Situated just a short drive from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the Hakone region offers a captivating escape into the serene natural beauty of Japan. Travelers embarking on this 1-day excursion will be treated to a multifaceted adventure, seamlessly blending the tranquility of a lake cruise with the indulgence of a premium outlet shopping experience. Whether you’re seeking a respite from the city or an opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy, this customizable tour promises to deliver an unforgettable day filled with picturesque landscapes, bargain-hunting, and the chance to witness the iconic Mount Fuji. As the itinerary unfolds, the true allure of this dual-destination experience becomes increasingly clear.
Key Points
- This 1-day tour covers the Hakone area, including Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, and the Gotemba Premium Outlets for shopping.
- The group price starts from ¥13,609 and includes hotel pickup, an English-speaking driver, and a flexible, customizable itinerary.
- Highlights include a cable car ride with scenic views, the option to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and 3 hours of shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility.
- Positive customer feedback highlights the tour’s organization, the driver’s kindness, and the overall enjoyment of the Hakone and Gotemba experience.
Tour Overview and Details
The 1-day Hakone Area and Gotemba Premium Outlets tour provides a comprehensive experience, featuring a visit to the scenic Lake Ashi, an optional exploration of the Hakone Shrine, a cable car ride, and the opportunity to browse the renowned Gotemba Premium Outlets, all for a group price starting from K£13,609.
Lasting 10 hours, the tour includes pickup from your Tokyo hotel by an English-speaking driver and is wheelchair accessible, making it an ideal choice for a private group adventure.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace and customize your itinerary to suit your preferences.
Itinerary Highlights
Kicking off the Hakone Area and Gotemba Premium Outlets tour, you will be picked up from their Tokyo hotel by an English-speaking driver, commencing the 2-hour journey to the picturesque Lake Ashi.
After 1.5 hours of sightseeing at the lake, visitors can opt to visit the Hakone Shrine for an additional hour.
Continuing the excursion, the group will embark on a 40-minute cable car ride, offering breathtaking views of the region.
Participants can then choose to explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum for 1.5 hours or head directly to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, where they’ll have 3 hours to indulge in shopping and sightseeing before the 2-hour return to Tokyo.
Customization and Flexibility
This private Hakone Area and Gotemba Premium Outlets tour offers 100% customized experiences, allowing visitors to explore the region at their own pace.
Travelers can choose from a variety of sites, including the serene Lake Ashi, the historic Hakone-jinja Shrine, the picturesque Onshi Hakone Park, the scenic Hakone Ropeway, and the iconic Pirate Ships, ensuring the itinerary aligns with their personal interests and preferences.
Plus, guests have the option to add a visit to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, a popular shopping destination, giving them the opportunity to indulge in retail therapy and bring home unique souvenirs.
The flexible tour schedule grants participants the freedom to enjoy the attractions that captivate them the most, creating a truly personalized and unforgettable experience.
Inclusions and Additional Fees
Alongside the customizable tour itinerary, this private Hakone Area and Gotemba Premium Outlets experience includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
The package covers the cost of the car, driver, fuel, parking, and toll fees, as well as pick-up and drop-off within Tokyo’s 23 wards. Plus, passengers are provided with insurance coverage for their safety and peace of mind.
While the core tour is inclusive, there are a few optional extras available:
- Baby seats for families traveling with young children
- Entrance fees for any additional sites or attractions
- Meal expenses and gratuities for the driver
With these add-ons, guests can personalize their experience to suit their preferences and needs.
Customer Feedback
Based on the provided information, travelers have generally expressed a positive sentiment towards this private tour experience.
Two online reviews, one from a guest from Mexico and another from a Philippine-based traveler, highlighted the kindness of the driver and the overall enjoyment of the tour.
The Mexican guest, Marcela, praised the driver’s kindness, while the GetYourGuide traveler from the Philippines described the tour as a good overall experience.
With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews, this tour seems to offer a satisfactory experience for those seeking a customized day trip to the Hakone area and Gotemba Premium Outlets.
The positive feedback suggests the tour provides a well-organized and enjoyable excursion for its participants.
Getting to Hakone
From Tokyo, the journey to Hakone typically takes around 2 hours, as the area is situated southwest of the capital city. Travelers can reach Hakone via various transportation options, including private cars, buses, trains, and even boats, depending on their preferences and the specific sights they wish to explore during their visit.
Some popular ways to get to Hakone include:
- Taking the Odakyu Romance Car express train, which provides scenic views along the way.
- Hopping on a bus from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, which offers a comfortable and convenient option.
- Opting for a private car or van transfer, which allows for a more personalized and flexible experience.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, the trip to Hakone is an integral part of the overall experience, setting the stage for a memorable day in this beautiful region.
Exploring Lake Ashi
Upon arriving in Hakone, the centerpiece of the region is the serene Lake Ashi, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
One of the top attractions in the region, Lake Ashi is a picturesque volcanic lake surrounded by the impressive Hakone mountains.
Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, taking in the spectacular views of the iconic Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Alternatively, they can opt for a relaxing cruise on the lake’s ‘pirate ships’, providing a unique perspective of the stunning landscape.
Whether admiring the tranquil waters or spotting local wildlife, exploring Lake Ashi is a must-do activity for any trip to the Hakone region.
Shopping at Gotemba
Shopping at Gotemba’s expansive premium outlets provides visitors with an opportunity to indulge in a diverse array of brand-name merchandise at discounted prices.
The Gotemba Premium Outlets, situated a short drive from Hakone, offer a premier shopping experience, featuring over 200 stores showcasing international fashion, lifestyle, and specialty brands. Visitors can peruse an impressive selection of high-quality products, from apparel and accessories to home goods and electronics, all while enjoying the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Some key highlights of the Gotemba Premium Outlets include:
- Diverse brand selection, from luxury labels to affordable retail chains
- Substantial discounts, often ranging from 30% to 70% off retail prices
- Convenient layout and ample parking for a comfortable shopping spree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
This tour does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages are welcome to join. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, and baby seats can be provided upon request for an additional fee.
Does the Tour Include Transportation To/From the Airport?
The tour does not include transportation to and from the airport. However, airport pickup and drop-off can be arranged for an additional fee. Customers should contact the tour provider for more information on this optional service.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Dietary Requirements?
The tour can be customized to accommodate specific dietary requirements. Customers can request vegetarian, vegan, or other specialized meals during the lunch portion of the tour by informing the tour provider in advance.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?
The maximum group size for this private tour is up to 6 participants. According to the tour overview, the price is from K¥13,609 per group, indicating that it can accommodate a private group of up to 6 people.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. According to the information provided, customers can choose to add an extra hour to the tour for an additional fee of ¥7,000 per hour.
Recap
This 1-day trip to the Hakone Area and Gotemba Premium Outlets offers the perfect blend of nature and shopping.
Travelers can take in the stunning views of Mount Fuji during a leisurely cruise on Lake Ashi, then indulge in a shopping spree at the expansive Gotemba Premium Outlets.
With its customizable itinerary and convenient transportation, this tour provides a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for visitors seeking to explore the best of Hakone and satisfy their shopping desires.
