooth adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: