Tokyo: Mount Fuji, Kamakura, Lake Ashi & Oshino Hakkai Tour

Exploring the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Japan’s iconic destinations is a dream for many travelers. The Tokyo: Mount Fuji, Kamakura, Lake Ashi & Oshino Hakkai Tour offers an immersive 11.5-hour experience, guiding visitors through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites. From the serene shores of Lake Ashi to the imposing presence of Mount Fuji, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of Japan’s unparalleled beauty and rich heritage.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 11.5-hour tour exploring Tokyo and surrounding areas, including Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine, Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, and a boat cruise on Lake Ashi.
• The tour is priced at $89.50 per person and includes visits to Oshino Hakkai and Fuji Station, with an optional extension to Lake Kawaguchi.
• The tour starts at HANDS Ginza, with the highlights being a guided tour of Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine and the opportunity to admire the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in.
• The boat cruise on Lake Ashi offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, providing a peaceful respite after exploring historical sites.
• The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, showcasing Japan’s feudal history, iconic landscapes, and the spiritual significance of Japanese Buddhism.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This comprehensive tour offers visitors a chance to explore the highlights of Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Priced at $89.50 per person, it provides an 11.5-hour journey through notable landmarks, including the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine, the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, and the stunning Lake Ashi.

The tour also includes a boat cruise and free time at Oshino Hakkai and Fuji Station, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

With the option to visit Lake Kawaguchi, this tour provides a comprehensive experience for those seeking to discover the wonders of this captivating destination.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the HANDS Ginza, where participants gather before embarking on their journey.

The first stop is the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine, where a guided tour provides insights into its historical significance and samurai connections.

Next, visitors witness the awe-inspiring Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, a monumental bronze statue that symbolizes Japanese Buddhism.

The tour then moves to Lake Ashi, where a boat cruise offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.

Lunch and free time at Oshino Hakkai village allow for culture and exploration.

The tour concludes with an optional visit to Lake Kawaguchi before returning to the starting point.

• Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine (Guided tour: 50 minutes)
• Great Buddha at Kotoku-in (Visit: 30 minutes)
• Lake Ashi Boat Cruise (50 minutes)
• Oshino Hakkai (Lunch & Free time: 1 hour)

Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine

The Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine holds significant historical importance, particularly in the realm of samurai culture.

This Shinto shrine, located in Kamakura, was founded in 1063 and became the most important religious center for the samurai class.

Visitors will join a guided tour to explore the shrine’s expansive grounds, including the main hall, pagoda, and cherry blossom trees.

They’ll learn about the shrine’s connection to the Minamoto clan, who established the first shogunate government in Japan.

The guided tour provides an immersive cultural experience, giving travelers a deeper understanding of Japan’s feudal history.

Great Buddha at Kotoku-in

Visitors will encounter the iconic Great Buddha at Kotoku-in, a monumental bronze statue that stands as a powerful symbol of Japanese Buddhism.

At 13.35 meters tall and weighing over 121 tons, the Great Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight.

Visitors can:

• Admire the statue’s intricate details and impressive size up close
• Learn about the statue’s history and significance in Japanese culture
• Explore the grounds surrounding the Great Buddha, including the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine
• Reflect on the serene atmosphere and feel the spiritual energy of this sacred site

The Great Buddha at Kotoku-in is a must-see attraction on any visit to Kamakura.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lake Ashi Boat Cruise

After exploring the historic sites in Kamakura, visitors embark on an enchanting Lake Ashi boat cruise.

The serene lake offers stunning views of Mount Fuji rising in the distance. The 50-minute cruise glides across the tranquil waters, allowing travelers to admire the natural beauty of the Hakone region.

From the boat, the iconic peak appears reflected on the lake’s surface, creating a breathtaking panorama. This scenic experience provides a peaceful respite, contrasting with the earlier visits to the Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine and the Great Buddha statue.

The boat cruise is a highlight of the tour, offering a unique perspective of Japan’s iconic landscapes.

Oshino Hakkai

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village nestled at the base of Mount Fuji.

Oshino Hakkai features:

• Eight crystal-clear ponds fed by the melting snow from Mount Fuji
• Traditional thatched-roof houses and buildings that showcase Japanese architecture
• Opportunities to sample local cuisine, including freshly made mochi rice cakes
• Serene atmosphere and stunning views of the iconic mountain

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch and free time to explore the tranquil village, taking in the natural beauty and cultural charms of this unique destination.

Fuji Station and Optional Lake Kawaguchi

What next awaits visitors on this engaging tour is a visit to Fuji Station, the fifth station on the Yoshida Trail.

Here, guests can revel in the stunning vistas of Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak. With an hour of free time, they can explore the observation decks, browse souvenirs, and savor local delicacies.

For those seeking an additional adventure, the tour offers an optional stop at Lake Kawaguchi. This picturesque lake provides a serene setting for a leisurely stroll, admiring the reflection of Mount Fuji in its tranquil waters.

A fitting finale to a day filled with cultural and natural wonders.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, with an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

Notable comments from satisfied customers include:

• "Everything was well organized, and our guide was excellent." – Rafael, Mexico
• "This tour was unforgettable, especially thanks to our amazing guide!" – Fernanda, Spain

Travelers appreciated the guide’s knowledge, organization, and local tips.

One reviewer remarked that the tour was "an unforgettable experience."

The consistently positive feedback suggests this tour provides an exceptional cultural and scenic experience, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

FAQ

Is There an Option to Visit Kamakura Instead of Oshino Hakkai?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to visit Kamakura instead of Oshino Hakkai. The key locations listed focus on Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Oshino Hakkai without any alternative to swap Kamakura for Oshino Hakkai.

Can We Add More Time at the Fuji Station?

Guests can request to spend more time at Fuji Station. However, this may impact the tour’s schedule and require adjustments to other sightseeing stops. It’s best to discuss this option with the tour operator to ensure the itinerary meets travelers’ preferences.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. Groups of 4 or more can save an additional 10% on the per-person price. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the group rate.

Can We Switch the Order of the Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour operator doesn’t allow changes to the standard itinerary. The sequence of activities is fixed to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all participants. However, travelers can discuss any special needs or requests with the tour staff.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan meal options are available during the tour. The tour provider can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice, ensuring all participants can enjoy a satisfying lunch at Oshino Hakkai.

Sum Up

The Tokyo: Mount Fuji, Kamakura, Lake Ashi & Oshino Hakkai Tour offers an immersive cultural experience that showcases Japan’s rich history and stunning landscapes. From the iconic Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gū Shrine to the serene boat cruise on Lake Ashi, this comprehensive 11.5-hour journey provides an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of Japan.

You can check if your dates are available here: