Hakone Sightseeing Tour
Mt. Fuji Views · Volcanic Valley · Lakeside Shrine · Hot Springs
Full Day | Hakone, Kanagawa | From 5 / group
Hakone — Japan’s Premier Hot Spring Resort
Just 90 minutes from central Tokyo, Hakone is one of Japan’s most beloved destinations — a place where volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, ancient shrines, world-class art, and legendary hot springs come together in one compact area within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
On clear days, the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji presides over Lake Ashi like a silent guardian, creating the quintessential Japanese landscape that has inspired artists for centuries. Hakone has welcomed travelers since the Edo period, when feudal lords stopped at its checkpoints along the old Tokaido Road.
Our private car tour lets you experience the best of Hakone at your own pace — no fighting for seats on packed buses, no rigid timetables. Your dedicated driver picks you up at your Tokyo hotel and curates a perfect day based on your interests.
Hakone Shrine & the Peace Torii
Hidden within a primeval forest of towering 800-year-old cedar trees, Hakone Shrine (箱根神社) has been a place of worship for over 1,200 years. Founded in 757 CE, it became a favorite of samurai leaders — from Minamoto no Yoritomo, Japan’s first shogun, to Tokugawa Ieyasu, who rebuilt the shrine and made it a symbol of power and protection.
The shrine’s most iconic feature is the Peace Torii (平和の鳥居) — a brilliant vermillion gate rising from the waters of Lake Ashi. Erected in 1952 to commemorate Japan’s post-war independence and later inscribed with the character for “Peace” by former Prime Minister Yoshida Shigeru, it has become one of the most photographed spots in all of Japan.
Walk the atmospheric stone path beneath the cedar canopy, descend the moss-covered steps to the lakeside, and take in a view that perfectly captures the harmony of nature and spirituality that defines Japan.
Lake Ashi & the Pirate Ship Cruise
Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖) is a stunning caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption over 3,000 years ago. Stretching across the heart of the Hakone caldera at 723 meters elevation, it offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the Kanto region — especially on clear days when Mount Fuji reflects perfectly on its still surface.
The best way to experience the lake is aboard the Hakone Pirate Ship — ornate European-style galleons that have been cruising these waters since 1950. The 30-minute voyage between Togendai, Hakone-machi, and Moto-Hakone offers 360-degree views of forested mountains, the distant Torii gate, and (weather permitting) a breathtaking Fuji panorama.
In autumn, the surrounding mountains erupt in brilliant red and gold, creating one of the most photographed lake scenes in Japan. Your driver will take you to the best vantage points that most tourists never find.
Owakudani — The Great Boiling Valley
Owakudani (大涌谷), literally “Great Boiling Valley,” is an active volcanic zone created 3,000 years ago during the last eruption of Mount Hakone. The landscape is otherworldly — barren rocky slopes streaked with yellow sulfur deposits, clouds of steam billowing from countless vents, and the sharp scent of sulfur filling the air. Locals once called it “Jigokudani” (Valley of Hell).
The most dramatic approach is via the Hakone Ropeway, which carries you directly over the steaming volcanic terrain with jaw-dropping views of Mount Fuji on the horizon. At the top, don’t miss the famous Kuro-tamago (Black Eggs) — eggs boiled in the sulfur-rich hot springs until their shells turn jet black. Legend says each one adds seven years to your life.
A newly opened Earth Valley Observation Area gives visitors a closer look at the volcanic activity from a safe, modern viewing platform.
Hakone Open-Air Museum — Art Meets Nature
Opened in 1969 as Japan’s first outdoor sculpture museum, the Hakone Open-Air Museum spans 70,000 square meters of lush gardens set against the dramatic Hakone mountain backdrop. Around 120 sculptures by masters including Henry Moore, Rodin, Bourdelle, and Brâncuși are displayed across rolling lawns, creating a unique dialogue between art and the natural landscape.
Highlights include one of the world’s largest Henry Moore collections (26 works), a dedicated Picasso Pavilion housing over 300 ceramic pieces, and playful interactive installations that delight visitors of all ages. After exploring, soak your feet in the museum’s natural onsen foot bath while gazing at the mountains.
The museum is a refreshing break from temple-hopping — a place where art, nature, and relaxation blend seamlessly.
Hakone Hot Springs — Centuries of Healing Waters
No visit to Hakone is complete without experiencing its legendary hot springs. Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous onsen regions, with 17 distinct hot spring sources scattered across the area, each with unique mineral compositions and therapeutic properties. People have soaked in these healing waters for over 1,300 years.
Your driver can take you to a carefully selected traditional ryokan or day-use onsen where you can enjoy a private outdoor bath (rotenburo) surrounded by bamboo groves and mountain scenery. Feel the stress melt away as mineral-rich water soothes your muscles after a full day of sightseeing.
Whether you prefer a rustic riverside bath or a refined ryokan setting, we’ll match you with the perfect onsen experience to end your Hakone day on a blissful note.
What's Included
- ✓ Private car & dedicated driver for the day
- ✓ Hotel pickup & drop-off in central Tokyo
- ✓ Driver doubles as basic English guide
- ✓ Flexible itinerary — adjust on the go
- ✓ All tolls, parking & fuel included
- ✓ 24/7 online travel consultant support
Optional Add-ons
- + Licensed English-speaking sightseeing guide
- + Hakone Pirate Ship cruise tickets
- + Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani admission
- + Open-Air Museum entrance
- + Private onsen / ryokan lunch
International flights are not included. Guests arrange their own travel to/from Japan.
Ready to Explore Hakone?
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