VIP Mt. Fuji & Hakone with Beautiful Lakes Customised Tour

Traveling through Japan and wanting to catch the perfect glimpse of Mount Fuji along with the scenic beauty of Hakone can seem overwhelming — public transport, crowded spots, and tight schedules. Luckily, this VIP private tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to experience some of the most famous sights of Honshu in just one day. We’ve had a look at how this tour works, what you can expect, and whether it’s worth the price tag.

What immediately stands out is the personalized touch — with a dedicated driver and the option to customize your stops. Plus, the luxurious transport and knowledgeable staff mean you’re taken care of from start to finish. The transparent itinerary covers everything from panoramic mountain views to volcanic hot springs, making it a well-rounded experience.

However, keep in mind that the tour is capped at around 10 hours, so if you’re a serious shopaholic or want to explore more leisurely, you’ll want to skip some optional stops. This tour seems perfect for travelers craving a hassle-free, tailored day of sightseeing — especially those short on time but eager for authentic sights.

Good To Know

• Fully customizable itineraries allow you to prioritize what you want to see
• Luxurious private transport offers comfort and flexibility
• Knowledgeable English-speaking drivers enrich your understanding of each site
• Ideal for busy travelers who want efficient access to top sights
• Includes iconic spots and hidden gems like Lake Yamanakako and Oshino Hakkai
• Consider weather and timing to maximize your experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

First Impressions: Flexibility and Comfort

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the private vehicle — whether in a sedan or a minivan, your transport is just for your group, and it guarantees both comfort and convenience. Unlike crowded bus tours, you’re in control of how long you linger at each spot, whether it’s snapping photos or grabbing a snack.

The driver-guide (who often speaks good English) isn’t just about navigation — they share insights and local tips that add depth to your visit. As one reviewer noted, Abdulmanan “showed us all the fun places around Mount Fuji” and was “very nice and could inform us about all the sightseeing locations we visited,” making the experience more engaging than simply ticking off a checklist.

Customizable Itinerary for Personal Preferences

What’s great here is the ability to tailor your stops. For example, some might want to focus on photos at Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its iconic pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background, or spend more time at Lake Yamanakako, a peaceful spot with gorgeous views of the mountain.

Your driver will work with you to select what’s most important, whether that’s a quick view at Fuji’s 5th Station or a leisurely stroll through Oshino Hakkai, a traditional village with spring ponds. The flexibility ensures you don’t feel rushed or forced into spots you’re not interested in.

The Major Sights: What’s Included and What You Might Skip

Mount Fuji 5th Station is often the highlight — weather permitting, you’ll get sweeping vistas of Japan’s tallest peak. While the actual summit is usually off-limits for day trips, this stop offers dramatic photo opportunities and a sense of being close to the iconic mountain.

Lake Yamanakako and Lake Ashi are two scenic lakes with very different atmospheres. Yamanakako provides tranquil mountain reflections, while Lake Ashi’s pirate ships and the floating torii gate at Hakone Shrine give a more lively impression.

Owakudani Valley is a volcanic hot spring area where you can try the famous black eggs, cooked in the volcanic steam. Reviewers mentioned the active volcanic activity adds a thrilling element, but weather and volcanic activity can sometimes limit access.

Hakone Shrine — with its red torii gate in the lake — is a classic spot that looks stunning in photos. Many guests appreciated the photo opportunities here, and some enjoyed a walk around the peaceful grounds.

Additional Stops like Oshino Hakkai and Arakurayama Sengen Park help round out the experience with local culture and photo-worthy scenes. Plus, if shopping is your thing, the Gotemba Premium Outlets offers a chance to pick up luxury brands with mountain views.

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How the Tour Feels in Practice

From reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s clear this tour is about efficiency and comfort. The driver often stays with you, so there’s no need to switch vehicles, and your schedule is primarily driven by your preferences. One guest noted, “We had a real good time, and I truly appreciate it,” highlighting the personalized care.

Most trips last about 10 hours, which is enough time to cover a lot without feeling rushed. If you want to extend your stay or explore more leisurely, be prepared for potential extra charges (around 5000 JPY per hour). This is an important point if you’re a shopaholic or want to linger at specific sites.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ease of logistics — no need to navigate public transportation
• Flexibility — stop where you want, skip what you dislike
• Comfortable, private transport tailored for your group
• Local insights and tips from experienced drivers
• All-in-one day covering both Mount Fuji and Hakone

Cons:

• The tour duration is tight; longer shopping or sightseeing might require extra time or a multi-day option
• Potential extra costs if you go beyond the scheduled time or outside Tokyo
• Weather can impact visibility and access to certain sights, especially Mount Fuji viewpoints

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who values personalized experiences and prefers comfort over crowds, this private, customizable tour might be perfect. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in a short time without the stress of public transit or crowded groups.

Families, couples, or groups who want a rich, flexible day with local insights will appreciate the curated stops and professional guidance. If your main focus is capturing iconic photos or enjoying scenic lakes and volcanic hot springs, this tour delivers.

However, if you’re a dedicated shopper or love slow-paced exploration, you might find the schedule a bit rushed, so consider whether you want to add more time or opt for a multi-day arrangement.

Final Thoughts

This VIP tour stands out for its luxury, flexibility, and knowledgeable drivers who make navigating Japan’s scenic spots straightforward and enjoyable. It offers a fantastic balance of famous sights and hidden gems, all at your own pace — perfect for travelers who want comfort and personalization.

The value is clear when you consider the convenience of private transport, the ability to customize stops, and the inclusion of top spots like Mount Fuji 5th Station, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani. It’s a well-rounded choice whether you’re short on time or want to avoid the hassle of public transit.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, tailored day exploring Japan’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks, this tour offers an experience that’s both memorable and comfortable. It’s especially ideal for those who value local insights, flexible schedules, and private luxury.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for a small group or a family?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making it ideal for families, couples, or friends who want a personalized experience.

What kind of vehicle is used?
Travel is in a comfortable sedan or minivan, tailored to the size of your group, providing a smooth ride and plenty of space.

Can I skip certain stops if I’m not interested?
Absolutely. The itinerary is fully customizable, so you can focus on what interests you most and skip less appealing spots.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Potential additional charges include overtime fees (~5000 JPY per hour) if you go beyond the 10-hour limit or pickups outside Tokyo.

Does the tour include a guide or just a driver?
You will have a driver who often provides helpful insights, but confirm whether you’re getting a guide with commentary, as some services only offer drivers.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact visibility and access, especially at Mount Fuji. It’s best to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand to ensure comfort at each site.

In summary, this private, customizable Mount Fuji and Hakone tour offers a seamless way to enjoy Japan’s stunning natural beauty and cultural highlights, with the flexibility to suit your interests. It’s a top choice for those craving convenience, comfort, and a personal touch on their Japanese adventure.

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