Private Mount Fuji and Hakone City Tour from Tokyo

Experience the Majestic Views of Mt. Fuji and Hakone with a Private Guided Tour from Tokyo

If you’re dreaming of seeing Mt. Fuji up close and exploring the scenic charm of Hakone, a private day tour might be just what you need. This tour, offered by Monkey Kart Japan, promises a flexible, personalized experience in a spacious Toyota Alphard, tailored for groups of up to six. It’s a great way to escape the hustle of Tokyo, soak in Japan’s natural beauty, and enjoy the company of a knowledgeable guide.

What really makes this tour stand out is the customizable itinerary—you can focus on the sights that excite you most, whether that’s the iconic mountain, tranquil lakes, or unique wildlife parks. Plus, the small group setting ensures plenty of personalized attention, making your day both relaxing and memorable.

One consideration worth noting is that some stops, like Lake Kawaguchiko or Fuji Safari Park, do not include admission fees, so you might want to budget extra if you plan on participating in activities or entering specific sites. This tour is most suited for travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and expert guidance—ideal for those wanting a tailored experience without the hassle of navigating on your own.

Key Points

• Private, flexible tour designed for small groups of up to six for a personalized experience
• Includes expert driver and guide who can customize the itinerary based on your interests
• Comfortable transportation in a spacious Toyota Alphard for smooth, private travel
• Highlights include Shiraito Falls, Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, and Fuji Safari Park
• No fixed schedule—you can prioritize the sites that appeal most to you
• Cost-effective for a private group at around $605, offering good value considering the inclusions and personalized service

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Shiraito Falls: A Refreshing Start

Your day begins with a visit to Shiraito Falls—one of Japan’s top-ranked waterfalls that scores high on natural beauty and photo opportunities. The falls cascade down a wide, delicate formation that looks almost like white threads flowing from the mountainside. With free admission, it’s a gentle start that offers plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer, Reyna, described it as a perfect place to “click some good pictures” and appreciated the relatively quick stop that left plenty of time for the rest of the day.

From Shinjuku to the Scenic Outdoors

While the tour is flexible regarding pickup points, many guests are based in Shinjuku, which is conveniently close to Tokyo’s main transport hubs. The drive from Shinjuku to the scenic areas of Mt. Fuji and Hakone takes roughly three hours, depending on traffic. The comfort of a private vehicle means you avoid crowded buses or trains, making for a more relaxed journey. One traveler noted that the timing was well calculated to optimize sightseeing without feeling rushed, though longer stays at some spots might be available upon request.

Lake Kawaguchiko: The Heart of Mt. Fuji Views

Next, you’ll visit Lake Kawaguchiko, the second-largest of Japan’s Fuji Five Lakes. It’s the perfect spot for gazing directly at Mt. Fuji rising majestically in the background. Photographers and nature lovers will especially appreciate this view, along with the chance to do some light activities around the lake. While entrance fees are not included, the setting alone makes this a highlight—many guests comment on how breathtaking the scenery is, especially when the weather is clear.

Chureito Pagoda: Iconic Photo Spot

A highlight for many visitors is the Chureito Pagoda, perched on a mountainside with a stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji. The five-storied pagoda is renowned for its picture-perfect appearance, especially with cherry blossoms in season. According to reviews, it’s a “stereotypical” Japanese photo stop—yet undeniably beautiful. Expect about 40 minutes here, giving enough time for photos and taking in the panoramic views. Admission is not included, but the beauty of the location makes it worth the visit.

Fuji Safari Park: A Wild Encounter

For a dose of wildlife, the tour includes a stop at the Fuji Safari Park—a favorite among families and animal lovers. Visitors can see animals like lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses roaming freely in a semi-wild environment. One reviewer remarked that the safari, lasting about 1 hour 20 minutes, was a “popular” part of the day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and close encounters. While entrance fees are not included, this unique experience offers a fun contrast to the scenic nature stops and is a highlight for those interested in wildlife.

Flexibility and Customization

What sets this tour apart is the ability to customize your itinerary. The guide can adapt the stops based on your interests, giving you more time at preferred sites or suggesting alternative spots. This flexibility ensures you’re not tied to a rigid schedule, which is perfect for those who want to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a spacious Toyota Alphard, you’ll enjoy a smooth and private ride. The vehicle comfortably accommodates up to six people, giving everyone ample space for luggage, camera gear, and relaxing during the drive. The inclusion of driver, fuel, toll taxes, pickup, and drop-off simplifies logistics and helps keep the experience hassle-free.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes, making it a full but manageable day out. Starting from your hotel or designated pickup point, the schedule is flexible, with most stops ranging from 20 minutes at Shiraito Falls to over an hour at Kawaguchiko and Safari Park. Reviewers appreciated that the timing felt well balanced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery without feeling hurried.

Cost and Value

At $605.67 for up to six people, this private tour offers excellent value for a personalized experience. When you factor in private transportation, a guide, and the opportunity to customize your day, it compares favorably to group tours or independent planning that could easily cost more in time and stress.

What’s Not Included

Please note that admission fees for some sites—like Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, and Fuji Safari Park—are not included. You should plan for additional expenses if you wish to participate in certain activities or enter specific sites. Also, brunch and the Hakone Ropeway are not part of the package, giving you the flexibility to dine as you wish and explore other Hakone attractions on your own.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

According to the glowing reviews, guides like Yuka and Ko are praised for their friendliness, language skills, and flexibility. One reviewer mentioned that Yuka was fluent in Chinese, Japanese, and English, making communication effortless and enjoyable. She also helped with photos and was very accommodating, which added a personal touch to the trip.

Another reviewer, Reyna, appreciated how Ko “took us to all the sites we wanted to see” and was “very pleasant,” emphasizing the importance of having an attentive guide who responds to your interests. These insights tell us that the quality of the guide can make or break the experience, and this tour seems to attract friendly, knowledgeable professionals.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Mount Fuji and Hakone city tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate customization, comfort, and expert guidance—especially families or small groups seeking an intimate day out without the constraints of a large bus tour.

If your goal is to capture iconic views of Mt. Fuji, explore serene lakes, or see wildlife up close, this tour caters to those interests. The small group size and private vehicle make it perfect for those who value personalized service and flexible scheduling. The fact that it’s well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides suggests you’ll also benefit from engaging, local insights that elevate the day beyond just sightseeing.

While it’s not a budget option, the combination of private transportation, expert guiding, and tailored stops makes it an excellent value for a memorable, hassle-free day in Japan’s scenic heartland. It’s especially suitable for those who want a comfortable, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking views.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes, including travel time and stops at key sites.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation in a Toyota Alphard, a driver, guide, fuel, toll taxes, and pick-up/drop-off from your hotel.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission fees for sites like Lake Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda, and Fuji Safari Park are not included, so expect to pay extra if you want to enter these attractions.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be personalized based on your interests, making it a tailored experience.

What is the group size?
Up to six guests, ensuring a private, intimate experience with personalized attention.

What language does the guide speak?
Guides are fluent in Japanese, and some, like Yuka, also speak English and Chinese, making communication easy.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel or a designated location in Tokyo.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, camera gear, some cash for extra expenses, and weather-appropriate clothing, as some stops involve outdoor exploration.

This private Mt. Fuji and Hakone tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and wildlife encounters—all in a relaxed, personalized setting. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day outside Tokyo, this experience delivers authentic Japan in style.