Tokyo: Mount Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise and Owakudani Day Tour

Lake Ashi, a serene lake surrounded by mountains, is the iconic symbol of Hakone. It was formed around 3,000 years ago following an eruption of Mt. Kami. Thanks to its volcanic springs, Lake Ashi never freezes in winter. The lake offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji, which are well-known and celebrated. Visitors can enjoy the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise while taking in the beautiful scenery!

Cross Lake Ashi on the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, inspired by European battleships, enjoy your short trip on the lake, and take in the stunning natural beauty surrounding the lake.

On clear days, you can view Mt. Fuji in the distance, while the bright red torii gate of Hakone Shrine can be seen from the deck, creating a memorable sight.

Please note that we don't include the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise ticket. Please prepare some cash, the ticket price is 1,200 yen per person, which is approximately 8 dollars.

Owakudani is a volcanic valley formed approximately 3,000 years ago and is recognized as a geological wonder. It has become a popular sightseeing destination, allowing visitors to witness continuous volcanic activity up close. You can truly feel the power of nature as you watch smoke billowing from the surface of the volcano.

Be sure to try the local specialty, the black eggs, which can only be found here. These eggs are steamed over sulfurous water, which gives them their characteristic pure-black shell. It is said that eating one of these eggs could extend your life by seven years.

The Hakone Ropeway is a main form of transportation in the Hakone area. The ropeway will pass through Owakudani, offering panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. On clear days, you can catch a magnificent view of Mount Fuji from both Owakudani and the ropeway.

As you ride, you'll witness the bottom of the Owakudani valley, along with sulfuric smoke rising from it. The desolate mountainside, enveloped in plumes of smoke, creates a striking scene that reflects the area's former name: Hell Valley. Once you disembark from the cable car, you'll be greeted by the distinctive smell of sulfur and see steam rising into the sky.

Each gondola can accommodate up to 18 people. Please note that we don't include the Hakone Ropeway ticket. Please prepare some cash, the ticket is 1500 yen per person, which is approximately 10 dollars.

Enoshima is a charming island located near Kamakura, connected to the mainland by a bridge accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians. From Enoshima, you can enjoy a stunning view of the surrounding sea and, on clear days, catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji rising majestically on the horizon. One of the island's most revered deities is Benzaiten. According to local legend, Benzaiten created Enoshima and later subdued a five-headed dragon that was terrorizing the region.

Enoshima Shrine consists of three main shrines: Hetsumiya, Nakatsumiya, and Okutsumiya. It was originally built to honor the deities of fishing and maritime transport; however, over time, it also became associated with the gods of music, wealth, and good fortune.

The main complex features an octagonal building that houses one of Japan's three most revered statues of Benten, the patron goddess of Enoshima. Since Benten is also the goddess of wealth, some visitors choose to wash their money in the pond at the shrine for good fortune.

The walk along the stairs from one shrine to another is delightful and offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature and the seaside.

A visit to Enoshima isn’t complete without a stroll down Benzaiten Shopping Street, a charming, old-fashioned shopping alley. You'll recognize the street when you pass under the old bronze torii gate with its green patina.

Benzaiten Shopping Street is lined with small shops and restaurants where you can find unique souvenirs and sample delicious Japanese street food, including local seafood, ice cream, and beer.

While you're there, be sure to try Shirasu, a type of whitebait that can be enjoyed as Shirasu Don (Shirasu Rice Bowl) or Nama Shirasu (raw sashimi slices of Shirasu).