Best Mt Fuji and Hakone Full-Day Bus Tour from Tokyo

Travelers looking for a seamless way to see two of Japan’s most iconic sights—Mt. Fuji and Hakone—will find this guided bus tour offers a convenient, memorable experience. Clocking in at around 9 hours, it packs in a variety of highlights, from scenic views and hot springs to cultural sites and fun attractions.

One of the best things about this tour is its all-inclusive approach—your transportation, guide, entrance fees, and even a buffet lunch at Ninja Village are covered—making it a great value for those who want to maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning. However, the tour does involve a tight schedule and depends on weather conditions, especially when visiting Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station.

This experience is ideal for families with kids and couples who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and light adventure. If you’re after a stress-free, guided day trip that hits the essential highlights of Hakone and Mt. Fuji, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers Mt. Fuji, Hakone, and related attractions in one day.
• Comfortable transportation: A guided bus makes the journey easy and efficient.
• Diverse stops: From scenic viewpoints to cultural spots, there’s plenty to see.
• Value for money: Includes admission fees, a buffet lunch, and key activities.
• Weather-dependent: Access to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station can be affected by conditions.
• Limited group size: Max of 15 travelers keeps it intimate and manageable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Nishishinjuku

The adventure kicks off early, with check-in at the LOVE statue in front of the i-Land tower in Nishishinjuku. Meeting at 7:50 am, you’ll find staff waving a green and white flag—easy to spot. The group departs sharply at 8:00 am, journeying out of Tokyo on the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway and Chuo Expressway toward Mt. Fuji. Expect roughly 90 minutes of comfortable bus travel, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead.

Mt. Fuji 5th Station

The highlight for many is reaching the Mt. Fuji 5th Station (Subashiri Trail), situated at around 2,000 meters. The stop is scheduled for around 10:30 am. If the weather cooperates, you’ll get spectacular views of Japan’s most famous peak—perfect for photos and soaking in the vast landscape.

A key point: If weather conditions prevent access to the 5th Station, the guide will instead take you to visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a site dedicated to Princess Konohanasakuya, connecting you to cultural traditions linked to Mt. Fuji.

The stop lasts about 30 minutes, offering quick but memorable moments amidst stunning scenery—be sure to bring your jacket, as it can be chilly at this altitude.

Oshino Shinobi no Sato

Next, you’ll move to Oshino Shinobi no Sato, a ninja-themed village in Yamanashi Prefecture. This fun stop combines entertainment with scenic views of Mt. Fuji in the background—a favorite among families. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at the Samurai Restaurant, included in the tour. Reviewer Daniel commented, “Great for kids, too,” and appreciated the guide Yuki-san’s kindness and helpful tips, especially noting her knowledge about the ninja village and local sights.

Owakudani Valley & Hakone Ropeway

Post-lunch, your journey continues to Owakudani Valley, a volcanic area with bubbling vents and hot springs. The Hakone Ropeway offers a short ride over this geothermal wonderland, giving you panoramic views of the active volcanic landscape and Hakone’s natural beauty.

Here, the famous “Kuro Tamago”—black eggs boiled in hot springs—awaits. According to local lore, eating these eggs can add seven years to your life, making it a quirky and tasty experience. The volcanic steam and sulphur smell add authenticity—be prepared for a sensory overload.

Lake Ashi Cruise & Hakone Shrine

After descending from the volcanic heights, you’ll take a leisurely cruise across Lake Ashi, where the views of Mt. Fuji reflecting on the water create an almost unreal scene. The approximately 45-minute cruise is relaxing and provides plenty of photo opportunities.

Following the cruise, you’ll visit the Hakone Shrine, famous for its iconic red torii gate floating on the lake. The shrine is a peaceful spot to purify yourself with fresh spring water and enjoy the tranquil environment. The guide often shares stories about its history and significance, adding depth to the visit.

Odawara Station & Return to Tokyo

The tour wraps up with a short transfer to Odawara Station for those choosing the Shinkansen option. The group then boards a bus that takes about 70 minutes back to Shinjuku Station, arriving around 6:50 pm. This part of the journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

Many reviewers, including Daniel, emphasize the knowledgeable guides, like Yuki-san, who offer insights into not just the sights but also local history and tips to enhance the experience. Her friendly attitude and helpfulness seem to make a difference, especially for first-time visitors.

Stunning Views at Key Spots

The views of Mt. Fuji from multiple angles—be it the 5th Station, Owakudani, or Lake Ashi—are consistently praised. Travelers love how these sights create perfect photo moments and unforgettable memories.

Convenience and Value

This tour covers all the major attractions without the stress of planning transport or entrance fees. The buffet lunch at Ninja Village is a bonus, especially for families, who appreciate the included activities and the small group size that keeps the experience intimate.

Some Considerations

Weather can impact the visit to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station—this is out of the tour’s control but worth noting. Also, the schedule is quite packed, so patience and comfortable walking shoes are advised. The tour’s duration means you’ll spend a good part of the day on the bus, but the stops are well-paced.

Practical Details and Tips

Price and Value

At $232.41 per person, the tour is priced to reflect convenience and inclusivity. When you consider the admission fees, guide service, transportation, and lunch, it offers a strong value for a full day of sightseeing.

Duration and Group Size

The 9-hour itinerary is intense but manageable, especially with a small group capped at 15 people. Smaller groups enhance interaction with guides and reduce waiting times at attractions.

Accessibility and Weather

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. It doesn’t specify hotel pick-up/drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point in Shinjuku.

Booking Tips

Most travelers book about 68 days in advance, indicating high demand. Confirm your preferences for vegetarian or Muslim-friendly meals when booking.

The Sum Up

This Best Mt Fuji and Hakone Full-Day Bus Tour from Tokyo is a well-rounded choice for those seeking a hassle-free way to see some of Japan’s most famous sights. It’s especially suited for families and couples who want to enjoy a guided, all-in-one experience without stress. The inclusion of a guide, buffet lunch, and key attractions ensures you get good value and memorable moments.

While weather conditions may affect the Mt. Fuji visit, the tour’s flexibility and diverse stops mean you’ll still walk away with stunning views and cultural insights. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, and the knowledgeable guides make the journey informative and fun.

Overall, if you’re after a balance of sightseeing, comfort, and culture, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Japan’s natural and spiritual wonders in a single day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your bus fare, guided transportation, and all internal transfers are included. You’ll ride comfortably in a guided bus from Tokyo and back.

What is the meeting point and time?
The tour starts at 7:50 am in Nishishinjuku, in front of the LOVE statue at i-Land tower. You need to check in a bit earlier to board the bus promptly at 8:00 am.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
Absolutely. The tour is limited to 15 travelers, making it suitable for solo travelers who want an intimate, guided experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather, but access to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station depends on conditions. If inaccessible, the guide will substitute with other cultural visits like Fuji Sengen Shrine.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Ninja Village is part of the package. You can request vegetarian or Muslim-friendly options when booking.

How long is the total bus ride?
The trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji takes about 90 minutes, with additional travel time between other stops, totaling approximately 9 hours from start to finish.

Are entrance fees included?
Most attractions, including the ninja village, ropeway, and lake cruise, have their admission fees covered. The only potential extra would be personal purchases.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Families with kids, couples, and culture lovers who appreciate scenic views and hassle-free planning will find this experience particularly satisfying.

Is there a need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the scenic stops and photo opportunities.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized, friendly way to experience the highlight sights around Mt. Fuji and Hakone without the fuss. It balances sightseeing, cultural stops, and fun, making it a worthwhile option for a memorable day out of Tokyo.