Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Trip: Ropeway, Lake Ashi Cruise, Buffet

Summary

Mt Fuji’s sacred air, Hakone ropeway views, Lake Ashi breeze

You’ll breathe in crisp mountain air at Mt Fuji’s 5th Station, share laughs over a Japanese buffet lunch, ride above volcanic valleys on the Hakone Ropeway, and drift quietly across Lake Ashi—all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. This day trip from Tokyo leaves you with those rare moments that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Our guide, Yuki, greeted us with a bright wave at the LOVE statue in Shinjuku—she joked it was easy to find because “everyone needs a little love before Mt Fuji.” I liked her right away. The city faded behind us as we drove out of Tokyo, and by the time we reached Mt Fuji’s 5th Station, the air had that sharp pine smell you only get high up. There were school kids laughing near the shrine and I tried to copy their bow—probably did it wrong but nobody minded. Clouds moved fast over the mountain; I kept waiting for Fuji to show its whole face but it just teased us between wisps of white.

The lunch buffet was honestly more fun than I expected—lots of local veggies and something pickled that I still can’t name (Yuki said it’s good luck if you eat two). We sat by a window looking up at the slopes. After lunch, we headed toward Hakone. The ropeway ride was a bit nerve-wracking at first (I’m not great with heights), but everyone started pointing when sulfur steam curled up from Owakudani below. The windows fogged slightly from all our breath and excitement. At some point someone shouted “there!” and we caught a glimpse of Mt Fuji again—just for a second.

I didn’t realize how quiet Lake Ashi could feel until we were gliding across it on the boat. The water looked almost black against the green hills and there was this faint scent of cedar drifting by. A couple next to me tried to take selfies but mostly just laughed when their hair blew everywhere. It felt like everyone relaxed for a moment—no one talking much, just watching clouds move over the water.

The bus dropped us back in Shinjuku around 7pm (give or take—Tokyo traffic is its own adventure). My legs were tired but my head felt clear in that way you get after seeing so many new things in one day. I still think about that view from the ropeway sometimes—you know, when you catch something beautiful just long enough to want more.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mt Fuji and Hakone sightseeing tour

• Meet at LOVE statue
• Visit Mt. Fuji 5th Station and shrine
• Enjoy Japanese lunch buffet
• Visit Mt. Hakone or Mt. Komitake
• Ride Hakone Ropeway cable car
• Take Lake Ashi cruise
• Arrive at Odawara station
• Return to Shinjuku Station

Top questions

How long is the Mt Fuji & Hakone day trip from Tokyo?

The tour typically lasts about 11-12 hours including travel time from Shinjuku.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, a Japanese buffet lunch is included if selected during booking. Vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options are available if requested in advance.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is offered; meeting points are Matsuya Ginza or LOVE Shinjuku.

What happens if Mt Fuji’s 5th Station is closed?

If access isn’t possible due to weather or regulations, an alternative site like Oshino Hakkai will be visited instead.

Is there an English-speaking guide on this tour?

Yes, a professional English-speaking guide leads the group throughout the day trip.

Are tickets for Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise included?

Yes, both Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise fees are included in your booking.

Can I bring large luggage on this tour?

No, large luggage exceeding 160cm total dimensions cannot be brought onto non-reserved cars of the Shinkansen or stored on the bus.

Where does the tour end?

The tour usually ends at Shinjuku Station around 7pm; sometimes Odawara Station depending on traffic or weekends/holidays.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from central Tokyo (Matsuya Ginza or LOVE Shinjuku), all entry fees for Mt Fuji’s 5th Station (or alternatives), buffet lunch if booked ahead (with vegetarian or Muslim-friendly options), guided rides on both Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise, plus multilingual audio guidance and Wi-Fi onboard your coach before returning to Tokyo in the evening.