Hakone is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural sights, and fascinating volcanic activity—all easily accessible for a full day of exploring. Unlike many tourist spots, Hakone offers a variety of ways to experience its hot springs, stunning vistas, and art. For example, a private guide can help you navigate the area efficiently while sharing insights about Hakone Shrine or Lake Ashi. Meanwhile, a luxury chauffeur tour offers a hands-off, high-end experience for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery in style. Whatever your style, these tours promise to give you a rich taste of Hakone’s unique blend of nature and culture.
What makes Hakone ideal for a full-day tour? Its compact size packs in volcanic valleys, scenic lakes, historic temples, and world-class art. The ease of access via train, cable car, and boat means you can cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed. Plus, many tours include iconic experiences like the Hakone Ropeway or a cruise on Lake Ashi, where you might even glimpse Mount Fuji. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, cultural sights, or relaxing hot springs, Hakone’s full-day tours are a smart way to maximize your trip.
Quick Overview
Our top picks for full-day Hakone tours include private guided experiences, customizable trips with private transfers, and luxury chauffeur outings. They range from straightforward sightseeing to in-depth cultural immersions. Some tours focus on iconic landmarks like Hakone Shrine, Owakudani, and Lake Ashi, while others add in art museums or shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlet. All options are designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse of Hakone’s highlights. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Hakone Full-Day Private Tour
This private tour is perfect if you want a flexible, personal experience. Led by your own guide, you’ll visit highlights like Hakone Shrine, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and take a cruise on Lake Ashi. The tour lasts about 7 hours and is tailored to your schedule, with a preferred morning start. The guide shares commentary on the area’s history, culture, and volcanic activity, enriching your visit beyond just sightseeing.
What stands out about this tour is its intimate setting—no crowded group to contend with—and the ability to customize the stops. The guide can focus on your interests, whether that’s art, nature, or local legends. Reviews praise guides like Akira for being knowledgeable and personable, with guests noting how efficiently it covers Hakone’s key sights. The itinerary includes a visit to Hakone Shrine, famed for its torii gate in Lake Ashi, and the Owaku-dani Valley with its sulfur vents and volcanic steam. Entry tickets are not included, so budget accordingly.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, flexible, and in-depth exploration, this tour delivers with expert guidance and a personalized touch.
2. Hakone: Customizable Full Day Tour with Private Transfer
For travelers who want total control over their day, this customizable tour offers a 10-hour private car with a driver. You decide what to see and when, whether it’s soaking in onsen hot springs, visiting art museums, or hiking scenic trails. The comfort of a private vehicle means no worries about navigating public transport or language barriers.
This tour is ideal for those who have specific interests or limited time. The driver can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel or preferred location in Hakone, creating a seamless experience. While it doesn’t include a set itinerary, popular stops include Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Its flexibility makes it a top choice for families, couples, or anyone who wants to tailor their day exactly to their preferences.
Guests appreciate the freedom this tour provides, with one reviewer noting, “We could see everything we wanted at our own pace.” It costs a bit more than guided group tours but offers great value for personalized time and convenience.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who crave flexibility, comfort, and a tailor-made experience.
3. Hakone Full-Day Private Tour from Tokyo (Customizable)
Leaving Tokyo behind, this private tour offers a full day in Hakone with the added benefit of being customizable. For approximately $472 for up to five people, it’s a fantastic way to experience Hakone without the hassle of public transportation. The tour includes iconic stops like Lake Ashi for stunning views of Mount Fuji, a Pirate Ship cruise, and the famous Black Eggs from Owakudani.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility—your guide can adapt the itinerary based on your interests, whether that’s art, nature, or shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlet. Reviews highlight how guides like Toshi go above and beyond, answering questions and ensuring you see everything on your wishlist. This tour provides a personal, intimate experience, perfect for those visiting Hakone from Tokyo who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day.
The included activities and scenic spots make it great value, especially considering the private guide and transportation. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who want an exclusive experience.
Bottom line: If you’re coming from Tokyo and want a customizable, private day trip, this tour packs a lot into one memorable day.
4. Hakone Full-Day Private Tour Hotel Pickup and Highlights
This flexible 8-hour private tour lets you pick 3–4 attractions, ideal if you want to prioritize certain sights or combine outdoor adventures with indoor attractions. The tour includes stops at Owakudani, the Hakone Ropeway, and a Lake Ashi cruise, plus options like the Open-Air Museum or a traditional garden.
The standout feature is its adaptability—your guide can suggest the best options based on weather, your interests, and energy levels. One reviewer mentions, “Our guide Toshi was very accommodating, and we managed to see everything we wanted, including the volcanic valley and art museum.” The tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience but don’t want to worry about logistics.
The itinerary is flexible enough to include or skip certain stops, making it suitable for families or travelers with limited time. Entry tickets are not included, but this allows you to choose what to include.
Bottom line: This tour is excellent if you want to customize your day with a private guide, covering your must-see spots at your own pace.
5. Private Hakone Full-day Car Tour with Hotel Pickup – Local Guide
Designed for those seeking a personalized, flexible experience, this private car tour costs around $393 for up to five people. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a local guide tailoring your day based on your interests and the weather. You might explore Hakone Shrine, visit Owakudani, or enjoy a lakeside cruise—your choice.
