Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour with Cable Car and Cruise

Discovering Japan’s Icon: A Detailed Look at the Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour with Cable Car and Cruise

If you’re dreaming of seeing Mount Fuji up close without the hassle of planning a complex trip, a guided tour from Tokyo offers a convenient, engaging way to tick this iconic peak off your bucket list. This one-day excursion takes you into the heart of Hakone and the surrounding volcanic landscape, blending natural scenery, cultural stops, and exciting transport experiences.

Based on feedback from travelers, this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes—it emphasizes professional guides, breathtaking views, and authentic local experiences like sampling hot spring eggs boiled in sulphuric water.

One thing to keep in mind: the weather can impact visibility, especially at Mt. Fuji. If fog or rain roll in, the famous summit might stay hidden. Still, the tour offers plenty of other highlights that make it worthwhile, especially for those eager to explore Japan’s volcanic landscapes in a day.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy guided trips with a mix of sightseeing and culture, and it appeals to those seeking a value-packed experience without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Convenient all-in-one day trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone, eliminating the need for personal transport planning.
• Expert guides provide insights and help maximize sightseeing time, especially at key spots like the 5th Station.
• Multiple activities including a cable car ride over Owakudani, a Lake Ashi cruise, and optional local cuisine.
• Stunning views of Mt. Fuji, weather permitting, from various vantage points.
• Flexible options for returning to Tokyo or being dropped off at Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara Station.
• Authentic experiences such as tasting sulfur-heated eggs and exploring volcanic fumaroles.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Departure from Tokyo and Journey to Mt. Fuji

The tour departs from the Shinjuku I-Land building, meeting at Robert Indiana’s “LOVE” sculpture—easily recognizable and central in Tokyo’s bustle. From there, it’s around a 2.5-hour drive to the Fuji area, with comfortable, air-conditioned buses making the journey pleasant.

Traveling along the Subaru Line and Subaru Road, you’ll traverse scenic routes showcasing Japan’s countryside and urban outskirts, building excitement for the day ahead. The atmosphere on the bus is generally lively, with guides sharing nuggets of info about Mt. Fuji and the region.

Visiting the Subaru 5th Station

The highlight for most is reaching the Subaru 5th Station at about 2,300 meters elevation. Here, you get the closest view of Mt. Fuji’s summit, weather permitting. The guides often keep a watchful eye on cloud cover, and if the weather isn’t clear enough for a good view, they’ll take you to the highest accessible point instead.

Travelers have noted that the 5th Station is a great spot for souvenirs, with shops selling local crafts and snacks, including the famous sulphur-boiled eggs—a quirky, tasty treat. One reviewer mentioned, “The trip was well-organized and we reached the 5th level, with an excellent lunch afterward.”

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Optional Lunch at a Local Restaurant

If you opt for the lunch package, you’ll enjoy a hot pot meal and a half buffet—a satisfying way to fuel up after walking around the mountain. The guides are happy to accommodate food restrictions if you let them know in advance.

Exploring Owakudani: The Volcanic Area

Next, the tour takes you to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic zone where fumaroles and sulfurous fumes fill the air. It’s a sensory experience—sometimes smoky, sometimes clear, but always fascinating.

Here, you can purchase black eggs boiled in sulphuric water, which are believed to extend your life by seven years, according to local legend. The volcanic activity means there’s a strong smell of sulfur, so travelers with respiratory issues might want to consider their comfort levels.

Reviewers loved this part, with one describing it as “a surreal landscape” and “an absolute highlight.” The views from the gondola ride over Owakudani add a layer of excitement, with some lucky visitors catching glimpses of Mt. Fuji peeking through the clouds.

Lake Ashi Cruise: Scenic Serenity

Following the volcanic adventure, the tour proceeds to Lake Ashi, where you’ll hop aboard a cruise vessel to enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and, when the weather cooperates, Mt. Fuji itself.

