Tokyo: Mt Fuji Area, Lake Ashi, Owakudani, Onsen 1-Day Tour

For those seeking a captivating one-day getaway from the bustling streets of Tokyo, the opportunity to explore the natural wonders and cultural riches of the Mount Fuji area and Hakone region is truly irresistible. From the awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes of Owakudani to the serene beauty of Lake Ashi and the historic charm of Hakone Shrine, this tour promises to immerse visitors in an unforgettable blend of natural splendor and Japanese heritage. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to indulge in local culinary specialties, this excursion offers a seamless and enriching experience that will leave travelers yearning to uncover more of this captivating region.

Key Points

This one-day tour from Tokyo explores the natural and cultural attractions of the Mount Fuji area and Hakone region, including Owakudani Valley and Lake Ashi.
The tour departs from convenient locations in central Tokyo, with air-conditioned coach transportation for the 2.5-hour journey to the Hakone region.
Highlights include visiting the 4,000-year-old Owakudani volcanic crater, taking a leisurely cruise on Lake Ashi, and exploring the historic Hakone Shrine.
Participants can sample the local specialty of ‘black eggs’ cooked in the natural hot springs of Owakudani, as well as freshly grilled manju.
The tour provides a hassle-free experience with included admission tickets, a knowledgeable driver-guide, and convenient pickup and drop-off at central Tokyo locations.

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Tour Overview

This one-day tour from Tokyo to the scenic Mount Fuji area and Hakone region offers travelers a chance to explore some of Japan’s must-see natural and cultural attractions.

During the excursion, you will visit the awe-inspiring Owakudani Valley, a 4,000-year-old volcanic crater, and marvel at the stunning vistas of Lake Ashi, set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Fuji.

The tour also includes a visit to the historic Hakone Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate.

Along the way, guests can indulge in the local specialty of black hot spring eggs, a unique delicacy found in the Owakudani Valley.

With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an immersive introduction to the natural wonders and cultural heritage of this captivating region.

Departure Locations

Departing from either the SMBC Bank Shinjuku Nishiguchi or JR Tokyo Station, this one-day tour offers convenient starting points for travelers exploring the scenic Mount Fuji area and Hakone region.

The two pickup locations provide ample accessibility, catering to those staying in different parts of Tokyo. Guests can simply make their way to one of these designated meeting points and join the air-conditioned coach for the 2.5-hour journey to the Hakone region.

This flexible setup ensures a hassle-free start to the day’s adventure, allowing participants to begin their exploration of Owakudani Valley, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine with ease and efficiency.

Transportation Options

The tour provides air-conditioned coach transportation, whisking guests from the two convenient starting points in Tokyo to the breathtaking Hakone region in around 2.5 hours.

Comfortable and efficient, the coaches offer a relaxing journey, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as they make their way towards Mount Fuji and the volcanic landscapes of Hakone.

The driver-guide is on hand throughout the trip to provide commentary and assistance, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

With pickup and drop-off at the designated meeting points, the transportation logistics are taken care of, allowing guests to focus on seeing the tour’s highlights.

Owakudani Valley Exploration

Exploring the 4,000-year-old volcanic Owakudani Valley, guests encounter a landscape of steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and the distinct aroma of sulfur, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s geologic history.

As they wander the trails, they’ll come across the famous black hot spring eggs, a local specialty cooked in the natural steam vents.

The valley’s unique volcanic features and vibrant colors create a striking contrast against the towering Mount Fuji in the distance.

Guests can sample the sulfurous delicacy, take in the panoramic views, and learn about the valley’s formation and importance from their knowledgeable guide, making this a truly immersive and memorable experience.

Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine

After marveling at the volcanic wonders of Owakudani Valley, the tour now turns its focus to the natural splendor of Lake Ashi and the historic Hakone Shrine.

Nestled amidst the verdant mountains, the serene waters of Lake Ashi create a picturesque setting, with the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji often reflected on the surface. Visitors can take a leisurely cruise across the lake, admiring the breathtaking vistas.

The tour then leads them to the Hakone Shrine, a Shinto shrine known for its picturesque vermilion torii gate. Strolling through the shrine’s tranquil grounds, guests can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region and gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s spiritual traditions.

Local Specialties

Savoring the local specialties at Owakudani Valley is a highlight of the tour, with the chance to indulge in the iconic ‘black eggs’ cooked in the region’s natural hot springs.

These unique eggs, known as ‘onsen tamago,’ are hard-boiled in the sulfurous waters of the volcanic valley, turning their shells a striking charcoal color. The rich, mineral-infused flavor of these eggs is a testament to the area’s geothermal activity.

Beyond the black eggs, visitors can also sample other local delicacies, like freshly grilled manju – a type of steamed bun filled with sweet bean paste. These delectable treats offer a delightful taste of the region’s culinary traditions and the bounty of the volcanic landscape.

Included Amenities

The tour offers a range of included amenities that enhance the overall experience for visitors.

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle is provided, with pickup and drop-off at two designated meeting points in central Tokyo.

A knowledgeable driver-guide accompanies the group throughout the day, offering insights and commentary on the sights.

Admission tickets to all the key attractions, including Owakudani Valley, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine, are included in the tour price.

This ensures a hassle-free experience where travelers can simply sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning natural beauty of the Hakone region.

The inclusion of these amenities makes the tour a convenient and value-packed way to explore the iconic Mount Fuji area from Tokyo.

Important Considerations

Certain important considerations apply to this one-day tour of the Mount Fuji area. For instance, the tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to run, so prospective travelers should ensure they can meet this minimum group size.

Plus, the itinerary may need to be adjusted based on weather and road conditions, which can impact the timing and sequence of activities.

Visitors with visible tattoos should also be aware that they may need to cover them up to enter the hot springs, as is common practice in Japanese onsen facilities.

The guide will be holding a yellow flag with the Gogoday logo at the designated meeting points, making it easy for participants to identify them.

These important details help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on this Mount Fuji and Hakone region tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Professional Video or Photography Equipment Allowed on the Tour?

Professional video or photography equipment is generally allowed on the tour, though the tour operator may have specific guidelines or restrictions. Guests should check with the tour provider for any policies regarding the use of such equipment during the excursion.

Does the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Vegan Dietary Requirements?

The tour does accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary requirements. Guests with special dietary needs can notify the operator in advance, who’ll ensure appropriate meals are provided during the tour’s activities and stops.

Is English-Speaking Assistance Available for the Entire Duration of the Tour?

The tour offers English-speaking assistance throughout the entire duration of the experience. Customers can expect knowledgeable driver-guides to provide commentary and support in English, ensuring a seamless and informative tour.

Can I Store My Luggage With the Tour Operator During the Tour?

The tour operator may be able to store participants’ luggage during the day tour. However, it’s best to check with the operator beforehand to confirm their luggage storage policies and availability.

Is There a Dress Code for Entering the Hot Springs?

Tattoos must be covered to enter the hot springs, and swimsuits are typically required. Modest, comfortable clothing that can get wet is recommended, as hot spring etiquette emphasizes cleanliness and respect for the shared bathing experience.

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Recap

This one-day tour from Tokyo offers a fantastic opportunity to take in the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Mount Fuji area and Hakone region.

Travelers can witness the awe-inspiring Owakudani Valley, admire the stunning views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi, and explore the historic Hakone Shrine, all while indulging in local delicacies.

With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the captivating beauty and rich cultural diversity of this remarkable region.