Snow Experience at Mt.Fuji, Hakone Pirate Ship & Gotemba Premium Outlet

Embarking on a winter adventure to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, travelers can enjoy a captivating blend of natural wonder and cultural exploration. From a thrilling pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi to scaling the mountain’s 5th station, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the opportunity to indulge in a shopping spree at the renowned Gotemba Premium Outlets adds a touch of retail therapy to the itinerary. What lies in store for those who embark on this snow-capped adventure?

Key Points

• Visitors can experience the crisp, cool air and potential snow at the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, located 1,500 meters above sea level.
• The tour includes a 30-minute cruise on an authentic pirate ship on Lake Ashi, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and Japanese architecture.
• Guests can enjoy a satisfying Shabu-shabu lunch with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, weather permitting.
• The tour features a stop at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, an expansive shopping destination with over 200 retail stores offering discounted local and international brands.
• The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, with a maximum of 40 participants, and departs from a meeting point in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Tour Overview

The full-day sightseeing trip from Tokyo takes approximately 11 hours and includes a Lake Ashi pirate ship cruise, a visit to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, and shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets.

Travelers will enjoy a Shabu-shabu lunch with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. At the 5th Station, they’ll experience cooler temperatures, around 5-10 degrees Celsius lower than the base.

The tour also provides an opportunity to shop at one of Japan’s largest outlet malls, with over 200 retailers.

Meeting point is the Robert Indiana Sculpture in Shinjuku, with a 7:45 am start time and a maximum of 40 participants.

Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise

A 30-minute cruise on an authentic pirate ship awaits travelers at Lake Ashi.

The ship provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains and Japanese architecture. Passengers can capture photos, especially of the iconic Mt. Fuji, weather permitting.

The pirate ship experience offers a unique and memorable way to explore the beautiful lake and its natural setting.

With the chance to spot Mt. Fuji’s snow-capped peak in the distance, the Lake Ashi pirate ship cruise is a highlight of the tour, providing a fun and visually stunning activity for participants.

Lunch Experience

Buffet-style Shabu-shabu awaits visitors at Shabu-Yo, where they’ll enjoy a variety of dishes including chicken, pork, udon, vegetables, curry, and desserts.

This panoramic lunch experience offers impressive views of Mt. Fuji, weather permitting.

The all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu allows guests to customize their meal, dipping selected ingredients into a simmering hot pot.

With its diverse menu and scenic vistas, the lunch stop provides a satisfying midday break from the tour’s activities.

Travelers can recharge and refuel before continuing on to the next destination.

Mt. Fuji Visit

Ascending to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramic views of the iconic volcano. At 1,500 meters above sea level, the air is crisp and cool, often 5-10 degrees Celsius lower than the base.

Travelers should come prepared with:

1. A warm jacket or layers to combat the drop in temperature.
2. Proper footwear for the potentially icy and uneven terrain.
3. Camera gear to capture the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
4. Snacks or water, as there are limited amenities at the 5th Station.

In off-peak seasons, alternative destinations such as Fuji Juku no Mori or Gotemba Toki no Sumika may be substituted.

Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets

After exploring the scenic landscapes of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, the tour continues to Gotemba Premium Outlets.

This expansive shopping destination features over 200 retail stores, offering a variety of local Japanese and international brands at discounted prices.

Visitors can browse through clothing, accessories, homegoods, and more, taking advantage of the savings.

With 1.5-2 hours allocated for shopping, travelers have ample time to hunt for deals and indulge in some retail therapy.

The outlet mall’s size and diverse selection cater to a range of shopping preferences, making it a popular stop on the tour itinerary.

Important Information

Travelers receive confirmation upon booking this tour, which requires a minimum of 20 participants to operate.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

The tour is subject to change due to traffic or weather conditions, and no refunds are provided if Mt. Fuji visibility is poor.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle, but the pick-up point may vary.

Key details:

1. Confirmation received at booking.
2. Minimum of 20 participants required.
3. Not wheelchair accessible or recommended for certain medical conditions.
4. Tour subject to change, no refunds for poor Mt. Fuji visibility.

Customer Reviews Summary

According to customer reviews, the overall rating for this tour stands at 3.8 out of 5 based on 32 reviews.

Travelers provided positive feedback on the enjoyable pirate ship cruise and satisfying lunch experience.

However, some criticized the tour’s allocation of time prioritizing shopping over sightseeing. Guests also had mixed experiences with the tour guide’s language proficiency and organizational skills.

Plus, weather conditions impacting Mt. Fuji’s visibility led to disappointment for some participants.

While the outlet mall shopping was appreciated, a few reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the limited options available.

Preparing for the Tour

How can travelers best prepare for the Snow Experience at Mt. Fuji?

First, pack warm, layered clothing to combat the chilly mountain temperatures.

Second, wear sturdy, waterproof boots to navigate the snowy terrain.

Third, bring sun protection like sunglasses and sunscreen, as the glare off the snow can be intense.

Fourth, carry snacks and water to stay energized.

With the right preparation, travelers can maximize their enjoyment of the snow-capped wonder of Mt. Fuji, the iconic pirate ship cruise, and the premium outlets during this full-day adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a strict dress code, but dressing in layers is recommended due to the changing temperatures, especially at the higher elevations of Mt. Fuji. Comfortable walking shoes are also advised for the activities.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Lunch?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions during the buffet-style Shabu-shabu lunch. Vegetarian, halal, and kosher options are available, and the staff can cater to guests’ specific dietary needs upon request.

Can We Extend Our Time at Gotemba Premium Outlets?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary is fixed and doesn’t allow for extending the time at Gotemba Premium Outlets. The tour schedule is designed to cover all the key highlights within the allotted 11-hour duration.

Is There an Option to Visit the Top of Mt. Fuji?

Unfortunately, no, there is no option to visit the top of Mt. Fuji on this tour. The tour only includes a visit to the 5th station, which is located at 1,500 meters above sea level.

How Flexible Is the Itinerary in Case of Unexpected Weather Conditions?

The itinerary is flexible to account for weather conditions. If visibility at Mt. Fuji’s 5th station is poor, the tour will visit alternative destinations like Fuji Juku no Mori or Gotemba Toki no Sumika instead, though no refunds are provided.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour allows you to witness the majestic beauty of Mt. Fuji, experience a thrilling pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, and indulge in a shopping spree at the Gotemba Premium Outlets. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, natural wonders, and retail therapy, making it an unforgettable day for anyone seeking to explore the enchanting landscapes of Japan.