From Tokyo: The Perfect Hakone & Oshino Hakkai Day Trip

Exploring the stunning natural beauty of Hakone and Oshino Hakkai is an unforgettable experience. This day trip from Tokyo promises an immersive journey through the region’s volcanic landscapes, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural traditions. From soaring above lush valleys on the Hakone Ropeway to cruising the waters of Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, the tour offers a well-rounded itinerary that caters to a variety of interests. While the day’s activities are sure to leave a lasting impression, the true gem lies in what awaits beyond the itinerary – a deeper understanding of Japan’s captivating heritage and the chance to forge lifelong memories.

Key Points

• This day trip from Tokyo offers an immersive exploration of the scenic wonders of Hakone and Oshino Hakkai, including a cable car ride, volcano visit, and boat cruise.
• The tour provides round-trip transportation, English and Korean-speaking staff, admission tickets, and travelers insurance, ensuring a well-organized and enjoyable experience.
• Highlights of the tour include the Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Pirate Ship, Hakone Shrine, and a guided tour of Oshino Hakkai.
• Guests can opt for a local lunch and have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour’s inclusions, such as transportation, multilingual staff, and admission tickets, make it a convenient and hassle-free way to explore the Hakone region.

Tour Overview

The "Perfect Hakone & Oshino Hakkai Day Trip" offers an immersive experience, transporting visitors from Tokyo on an 11-hour excursion to explore the scenic wonders of Hakone and Oshino Hakkai. The tour includes round-trip transportation, English and Korean speaking staff, admission tickets, and travelers insurance.

Highlights include a cable car ride on the Hakone Ropeway, a visit to the volcanic Owakudani Valley, a boat cruise on the Hakone Pirate Ship, a photo stop at the Hakone Shrine, and a guided tour of the picturesque Oshino Hakkai. Guests can also opt for a lunch at a local restaurant.

Priced from ¥2,698 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Inclusions

The "Perfect Hakone & Oshino Hakkai Day Trip" includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience for participants. Transportation to and from the meeting point at Tokyo Station is provided, ensuring a seamless journey.

English and Korean-speaking staff accompany the group, offering guidance and assistance throughout the day. Admission tickets to all attractions, including the Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, and Hakone Pirate Ship, are included. Plus, travelers are covered by an insurance policy, providing peace of mind during the excursion. With these comprehensive inclusions, the tour promises a well-organized and enjoyable exploration of Hakone and Oshino Hakkai.

Itinerary

Commencing the day trip, participants board the Hakone Ropeway, a cable car system offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The journey continues to the Owakudani Valley, where visitors explore the volcanic activity and witness the famous black eggs cooked by the natural sulfuric steam.

Afterward, they embark on a scenic boat cruise at Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port, taking in the breathtaking views. The excursion then leads to the iconic Hakone Shrine, where guests can admire the serene atmosphere and capture memorable photographs. Finally, the group tours the charming Oshino Hakkai, known for its crystal-clear ponds and traditional Japanese architecture.

1. Hakone Ropeway: Cable car ride, scenic views (10 minutes)
2. Owakudani Valley: Visit, sightseeing (80 minutes)
3. Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port: Boat cruise, scenic views (50 minutes)
4. Hakone Shrine: Photo stop, visit, sightseeing (1 hour)

Hakone Ropeway

Participants board the Hakone Ropeway, a cable car system that offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The 10-minute ride takes them over the Owakudani volcanic valley, where they can witness firsthand the volcanic activity and sulphuric fumes.

As the ropeway ascends, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Hakone mountains, Lake Ashinoko, and on a clear day, even the iconic Mount Fuji. The ropeway is an integral part of the tour, allowing participants to experience the natural beauty of the Hakone region from an elevated perspective. It’s a seamless and efficient way to transition between the various attractions on the itinerary.

Owakudani Valley

After disembarking the Hakone Ropeway, participants find themselves immersed in the otherworldly landscape of the Owakudani Valley. This active volcanic zone is known for its steaming vents, sulfurous fumes, and black boiled eggs, a local delicacy.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the smoking fumaroles and bubbling pools of this unique geothermal area.
2. Savor the black eggs, said to extend longevity, at one of the valley’s food stalls.
3. Take in the breathtaking views of the Hakone mountains and Lake Ashinoko.
4. Learn about the valley’s volcanic origins and active geothermal processes from the knowledgeable guides.

The 80-minute visit to Owakudani Valley is a highlight of the Hakone and Oshino Hakkai day trip, providing a glimpse into the dynamic geological forces shaping the region.

Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port

From the Owakudani Valley, the tour moves on to the Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port. Here, guests embark on a 50-minute boat cruise, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding area. The Pirate Ship, a unique vessel that evokes the region’s historical maritime heritage, glides across the tranquil waters, providing a relaxing and picturesque experience.

Passengers can admire the impressive volcanic mountains and lush forests that line the shores, creating a serene and breathtaking atmosphere. This segment of the tour allows visitors to fully enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty and rich cultural traditions, further enhancing the overall experience of the day trip.

Hakone Shrine

The tour group now arrives at the famous Hakone Shrine, a Shinto shrine nestled at the base of Mount Hakone. They’ll have an hour to explore this iconic landmark and capture memorable photos.

The shrine features:

1. A stunning Torii gate that stands majestically over the entrance, marking the transition from the secular to the sacred.
2. The Honden, the main hall of worship, where visitors can observe the traditional architecture and pay their respects.
3. The serene Kagami Ike pond, reflecting the shrine’s iconic red bridge and offering a peaceful respite.
4. The chance to witness the shrine’s traditional rituals and ceremonies, providing a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Oshino Hakkai

Leaving the tranquil confines of Hakone Shrine, the tour group now ventures to the picturesque Oshino Hakkai. This small village, nestled between Mount Fuji and the Yukawa River, is renowned for its eight crystal-clear ponds, fed by the mountain’s melted snow. The guides lead the group on an 80-minute tour, allowing them to explore these serene water sources and learn about the cultural significance of the site.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning reflections of Mount Fuji in the pristine ponds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This unique destination offers a perfect complement to the dramatic landscapes and landmarks visited earlier in the day, providing a well-rounded Hakone experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Hakone and Oshino Hakkai?

The best time to visit Hakone and Oshino Hakkai is during the spring and fall seasons. The weather’s mild, the scenery’s beautiful, and crowds are smaller compared to the busy summer and winter months.

Can I Book This Tour in Advance or Is It Only Available on the Day?

This tour can be booked in advance. According to the details, travelers can "Reserve now & pay later" and there’s "Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance," indicating the tour can be reserved prior to the travel date.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, there are discounts available for seniors and students on this tour. Seniors aged 65 and above can receive a 10% discount, while students can get a 5% discount with valid ID. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, customers can customize the itinerary to include additional activities. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their interests and preferences for an additional fee.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs Accommodations?

The tour provider accommodates various dietary restrictions and special needs upon request. Guests can notify the staff in advance, and the necessary arrangements will be made to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience for all participants.

Recap

This comprehensive day trip from Tokyo offers an immersive exploration of Hakone’s scenic wonders and cultural traditions. With a hassle-free itinerary, inclusive transportation, and expert guides, travelers can seamlessly discover the Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Pirate Ship, and the historical Oshino Hakkai. An excellent choice for those seeking a well-organized and enriching day trip from the capital city.