Half Day Forest Bathing in Hakone Geopark

Nestled within the verdant hills of Hakone Geopark lies an opportunity to take in the restorative power of nature. A certified National Mountain Guide leads a half-day forest bathing tour, inviting participants to traverse picturesque trails and breathe in the fresh forest air. Convenient transportation and a visit to a local teahouse ensure a seamless experience, culminating at the stunning Lake Ashi. Whether seeking solace or simply a chance to reconnect with the natural world, this tour promises a truly tranquil escape – one that may just leave you craving more of Hakone’s serene wonders.

Contents hide

1 Overview of the Forest Bathing Tour

2 Meeting and Pickup Details

3 Transportation to the Trailhead

4 Bus Fee to the Teahouse

5 Tour End at Lake Ashi

6 Participant Requirements

7 Cancellation Policy

8 Additional Information

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

A guided half-day forest bathing tour in the picturesque Hakone Geopark, led by a certified National Mountain Guide.
Convenient transportation to the trailhead and a nearby teahouse, included in the tour.
Opportunity to immerse in the serene natural surroundings and experience the restorative benefits of forest bathing.
Tour ends at Lake Ashi, with options for return transportation to nearby stations or hotels.
Moderate physical fitness required, with limitations for those with medical conditions or mobility issues.

Overview of the Forest Bathing Tour

Embarking on a half-day forest bathing adventure in the picturesque Hakone Geopark, this guided tour offers participants the opportunity to enjoy the serene natural surroundings and experience the restorative benefits of this Japanese wellness practice.

Led by a certified National Mountain Guide, the tour includes transportation to the trailhead and covers the bus fee to a local teahouse.

Over the course of the experience, hikers will wander through the breathtaking landscapes of the Geopark, taking time to fully engage with the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest.

Whether looking to unwind, connect with nature, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors, this forest bathing excursion provides a rejuvenating half-day escape.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hakone.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins at Hakone-Yumoto Station, where the certified National Mountain Guide will be waiting, easily identifiable in a red jacket and carrying a red backpack.

From there, the group will take a shared taxi to the trailhead, the cost of which will be split amongst participants. After arriving at the trailhead, the group will then take a bus to a teahouse, the fare for which is less than 400 yen.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Hakone-Yumoto Station.

The guide will be wearing a red jacket and carrying a red backpack.

Shared transportation to the trailhead and bus fare to the teahouse are included.

The tour ends at Lake Ashi, where visitors can take a bus back to Odawara, Hakone Yumoto, or their hotels in Hakone.

Transportation to the Trailhead

From the meeting point at Hakone-Yumoto Station, the group boards a shared taxi that takes them to the trailhead. The cost of this shared transportation is divided among the participants.

Once they reach the trailhead, the group then takes a bus to a nearby teahouse, with the bus fare costing less than 400 yen per person.

This efficient and convenient transportation ensures that the tour participants can focus on the forest bathing experience without worrying about navigating the area themselves. The included transportation services make the tour accessible and hassle-free, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Hakone Geopark.

Bus Fee to the Teahouse

After reaching the trailhead via the shared taxi, participants then take a short bus ride to a nearby teahouse, with the bus fare costing less than 400 yen per person.

This brief journey allows the group to further enjoy the tranquil forest environment before arriving at the teahouse, where they can:

Enjoy a warm cup of traditional Japanese tea
Learn about the cultural significance of forest bathing
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape
Reflect on the peaceful experience thus far

The bus ride to the teahouse is a seamless transition, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable progression through the forest bathing tour.

Tour End at Lake Ashi

Upon concluding the tranquil forest bathing experience, participants culminate their half-day tour at the serene Lake Ashi, where they can opt to take a bus back to Odawara, Hakone Yumoto, or their hotels within the Hakone region. The return bus journey provides a scenic conclusion to the tour, offering picturesque views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Participants can reflect on the restorative benefits of their forest bathing experience as they make their way back to their starting point or accommodation.

Transportation Options from Lake Ashi
Bus to Odawara Station	✓
Bus to Hakone-Yumoto Station	✓
Bus to Hotels in Hakone Region	✓
Boat Cruise on Lake Ashi	✓
Ropeway Ride	✓

Here's some more things to do in Hakone

Participant Requirements

The forest bathing tour has specific participant requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain through the forest.

The experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions such as heart problems.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. Participants should be prepared for the following:

Navigating natural trails and uneven surfaces
Walking for an extended period of time
Potential exposure to insects and wildlife
Varying weather conditions, including sun, rain, or wind

Adhering to these requirements helps create a memorable and fulfilling forest bathing journey for everyone involved.

Cancellation Policy

This experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed for any reason. Cancellation or amendment won’t result in a refund.

Once booked, there’s no flexibility to alter or cancel the half-day forest bathing tour in Hakone Geopark. This strict policy is in place to ensure the guide and logistics are properly arranged.

No-shows or last-minute changes disrupt the schedule and can’t be accommodated. Guests must accept these terms when making their reservation.

While inconvenient, this policy helps maintain the quality and consistency of the guided experience. Visitors should plan their schedules carefully and only book this tour if they’re certain they can attend on the specified date and time.

Additional Information

Guests should come prepared for a moderate hike through the scenic forest trails of Hakone Geopark. Appropriate hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection are recommended.

While the tour includes transportation to the trailhead, you will need to be able to walk at a steady pace for approximately 2-3 hours during the forest bathing experience.

This immersive nature experience offers:

Certified, knowledgeable guides to lead the way
Opportunities to breathe in the fresh forest air and connect with nature
Visits to local tea houses for a chance to savor traditional Japanese hospitality
Stunning views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding Hakone mountains

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Hiking Poles Provided for the Tour?

The tour does not provide hiking poles. Participants need to bring their own if they require them. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, so hiking poles may be beneficial for some travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own snacks and water on the tour. The tour overview does not mention any restrictions on bringing personal food and beverages, so hikers are free to pack their own provisions for the excursion.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s a shared tour, so the group size likely depends on how many participants sign up. Smaller groups allow for a more intimate experience on the trail.

Is There a Guided Meditation Session During the Tour?

The tour does not include a guided meditation session. It focuses on the experience of forest bathing, allowing participants to enjoy the natural environment and connect with nature through self-guided, mindful exploration of the forest.

Can I Extend the Tour and Explore Lake Ashi on My Own?

Yes, you can explore Lake Ashi on your own after the forest bathing tour ends. The tour doesn’t include activities at Lake Ashi, so you’re free to wander around and enjoy the scenic views at your own pace.