Hakone: Private 6hr Tour with Ropeway, Owakudani & Lake Ashi

Summary

Steam clouds, Fuji glimpses and quiet shrine paths in Hakone

You’ll ride the Hakone Ropeway above steaming valleys, taste a black egg at Owakudani, sail across Lake Ashi with Fuji teasing in the distance, and wander shrine paths or art gardens—all with a local guide who actually knows their stuff. Expect small surprises: sulfur in the air, sudden quiet on the ropeway, maybe even a story or two you’ll want to remember.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sulfur smell—kind of sharp, almost like boiled eggs left out too long. We were standing at Owakudani, watching plumes rise from the ground while our guide, Yuka, explained how this valley powers all those famous hot springs. She handed me one of the black eggs (kuro-tamago), still warm. I tried to peel it without burning my fingers and probably looked ridiculous. Yuka grinned and told me eating one adds seven years to your life. I’m not superstitious but hey, why not?

The Hakone Ropeway was next. The gondola swayed a little as we rose above the trees—my stomach did that weird drop for a second—and suddenly Mount Fuji peeked out between clouds. Not postcard-perfect but somehow more real that way. There was this quiet moment where nobody in our car said anything; just the soft hum of the cable and everyone craning their necks for another glimpse. It felt like we were floating over another world.

We drifted down to Lake Ashi, where the air felt cooler and you could hear little waves tapping against the boat hull. The torii gate by Hakone-jinja Shrine looked almost unreal with its bright red against all that green. Our guide told us about the nine-headed dragon legend—I still don’t totally get it but there’s something comforting about local stories being so matter-of-fact here. We wandered through mossy paths under cedar trees, and I caught myself thinking I could stay there longer if only my legs weren’t getting tired.

If you’re into art (or just need a breather), places like the Hakone Open-Air Museum are scattered around—giant sculptures popping out between trees. We didn’t see everything (six hours goes fast), but honestly, it never felt rushed or staged. The weather kept changing—sun for five minutes, then mist rolling in again—and somehow that made it better? Anyway, I still think about that egg sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hakone's natural and cultural sites

• Visit Owakudani volcano
• Try black boiled eggs
• Ride Hakone Ropeway to Lake Ashinoko
• Enjoy views of Mount Fuji
• Sail across Lake Ashinoko
• Visit Hakone-jinja Shrine
• Explore Hakone Open-Air Museum
• Visit Pola Museum of Art
• Visit Okada Museum of Art

Top questions

How long does the Hakone private tour last?

The private tour lasts approximately 6 hours.

Is hotel pickup included for this Hakone day trip?

No hotel pickup; meet your guide on foot within Hakone’s designated area.

Can I choose which sites to visit on this tour?

Yes, you can pick 3–4 sites from a list when booking your tour.

Are entrance fees included in this private tour?

No entrance fees are not included; you pay them as you go at each site.

Is this Hakone tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The walking tour is wheelchair accessible; private vehicle options are available if needed.

What is special about Owakudani on this trip?

You can see volcanic steam vents up close and try black eggs cooked in hot spring water.

Does the tour include a boat ride on Lake Ashi?

You can include a cruise on Lake Ashi as one of your chosen stops.

Are meals provided during the Hakone private tour?

No meals are included; you may purchase food along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your government-licensed English-speaking guide on foot in Hakone and enjoying a fully customizable itinerary—you’ll pick three or four sites from options like Owakudani volcano valley, Lake Ashi cruise, ropeway rides or art museums. All logistics are handled by your guide so you can focus on exploring at your own pace before returning to town together.