Hakone 8 Hour Private Tour With Government-Licensed Guide

The Hakone 8-hour private tour provides visitors a chance to explore the picturesque Hakone region guided by a government-licensed expert. Participants can customize their itinerary, selecting 3-4 sites from a list of popular attractions. With transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included, the tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience Hakone’s natural beauty and cultural highlights. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this private tour promises an immersive and unforgettable adventure. As you embark on this journey, you’ll soon discover why Hakone is considered one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations.

Key Points

The 8-hour Hakone private tour is guided by a government-licensed guide, allowing for a customizable exploration of 3-4 sites in the picturesque Hakone region.
The tour includes transportation fees, entrance fees, and lunch, while personal expenses and gratuities for the guide are excluded.
Participants must arrive at the designated meeting point within Hakone on foot, as a private vehicle is not included unless booked in advance.
The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women, as it is a walking tour.
Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are fully refundable, but changes or cancellations within 24 hours are not accepted.

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Tour Overview

The Hakone 8-hour private tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the picturesque Hakone region with a government-licensed guide.

During this customizable tour, guests can select 3-4 sites from the ‘What to Expect‘ list.

The tour meeting point is located within the designated Hakone area, making it easily accessible.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women.

The tour package includes transportation fees, entrance fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide.

Guests will need to book a private vehicle separately at least 5 days in advance if they prefer private transportation over public options.

The maximum group size is 7 passengers for this walking tour.

Inclusions

The Hakone 8-hour private tour includes a licensed local English-speaking guide, transportation fees, entrance fees, and lunch, though other personal expenses are excluded.

The guide will accompany you throughout the tour, ensuring you make the most of your time in Hakone.

All necessary transportation costs, such as public transit or local taxis, are covered. Entrance fees to the selected sites are also included, allowing you to explore without additional out-of-pocket expenses.

A provided lunch will keep you energized during the day.

While these key inclusions are covered, any other personal spending, like souvenirs or extra snacks, isn’t part of the tour package.

Exclusions

While the Hakone 8-hour private tour includes a comprehensive set of services, there are a few key exclusions.

Travelers must book a private vehicle at least 5 days in advance, as this isn’t part of the standard tour package.

Plus, any guide entry fees for sights not listed under the ‘What to Expect’ section aren’t covered and will need to be paid separately.

The exclusions for this tour are:

Private vehicle (must be booked 5 days in advance)
Guide entry fees for sights not listed under ‘What to Expect’
Any personal expenses beyond the inclusions
Gratuities for the guide
Transportation to and from the tour meeting point

Tour Details

This private Hakone tour is a walking tour, with no private vehicle included as part of the standard package. Instead, travelers may utilize public transportation or local taxis to move between sites during the 8-hour experience.

The maximum group size for this tour is 7 passengers, and pickup is arranged on foot within the designated Hakone area.

As this is an active tour, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women.

The tour covers 3-4 sites selected from the ‘What to Expect’ list, with the guide handling all transportation fees and entrance fees.

Travelers should expect a hands-on, engaging experience led by a knowledgeable, government-licensed local guide.

Cancellation Policy

Typically, cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour receive a full refund, while cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Changes less than 24 hours before the tour aren’t accepted.

The tour may be canceled due to poor weather, with a full refund or alternative date offered in such cases.

Refunds and schedule changes are subject to the tour operator’s discretion.

Tour Highlights

The 8-hour private tour of Hakone offers visitors the opportunity to customize their experience by selecting 3-4 sites from a list of attractions. Guided by a government-licensed local expert, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural wonders and cultural highlights.

Participants can choose from options like the iconic Hakone Shrine, the scenic Owakudani volcanic valley, the historic Hakone Checkpoint, and the tranquil Lake Ashinoko.

Throughout the journey, the guide shares insights and ensures a seamless experience. With transportation fees, entrance fees, and lunch included, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the beauty and history of Hakone.

Getting to Hakone

Reaching Hakone is a straightforward process, as the region is well-connected to major transportation hubs across Japan.

Visitors can choose from several convenient options to get to Hakone:

Take a train from Tokyo Station, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes on the Shinkansen bullet train.
Catch a bus from Shinjuku Station, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Drive from central Tokyo, which takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

For those already in the Kanto region, a local train or bus can provide direct access to Hakone from nearby cities.

Fly into Haneda Airport and then take a train or bus to Hakone, a journey of about 2 hours.

Preparing for the Tour

Travelers should prepare for the Hakone tour by reviewing the tour details and making any necessary arrangements.

The tour meeting point is located within the designated area of Hakone, and participants must arrive on foot. Booking a private vehicle is optional, but it must be arranged at least 5 days in advance.

The tour is a walking tour, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women. The tour has a maximum of 7 passengers, and the guide fees and transportation costs are included.

Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are fully refundable, but changes or cancellations within 24 hours aren’t accepted. The tour may be canceled due to poor weather, in which case a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Restroom Breaks Are Included During the Tour?

The tour does not specify a predetermined number of restroom breaks. However, the guide will likely accommodate reasonable requests for restroom stops throughout the 8-hour tour, ensuring the comfort and needs of the passengers are met.

Can the Tour Guide Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?

The tour guide can accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, if requested in advance. The guide will work to ensure the traveler’s dietary requirements are met during the tour.

Is Gratuity Expected for the Tour Guide?

Gratuity is generally not expected for tour guides in Japan, as their services are typically included in the tour price. However, a small tip is appreciated if the guide provided exceptional service.

What Is the Policy for Lost or Damaged Personal Items?

The tour operator’s policy is that they are not responsible for any lost or damaged personal items during the tour. Travelers are advised to keep their belongings secure and to avoid bringing valuable items.

Can the Tour Be Extended Beyond the 8-Hour Duration?

The tour duration can generally be extended, but this would incur additional fees. Customers should check with the tour provider about availability and pricing for extending the tour beyond the standard 8-hour duration.

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