Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Recommended by 97% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Hakone, Japan
- 6 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
See the best of Hakone’s natural beauty by foot in this private walking tour. Unlike traditional tours, you can customize the experience to your interests and visit only the sites that you’re interested in. Whether you’re a nature lover, art fan, or keen to try local foods, your private guide will help you plan a day that fits your needs.
- Pick 3 to 4 places to visit in your personalized tour
- Choose from multiple morning start times for flexibility
- Get local recommendations of places to visit in Hakone from your guide
- Skip the crowds of a group tour and explore at your own pace
What's Included
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
- Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Hakone
- Customizable Tour of your choice of 3 to 4 sites from 'What to expect' list
- Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
- Private Vehicle
- Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Hakone Freepass
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
This private tour is a walking day tour with meet up in Hakone. A private vehicle is not included. Public transportation or local taxis maybe used to transfer between sites. Exact transportation costs can be discussed with the guide after a reservation is finalized. Please have Japanese Yen on hand for your transportation costs. If you wish to arrange for a private vehicle, please contact us directly. All Private vehicles must be booked 5 days in advance. Maximum number of passengers: 7.
Itinerary
1
Lake Ashinoko
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
Hakone Shrine
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
3
Hakone Ropeway
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
4
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
5
Owaku-dani Valley
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
6
Pola Museum of Art
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
7
Okada Museum of Art
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
8
Sengokuhara
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
9
Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
10
Hakone Museum of Art
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
11
Choanji Temple
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
12
Hakone Shisseikaen
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
13
Gora Park
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
14
Dollhouse Museum Hakone
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
15
Narukawa Art Museum
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
16
Owakudani Nature Research Trail
40 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Stroller accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 236 reviews
Neille_Q, Apr 2026
We had a beautiful day with our guide, Hiro, who was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of Japan. It was interesting to learn about the Japanese customs and the significance of th temples and shrines. Hiro also had the experience to know all of the ins and outs of navigating the areas to avoid the crowds. It was an unforgettable and beautiful tour.
David_P, Apr 2026
Our tour of Hakone was a highlight of the trip, thanks to Yoshi’s expertise. He provided great historical context at the Hakone Checkpoint and the shrine that we wouldn't have known otherwise. The itinerary is well-balanced between the nature views at Owakudani and the more cultural stops. Having a nationally licensed guide like Yoshi made the day very smooth, and he was able to tailor the pace to our interests. Excellent service and well worth the booking.
Anzhelika_M, Apr 2026
Mr Hiro was amazing! So many good and fun stories. He was so efficient and we were able to see everything we planned and even stop for a delicious lunch. Highly recommend this tour to everyone who wants to make their Hakone visit memorable
Maitreya_P, Apr 2026
Despite the challenges of seriously inclement weather and very heavy rain when the itinerary was impossible to implement Izumi our guide found other ways to share the spirit of Hakone
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave a review.
Although the weather on the day of the tour was unfortunate, we sincerely appreciate your participation.
We look forward to your next visit to Japan.
Japan Guide Agency
Lindsey_W, Apr 2026
Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met us at our hotel in Hakone and took us clockwise to tour all the sites. He was informative and taught us a lot. Our group was two adults and a 14 year old. We saw Mt Fuji from the rope way, but unfortunately the pirate ship was canceled because of high wind. We would absolutely use Atsushi again for this tour, or any other tour he provides.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
I am very happy to know that you enjoyed the tour. Hakone is located in a mountainous area and is very much influenced by the weather. However, we were incredibly lucky to avoid any trouble during your stay. When you have a chance to come back to Japan, I would be happy to be your guide again and share pleasant times with your family.
- Atsushi
Quinn_T, Apr 2026
Our guide, Leo, did his best to salvage our visit to Hakone on a very stormy day. He was cheerful and attentive, able to pivot quickly when the gondola was closed due to high winds and other obstacles presented. Thank you, Leo!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We appreciate your kind feedback and our guides do too! We are very happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour with your guide. We look forward to your next visit to Japan!
Japan Guide Agency
Stacy_A, Mar 2026
Great experience - it was so much more efficient and rewarding than it would have been, should we have done it in our own. Kaz took us to a wonderful private restaurant for an extraordinary meal at a more than reasonable price. We also visited the tea house in Gora Park, where we were serve a cup of matcha and a sweet in the traditional setting.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
I had a great time that day, too. It seemed like you were having a good time chatting with the couple from Australia while we waited for the cable car for about an hour. The sashimi at the restaurant was delicious, and if the shrimp in the bouillabaisse had been a little easier to peel, it would have been perfect. Chef Naoko was also very pleased. If you ever have the chance to visit again, I’d love to show you around the Mount Fuji area. Thank you very much.
- Kaz
Kelly_S, Mar 2026
Great area to explore. Good to have a guide navigate you around and explain what you are seeing. Kaz was great!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you very much. Naoko, the female chef at the restaurant, also said that she enjoyed speaking French with you. Also, with the sky completely covered in clouds, only the area around Mount Fuji cleared, allowing it to show its face, which was a small miracle for me as well.
Kaz
Nilesh_S, Mar 2026
We were really disappointed with this tour. It felt very overpriced for what was offered — we only visited four places, and overall it didn’t feel like good value for money.
To make matters worse, transport wasn’t even included, so we had to pay our own way to get there. In hindsight, this is something we could have easily organised ourselves for a fraction of the price.
Unfortunately, we wouldn’t recommend this tour based on our experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you very much for your review! The tour clearly states to "Pick 3 to 4 places to visit in your personalized tour" and that "Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses" are not included. You review will help other customers that have not fully read the tour description understand what they are purchasing. We hope for the best for your time in Japan! Japan Guide Agency
Maripaz_T, Jan 2026
It is a great experience to travel Hakone through Kate’s eyes! We truly enjoyed the places she brought us to, and she knows her way around
Response from Host, Jan 2026
I am so glad that this tour was enjoyable. Thank you for writing nice review.
K.T.
Jacob_F, Jan 2026
Our guide Yumi was extremely knowledgeable about the surroundings areas, and explained the history and culture of each place we visited in great detail. She was friendly and kind; it was a fantastic experience and we cannot recommend it enough!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for your heartwarming message on the Hakone tour. I am very glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour on that day. You were so lucky to be able to see Mt. Fuji from at the beginning of the new year. 2026 must be a lucky year for you. Please come to Japan once again. Looking forward to seeing you soon.
- YUMI
Lisa_P, Jan 2026
This was one of the absolute highlights of our trip to Japan. The Mount Fuji/Hakone tour was beautifully paced and filled with unforgettable moments.
We began the tour with a visit to the Hakone outdoor museum that included Picasso originals. Next, we had a traditional Japanese lunch followed by a cruise across Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) on the famous Hakone Pirate Ship. We also visited the Hakone Shrine which was beautifully set in the mountains and felt peaceful and special.
Lastly, we took the Hakone Ropeway gondola which was a true standout especially when our guide Taka casually said, “Maybe we’ll be able to see Mount Fuji, 50/50 chance with this weather,” just before we reached the top. The timing was perfect. Mount Fuji appeared in full grandeur, with almost no cloud cover, and it was absolutely breathtaking!
What truly made the day exceptional was Taka himself. His deep knowledge of the area, great sense of humor, and genuine patience and interest in us elevated the entire experience. He made everything feel relaxed, informative, and fun, and you could tell he truly loves sharing this region.
An incredible mix of nature, culture, and expert guiding. Highly recommended. This tour is not to be missed.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thanks for your great review! It is so delightful to know you have enjoyed the Hakone tour even if it was sometimes cloudy. We were lucky that we could see perfect Mt.Fuji in the afternoon.
Sushi for lunch at the fish market the day after must be nice and kind sheff. Thanks.
- Taka
Lisa_C, Dec 2025
Excellent tour guide, fast paced tour and alot of walking with very crowded use of public transport.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you very much for your comment.
We apologize if the fast pace of the tour caused any fatigue.
As this is a walking tour, transportation during the tour was basically on foot and Hakone is a very popular tourist destination, so public transportation may have been quite crowded.
Despite this, we sincerely appreciate you joining our tour.
Japan Guide Agency
Miralisa_R, Nov 2025
We had an amazing time with our guide Kumiko aka “Kate.” She was super fantastic and everything a guide should be! Kumiko made me want to book more tours in the future. She was very organized and made it a priority that we got on that bus or got on that boat or ropeway. She can move fast, my husband and I had to really move our legs to keep up. I appreciate all of the effort she put into the tour. She taught us everything we needed to know about the places we visited. During downtimes she educated us about Japanese culture. If I could, I’d rate her 11/10.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
I recieved great pleasure from your wonderful comment. Thank you so much. I am very happy to hear that you had a good time on this tour. When you visit Japan again, I might be able to see you again. K.T.
