From Tokyo: Hakone Cruise & Mt. Fuji 5th Station Day Trip

Escape the bustling city of Tokyo and learn about the serene landscapes of Hakone and Mount Fuji. This captivating day trip offers a chance to discover Japan’s natural wonders, from a picturesque boat cruise on Lake Ashi to a ropeway ride providing panoramic views. Savor a delightful local lunch, explore the Owakudani Valley, and ascend to the iconic 5th Station of Mount Fuji. With limited capacity, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the country’s breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this journey is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the stunning natural landscapes that Japan has to offer.

Key Points

This day trip offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, combining a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi, a ropeway ride with panoramic views, and a visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji 5th Station.
Travelers can savor authentic regional cuisine from the Hakone area during a delightful local lunch, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The tour explores the Owakudani Valley, showcasing the area’s volcanic activity, bubbling mud pools, and the opportunity to try the famous ‘black eggs’ boiled in natural hot springs.
In case the Mt. Fuji 5th Station is inaccessible, the tour offers an alternate stop at the picturesque Oshino Hakkai, featuring eight ponds fed by the melting snow of Mt. Fuji.
The day trip is likely to sell out quickly due to limited capacity, providing an immersive experience that showcases Japan’s natural beauty and scenic landscapes.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip from Tokyo offers visitors a captivating journey through the scenic landscapes of Hakone and the iconic Mt. Fuji, providing an immersive experience that blends natural wonders with cultural highlights.

Departing from central Tokyo, the excursion takes travelers on a 12-hour adventure, featuring a picturesque boat cruise across Lake Ashi, a thrilling ropeway ride, and a visit to the 5th Station of Mt. Fuji.

Along the way, travelers will savor a delightful local lunch and explore the volcanic Owakudani Valley.

With a maximum capacity of participants, this tour is likely to sell out quickly, making it an opportunity not to be missed for those seeking a well-rounded exploration of Japan’s natural beauty.

Exploring Lake Ashi and Hakone Ropeway

After departing central Tokyo by coach, travelers embark on a captivating boat cruise across the serene waters of Lake Ashi, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Hakone mountains.

As the boat glides gracefully along the lake, passengers can admire the iconic Heiwa no Torii, a picturesque red-lacquered torii gate that stands as a symbol of the region’s cultural heritage. The boat cruise offers a delightful respite from the journey, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Following the cruise, the group boards the Hakone Ropeway, a scenic cable car system that transports them high above the lush landscape, offering panoramic views of the volcanic Owakudani Valley and, on a clear day, the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Travelers savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where they indulge in authentic regional cuisine that showcases the flavors and culinary traditions of the Hakone area.

The meal features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that are expertly prepared, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Diners might start with a refreshing appetizer, such as a chilled tofu salad with ginger dressing, before moving on to heartier dishes like soba noodles served with tempura vegetables or a comforting Japanese curry.

The meal is accompanied by warm, fragrant rice and a selection of pickled vegetables, providing a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience that energizes the group for the next leg of the journey.

Visiting Owakudani Valley

As the group boards the Hakone Ropeway, they ascend through the serene landscapes of the Owakudani Valley, a geothermal wonderland renowned for its volcanic activity and dramatic vistas. The gondola glides over steaming vents, where sulfurous fumes waft through the air, a stark reminder of the region’s fiery past.

Upon reaching the valley floor, visitors are greeted by a captivating landscape:

Bubbling mud pools that gurgle and spit, like a ancient cauldron of nature’s raw power.

Charred, blackened rocks that testify to the valley’s volcanic heritage.

The iconic ‘black eggs‘, hard-boiled in the natural hot springs, a local delicacy said to prolong life.

Sweeping panoramas of the surrounding mountains, a breathtaking backdrop to this geothermal wonder.

Reaching the Mt. Fuji 5th Station

From the Owakudani Valley, the group boards the bus once more, eagerly anticipating the next leg of their journey to the iconic Mt. Fuji 5th Station. As the vehicle climbs higher into the mountains, the scenery gradually transforms, with lush forests giving way to rugged, volcanic landscapes that bear the distinct imprint of Japan’s most revered peak.

Reaching the 5th Station	Experience
Breathtaking Views	Gaze upon the majestic summit, often shrouded in clouds, and feel the awe of standing in the presence of this natural wonder.
Commemorative Photos	Capture the moment with unforgettable snapshots, framing the distinctive shape of Mt. Fuji against the horizon.
Souvenir Hunting	Browse the quaint shops and stalls, discovering unique trinkets and mementos to take home and remember the day’s adventure.
Acclimatization	Pause and adjust to the higher elevation, preparing for the descent or potential hiking further up the mountain.

Alternate Option: Oshino Hakkai

Should the Mt. Fuji 5th Station be inaccessible due to weather or other factors, the tour offers an alternative stop at the enchanting Oshino Hakkai.

These eight picturesque ponds, fed by the melting snow of Mt. Fuji, captivate visitors with their crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. Strolling along the moss-covered pathways, one can’t help but feel a sense of calm and wonder. The ponds’ reflections create a mirror-like effect, allowing visitors to admire Mt. Fuji’s majestic presence.

Some highlights of Oshino Hakkai include:

Drinking the pure, spring water from the traditional ‘water spouts’
Marveling at the intricate stone arrangements and traditional architecture
Observing the koi fish swimming in the ponds
Enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and taking in the stunning natural beauty

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes a guide, bus fare, an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch (if the option is selected), and boarding tickets for the sightseeing cruise and Ropeway.

However, infants aged 0-2 years travel for free without a seat or meal, and halal and vegan lunch options aren’t available. Vegetarian requests require advance notice, and the schedule is subject to change due to factors like traffic or weather conditions.

This day trip offers an immersive experience, allowing you to marvel at the stunning views from the Hakone Ropeway and the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, while also enjoying the serene beauty of Lake Ashi and the Owakudani Valley.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Tour Booking and Availability

This tour is likely to sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book your spot as soon as possible. Prices start at $102.80 per person, and the tour departs from two convenient locations in Shinjuku, making it easily accessible for travelers.

With a duration of 12 hours, this day trip offers an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the natural wonders of Hakone and Mount Fuji.

The highlights of this tour include:

Admiring the stunning Heiwa no Torii from the Hakone Pirate Ship.
Marveling at the breathtaking views from the Hakone Ropeway and the iconic Mount Fuji 5th Station.
Indulging in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.
Discovering the serene beauty of Oshino Hakkai if the Mount Fuji 5th Station isn’t accessible.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Hakone and Mount Fuji in one unforgettable day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?

Travelers can typically make minor changes to the itinerary during the tour, though major modifications may not be possible. The guide will strive to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s schedule and logistics.

Will the Tour Be Conducted in Multiple Languages?

The tour is conducted in multiple languages, allowing participants from diverse backgrounds to fully enjoy the experience. Guides are well-versed in providing commentary in several languages, ensuring everyone can appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of the sites visited.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Lunch to a More Premium Menu?

The tour offers a standard lunch, but there’s no option to upgrade to a premium menu. Travelers seeking a more elevated dining experience would need to make their own arrangements for a separate meal during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the inclusion of lunch in the package offers a more convenient dining experience. Checking with the tour provider is recommended to confirm the policy.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Day Trip?

The cancellation and refund policy allows full refunds for cancellations made 24 hours or more before the tour, and partial refunds for shorter notice. Flexibility is provided to accommodate unexpected circumstances.

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Recap

This day trip offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of Hakone and Mount Fuji.

From a serene boat cruise to panoramic ropeway rides and a visit to the iconic 5th Station, the experience is enhanced by a delightful local lunch and the exploration of Owakudani Valley.

With limited capacity, this tour provides an unparalleled chance to witness Japan’s breathtaking landscapes.