Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore Japan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Led by knowledgeable guides, this immersive 8-hour tour takes visitors on a scenic journey through the historic Hakone Hachiri path and Old Tokaido Highway. Suitable for beginners, the tour promises a well-rounded experience, from admiring breathtaking views of Mount Fuji to visiting fascinating cultural sites like the Amasake Tea House and Hakone Checkpoint. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure in the great outdoors, this tour is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s remarkable blend of natural and cultural wonders.

Key Points

• An 8-hour guided hiking tour along the historic Hakone Hachiri path and Old Tokaido Highway, suitable for beginners with mostly gentle slopes and cobbled paths.
• Opportunity to admire views of Mount Fuji, weather permitting, and visit cultural sites such as the Amasake Tea House, Hakone Checkpoint, Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and Mishima Shrine.
• Immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the region’s scenic routes, cultural heritage, and Japan’s rich history and geography.
• Includes transportation to and from the trailhead, a certified mountain guide, food, drinks, and a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.
• Offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option for convenient planning.

Tour Overview

The Hakone Hachiri hiking tour offers an 8-hour guided exploration along the historic Hakone Hachiri path and Old Tokaido Highway, allowing participants to enjoy scenic routes, cultural sites, and Japan’s rich history and geography.

Suitable for beginners, the tour features mostly gentle slopes and cobbled paths, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Weather permitting, visitors can admire breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, the iconic Japanese landmark.

The tour also includes visits to the Amasake Tea House, which boasts over 400 years of history, as well as the Hakone Checkpoint, Yamanaka Castle Ruins, and Mishima Shrine, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.

Highlights

Visitors can admire views of Mount Fuji, weather permitting, as they explore the scenic routes during the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour.

They’ll visit the historic Amasake Tea House, which boasts over 400 years of history.

The tour also includes walking along the Old Tokaido Highway and its ancient cedar avenue.

Hikers will see the Hakone Checkpoint, a remnant of Japan’s past, as well as the Yamanaka Castle Ruins and the Mishima Shrine.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to enjoy the region’s cultural heritage while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Itinerary

The tour begins at Hakone-Yumoto Station, where participants reach the trailhead by bus or taxi.

From there, the group will hike to Hatajuku, where they’ll visit the historic Amasake Tea House.

Next, they’ll walk along the Old Tokaido Highway, eventually reaching Lake Ashi for a break.

The journey continues along the lake and the scenic cedar avenue, leading to the Hakone Checkpoint.

After a lunch at a local restaurant, the tour visits the Yamanaka Castle Ruins and the Mishima Shrine before concluding at either Mishima Station or Odawara Station.

Throughout the itinerary, you will enjoy stunning views and learn about Japan’s rich history and geography.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This guided tour includes a certified mountain guide, transportation to and from the trailhead, food and drinks throughout the day, and a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.

The tour also covers the cost of entrance fees to cultural sites along the way, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

However, the tour doesn’t include the Shinkansen train ride between Mishima and Odawara Station, which visitors will need to arrange separately.

With all the essential inclusions and a few exclusions, this Hakone Hachiri hiking tour provides excellent value, allowing participants to fully enjoy the historic and scenic wonders of the Old Tokaido Highway without the hassle of logistics.

Booking and Availability

Travelers can easily secure their spot on the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Plus, the tour offers a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, allowing participants to lock in their preferred date without an immediate financial commitment. This flexible booking system caters to the needs of modern travelers, ensuring a hassle-free planning experience.

Tour Availability	Booking Methods
Free Cancellation	Reserve Now, Pay Later
Up to 24 Hours	Secure Your Spot

The tour’s booking and availability policies are designed to provide a seamless experience, giving travelers the confidence and flexibility to plan their Hakone adventure.

Scenic Routes and Cultural Sites

The Hakone Hachiri hiking tour offers a captivating exploration of scenic routes and cultural sites that showcase Japan’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll:

• Admire breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Fuji, weather permitting, as you traverse the historic Tokaido Highway.

Visit the Amasake Tea House, a cultural landmark with over 400 years of history, and learn about the traditions and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations.

Discover the Hakone Checkpoint, a former toll station on the Tokaido route, and the Yamanaka Castle Ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.

History and Geography of Japan

Tracing the evolution of Japan’s storied history and captivating geography is an integral part of the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour, as it transports visitors through the country’s rich cultural tapestry.

Along the Old Tokaido Highway, hikers gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s past, from the Tokugawa shogunate’s strategic checkpoints to the ancient cedar trees lining the route.

The tour explores the Yamanaka Castle Ruins, offering glimpses into the nation’s feudal era, while a visit to the Mishima Shrine sheds light on Japan’s spiritual traditions.

Trekking through the scenic Hakone region also provides opportunities to marvel at the iconic Mount Fuji, showcasing the country’s awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Mount Fuji and Hakone Checkpoint

Along the Hakone Hachiri hiking tour, one of the highlight stops is the iconic Hakone Checkpoint, offering a glimpse into Japan’s captivating history and the chance to witness the famous Mount Fuji, weather permitting.

The Hakone Checkpoint was a strategic post along the Old Tokaido Highway, responsible for monitoring and regulating travel during the Edo period.

Hikers will:

1. Explore the well-preserved ruins and imagine the bustling scenes of the past.
2. Marvel at the stunning views of Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic natural wonders.
3. Walk along the ancient cedar tree-lined avenue, a serene and picturesque part of the Tokaido route.

This stop provides a fascinating insight into Japan’s rich heritage and the natural beauty that makes Hakone a must-visit destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Number of People Required for This Tour?

The minimum number of people required for this tour is one. The tour is open to solo travelers, and a single participant can book and enjoy the guided hiking experience along the historic trails.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can typically be customized to suit individual preferences. The tour operator is often willing to make adjustments to the route, pace, or activities within the tour’s overall scope and duration.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Fitness Level Requirements?

This hiking tour is suitable for beginners and doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, participants should be able to walk for 8 hours on gently sloping trails and cobblestone paths. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, hikers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the hike. It’s generally recommended to pack light refreshments to fuel the journey, as the tour doesn’t include continuous food or beverage service along the way.

Do We Need to Bring Any Specialized Hiking Gear?

While specialized hiking gear isn’t essential, some recommended items include sturdy walking shoes, layers for changing weather, sun protection, and a daypack to carry snacks, water, and any necessary personal items. The tour provider may also have specific gear recommendations.

Recap

The Hakone Hachiri: Old Tokaido Highway Hiking Tour offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore Japan’s rich history and geography.

Guests can admire scenic routes, visit cultural sites, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

This tour is a well-rounded opportunity for beginners to enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the Hakone area.