Sumida river cruise

5-Day Tokyo Highlights and Hakone Leisure Tour

 
 
  • 5 DAYS
  • First-timers, Cruise tourists, Vacation-seekers PERFECT FOR
  • US$2,030 p/p
    PRICE FROM
 

Tokyo and Hakone: Cream of Japan's Culture and Nature

This relaxing 5-day journey comes highly recommended for those who have a brief stopover in Tokyo, arrive via cruise ship, or are seeking a leisurely-but-short vacation in Japan.

Experience historical culture in Tokyo at Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji temple, and the Imperial Palace. In Hakone, a renowned resort destination, wander the historied Hakone Hachiri way, visit splendid Lake Ashi, and marvel at Owakudani's volcanic valley, all while savoring a variety of Mount Fuji vistas.

JapanHighlights.com sets the standard for high-end, personalized trip planning. Guided by your preferences, we tailor your journey, ensuring a bespoke travel experience that aligns perfectly with your interests.

Ling, Product Manager
Ling, Product Manager

Walking along the well-preserved stone steps of the Hakone Hachiri, an Edo-period route, I passed towering ancient cedars and patches of moss under dappled sunlight. With few other visitors around, I heard only birdsong and insects in the dense forest.

Journey Highlights

Hakone, Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji
Cross Lake Ashi on a pirate-themed sightseeing ship, capturing views of Mt. Fuji, the red torii gates, and the surrounding nature.
 Hakone Hachiri
Embark on a history-filled hike through Hakone Hachiri, a Japan Heritage Area, enjoying the aura of the Edo Period (1603–1868).
Volcanic Valley of Owakudani
Ride the ropeway over a smoking volcanic valley, and try a local delicacy — black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs.
Open-air bath
Relax in an open-air bath and experience the wonders of hot springs in a Japanese-style hotel.
 
 
 
 

Traveler Moments

 Hakone Hachiri Walking
Japan, Tokyo
Old Tokaido
Sensoji Temple

An Itinerary for Inspiration

Explore Tokyo's must-see historical buildings and immerse yourself in the relaxing natural ambiance of hot spring town Hakone.

 5-Day Tokyo Highlights and Hakone Leisure Tour map
Day 1

Tokyo Arrival

 
  • Your private vehicle will be waiting for you at the airport, cruise terminal, or train station, ready to transport you to your hotel.
Day 2

Tokyo Day Tour — Immerse Yourself in History and Culture

 
A Glimpse of the Imperial Palace over Nijubashi

Commence with an exterior tour of the Imperial Palace, the current residence of the emperor and his family. While access inside the palace is restricted, you can gaze upon its most renowned landmark — Nijubashi, a double-arched stone bridge — from Kokyo Gaien National Garden.

Venture down a wide gravel path under a towering torii gate to reach Meiji Shrine, a sacred site enshrining Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It attracts millions for worship and charm-buying, and it's a favorite venue for Japanese weddings.

Discover Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple (completed 645 CE), and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Edo Period. Marvel at the large red lantern of Kaminarimon ('Thunder Gate'), a symbol in Japanese films. Beyond the temple, you can wander in a bustling street filled with hundreds of history-filled stores offering snacks and souvenirs.

Sensoji in Asakusa

Take a water bus for about 30 minutes from Senso-ji to the serene Hama-rikyu Gardens. Find peace in this urban oasis among skyscrapers, and admire the tidal pond, duck hunting grounds, and seasonal blossoms.

After your visit, take the water bus back to the Senso-ji dock.

Day 3

Tokyo to Hakone — Explore the Renowned Resort Destination

 

Hike on Hakone Hachiri, a historied trail forming part of the renowned Tokaido Highway, which linked Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo Period. It is recognized as a national heritage site.

  • Begin your journey at the charming Amasake Chaya Tea House. Owned by the same family for 13 generations, it serves traditional amasake — a sweet, warm, non-alcoholic rice drink.
  • Stroll along the stone-paved roads, graced with majestic 400-year-old Japanese cedars, leading to Lake Ashinochi. After about an hour, conclude your trek at Hakone Checkpoint.
  • Board a delightful sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi, and have your cameras ready! This unique ship is designed to resemble a pirate vessel! You can enjoy impressive views of Mt. Fuji, the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, and the serene lake landscape all in one glance.
  • Hop on the Hakone Ropeway towards captivating Owakudani, a volcanic valley tracing its origins back 3,000 years. During the ropeway journey, feast your eyes on Mt. Fuji, the valley's depths, and the sulfuric plumes it emits.
  • Don't miss the unique black eggs, boiled in volcanic springs. Legend says they can add seven years to your life!
Amasake Chaya Tea House in Hakone Hachiri
Day 4

Hakone to Tokyo — A Romantic Free Day

 
  • Explore Hakone, one of the premier resort destinations, at your own pace.
  • With the Hakone Freepass at your disposal, enjoy unlimited rides across eight different forms of local transportation.
  • In the afternoon, board the Limited Express Romancecar from Hakone-Yumoto to Shinjuku.
  • Experience comfortable seating and large windows that afford panoramic views of Japan's stunning landscape, including the tranquil countryside and mighty Mount Fuji.
  • Your private ride will be waiting for you at Shinjuku Station, which will whisk you back to your hotel in Tokyo.
Mount Fuji
Day 5

Tokyo Departure

 
  • Our private car will take you to your airport, cruise terminal, or railway station. We hope that you enjoy a pleasant and relaxing journey from Tokyo.

Expand All

Your Stay is Part of the Story

Where you stay shapes your journey. We handpick hotels for their unique character, from city boutiques to beachfront escapes.

 
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro(4-star)
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro(4-star)
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel Hakone
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel Hakone
 
 
 
 

What's Included

No surprises, no hidden fees. Our pricing is transparent and tailored to your final plan. Here's a clear look at what's typically included.

Price Guide

Price Guide

4-Star Journey
  • Comfort & Character
  • From US$2,030 per person

Your Inclusions

Your Inclusions

  • Modern, spacious A/C vehicle & driver
    Modern, spacious A/C vehicle & driver
  • Dedicated English-speaking local guide
    Dedicated English-speaking local guide
  • All entrance fees & listed activities
    All entrance fees & listed activities
  • All nights in handpicked hotels
    All nights in handpicked hotels
  • Domestic flights between cities
    Domestic flights between cities
  • Daily breakfast & specified meals
    Daily breakfast & specified meals
  • 24/7 on-trip support
    24/7 on-trip support
  • ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)
    ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)

Good to Know

Good to Know

Pricing

  • Based on two people, low season travel.
  • Your final price is customized to your group, dates, and choices.
  • Mixing hotels? Absolute. We'll design a trip to fit your budget.

Exclusions

  • International flight (we can help book)
  • Most lunches & dinners (for flexibility)
  • Visas & travel insurances
  • Tips & personal spending

Booking

  • Discounts available for children under 8.
  • We accept USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR, and more.

Tour code

  • ah-34

Let's plan your journey, together.

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