The Tokyo: Mount Fuji Lake Ashi Tour is a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration that leaves a lasting impression. Embarking on a scenic boat cruise across the serene Lake Ashi, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Fuji and the Hakone Water Torii Gates. But the real adventure lies in wandering through the historic Hakone Shrine and the otherworldly Owakudani volcanic valley, where the aroma of black-boiled eggs wafts through the air. With ample shopping time at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to a variety of interests. As the day draws to a close, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems await in this captivating region.
Key Points
- The tour offers a full-day excursion showcasing the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Hakone region, including a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi and a visit to Hakone Shrine.
- Participants can explore the volcanic Owakudani valley, known for its black-boiled eggs believed to extend life, and enjoy shopping at the Gotemba Premium Outlets.
- The tour is priced at $103.97 per person, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient option for travelers.
- The tour includes an English-speaking guide and driver, ensuring a seamless journey, but excludes food and drinks, and is not suitable for certain individuals due to health or mobility concerns.
- The tour offers two starting locations in Tokyo, SMBC Bank Shinjuku and Tokyo Station, providing flexibility for participants based on their accommodation location.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Tokyo: Mount Fuji Lake Ashi & Gotemba Outlet One Day Tour offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Hakone region.
Priced from $103.97 per person, the tour lasts an entire day and provides the flexibility of two convenient starting locations.
Highlights include a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi, a guided visit to the iconic Hakone Shrine, and exploration of Owakudani’s volcanic landscape.
Shoppers will delight in the retail therapy at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, which boast around 290 stores.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour caters to various preferences and schedules.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from the two convenient starting locations, the tour’s key stops showcase the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. The first stop is the scenic Lake Ashi, where guests embark on a peaceful boat cruise to admire the iconic Hakone Water Torii Gates. Next, the group explores the Hakone Shrine, a shrine steeped in history and offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The tour then ventures to Owakudani, a volcanic valley famous for its black-boiled eggs believed to extend life. The final highlight is the Gotemba Premium Outlets, where shoppers can indulge in retail therapy among the over 290 stores.
| Key Stops | Duration |
|---|---|
| Lake Ashi | 1 hour |
| Hakone Shrine | 1 hour |
| Owakudani | 1 hour |
| Gotemba Premium Outlets | 1.5 hours |
Key Experiences
Upon embarking on this immersive tour, visitors can expect a captivating array of experiences.
The scenic cruise on Lake Ashi offers breathtaking vistas of the iconic Hakone Water Torii Gates, providing a serene and picturesque start to the day.
Visitors then explore the cultural heritage of Hakone Shrine, marveling at its stunning architecture and the awe-inspiring views of Mount Fuji.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to Owakudani, where guests can indulge in the legendary black-boiled eggs believed to extend life, while taking in the remarkable volcanic landscape.
The day culminates with a shopping spree at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, featuring over 290 stores offering an unparalleled retail experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This comprehensive tour includes an array of essential experiences for visitors. The English-speaking guide and driver ensure a seamless journey, while the cruise fee and hot spring fee cover access to Lake Ashi’s scenic boat ride and Owakudani’s natural volcanic attractions.
Though food and drinks are excluded, the opportunity to explore Hakone Shrine‘s cultural heritage and shop at Gotemba Premium Outlets‘ 290 stores more than make up for it.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, including children under 3, pregnant women, and individuals with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.
Important Information
A minimum of 4 participants is required for this tour to proceed; if this number isn’t met, the tour may be canceled.
Infants under 3 can join the tour for free, but they’ll need a ticket if occupying a seat.
The tour departs at two different times and locations – 8:30 AM at SMBC Bank Shinjuku West Exit or 8:00 AM at Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit Baggage Service Counter.
It’s important to be on time, as the itinerary is subject to change.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, high blood pressure, or those over 70 years old.
Attention to these details will ensure a smooth and enjoyable Mount Fuji lake Ashi tour experience.
Convenient Starting Locations
With two convenient starting location options, travelers can select the one that best suits their needs.
Departing from the SMBC Bank Shinjuku Nishiguchi or the Yamato Transport Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit Baggage Service Counter, the tour provides flexibility for participants.
Whether you’re staying in Shinjuku or near Tokyo Station, these starting points make it easy to join the excursion.
The meeting times of 8:30 AM and 8:00 AM, respectively, ensure a punctual departure to maximize the day’s activities.
With the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
Scenic Boat Cruise on Lake Ashi
The serene Lake Ashi provides the perfect canvas for a tranquil boat cruise, offering visitors unparalleled views of the iconic Hakone Water Torii Gates.
As the boat glides across the still waters, passengers are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mount Fuji, weather permitting.
The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the crisp, fresh air, creates a truly calming and rejuvenating experience.
The cruise lasts approximately an hour, allowing ample time to soak in the natural beauty and snap stunning photographs to commemorate this unforgettable journey.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of respite, the Lake Ashi boat cruise is a must-do activity on this comprehensive Mount Fuji excursion.
Exploring Hakone Shrine and Owakudani
Typically, the tour then ventures to the captivating Hakone Shrine, where visitors can enjoy the shrine’s rich cultural heritage and snap memorable photos framed by the shrine’s iconic vermilion torii gates.
Next, the group continues to Owakudani, a volcanic valley famous for its unique black-boiled eggs, known as Kuro-tamago. Guests have the opportunity to explore this geothermal wonderland, admiring the steaming vents and sulfurous fumes while indulging in the delicacy believed to extend one’s lifespan.
The tour provides ample time for shopping at the nearby Gotemba Premium Outlets, where visitors can browse a diverse selection of over 290 stores offering discounted designer brands and local specialties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes the boat cruise fee and hot spring admission, but doesn’t cover any meals. Travelers will need to purchase food and beverages during the stops along the way.
Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Bus or During the Tour?
Unfortunately, there is no mention of Wi-Fi availability on the Tokyo: Mount Fuji Lake Ashi & Gotemba Outlet One Day Tour. Guests should plan to rely on their mobile data or make necessary arrangements for connectivity during the day’s activities.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at the Gotemba Outlets?
The tour allots 1.5 hours for shopping at the Gotemba Premium Outlets, giving you ample time to browse the 290 stores and find great deals on a variety of products.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour or Customize the Itinerary?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary and duration cannot be extended or customized. It’s a pre-set 1-day excursion with fixed stops and timings. However, participants can explore the Gotemba Premium Outlets at their own pace during the allotted 1.5 hours of shopping time.
Is There Any Age Limit for Participants on the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, high blood pressure, or those over 70 years old. However, infants under 3 can attend for free if they don’t occupy a seat.
Recap
The Tokyo: Mount Fuji Lake Ashi Tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture. From the scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi to the exploration of Hakone Shrine and the volcanic Owakudani valley, this tour provides an enriching and enjoyable experience. Coupled with ample shopping time at Gotemba Premium Outlets, it’s a well-rounded adventure that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor to the region.
