How to Plan Your Hakone Tour: Majestic Moments Waiting!

Have you ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and immerse yourself in nature? Hakone, located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, is the perfect destination for a day trip from Tokyo with stunning views of Mount Fuji, a volcanic lake, and hot springs. To make the most of your time in Hakone, we recommend taking a private tour. In this guide, we will show you how to plan your own tour, including where to book, what to expect, and what to pack.

Overview

The Hakone Majestic Moment Waiting tour is the ideal introductory tour to the highlights of Hakone. You will save hours of time looking up the essential sightseeing spots and let a private guide show you around instead. The tour is a great way to tick off multiple sights in a day without having to worry about navigating or getting lost. Highlights to look forward to include the active volcanic zone of Owakudani, Lake Ashinoko, and Hakone Shrine. You will also benefit from a private tour that’s exclusively for your group, and an English-speaking professional guide who will share insights and help you learn about the area’s history.

What’s Included

The tour includes an English-speaking professional guide, a private tour exclusively for your group, hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, public transportation fee, and the Hakone Checkpoint entrance fee (500 yen).

Meeting and Pickup

You can head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The meeting point is at Gora Station, located at Gora Hakone Ashigarashimo District Kanagawa 250-0408 Japan. If you prefer, you can also request a pickup from your hotel or another location.

Itinerary

The tour starts at 9:00 AM at Gora Station and ends back at the meeting point. Below is a rough itinerary of the tour:

1. Meet your guide at Gora Station.
2. Visit the Hakone Checkpoint where samurais used to control access to Tokyo.
3. Ride the Hakone Ropeway and enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji, Owakudani and Lake Ashinoko.
4. Optional lunch break (included in the tour).
5. Visit the famous Hakone Shrine nestled in the forest, where you can try your hand at omikuji (fortune-telling paper).
6. Return to Gora Station by train and end the tour.

What to Bring

We recommend bringing a camera, comfortable walking shoes, and layered clothing. As Hakone is located in a mountainous area, temperatures can be colder than expected, especially in the winter.

Booking

The Hakone Majestic Moment Waiting tour is offered by Viator, a trusted third-party tour company. To book the tour, click here and follow the instructions on the website.

In conclusion, a private tour of Hakone is a fantastic way to experience multiple sights in a day without having to worry about navigating or getting lost. The Hakone Majestic Moment Waiting tour offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and historical insights. By following the steps outlined above, you can plan your tour with ease and enjoy unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after your trip ends.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Hakone: Majestic Moments Waiting!

Located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone is a popular tourist destination about two hours from Tokyo. It’s well known for its hot springs, scenic beauty, and historical significance. Here are our insider recommendations to make the most of your visit.

Hot Springs and Onsen

The hot springs and onsen in Hakone are a must-experience for any traveler. Be sure to visit the Tenzan Onsen Hot Spring, which has both indoor and outdoor baths with stunning mountain views. We also recommend visiting the Hakone Yuryo Onsen, which is surrounded by nature and has its own water source. Don’t miss the traditional outdoor bath at the Yunessun Onsen, which features baths filled with coffee, wine, and green tea.

Attractions and Landmarks

One of the most famous attractions is Lake Ashi, which offers a stunning view of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Take a leisurely boat ride around the lake to soak in the scenery. The Hakone Shrine is also a must-visit attraction. It’s situated in a serene forest and features impressive torii gates that lead to the shrine. For a unique experience, take the Hakone Ropeway and enjoy the breathtaking views from above.

Cultural Experiences

For a glimpse into the traditional Japanese way of living, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This outdoor museum features over 100 sculptures, and visitors are encouraged to interact with the exhibits. You can also participate in a tea ceremony at the Hakone Sekisho Exhibition Hall, which was once a checkpoint for travelers. For those interested in history, we recommend visiting the Hakone Checkpoint Museum to learn more about the Edo period.

Dining Spots

Hakone is known for its local cuisine, especially its kaiseki ryori (traditional multi-course Japanese meal). One of the best places to try it is at the Hatsuhana restaurant, which overlooks Lake Ashi. We also recommend trying the black eggs, a local delicacy that’s said to extend your life by seven years. You can find them at the Owakudani Valley, which is also a famous tourist spot due to its bubbling hot springs and stunning views.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, head to the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum. This museum houses a vast collection of Venetian glass and features a beautiful garden with a fountain made of glass. You can also visit the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, which is home to various plant species and animals. For a fun day out, visit the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Spa and Water Park, which is designed for both adults and children.

In conclusion, Hakone has a lot to offer beyond its hot springs and scenic beauty. Be sure to explore the city’s rich culture, history, and local cuisine to make the most of your trip. Have fun and enjoy all the majestic moments Hakone has to offer!