Top Hakone Tours from Tokyo: Your Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable Day Trips and Excursions
Hakone is one of the most popular resort destinations near Tokyo. Known for its abundant hot springs, particularly in Gora (Goura) area with its volcanic valley Owakudani, Hakone attracts visitors from all across Japan.
Moreover, the breathtaking scenery created by its rich nature, including the beautiful blue Lake Ashi and the majestic Mount Hakone, is another reason for its popularity. Due to its proximity to Mount Fuji, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the mountain on clear days. Many tourists combine their Hakone tours 2025 with visits to the Mount Fuji area. Additionally, Hakone is characterized by its high concentration of art museums.
To enjoy this extremely popular tourist destination, we recommend joining tours that efficiently cover the numerous attractions. In this article, we'll introduce day tours departing from Tokyo that allow you to enjoy both Hakone and the nearby Mount Fuji area. We've carefully selected tours with excellent value for money.
If you're interested in Hakone and Mount Fuji, please use this guide as a reference.
Tours Departing from Tokyo are Perfect for Enjoying Hakone During Your Tokyo Sightseeing!
One of Hakone's major advantages is its easy accessibility from Tokyo. Depending on traffic conditions, it takes about 1.5 hours by car from Shinjuku, or approximately 35 minutes by bullet train from Shinjuku Station to nearby Odawara Station.
Even if you depart from Tokyo in the morning, you can fully enjoy Hakone and return to Tokyo by evening. It's an ideal destination when you want to escape to the nature-rich countryside during your Tokyo sightseeing.
However, for those unfamiliar with Japan's transportation system, access methods can be somewhat complicated. With Hakone tours departing from Tokyo, you can reach Hakone easily without worrying about transportation methods.
These tours allow plenty of time for sightseeing, enabling you to thoroughly enjoy Hakone's charm.
Tours are available in three types: bus tours, bullet train tours, and private tours. Choose according to your preferences and schedule.
4 Recommended One-Day Tours from Tokyo to Fully Enjoy Hakone
First, we'll introduce bus and bullet train tours departing from Tokyo. Many plans include visits to Mount Fuji's 5th station, offering excellent value for money.
FANTASTIC FUJI & HAKONE 1 Day Bus Tour
Source: Official website
This one-day bus tour departs from Tokyo, taking you to Mt. Fuji's 5th Station, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani in Hakone. As part of the expanding Hakone tours 2025 initiative, the tour begins from either Ginza or Shinjuku in Tokyo. Your first destination is Japan's most famous mountain - Mt. Fuji's 5th Station. Following this, you'll explore the scenic spots in the Hakone area, including the dramatic Owakudani Valley and the picturesque Lake Ashi.
The tour's appeal lies in its stress-free comfortable bus journey through the Fuji-Hakone region. While reaching Mt. Fuji's 5th Station independently from Tokyo via trains and buses can be challenging, this tour provides direct access via an air-conditioned bus, arriving at the 5th Station in just about two hours from Tokyo.
You'll have ample time to enjoy the breathtaking views and lunch, followed by a leisurely exploration of Hakone's natural wonders.
As a bus tour, the schedule is well-paced, allowing you to fully enjoy this content-rich itinerary. If you're looking to experience Hakone during your Tokyo visit, this tour is an excellent option to consider.
・Meeting point:
Option 1: In front of the "LOVE" statue, Shinjuku Island Tower, 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Option 2: In front of Matsuya Ginza (Tokyo Metro Ginza Station Exit A13), 3-6-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
・Tour Area: Hakone Area & Fuji Area
・Start Time: 7:30, 8:00
https://www.jptours.co.jp/items/81026193
Mt Fuji & Hakone Cruise, Drum Show Bullet Train 1 Day from Tokyo
Source: Viator
This bullet train tour offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Hakone's scenic spots. A highlight of Hakone tours 2025, the day begins with a bus journey from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji's 5th Station. After enjoying the panoramic views, you'll experience a traditional Japanese taiko drum show followed by lunch. The tour continues to Hakone and concludes with a bullet train ride back to Tokyo.
The tour's highlight is the visit to Hakone's Mt. Komagatake, famous for its exceptional views. In Hakone, you'll take a ropeway ride between Hakone-en and Mt. Komagatake for an aerial adventure. Admire the magnificent mountains of the Hakone outer rim and the beautiful blue Lake Ashi from above. On clear days, Mt. Fuji is also visible.
The tour ends with a convenient bullet train ride from Odawara Station, reaching Tokyo in just 35 minutes. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the efficiency and comfort of Japan's bullet train system.
Please note that access to the 5th Station may be restricted during adverse weather conditions. Access is particularly limited during winter months (November to April), and destinations may change. Please confirm these details before booking.
・Meeting point:
Option 1: Keio Plaza Hotel, 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Option 2: Marunouchi Kajibashi Parking, 3-8-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
・Tour Area: Hakone Area & Fuji Area
・Start Time: 8:10
Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Trip From Tokyo with Bullet Train Option
Source: Viator
Experience a one-day tour combining bus and bullet train travel to explore the Fuji-Hakone area, which will remain a highlight of Hakone tours 2025. Departing from Tokyo-Shinjuku by bus, you'll head to Mt. Fuji's 5th Station. After enjoying the crisp air and magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, you'll proceed to Hakone, where you can experience the volcanic valley of Owakudani and enjoy a refreshing cruise on Lake Ashi.
The charm of this tour lies in its flexibility. At the tour's end, you can choose between returning to Tokyo by bus or opting for the bullet train. At Hakone's Owakudani, you can observe the rare volcanic area with steam vents – an experience that thrilled both me and my family! Afterward, you have the option to return to Tokyo via bullet train. If you wish to return to Tokyo quickly, the bullet train option is recommended.
Additionally, lunch is available as an option. If you choose to include lunch, you'll typically enjoy a delicious Japanese-style meal near Mt. Fuji's 5th Station.
Please note that depending on weather conditions, Mt. Fuji might not be visible, and the Lake Ashi cruise might be replaced with other activities. In Hakone, the itinerary might be modified to include visits to Hakone Shrine or art museums instead.
- Meeting point: Shinjuku LOVE Object, 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Tour area: Hakone Area & Fuji Area
- Start time: 8:30
Mt. Fuji 5th Station and Hakone Day Tour from Tokyo
Source: Viator
This 12-hour bus tour, a perfect preview of what to expect in Hakone tours 2025, takes you through Hakone and Mt. Fuji's 5th Station. Departing from Tokyo by bus, you'll first visit Mt. Fuji's 5th Station. Then, enjoy lunch in Hakone, followed by a Lake Ashi cruise and views of sulfuric steam vents at Owakudani. The tour concludes with a bus return to Tokyo.
The tour combines sightseeing with Hakone's culinary delights. Lunch is served at a restaurant near Moto-Hakone Port, offering spectacular views and delicious udon noodles. At Owakudani volcanic area, you can try the famous hot spring eggs. These eggs are cooked in hot spring water, following Japanese tradition, resulting in soft-boiled eggs with a unique flavor.
I personally love these hot spring eggs and always eat them when visiting Hakone or hot spring areas. Since they're only available in hot spring regions, interested visitors should definitely try them.
Like other tours, access to Mt. Fuji's 5th Station and the Lake Ashi cruise may be altered due to weather conditions. If Mt. Fuji is inaccessible, you'll visit the beautiful Oshino Hakkai (eight ponds) at the mountain's base, ensuring an enjoyable tour regardless of conditions.
- Meeting point: Shinjuku Center Building, 1-25 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Tour area: Hakone Area & Fuji Area
- Start time: 7:30
6 Recommended Private Tours with Transportation to Enjoy Hakone at Your Own Pace
Looking ahead to Hakone tours 2025, here are wonderful private tours that include transportation. Many tours can be customized according to your preferences, allowing you to enjoy Hakone's numerous attractions. For most tours, return transportation is provided to the same meeting point.
Mt. Fuji and Hakone Private Tour with English Speaking Guide
Source: Viator
Explore the Hakone-Fuji area with a customized plan exclusively for you, accompanied by a guide. Your guide will pick you up from Tokyo in a private vehicle, either a sedan or minibus. Then spend 10 hours touring the Hakone-Fuji area.
The attractive point of this private tour is that you can visit only the spots that interest you most. In Hakone, you can experience a fun pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, which children will also enjoy. If you're interested in nature, spend more time at Owakudani and Mt. Komagatake.
If you're particularly interested in Mt. Fuji, the Lake Kawaguchiko area is attractive. At Arakurayama Sengen Park, known for its spectacular view of Mt. Fuji with a five-storied pagoda, you can enjoy hiking up Mt. Arakura at your own pace.
This is a classic private tour recommended for those who want to plan freely. Tour timing may vary depending on traffic conditions.
- Meeting point: Pickup from listed hotels in Tokyo
- Tour area: Hakone area and Fuji area
- Start time: 7:30, 8:00, 8:30
Private Car Tour to Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchiko or Hakone Lake Ashi
Source: Viator
Depart from Tokyo in a private vehicle to visit major spots around the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko area, and Hakone. Drivers will pick you up from most locations in Tokyo.
This high-end tour allows you to freely choose 4-6 visiting spots from the list. Guides are available in English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean.
In Hakone, known for its numerous museums, you can go on a museum tour. For example, you can visit the Hakone Glass Forest Museum, which houses beautiful glass art. For samurai enthusiasts, the Samurai Museum with authentic samurai armor is sure to be enjoyable.
The Hakone Onshi Park, known for its spectacular views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, is also recommended.
This tour covers the attraction-rich areas of Hakone and Fuji. If you're unsure where to visit, consult with your guide thoroughly after booking.
