Mt Fuji & Hakone Cruise, Drum Show Bus 1 Day from Tokyo

If you’re planning a day trip from Tokyo to see Mount Fuji and its surrounding sights, this tour offers an accessible way to tick those iconic sights off your list. It’s a popular choice, with reviews averaging a solid 4.0 out of 5 from over 1,200 travelers. The experience combines natural beauty, cultural highlights, and some fun entertainment—all in just over 12 hours.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its focus on authentic Japanese scenery—like a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi—and the chance to ride the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of Hakone. On the flip side, a key consideration is that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially during peak seasons or if weather impacts visibility.

This trip will suit travelers who want an organized, value-packed day to experience Japan’s most famous mountain and its nearby wonderland. If you’re okay with tight timings and have a sense of adventure, this could be a fantastic fit. But if you prefer leisurely exploration or are highly weather-dependent, you might want to consider alternative options or be prepared for some compromises.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Hakone’s peaks.
• Includes a Japanese-style lunch (if option selected) and cultural entertainment.
• Offers stunning views from Mt. 5th Station and the Komagatake Ropeway.
• A mix of transportation modes: coach, cruise, cableway, and train.
• Group size is limited to 44, making for a relatively intimate experience.
• Weather can impact visibility, but the tour proceeds regardless, with alternative stops if needed.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: From Tokyo to Mount Fuji

The tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup at Shinjuku’s central meeting point—convenient for most travelers staying in Tokyo. The air-conditioned coach is roomy and comfortable, crucial for the long day ahead. Expect the ride to be just over two hours as you head into the countryside, passing through lush landscapes and small towns.

One of the highlights here is the chance to see rural Japan in motion, far from the city’s bustle. The group typically comprises up to 44 travelers, allowing for some lively conversations or a quiet nap—whichever you prefer.

Reaching the 5th Station: A Must-See, But Sometimes a Rushed Stop

The first big stop is Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, sitting at 2,300 meters (7,546 feet). This is the spot most visitors aspire to visit, as it offers spectacular views above the clouds. You’ll have about 30 minutes to take photos, browse the souvenir shops, or explore the torii gates and shrines that symbolize the mountain’s spiritual significance.

Many reviews comment positively on the scenery—“Mt Fuji is a magical place,” as one traveler put it—and we agree that standing at that altitude, with Japan’s tallest peak towering nearby, is quite an experience. However, some say the time allocated isn’t enough to really absorb the atmosphere or wander freely.

Weather is always a wildcard at this altitude—some visitors are disappointed if clouds obscure the view. But even on cloudy days, the experience of being there and feeling the mountain’s grandeur still holds value.

Lunch Break and Cultural Entertainment

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll stop at Fuji Zakura Hotel for a Japanese-style meal. If you opt for the “with lunch” package, you might find the food quite simple—vegetarian, Muslim-friendly, or Indian Thali options are available upon request, but the quality isn’t highlighted as exceptional.

What stands out during this pause is the Wadaiko (Japanese drum) performance performed by the Social Welfare Corporation Fugakukai. Travelers enjoy the lively rhythms and emotional power of the drums—an authentic piece of Japanese culture that adds an element of entertainment to your day.

Some reviews mention that the lunch quality may not meet everyone’s expectations, with one describing it as “very poor.” But others liked the experience, especially the drum show, which many found energetic and memorable.

Cruising Lake Ashi: A Relaxing Interlude

Next up is Lake Ashi, a caldera lake formed by a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. The cruise aboard the Sorakaze ship is a peaceful highlight, offering beautiful panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Many reviewers mention how tranquil and scenic this part of the trip is—“feels like floating over a green park,” as one said.

The chance to admire Mount Fuji in the distance (weather permitting) and the lush landscape makes this a favorite moment. Many travelers comment positively on this cruise, describing it as a ‘postcard-perfect’ experience, though some note that views can be obscured by weather.