Gina_S, Nov 2025
Hakone is a magical place. We really enjoyed our tour guide Hiro. This was a highlight of our time in Japan.
The Hakone Air Museum and Lake Ashinoko
ship ride were both great options.
VIsiting the Hakone Shrine was amazing.
Hiro is a japanese treasure, we really enjoyed his tour and learned a lot about Japan's history and learned some japanese along the way. Had a japanese experience we will treasure for a lifetime.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you very much for your heartful review comment. I also could have a wonderful day with you wonderful party and nice cooperation.
I 'm also grateful for your listening to my story about Japanese culture and history.
Please come again, next we Hakone would like to welcome you with perfect Mt Fuji instead of Autumn colored leaves.
- Hiro
Valentina_R, Nov 2025
We were unlucky with the weather and our guide Yumi had to find an alternative. She was very proactive, creative and genuinely cared about us having the best experience. She achieved that 👏 thank you!
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you very much for your heartwarming message on the Hakone tour. I am very glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour on that day. There were many accidents as the strong wind. Cancel
of the Ropeway. We have to change our plan and wait in line to take the bus. But you were very cooperative to change our destination to Sengoku area. Thanks again. I could enjoy the Hakone tour with your wonderful family.
Please come to Japan once again. Looking forward to seeing you soon.
YUMI😊
Cecilia_P, Nov 2025
This tour is an excellent way to see much of Hakone’s sites with a great guide to explain what you are looking at. Our guide was friendly, professional and eager for us to enjoy ourselves.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thanks for your great review! I've also very much enjoyed the Hakone tour with you, thank you. I believe you could see and enjoyed the Hakone Samurai Parade the next day. I missed it because I went to seeing the Tokyo Mobility Show which was held in Tokyo as I'm an automobile lover, sorry.
- Taka
Jegadisan_S, Nov 2025
Hakone is truly beautiful. From the shrine, to the lake, Mount Fuji and Owakudani. Truly a sight to behold. The raw natural beauty is breathtaking. Yoshi was a great guide that explained all the various elements and their significance.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you for joining the Kamakura tour and for writing such a wonderful comment. I appreciate your kindness.
I had a great time with you in Kamakura. Thank you so much. All the best.
-Sami
Thomas_B, Oct 2025
Yoshii was amazing!! He took us all around Hakone. To the open air museum, up the ropeway, to enjoy some black eggs and more. He was so kind and knowledgeable about Japan’s rich history. We hit some travel delays during our way back to the Shinkansen and Yoshii helped us move our reservations to a later time, helped us with our luggage, and dealt with the logistics of getting our luggage at our hotel.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you very much for your nice review.
I wish you will visit Japan more frequently and enjoy not only history and culture but also beautiful nature in countryside.
Thank you and best regards.
Yoshii Kenichi
Greg_K, Oct 2025
We had an excellent guide, Kate for our 6 hour private tour. Hakone is a brilliant place to visit and Kate took us to all of the main spots, using all forms of transport. Kate had the tour very well planned out and spoke very good English. Hint - she likes ice cream!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
I am so glad that I could receive your nice comment, and you had a good time on this tour. I hope that the rest of your stay in Japan will be wonderful. Thank you so much! K.T.
Manohar_S, Oct 2025
Very scenic and beautiful trip... Mr Toshi San was a very well educated and friendly guide... he took us to all the most beautiful and scenic places.. he also was very helpful person and made sure we had a good vegetarian lunch
Response from Host, Oct 2025
I am very glad that you enjoyed Hakone despite of the drizzle and the suspention of the ropeway operation. Maybe rainy weather is not so bad for Hakone. I also enjoyed your company and a vegetable curry at the Owakudani restaurant. Thank you very much.
Toshi
Steven_S, Oct 2025
We had a great tour guide, Hiro. He made a jam packed day efficient and fun. He also used wait times to tell us interesting stories about the history of Hakone and took us to a great spot for lunch. It is not easy navigating luggage shipping, Hakone buses, boat, gondola, funicular so I definitely recommend a guide!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you very much for your heartful review comment. I also could have a wonderful day with you wonderful coupple. Please enjoy the rest of your time in Japan. Also please come again. we Japan and Hakone would like to welcome you next with perfect MT Fuji.
janice_c, Sep 2025
Hiro was an exceptional guide—deeply knowledgeable and incredibly friendly, sharing captivating insights into Hakone’s culture, Japanese history, and Kanji characters. The pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi and the gondola ride to Owakudani were exhilarating, with Hiro’s savvy shortcuts securing us the best seats. He introduced us to a yosegi-zaiku craftsman for unique souvenirs, elevating our experience. Hiro’s expertise and warmth made our tour seamless and memorable—highly recommend!
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you very much for your heartful review comment also I am honored to receive such generous words of praise. I could also have a wonderful day with you wonderful couple. Please come again, next we Japan and Hakone would like to welcome you with perfect Mt Fuji if possible.
Hiro
Tiffany_F, Aug 2025
Unfortunately, this tour did not meet expectations. The guide was not from Hakone and had limited knowledge of the area, local attractions, or timing—which led to confusion and delays. He also arrived late to meet us. Prior to the tour, we were asked to suggest what we wanted to do, which meant I had to research the area myself—defeating the purpose of hiring a guide in the first place. I would have given 2.5 stars but am rounding up to 3. Regrettably, I can’t recommend this experience.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you very much for your review. All guides ask guests before the tour if guests have requests for where they would like to go and their interests. The tour page for this product also lists with descriptions the places you can ask your guide to visit. We also do not allow guides to take on tour outside of their trained areas or areas they live in, so this guide should have had knowledge of the Hakone area. We will reassess this guide for these tours and speak to them about meeting times.
Japan Guide Agency
kirkbennett2, Aug 2025
Excellent tour - Hide was an amazing, informative guide, with a nicely curated itinerary, which covered all the places around Hakone that i was interested in. We covered alot of ground, but it was all done with nice conversation and informative facts about the local surroundings. I would highly recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you very much for your great review! Very much appreciated!
I'm very happy to hear that you enjoyed your first Hakone experience.
I hope you come back to Japan again in the near future!
Hide
Michael_C, Jul 2025
Wonderful tour and experience! The area and sights are beautiful however Hiro-san added so much to the experience by sharing history and cultural information. Truly a day to remember, thank you Hiro-san for a fantastic day!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you very much for your heartful review comment. I could have a wonderful day with your wonderful family.
I was also very happy to be able to introduce you to the history and culture. Please come again, next we Japan and Hakone would like to welcome you with perfect Mt Fuji if possible.
Hiro
Ricardo_C, Jul 2025
My guide, Shinji, was amazing—kind, energetic, and incredibly knowledgeable. The tour was long, but absolutely worth it. I highly recommend it!
Response from Host, Jul 2025
We appreciate your kind feedback and our guides do too! We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour with your guide. We look forward to your next visit to Japan!
Japan Guide Agency
Libby_P, Jun 2025
Atsushi was an amazing guide who shared his love for his culture and historical facts throughout the tour. Very informative and wonderful to spend our day with! His graciousness and kindness were stellar in every way and would highly recommend him to tour the beautiful town of Hakone!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
We appreciate your kind feedback and our guides do too! We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour with your guide. We look forward to your next visit to Japan!
Japan Guide Agency
Antonio_C, Jun 2025
Our tour guide, Hiro, did a tremendous job of showcasing the beauty and history of Hakone! We requested a relaxed, yet informative tour and he more than delivered. We would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who is interested, but if you are lucky enough to get Hiro - congratulations! You will have an amazing time.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you very much for your heartful nice review comment. I could hve a wonderful day with your wonderful family.
Please come again ,next we Japan and Hakone would like to wait for your family with perfect Mt Fuji .
Hiro
Molly_G, May 2025
Before we even set foot in Japan, Hideaki (Hide) reached out promptly and helped plan a wonderful day touring Hakone. He also recommended adding either SUICA or Pasmo card/app in addition to our JR Pass which made our travels much smoother. Sadly, our tour of Hakone was interrupted by bad weather, so we didn’t get to see all of the sights on our itinerary. However, Hide calmly and efficiently adjusted our travel plans. We took the Ropeway back before it closed and caught the first bus down, so we were not stuck there (hour wait for those in line behind us). After discussing options, we switched gears and enjoyed a nice lunch and tea house. Can’t imagine the disaster this is experience would have been had we navigated this day on our own. Hide also made sure we were all set with our travel plans to Kyoto. The weather didn’t cooperate, but Hide helped make the most our day in Hakone- thank you!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you so much for your thoughtful review.
We’re truly glad to hear that despite the challenging weather, Hide was able to adjust the plan smoothly and help you make the most of your day in Hakone.
Your kind words mean a lot, and we’re happy to know his support made your trip more comfortable and stress-free.
We hope your journey to Kyoto went just as smoothly, and we’d love to welcome you again in Japan!
Japan Guide Agency
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