Mount Fuji, Hakone and Owakudani One Day Bus Tour from Tokyo

If you’re after a one-day escape from Tokyo’s hustle, this Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Owakudani tour offers a wonderful peek into Japan’s scenic and cultural highlights. While it’s not a private journey, with thoughtful stops, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible itinerary, it packs in plenty for your money—especially at just $59 per person.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines iconic sights with authentic experiences. You’ll get to enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Ashi, marvel at volcanic landscapes in Owakudani, and explore the charming Enoshima Island—all in one day. The tour also garners praise for its friendly guides and great value, making it a favorite for first-time visitors or those short on time.

However, a potential drawback to keep in mind is that the weather can affect your experience, especially the visibility of Mount Fuji. On cloudy days, the iconic mountain might be hidden, which can be disappointing for some. Also, some reviews mention that the tour can feel slightly rushed, so if you prefer a leisurely pace, this might not be your ideal choice.

This experience suits travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and scenic views, especially those eager to cover a lot in a single day. If you’re okay with a packed schedule and variable weather, then this is an excellent way to see some of Japan’s most famous sights without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Great value for the price, including transportation, guide, and multiple stops
• Diverse experiences, from boat cruises to volcanic valleys and island exploration
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insightful commentary
• Flexible itinerary, although weather can influence what you see
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned buses and well-organized flow
• Authentic local experiences, like trying the famous black eggs in Owakudani

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Lake Ashinoko: The Heart of Hakone’s Natural Beauty

The tour starts with a visit to Lake Ashinoko, a calming caldera lake formed around 3,000 years ago following volcanic activity. Surrounded by lush mountains, this spot is often the first glimpse travelers get of Hakone’s volcanic landscape. Reviewers mention that the lake’s tranquility is striking, and on clear days, you’ll get a perfect view of Mount Fuji across the water.

The real magic, however, begins with the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise. Inspired by European battleships, this boat ride offers a relaxing way to take in the scenery. Many guests have raved about the views, especially on sunny days when Mount Fuji peeks out beyond the lake. One reviewer even described the cruise as “awesome,” highlighting its peacefulness and the stunning surroundings.

Owakudani: The Volcanic Wonderland

Next is Owakudani Valley, a volcanic area formed about 3,000 years ago. It’s a popular stop because of its otherworldly landscape—sulfur vents, bubbling hot springs, and volcanic rocks. Here, you can try the famous black eggs, boiled in hot spring waters—an experience that’s both tasty and symbolic of longevity in Japanese culture.

While the sulfurous fumes and rugged terrain are impressive, some reviews note that the time spent here is limited—around 30 minutes—so don’t expect to explore every corner. Still, many find the experience fascinating, and the views of the volcanic activity are worth it.

The Hakone Ropeway: Panoramic Views from Above

Traveling via the Hakone Ropeway, you’ll ascend over the volcanic landscape. Passengers often comment on how accessible and scenic this gondola ride is, with some lucky enough to catch sight of Mount Fuji if the weather cooperates. The ropeway offers sweeping views of Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the bubbling sulfur fields of Owakudani, making it a highlight for many.

Enoshima Island: Coastal Charm and Cultural Sights

The final major stop is Enoshima Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge accessible to pedestrians and vehicles. This small island is beloved for its scenic beauty and lively atmosphere. The Enoshima Shrine is a peaceful spot honoring local deities, while Benzaiten Shopping Street offers a nostalgic shopping experience.

Guests often find the island’s views of Sagami Bay truly captivating, especially if the weather is clear. Reviewers also mention that exploring the old-fashioned shops and trying local snacks makes for an authentic, relaxing end to the day.

Additional Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendliness and knowledge of the guides, with many mentioning guides like Sandy, Brewster Chisei, and Winnie who go above and beyond to ensure a smooth day. Notably, one guest appreciated how guides adapted to unexpected weather changes, making the best of limited visibility of Mount Fuji.

Several travelers appreciated the value for money, as the tour covers multiple major sights for just $59, with optional expenses like cruise and ropeway tickets costing 1,200 and 1,500 yen respectively. They also enjoyed that the bus was air-conditioned and comfortable, making the long day more pleasant.

However, some guests experienced issues with short visit times or felt that the itinerary lacked depth at each stop. A few found the tour a bit rushed, especially if they wanted to linger longer at certain sites.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is designed for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 45, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly yet organized. You’ll be picked up near public transportation, making it easy to join. The total length is roughly 10 hours, so bring snacks, water, and a camera!

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, plenty of nearby eateries are available at each stop. Keep in mind that the cruise and ropeway are optional extras—plan around the additional cost if you wish to experience these.

Weather plays a big role; clear days will reward you with spectacular views of Mount Fuji, but cloudy days might obscure it. If Mt. Fuji is your main goal, ask the guide about the best days to go or consider this when booking.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun experiences at a very reasonable price. It’s ideal for those who want to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or transportation logistics. The stops are thoughtfully selected to provide a good mix of nature, history, and local flavor.

While some may wish for more time at each site or more personalized experiences, the overall value and the quality of guides make this an appealing option for most visitors. The chance to see Mount Fuji, even if the weather isn’t perfect, combined with engaging stops like Owakudani and Enoshima, makes it a rewarding day out.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, friendly, and diverse day trip that balances sightseeing with authentic local experiences, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to check the weather forecast and arrive prepared for a full day of exploration.

FAQ

Does the tour include lunch? No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of eateries at each stop if you want to grab a bite.

What is the cost of the cruise and ropeway tickets? The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise costs 1,200 yen, and the Hakone Ropeway ticket is 1,500 yen.

Can I see Mount Fuji from this tour? You might see Mount Fuji on clear days, but weather conditions can affect visibility. The guide will do their best to maximize your chances.

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

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues, check the specific sites for stairs or uneven terrain.

Are guides friendly and helpful? Yes, many reviews praise guides like Sandy and Winnie for their knowledge and friendliness, often going above and beyond.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, and your camera.

Is it worth the price? Given the multiple stops, optional extras, and guided experience, many find the $59 price tag excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.

In sum, this tour is an accessible, fun, and reasonably priced way to tick off some of Japan’s most photogenic and culturally significant spots in just one day. Perfect for those short on time but eager to see a lot, it’s a trip that offers a taste of everything—scenery, history, and local flavor—all wrapped into a well-organized package.