Hakone: Evangelion Anime Tour with Professional Guide

Experience the Evangelion universe in beautiful Hakone with this guided tour that combines stunning scenery, anime fandom, and cultural insights. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the series’ iconic settings, this tour offers a unique way to explore the serene scenery of Hakone while stepping into the world of Shinji, Misato, and NERV.

What sets this experience apart are the detailed visits to key anime locations, the knowledge of a professional guide, and the chance to shop exclusive Evangelion merchandise in themed convenience stores. On the downside, the tour is quite specific in its focus—fans of the series will find it most rewarding, while others might find the anime references a bit niche.

Ideal for those who love anime, are interested in Japanese pop culture, or want a different perspective on Hakone’s scenic spots, this tour offers a blend of natural beauty and storytelling that few other excursions can match.

Good To Know

• Focused on Evangelion: The tour is designed around the anime’s key locations in Hakone, providing fans with authentic and meaningful insights.
• Expert guidance: A professional guide well-versed in the series offers detailed commentary, enriching the experience.
• Iconic filming locations: Visit the station where Shinji and Misato first meet and explore the NERV headquarters setting.
• Shopping experience: Exclusive Evangelion-themed products are available at participating convenience stores.
• Balance of scenery and fandom: While the tour is anime-centric, it also offers beautiful views of Hakone and Mount Fuji.
• Value for fans: At $142, the price reflects a well-curated, immersive experience suitable for dedicated fans of the series.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Hakone: Evangelion Anime Tour

Starting Point: Hakone-Yumoto Station

The tour kicks off at the Hakone-Yumoto Station, a familiar spot for travelers arriving in the region. Meeting here, in front of the ticket gate, the guide—holding a yellow sign for DeepExperience—welcomes you into a day filled with both natural scenery and anime lore. From the moment you gather, it’s clear that this experience aims to blend Japan’s tranquil landscapes with the adrenaline of the Evangelion universe.

The Significance of Hakone in Evangelion

Hakone is more than just a pretty place; it’s a crucial setting in the “Evangelion” story. The guide will explain how this peaceful region doubles as the fictional Third New Tokyo City, home to NERV headquarters and the battleground for many intense confrontations in the series. Expect to hear how the area’s natural beauty contrasts sharply with the dramatic, high-stakes scenes that unfold there.

The Station Where Shinji Meets Misato

One of the highlights is visiting the station where Shinji Ikari and Misato Katsuragi first cross paths. This spot is a fan-favorite because it marks the beginning of their journey within the series—an emotional and narrative milestone. The guide will share behind-the-scenes insights and point out features that fans will instantly recognize. Many reviewers mention that standing at this spot gives a real sense of connection to the story.

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Visiting the NERV Headquarters and the Third New Tokyo City

Next, you’ll explore locations that evoke the NERV headquarters and the Third New Tokyo City. While these aren’t actual NERV facilities, the tour’s detailed commentary illuminates the real-world inspirations behind these fictional sites. Expect to see panoramic views that mirror scenes from the anime, making it easier to visualize the battles and personal struggles faced by Shinji and his companions.

The Scenic Beauty and Mount Fuji Views

Despite the anime focus, Hakone’s natural landscape remains a major draw. The tour allows ample time to enjoy the stunning vistas of Mount Fuji, especially from vantage points that make the backdrop feel like part of the story’s universe. Many travelers appreciate how the tour balances anime exploration with peaceful moments amid Hakone’s famous hot springs and lush scenery.

Shopping at Evangelion-Theme Convenience Stores

A unique aspect of this experience is the opportunity to browse stores that have collaborated with Evangelion. These shops feature limited-edition merchandise, souvenirs, and themed products that fans will love—think keychains, stationery, and apparel. Reviewers note that these shopping stops add a fun, tangible element to the tour, allowing you to take home a piece of the Evangelion world.

The Experience of the Guide and Tour Length

Led by a knowledgeable professional, the guide shares not just facts but also interesting anecdotes about the series’ filming locations and its cultural impact. The tour’s duration and group size are designed to keep the experience intimate yet comprehensive, making it suitable for all ages and interests. Many reviewers mention that the guide’s enthusiasm and detailed explanations enrich the journey significantly.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $142 per person, this tour offers a curated experience that combines culture, scenery, and fandom. When considering the inclusion of a professional guide, multiple anime-specific locations, and shopping opportunities, the value becomes evident—especially for fans eager to connect with the “Evangelion” universe on a deeper level. In addition, the convenience of a pre-arranged itinerary means you avoid the hassle of planning visits individually, which can be time-consuming and confusing.

Practical Details and Logistics

• Meeting Point: In front of Hakone-Yumoto Station ticket gate, making it easy to find.
• Language: Conducted in English, suitable for international visitors.
• Reservation & Payment: You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Duration: The tour’s length isn’t specified explicitly but is designed to cover multiple key sites comfortably, often a half-day experience.

What You Should Know Before Booking

If you’re a hardcore Evangelion fan, this tour delivers a meaningful connection to the series’ settings. For those less familiar, the locations are visually impressive, but the anime-focused commentary might feel a bit niche. It’s also worth noting that the tour operates in present-day Hakone, so you get to enjoy the peaceful scenery alongside the fictional world.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Evangelion-themed Hakone experience is ideal for anime enthusiasts who crave a deeper, location-based connection to the series. It’s also perfect for travelers who love combining cultural exploration with pop culture references, especially when the scenery enhances the storytelling.

If you’re after a straightforward sightseeing trip, other Hakone tours might serve you better; however, if your passion for Evangelion or anime in general runs deep, this experience offers an authentic glimpse into the worlds that inspired the series’ iconic scenes.

The value lies in the expert guidance, exclusive merchandise, and the chance to stand at the very locations that helped shape one of Japan’s most influential animated stories. The stunning views of Mount Fuji and Hakone’s natural beauty provide a scenic foil to the anime adventure, creating a well-rounded day for fans and curious travelers alike.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or simply someone interested in Japan’s pop culture, this tour promises a memorable blend of scenery and storytelling that can make your visit to Hakone truly special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for fans new to Evangelion?
Yes, the guide explains the locations’ significance and provides context, making it accessible even for newcomers.

What locations will I visit during the tour?
You’ll visit the station where Shinji and Misato meet, see the NERV headquarters, and explore the third Tokyo city setting from the anime.

Can I shop for Evangelion merchandise?
Absolutely, the tour includes stops at collaboration convenience stores offering exclusive Evangelion-themed products.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed as a half-day experience, balancing sightseeing and shopping.

Is the tour held in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

What is the price of this tour and what does it include?
At $142 per person, it covers a professional guide, visits to key locations, and shopping at themed stores.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book online with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours before the tour.

This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the “Evangelion” universe set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hakone’s scenery. Designed for dedicated fans and curious travelers alike, it combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and anime excitement into a memorable experience worth considering for your Japan itinerary.

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