From Tokyo: Snow Experience at Mt.Fuji & Hakone Pirate Ship

A Complete Guide to the From Tokyo: Snow Experience at Mt. Fuji & Hakone Pirate Ship Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Mount Fuji’s snowy peaks, riding a pirate ship across Lake Ashi, and enjoying a snow-covered adventure, this day trip from Tokyo might just be your perfect escape. We’ve looked into this experience, and it promises a blend of scenic beauty, fun activities, and some excellent shopping — all packed into one memorable day.

What really strikes us about this tour are the breathtaking views of Fuji, the unique pirate ship ride, and the chance to play in the snow at the foot of the mountain. Plus, the visit to Gotemba Premium Outlets offers a solid shopping break with time to browse designer brands. On the flip side, some travelers note that weather conditions can impact visibility, which is worth keeping in mind if your ultimate goal is a clear Mt. Fuji shot.

This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and convenient, all-in-one tours. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to tick off Fuji and Hakone in a single day without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, fun, and shopping, this trip will likely meet your expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Offers spectacular vistas of snow-capped Mt. Fuji and scenic Hakone.
• Variety of Activities: Includes boat rides, snow play, and shopping, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Convenient Schedule: A full-day itinerary with timely departures and returns from Shinjuku.
• Group Size and Comfort: May use minivans for smaller groups or combine rental car options if needed.
• Weather Dependence: Visibility of Mt. Fuji can be affected by weather, but the experience remains enjoyable.
• Cost-Effective: At $86, it offers a lot of value for a full day of diverse activities.

The Experience in Depth: What to Expect

Meeting Point and Departure

You’ll gather at the Shinjuku Love Object at 7:30 am, ready to leave by 7:45 am. The guide will be holding a blue HIS flag, making it easy to spot. The early departure ensures you maximize your day, though it also means you’ll need to be a bit of a morning person.

Hakone Pirate Ship Ride

The first highlight? The Hakone Pirate Ship at Hakonemachi or Motohakone Port. This boat, designed like a real pirate vessel, offers an enjoyable cruise across Lake Ashi, famed for its stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The boat ride isn’t just fun — it also provides some fantastic photo opportunities, especially if the weather is clear.

A reviewer shared, “The pirate ship ride was surprisingly smooth and the views of Fuji from the lake were incredible,” underscoring how this part of the tour is a real highlight for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Views of Mount Fuji

Next comes the moment everyone hopes for: seeing Mount Fuji. The tour takes you to the second station of Mt. Fuji, where you can enjoy a snowy landscape and get up close with Japan’s most iconic mountain. It’s worth noting that weather conditions can influence visibility — some days, clouds may obscure the peak, but the snow-covered scenery still makes for striking photos.

One traveler mentioned, “Even if Fuji isn’t fully visible, the snow at the station makes it worth the trip,” highlighting how the snow adds a magical touch regardless of the weather.

Snow Experience at Mt. Fuji

Playing in the snow at the Fuji Mountain Resort is a big draw. You’ll have about an hour or more to enjoy the snowy surroundings, whether that’s building snowmen or just stomping around in winter boots. Warm clothes and shoes suitable for snow play are essential, and many reviewers suggest bringing gloves or other gear to stay comfortable.

A guest noted, “We loved the snow activities; it felt like a winter wonderland, and the scenery was breathtaking,” emphasizing how this part of the trip can be a fun, memorable moment, especially for families or snow lovers.

Lunch and Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets

After the snowy adventure, it’s time for a hearty all-you-can-eat BBQ lunch at Gotemba’s BBQ Restaurant. This sit-down meal provides fuel for the rest of the day’s activities and is generally well-rated for its variety and quality.

Post-lunch, shoppers get between 60 to 120 minutes at the outlets, giving plenty of time to browse over 200 stores including luxury brands and local Japanese outlets. Many find this shopping stop to be a great way to pick up souvenirs or treat themselves.

Return to Tokyo

The tour wraps up around 6 pm back at Shinjuku, giving you the evening free to continue exploring or relax after a full day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Dress warmly: Layering is key, especially since you’ll be outside in the snow and at altitude.
• Bring gloves and snow gear: To enjoy the snow activities comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes: For walking around the outlets and snowy terrain.
• Arrive early: To ensure you’re ready for the 7:45 am departure.
• Check the weather forecast: While weather can’t be controlled, knowing the forecast helps set expectations for visibility.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour is operated by H.I.S. Co Ltd, which has a good reputation (rated 4.5). Depending on the number of participants (minimum 15), they might use a minivan or a combination of rental car and driver service, ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride through the day.

Cost and Value

At $86 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the price. It combines scenic sightseeing, fun activities, and shopping, making it a cost-effective option for those wanting a comprehensive day trip from Tokyo. Keep in mind, the tour is scheduled tightly, so punctuality and preparedness will help you enjoy it fully.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers a memorable mix of stunning mountain views, fun in the snow, a scenic boat ride, and shopping therapy. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a balanced outdoor and cultural experience without the hassle of planning each detail.

If you’re after clearer views of Fuji, it’s wise to check the weather forecast ahead of time, but even on cloudy days, the snowy landscapes and unique activities make this a worthwhile day out. The combination of natural beauty, fun activities, and shopping makes this a flexible option for a wide range of travelers.

This experience offers excellent value — especially for first-timers eager to tick off Fuji and Hakone’s highlights in a single, well-organized trip. It’s a great way to see some of Japan’s most iconic sights while enjoying the comforts of a guided tour.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Shinjuku Love Object, where a guide will be holding a blue HIS flag. It’s easy to spot and the departure time is around 7:45 am.

How long do I get at Gotemba Premium Outlets?
You’ll have approximately 60 to 120 minutes to explore the outlets, so you can shop at your own pace or grab a quick snack.

Is snow guaranteed at Mt. Fuji?
Not always. The snow experience depends on the weather and season, but the tour includes snow activities at the Fuji Mountain Resort, which is usually snow-covered during the winter months.

What clothing should I wear?
Dress warmly with layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring gloves if you plan to play in the snow. The outdoor areas can be quite cold, especially at higher altitudes.

Can I participate if I don’t like snow?
Yes, but keep in mind the snow activities are optional. You can enjoy sightseeing and shopping even if you prefer to avoid snow play.

What happens if Mt. Fuji visibility is poor?
The tour will still proceed, and you can enjoy the scenery and snow at the second station. Despite limited visibility, the snow-covered landscape offers plenty of photo opportunities.

Will the tour be canceled in bad weather?
No, the tour is scheduled to run regardless of weather, though visibility of Mt. Fuji may be affected. The experience still provides scenic snow and mountain landscapes.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially snow play and boat rides. Just ensure children are dressed warmly and are comfortable with outdoor conditions.

This day trip from Tokyo offers a well-rounded taste of Japan’s winter beauty and outdoor fun, with enough flexibility and comfort to ensure a rewarding experience. Whether you’re a landscape lover, a shopaholic, or someone eager for a snow-covered adventure, this tour is worth considering.

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