- Meeting point: Pickup available from any desired location in Tokyo/airport/port pickup available
- Tour area: Fuji area and Hakone area
- Start time: 7:00, 7:30, 8:00
Private Sightseeing Full Day to Mt Fuji and Hakone
Source: Viator
This private tour offers breathtaking views from Mt. Fuji's 5th station, Lake Ashi in Hakone, and a relaxing hot spring experience. Looking ahead to Hakone tours 2025, this continues to be one of the most sought-after experiences. An English-speaking guide will pick you up at your preferred location in Tokyo before heading to Mt. Fuji's 5th station for lunch.
The highlight of this tour is the comprehensive Hakone experience after descending Mt. Fuji, including a Lake Ashi cruise and hot springs. Lake Ashi, Hakone's beautiful centerpiece, is a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity 3,000 years ago. Hakone's natural landscape is rich with historical significance. Your highly proficient English-speaking guide will provide detailed explanations to enhance your experience.
The tour offers several course options to match your preferences. Depending on your chosen plan, you can enjoy Hakone's hot springs. Don't miss the opportunity to experience these historic hot springs that have captivated visitors for generations.
This tour is perfect for those who value guide interaction and prefer a semi-structured travel experience.
Please note that lunch is not included in the tour price. You'll need to purchase it during the tour, so please research options beforehand.
- Meeting point: Pickup from any location within Tokyo's 23 wards (additional fee for pickup outside the 23 wards)
- Tour area: Fuji area and Hakone area
- Start time: 7:00, 8:00
Hakone and Mt. Fuji Day Trip with Private Vehicle
Source: Viator
This is a 10-hour private tour of the Hakone area in a dedicated vehicle, perfect for planning your Hakone tours 2025 adventure. The itinerary can be customized to your preferences, and it's especially recommended for those interested in visiting Lake Ashi and Hakone's museums. A bilingual guide ensures friendly and thorough communication throughout the tour.
The tour includes ample time to enjoy the popular Hakone Open-Air Museum, featuring contemporary sculpture collections and spatial art. The museum also offers a unique foot bath experience typical of Hakone's hot spring resorts. Relax in the luxurious lemon-scented spa.
Along with Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, I highly recommend visiting Gora Park. Known for its botanical gardens, it's famous for hydrangeas and azaleas.
Enjoy Hakone in a comfortable vehicle while engaging with your guide. Please note that entrance fees to Hakone's museums and Gora Park are not included in the tour price.
- Meeting point: Pickup from any location within Tokyo's 23 wards (Additional locations possible with extra fee; airport pickup available for additional charge)
- Tour area: Hakone area
- Start time: 7:00, 8:00
Private Sightseeing to Mt Fuji and Hakone GREEN NUMBER PLATES
Source: Viator
This is a private tour in a special vehicle that allows you to thoroughly explore the areas around Mt. Fuji. Looking ahead to Hakone tours 2025, you can choose either a course around Mt. Fuji or one enjoying Hakone. Specific destinations and plans can be customized to your preferences.
In this tour, a driver-guide will pick you up from various locations in Tokyo in a vehicle with green number plates, which indicates it's a commercial vehicle. They can pick you up from your hotel, and for an additional fee, they can also provide transfer services to and from airports and ports.
You can take a shuttle bus to reach the Mt. Fuji 5th station. Additionally, you can plan activities in Hakone such as Lake Ashi cruises and scenic drives.
From my experience, the vehicle was immaculate both inside and out, making the drive from Tokyo thoroughly enjoyable. This tour is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy Hakone in comfortable transportation.
- Meeting point: Pickup from listed Tokyo hotels/available airport and port pickup/pickup possible from locations near Tokyo's 23 wards (Please discuss pickup location when booking)
- Tour area: Hakone area or Mt. Fuji area
- Start times: 7:00, 7:30, 8:30
Exciting Hakone - One Day Tour from Tokyo
Source: Viator
This private tour allows you to experience Hakone's beautiful nature in one day. First, you'll take the Shinkansen from Tokyo/Shinagawa to Odawara with your guide. Then, you'll thoroughly explore the Hakone area, including Gora, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine.
The highlight of this tour, which will continue to be a key feature of Hakone tours 2025, is the complete immersion in Hakone's natural beauty. The mountain railway from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Gora allows you to slowly ascend Hakone's beautiful mountains. The route is famous for its scenic views, particularly in June when colorful hydrangeas bloom everywhere.
As a private tour for up to 5 people, your guide will provide detailed explanations about Hakone's rich natural environment and how to best enjoy it. Don't forget to ask about the history of Hakone Shrine, the symbol of the area.
This tour is especially recommended for those who want to focus on thoroughly exploring the Hakone area. Please note that the Owakudani ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise activities may be modified depending on weather conditions.
- Meeting point: Pickup from listed Tokyo hotels
- Tour area: Hakone area
- Start time: 8:30