Mount Komagatake Ropeway: Elevating the Experience

The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway takes you high above the lake, to the mountain’s peak. The aerial tramway ride lasts about 7 minutes each way, culminating in the summit area, where you can walk around and take in expansive views across Hakone National Park, including Izu Peninsula and Izu Islands.

Here’s where the experience gets particularly special—the vistas are breathtaking when the weather cooperates. Many reviews describe the views as “spectacular,” and the altitude provides a different perspective on Japan’s natural landscape.

However, during maintenance periods (like January to early March 2025), the ropeway is closed, and the tour switches to alternative destinations. The flexibility in itinerary is a good thing, but keep in mind that weather or maintenance can alter plans.

Final Stops and Returning to Tokyo

The tour concludes with a brief stop at Odawara Station for those choosing to disembark there, before heading back to Shinjuku in the evening. The return trip can be delayed by traffic, and some reviews mention that they had to stand on the train back—something to consider if you prefer comfort or have tight connections.

Overall Value and Experience

For $168.58 per person, this tour packs in a lot—breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and a full day of sightseeing. Many travelers praise their guides for being knowledgeable, helpful, and engaging, which elevates the experience.

That said, some reviewers noted that certain stops felt rushed or that weather affected the sightseeing. For example, some remarked that the views of Mt. Fuji were obscured by clouds, which can happen during certain seasons. Still, even with imperfect conditions, many say the journey was enjoyable and well-organized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a structured, hassle-free way to see Mt. Fuji and Hakone in one day. It’s ideal if you’re looking for value, as it includes transport, some meals, and entry to major sights. Photographers and scenery lovers will appreciate the stops and the views, weather permitting.

If you’re comfortable with a somewhat fast-paced schedule and enjoy cultural entertainment, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, cultural insights, and fun. However, if you prefer more time at each site or are sensitive to weather, it might be worth exploring other options or preparing for some potential disappointment with visibility.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an efficient way to enjoy some of Japan’s most iconic sights—from the towering presence of Mt. Fuji to the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi and the panoramic heights of Hakone. With knowledgeable guides and a well-rounded itinerary, it provides good value for travelers eager to check these experiences off their list without the hassle of planning each detail.

It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, organized day that combines natural beauty, cultural entertainment, and scenic adventure. While the schedule can feel rushed, the variety of sights and the opportunity to see Japan’s landscape from different angles make it worthwhile.

For travelers wanting a carefree, memorable day trip with a taste of Japan’s natural wonders and cultural highlights, this tour delivers a lot of bang for the buck.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
You can choose an option with or without lunch. If you select “with lunch,” a Japanese-style meal is provided, with vegetarian, Muslim-friendly, and Indian Thali options available upon request.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather obscures Mt. Fuji or affects visibility, the tour proceeds as scheduled with alternative stops like Lake Kawaguchi or the Fujisan World Heritage Center. The tour does not cancel due to weather.

How long is the bus ride from Tokyo?
The ride to Mt. Fuji takes about two hours, depending on traffic. The return trip also takes roughly the same time, with potential delays.

Can I get off the bus at Odawara Station?
Yes, disembarking at Odawara Station is an option for those who book the drop-off in advance.

What is the group size?
The tour limits group size to 44 travelers, allowing for a relatively comfortable and intimate experience.

Are the sights accessible for all mobility levels?
Most stops, including the 5th Station, Lake Ashi cruise, and the ropeway, are accessible, but check your own mobility needs, especially for walking or standing.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is advisable, especially at high altitudes. Also, bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a raincoat if the weather forecast calls for rain.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children up to five years old can join free, but they won’t have bus seats or meals included. For seats or meals, children should be booked at the child rate.

In summary, this guided day trip from Tokyo is a solid choice if you’re seeking an organized, scenic overview of Mt. Fuji and Hakone with cultural highlights and plenty of photo opportunities. While weather can sometimes be a factor, most travelers find it a worthwhile and memorable adventure—especially if you’re eager to experience Japan’s natural beauty in a single day.