Guests rave about the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, with one reviewer saying, “Mir was very accommodating and knew Hakone well. He customized the schedule to fit our preferences and weather conditions.” The tour emphasizes comfort and convenience, making it ideal for travelers who want to avoid public transport and rigid schedules.
It’s suited for small groups or couples who want an exclusive, hassle-free day. The itinerary is customizable to include outdoor sights like Lake Ashi or indoor activities like museums or hot springs.
Bottom line: If you want a totally tailored day with a friendly local guide, this private car tour offers great value and flexibility.
$392.89 per group (up to 5)
6. Customizable Private Full Day Hakone Tour by car
For around $157 per person, this private tour offers a basic but flexible way to see Hakone. You’ll enjoy a private, air-conditioned vehicle and can visit highlights like Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and Owakudani. The guide will help craft an itinerary based on your preferences, making sure you get the most out of your day.
Guests report that the guide, Mir, knew Hakone well and was flexible with timing. One reviewer mentions, “He was very knowledgeable and made sure we saw everything we wanted.” It’s a cost-effective option for small groups or budget-conscious travelers who still want a private experience. The tour includes stops at major sights, but the pace is controlled by your guide, which is perfect for families or less mobile travelers.
While not as comprehensive as some high-end tours, this option provides a solid introduction to Hakone’s top sights with the benefit of direct customization.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a private, budget-friendly way to explore Hakone’s main attractions at their own pace.
7. Hakone Full Day Chartered Private Tour: Art & Nature
This luxury private tour costs $674 per person and promises an all-inclusive day of art, nature, and relaxation. With a private car from Tokyo, your guide takes care of everything, including entrance fees and tailored stops. It’s perfect for those who want a seamless, high-end experience.
Highlights include visits to Hakone Shrine, Owakudani, and several art museums, along with secret spots only locals know. The guide will customize the itinerary based on your interests, ensuring you see what matters most. Reviewers mention how the personalized service made their day special, especially the expert insights on Hakone’s art scene and natural sights.
Because everything is included, this tour offers excellent value for travelers who want comfort, exclusivity, and a curated experience. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate fine art, scenic beauty, and personalized service.
Bottom line: If budget is less of a concern, this premium tour provides a tailored, stress-free day with all logistics covered.
$674 per person
8. Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
This private tour offers a guided experience with a vehicle, allowing you to see several highlights like Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. It’s ideal for visitors who want a guided, comfortable day but with fewer frills.
Guests mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the beautiful views of Mount Fuji from the lake. The flexible itinerary means you can adjust stops based on your interests, making it suitable for families or explorers. The tour is a straightforward way to combine outdoor and indoor attractions without the hassle of public transit.
Entry tickets are not included, so plan on purchasing those if you want to enter specific sites. The tour balances guided commentary with flexibility, perfect for travelers who want expert insights but also some personal choices.
Bottom line: Choose this if you want a guided, comfortable way to see Hakone’s top sights with flexibility.
$369 per person
9. Full Day Private Tour in Hakone
This full-day private tour is less reviewed but offers a complete experience of Hakone’s major sights. It includes transportation, a guide, and a full itinerary designed to showcase the area’s best features. It’s a practical option for those who want to see everything in one day without worrying about logistics.
While specific reviews are lacking, the package promises a well-rounded view of Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a straightforward, guided day that covers all the essentials.
Bottom line: Good for travelers who want a simple, all-in-one private experience in Hakone.
$818.64 per person
10. Hakone Luxury Exclusive Tour – Full Day with Chauffeured Vehicle
This luxury tour costs $555 per person and offers a smooth, stress-free day in style. Your private chauffeur handles all logistics, taking you to Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine—plus any additional spots you desire. Everything is tailored to your preferences.
Guests love the VIP treatment, noting that the private car and personalized itinerary make for a memorable, relaxing day. The flexible stops include Mt. Fuji views, hot springs, and cultural sites, all with the comfort of a private chauffeur.
Best suited for travelers who want a premium experience with top-notch service, this tour ensures you avoid crowded trains and buses while enjoying Hakone’s best.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a high-end, hassle-free day with personalized service and exclusive access.
$555.37 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hakone Tour
When selecting a full-day tour in Hakone, consider your budget, interests, and mobility. If you prefer a guided experience with detailed commentary, Tours #1 and #8 offer excellent options. For more flexibility and customization, Tours #2 and #6 let you craft your own adventure. If luxury and convenience are your priorities, Tours #7 and #10 deliver VIP treatment. Budget travelers will appreciate Tour #6 for its affordability and flexibility.
Think about what interests you most—art, nature, hot springs, or shopping—and pick a tour that aligns. For example, if you love art, Tours #7 and #8 include access to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. For scenic views of Mount Fuji, Tours #3 and #10 provide spectacular vantage points. And if you want a relaxed, high-end experience, the luxury tours with private chauffeur are hard to beat.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth trip.
To sum it up, Hakone offers a variety of full-day tours suited to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want a private guide, a customizable day, or an indulgent luxury trip, you’ll find options that fit. For first-timers, a guided private tour like #1 or #8 provides a great overview. For those wanting to explore at their own pace, Tours #2 and #6 are perfect. And if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply love comfort, the luxury options #7 and #10 will elevate your experience. Whatever you choose, Hakone’s landscapes and sights won’t disappoint. Book early, plan wisely, and enjoy your memorable day in this beautiful part of Japan.