Hakone: Day Tour to View Mt Fuji & Wooden Culture Experience

Hakone, just a stone’s throw from Tokyo, offers a captivating day tour that blends stunning natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Mount Fuji, explore the renowned Hakone Open-Air Museum, and explore the intricate art of traditional wooden craftsmanship. With a knowledgeable guide, this immersive journey promises to leave a lasting impression, whetting the appetite for further exploration of Hakone’s enchanting landscapes and time-honored traditions.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring the Hakone region, including cultural experiences and scenic attractions like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji.
• Immersive experience at a 200-year-old Yosegi-zaiku workshop, where visitors can learn about traditional Japanese woodworking and create small wooden crafts.
• Visit to a 400-year-old tea house, offering insights into the intricate tea ceremony and a chance to enjoy Amazake, a traditional Japanese fermented rice drink.
• Hakone Free Pass included, providing access to public transportation within the region, and language support available in English and Chinese.
• Tour priced from Kč 5,643 per group (up to 5 participants), with optional museum visits and additional costs for activities like the swan pedal boat ride.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Hakone region, located approximately 70km from Tokyo and accessible within 110 minutes by train.

Priced from Kč 5,643 per group (up to 5 participants), the 8-hour tour includes a range of immersive cultural experiences. Guests can expect to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, explore an arts and crafts market, and take in the scenic views of Owakudani Valley and Lake Ashi.

The tour utilizes five types of transportation, with the Hakone Free Pass included. Wheelchair accessibility and private group options are available, with English and Chinese language support.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Hakone-Yumoto Station, where guests embark on their Hakone adventure.

The itinerary features several key stops:

1. Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing Japanese art and architecture.
2. An arts and crafts market, offering a glimpse into the local culture.
3. Owakudani Valley, a volcanic area with a photo opportunity and a scenic cable car ride.
4. Lake Ashi, where guests can enjoy the scenic views and take a sightseeing cruise, with the iconic Mount Fuji as the backdrop.

The tour also includes a visit to Hakone Shrine and a traditional village, where guests can experience a tea ceremony.

Wooden Culture Experience

One of the key cultural experiences on this tour is the visit to the Yosegi-zaiku workshop, a 200-year-old site that showcases the intricate Japanese wooden culture.

Guests will learn about the traditional art of Yosegi-zaiku, a unique woodworking technique that creates intricate and beautiful patterns.

The workshop’s 13th-generation master will demonstrate the painstaking process, from selecting the finest woods to assembling the delicate pieces.

Visitors can observe the artisans at work and even try their hand at creating small wooden crafts.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage of wooden artistry.

Tea House Visit

After exploring the Yosegi-zaiku workshop, guests visit a 400-year-old tea house and engage with the 13th generation master.

Here, they can:

1. Enjoy a soothing cup of Amazake, a traditional Japanese fermented rice drink.
2. Learn about the intricate tea ceremony and its cultural significance.
3. Appreciate the serene atmosphere and traditional architecture of the tea house.
4. Interact with the tea master, gaining insights into the centuries-old art of Japanese tea preparation.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the country’s rich tea culture and traditions.

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Photo Opportunities

As guests wrap up their immersive tea experience, they’ll find ample opportunities to capture memorable photos throughout the tour.

At Owakudani, they can snap stunning shots of the volcanic valley and, with luck, majestic Mount Fuji in the backdrop.

The serene Lake Ashi provides picturesque vistas, perfect for that postcard-worthy shot.

The iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine also makes for a striking photo op.

Throughout the day, the guide ensures guests make the most of these breathtaking photo spots, allowing them to bring home a visual keepsake of their Hakone adventure.

Included Services

The tour package includes a variety of services to enhance the Hakone experience.

These include:

1. A knowledgeable guide for the duration of the tour.
2. A Hakone Free Pass, which covers the cost of public transportation within the Hakone area.
3. An approximate budget of ¥2,000 for a guest and guide lunch.
4. A ¥500 fee for enjoying amazake (traditional Japanese sweet rice wine) at the tea house, and a ¥1,500 fee for the swan pedal boat ride at Lake Ashi.

Optional museum visits, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, can be added for an additional cost.

Customer Feedback

Customers have praised the Hakone day tour for its exceptional quality and organization. Based on 11 reviews, the tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Travelers frequently commend the friendly and knowledgeable guide, Munetaka, as well as the well-planned itinerary. Reviewers also appreciate the tour’s flexibility in adjusting plans due to weather conditions.

To make the most of the experience, travelers are advised to bring essentials like a passport, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a charged smartphone.

The meeting point is at the ticket gate of Hakone Yumoto station, where the guide will be waiting.

Recommended Preparations

To make the most of the Hakone day tour, travelers are advised to bring a few essential items.

These include:

1. Comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking.
2. A passport or valid ID for entry to certain sights.
3. Layered clothing and rain gear to accommodate Hakone’s variable weather.
4. Cash for any additional expenses, as some sites may not accept cards.

Proper preparation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring Hakone’s natural beauty, cultural attractions, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.

FAQ

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available on a daily basis, except for some blackout dates. Customers should check the tour availability and schedule with the provider before booking to ensure the tour fits their desired travel dates.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities, such as visits to museums or other cultural sites. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate guests’ preferences and interests within the tour duration.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Participants?

The tour can accommodate up to 5 participants, with a private group option available. There are no restrictions on the number of participants, allowing for flexibility in group size.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if Weather Conditions Are Unfavorable?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If the weather is unfavorable, guests can reschedule or cancel the tour without penalty to avoid any disruptions to their experience.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements That Can Be Accommodated?

The tour can accommodate special dietary requirements with advance notice. Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available upon request. Guests should inform the guide of any dietary needs when booking the tour.

Sum Up

This captivating day tour in Hakone offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From witnessing the majesty of Mount Fuji to participating in traditional wooden craft workshops and a serene tea ceremony, the tour promises an unforgettable experience that blends breathtaking landscapes with the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality.

You can check if your dates are available here: