Tokyo : HAKONE x 3XPERIENCE’s+OWAKUDANI+GOTEMBA (1 day tour)

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Tokyo for a day and soak in some of Japan’s most beautiful natural sights, the Hakone trip offered by Tokyo Turismo Ltda might just be what you need. Priced at $271 per person for a 10-hour experience, it promises a well-curated itinerary of lakes, temples, art, and geothermal wonders, all led by friendly, multilingual guides.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized stops—you get to choose what interests you most, whether that’s the stunning Lake Ashi, the mystical Hakone Shrine, or the fascinating Open-Air Museum. Second, the luxury transportation—a comfortable Alphard ensures you travel in style and safety, with all costs covered from pickup to return.

A potential consideration? Since the tour lasts around 10 hours, it’s a full day—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy immersive sightseeing and don’t mind a packed schedule. Also, while the price includes many highlights, shopping and personal expenses are on your own, which is worth planning for.

This journey is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural scenery, cultural sites, and art, especially those who value guided insights and flexibility. It’s suitable for first-timers to Hakone, families, or anyone looking for a stress-free way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning transportation themselves.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows stops at your preferred sites of interest.
• Multilingual guides enhance understanding of cultural and natural highlights.
• Luxury vehicle provides comfort and safety during the 10-hour trip.
• Includes entry to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, adding artistic value.
• Geothermal exploration at Owakudani offers a fiery glimpse into Japan’s volcanic activity.
• Shopping at Gotemba Outlets offers a break and a chance to find good deals near Mount Fuji.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hakone Day Trip

Starting Point and Pickup Options

The tour begins with multiple pickup locations across Tokyo—Shinjuku, Asakusa, Ginza, Chiyoda, and Tokyo—making it convenient regardless of your hotel or Airbnb. After confirming your spot, you’ll receive an email and WhatsApp instructions, streamlining the pickup process. This flexibility is a significant plus, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with local transportation.

The Journey to Hakone

Once on board the luxurious Alphard, the journey to Hakone feels like a treat rather than a chore. With gasoline, tolls, and all transportation costs included, there’s no need to worry about hidden fees—just sit back and enjoy the scenery. The drive itself offers glimpses of Japan’s lush countryside and, depending on the season, vibrant foliage or cherry blossoms.

Stop 1: Lake Ashi

The first major stop is the iconic Lake Ashi. Here, you’ll take a boat cruise on the lake, a highlight that offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Many reviews highlight how special it is to see Fuji framed by calm waters and surrounding forests. We loved the way this moment combines natural beauty with a sense of serenity—an ideal spot for photos or just to breathe in the mountain air.

Stop 2: Hakone Shrine

Next, a scenic drive leads to the Hakone Shrine, known for its majestic red torii gateway standing in the lake. This spiritual site, hidden among trees, evokes a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a quick walk and some memorable photos. The guide often shares interesting stories about the shrine’s significance, enriching the visit beyond just a photo stop.

Stop 3: Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Open-Air Museum is a personal favorite. It features world-renowned sculptures set amid the mountains, with panoramic views that enhance their artistic impact. Expect about 1.5 hours here—ample time to explore the art installations, stroll through sculpture gardens, and soak in the spectacular scenery. Many travelers comment that this spot combines culture and nature beautifully, making it a highlight for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Stop 4: Owakudani (Volcano Valley)

A visit to Owakudani offers a glimpse into Japan’s volcanic activity. You can walk around fumaroles, hot springs, and taste the famous “black eggs”—boiled in sulphurous waters, turning their shells black. The tour often includes about an hour here, and many find it fascinating to witness the geothermal forces up close. Alternatively, some reviews mention that weather conditions can affect visibility, so don’t be surprised if Mount Fuji peeks out or stays hidden—either way, the geothermal activity is impressive.

Stop 5: Gotemba Premium Outlets

The final stop is Gotemba Outlets, Japan’s largest outlet mall. With around 300 stores, it’s a shopper’s paradise offering better-than-average prices on international and Japanese brands. The 50-meter Ferris wheel provides a last scenic peek of Mount Fuji, and the hot spring bath adds a relaxing option after a day’s sightseeing. While shopping isn’t included, many guests appreciate having this as a mellow wind-down and a chance to grab souvenirs or gifts.

Return and Drop-Off

After a full day, you’ll be returned to your original pickup point—Ginza, Shinjuku, Asakusa, or Chiyoda—just in time to relax or continue exploring Tokyo. The entire experience emphasizes convenience and value—with all transportation costs covered, entrance fees included, and a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews often mention the “stunning views” of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi and the Ferris wheel, which are indeed breathtaking in good weather. “The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable,” one review states, highlighting the value of having a multilingual guide who personalizes the experience. Others appreciate the luxury vehicle that makes the long day comfortable and stress-free.

A few mention that time is tight—since the tour only lasts about 8 hours of sightseeing, some sites may feel rushed if you want to linger longer. Weather can also impact the experience, especially at Owakudani, but even in less-than-perfect conditions, the geothermal activity remains impressive.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to trying to organize transportation, entry fees, and guides yourself, this tour packages everything into one seamless day. The luxury vehicle means no cramped buses or confusing train transfers, and the guided commentary provides context that makes the sights more meaningful. The opportunity to see Mount Fuji, explore volcanic geothermal sites, and enjoy outdoor art all in one day makes this a cost-effective way to pack a lot into a single trip.

While shopping at Gotemba might be an optional extra, it also provides a practical way to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a break from sightseeing. The fact that children are welcome and the tour is wheelchair accessible broadens its appeal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors who want an overview of Hakone’s highlights without the hassle of local transit planning. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and a guided experience. If you love stunning mountain views, outdoor art, and geothermal sites, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore each site in depth, you might want to consider a longer, more flexible itinerary.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

What is included in the price?
All transportation costs, including gasoline and tolls, plus entry to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, are included.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, but personal spending and shopping at Gotemba Outlets are not included, so plan your budget accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are very welcome, making it a good option for families.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as there’s walking involved at multiple stops.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is designed to cover key highlights, guides can adapt visits based on your interests, making it a flexible experience.

Final Thoughts

This Hakone day tour from Tokyo offers an engaging blend of mountain vistas, cultural sites, outdoor art, and geothermal activity. The luxury transportation and multilingual guides help simplify a complex region into a manageable and enjoyable day. It’s a solid choice for those who want a well-organized, scenic, and educational escape from the city’s hustle.

If stunning views, outdoor sculpture parks, and geothermal wonders appeal to you—and you value comfort and guided insights—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re looking for a value-packed day trip that balances natural beauty with cultural richness without the stress of independent planning.

For those with limited time or who prefer a hassle-free experience that covers Hakone’s highlights, this tour provides a dependable, enjoyable way to see one of Japan’s most scenic regions. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure—Mount Fuji and the volcanic landscapes await.

You can check availability for your dates here: