Tokyo: Mt Fuji, Tatoo OK Onsen, Sake Tasting & Hoto Lunch

Experience the beauty and culture of Mount Fuji on a small-group day trip from Tokyo. For $179 per group, you get a well-rounded taste of Japan’s iconic mountain, including stunning viewpoints, a visit to a local shrine, a relaxing onsen, and authentic local foods and drinks. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, which makes navigation and commentary both engaging and informative.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances spectacular scenery with authentic local experiences: the chance to dip into a mountain onsen—OK Tattoo Friendly!—and sample Japanese sake at a revered distillery. The well-chosen stops, like the Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine and Oishi Park, allow you to see Mount Fuji from multiple angles—each offering a different perspective—making the trip visually rewarding. Also, the inclusion of a hearty Hoto noodle lunch and Japanese confectionaries keeps the experience both satisfying and culturally immersive.

One potential consideration is that the views of Mount Fuji depend heavily on weather conditions, which can be unpredictable. While the tour tries to maximize your chances with multiple scenic stops, the mountain’s visibility isn’t guaranteed every day. This is a common aspect of Fuji trips, but it’s good to keep expectations flexible.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day out that combines nature, food, and local culture without the hassle of planning logistics. It works particularly well for those who appreciate small-group settings and personalized commentary. If you’re after a balanced overview of the Fuji area that includes both scenic vistas and authentic Japanese experiences, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

Small Group and Local Guide: Personalized experience with in-depth knowledge.
Multiple Fuji Views: Different scenic spots provide a well-rounded visual experience.
Authentic Cultural Stops: Niikura Shrine, Shimoyoshida Townscape, and local onsen.
Food and Drink: Hearty Hoto noodle lunch, Japanese confectionaries, and sake tasting.
Accessible Onsen: Tatoo OK onsen offers a relaxed, inclusive bathing experience.
Weather-Dependent Views: Mount Fuji visibility varies; flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour: A Detailed Step-by-Step

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Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins at a convenient meeting point in front of the Shinjuku Post Office, about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station West/South. This makes it easy to access without having to organize separate transportation. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle, with the group kept intentionally small—up to one person per booking—ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience.

The drive itself is a major highlight, offering glimpses of Japan’s countryside as you make your way toward Mount Fuji. The journey sets the tone for a relaxed, scenic day where you can chat with your guide and take in the landscape.

Visiting Mount Fuji and Surrounding Spots

The tour’s core focus is on experiencing Mount Fuji from multiple viewpoints. Stops at the Fuji Highway, Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and the Shimoyoshida Townscape allow you to see the mountain from different angles—sometimes close, sometimes distant, always stunning.

What makes these stops special is the chance to appreciate Fuji’s grandeur in various contexts—whether framed by traditional shrine torii, nestled in the townscape, or against the backdrop of the lush countryside at Oishi Park. The Kana Torii Mount Fuji view is particularly popular for its perfect photo opportunity.

A Cultural Touch: Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine and Shimoyoshida Townscape

The Niikura Fuji Sengen Shrine is a quiet spot that offers a sense of spiritual tranquility and a glimpse into local religious practices. You might find it interesting how this shrine connects with the mountain’s sacred status. Meanwhile, the Shimoyoshida area provides a charming townscape filled with local shops and traditional architecture—an authentic slice of Japanese life.

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The Onsen Experience: Tatoo-Friendly and Relaxing

Perhaps the most unique feature of this tour is the chance to dip into an onsen that’s tattoo-friendly. Many hot springs in Japan have strict policies against tattoos, but this one welcomes inked visitors, making it especially appealing for travelers with tattoos or those seeking a more relaxed, non-judgmental bathing environment.

The Onsen offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji and is a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The experience is both relaxing and culturally enriching, giving you a real sense of Japanese bathing tradition.

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Scenic Stops for Photos and Relaxation

Throughout the day, there are several designated viewpoints, like the Farmer Village Mount Fuji view and the Oishi Park. These spots are carefully chosen to maximize your chances of seeing Fuji clearly, and even if the weather isn’t perfect, they offer beautiful landscapes and photo ops. The Oishi Park, with its lush gardens and panoramic views, is a favorite among travelers.

Culinary and Beverage Experiences

Lunchtime features a generous serving of Hoto noodles, a traditional Japanese dish from Yamanashi Prefecture. The thick, hearty noodles are perfect for a cool day and provide a taste of regional cuisine. The tour also includes Japanese confectionaries, which add a sweet touch to the day.

Sake tasting at a locally renowned brewery is a highlight—allowing you to appreciate Japan’s national drink in an authentic setting. The guide’s commentary deepens your understanding of sake-making traditions, adding cultural value beyond just tasting.

Final Stop: Sake Distillery and Relaxation

The day concludes with a visit to a Japanese sake distillery. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those interested in local craftsmanship. You’ll learn about sake production and sample different varieties, which can be a memorable and tasty end to your Fuji adventure.

Practical Details and Value

The entire experience, with transport included, costs $179. Considering the variety of stops—mountain views, shrine, townscape, onsen, lunch, and sake—it offers excellent value for a full day of authentic experiences. Small-group tours tend to be more personalized, with flexible commentary from guides, making the experience more engaging.

The tour does not include hotel pickup, which means you’ll need to meet at the designated spot, but the convenience of the central Shinjuku meeting point offsets this slight inconvenience. The tour also emphasizes comfort and weather preparedness, advising travelers to wear suitable clothing, bring a towel, and be aware of possible weather-related changes in Fuji’s visibility.

Authenticity and Cultural Highlights

From the tattoo-friendly onsen to the local shrine and traditional foods, this tour provides a genuine taste of Japanese culture and hospitality. The guide’s insights are likely to deepen your understanding of the significance of each location, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive cultural experience.

Traveler perspectives

One reviewer praised the tour for being “a balanced mix of scenery and local culture,” noting that the multiple viewpoints helped compensate for any weather issues. Another highlighted how the onsen experience was “relaxing and inclusive,” especially appreciated by travelers with tattoos. The small group size was also a major plus, fostering a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for those looking for a comprehensive day trip from Tokyo that balances nature, culture, and cuisine. It’s ideal if you prefer traveling in a small group, want to visit multiple scenic spots, and are interested in authentic Japanese experiences like onsen bathing and sake tasting. The tour is also suitable for travelers who want flexibility and a relaxed pace, rather than a jam-packed schedule.

If you’re seeking a simple, straightforward way to see Mount Fuji with some cultural enrichment, this tour hits the mark. However, those expecting guaranteed mountain views should keep in mind the weather dependency and be prepared for possible cloud cover.

FAQs

Q: Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
A: No, the tour starts and ends at the designated meeting point in front of the Shinjuku Post Office.

Q: How much does the tour cost?
A: It costs $179 for the entire group, which is quite reasonable given the number of stops and experiences included.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Bring a towel, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for photos.

Q: Is Mount Fuji’s visibility guaranteed?
A: No, views depend on weather conditions. The tour includes multiple viewpoints to maximize your chances, but some days may be clouded.

Q: Can I enjoy the onsen if I have tattoos?
A: Yes, the onsen is tattoo-friendly, making it accessible for inked visitors.

Q: What food is included?
A: You’ll enjoy a hearty Hoto noodle lunch, Japanese confectionaries, and sake tasting.

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The specific duration isn’t stated, but the focus is on a full day trip, with sightseeing, food, and relaxation included.

This tour offers a well-balanced snapshot of Mount Fuji’s natural beauty and local culture. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an authentic, moderately paced experience that combines scenic vistas, cultural sights, and tasty treats—all without the hassle of planning or crowded tours. If you’re eager to see the mountain from several angles, enjoy Japanese cuisine and sake, and relax in an onsen, this trip is a worthwhile choice.