Travelers have expressed how the cruise offers a peaceful contrast to the mountain’s ruggedness, with some noting it’s “the most relaxing part of the trip.” The views of the lake and distant peaks are postcard-perfect, making it a great photo op.

Returning to Tokyo or Hakone-Yumoto/Odawara Station

After the cruise, the bus heads back to Tokyo, typically taking around 120 minutes. For those with specific plans—like staying in Hakone or using a JR Pass—the tour offers options for drop-offs at Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara Station.

If you’re heading directly back to Tokyo, the return trip is smooth, often accompanied by guides sharing fun facts or local stories, helping fill the time before arriving at your starting point.

How Well Does It Deliver on Value?

At $117 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of transportation, guide service, and entry to major attractions like the Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise. The inclusion of transportation and guided commentary means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or losing time figuring out the best routes—especially handy if you’re short on days or unfamiliar with the area.

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, often with positive remarks about their kindness and ability to enhance the experience. One said, “The guides were wonderful and kind, with lots of time to explore and do things we wouldn’t have without the tour,” underscoring how guided trips can unlock special moments.

The Food and Souvenirs

The option to include lunch adds value, especially considering the quality of the buffet and the opportunity to try local hot pot dishes. The chance to buy unique souvenirs like sulphur eggs or volcanic rocks makes the trip memorable beyond just sightseeing.

Weather Considerations

A key point is the weather dependency—Mt. Fuji’s visibility can be unpredictable. Many reviewers have mentioned seeing the mountain from various viewpoints, but some have also noted fog or clouds blocking the view. That’s an inherent risk with mountain trips, but the guides often have alternative plans, such as visiting other scenic spots like Lake Kawaguchi or Mishima Skywalk.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a structured, informative day-trip experience without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see Mt. Fuji from multiple angles.

It also suits travelers who appreciate cultural touches—like tasting local foods and exploring volcanic landscapes—and those who prefer guided experiences over self-exploration.

However, if you’re looking for a private, customizable experience or a focus solely on hiking or mountain climbing, this tour might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone offers an accessible and scenic way to experience Japan’s iconic natural beauty. With expert guides enriching your journey, stunning views when weather allows, and authentic local activities like volcanic eggs, it packs a lot into a single day. The inclusion of transportation, entry tickets, and optional lunch makes it a convenient option for travelers who want a hassle-free outing.

While the weather can sometimes obscure the mountain’s summit, the diverse stops along the volcanic landscape and serene lake cruises create a well-rounded experience that many find rewarding. The value for the price, especially considering the convenience and guided insights, is quite good.

This tour suits those eager to see Mt. Fuji with minimal fuss, appreciate natural scenery, and enjoy a taste of local culture. It’s particularly recommended for first-timers to Japan or travelers with limited time looking for a comprehensive, memorable outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children up to 5 years old can join for free but will not have bus seats or lunch. For a seat and meal, children should be booked at the child rate.

Can I choose to be dropped off at a different station?
Yes. You can opt to be dropped at Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara Station if you prefer, which is handy if you’re staying in Hakone or planning to use a JR Pass.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Due to weather conditions, Mt. Fuji might not be visible, and the tour may visit alternative attractions like Lake Kawaguchi or Mishima Skywalk. No refunds are issued solely because of weather.

How long are the bus rides?
The drive from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji takes around 2.5 hours, and returning from Hakone or Mt. Fuji area to Tokyo lasts about 120 minutes.

Is the tour guided in English?
Yes, the tour features an English-speaking guide who shares insights and helps you navigate the day’s schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and possibly a camera or binoculars for better views. Keep in mind the sulfuric smell at Owakudani.

Are meals included?
The lunch is optional, served as a hot pot and buffet. Inform the guides of any dietary restrictions beforehand.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

Whether you’re seeking that classic shot of Mt. Fuji or just want a well-organized day exploring Hakone’s volcanic wonders, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see Japan’s most famous mountain.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby