Hakone in a Day, Private Car & Licensed Guide
Hakone by private car with a licensed guide — only worth it on a very long call, because the drive eats the day.
You make your own way to the meeting point
- Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, the ropeway and the museums, chosen by you from a list.
- Licensed guide, private car for up to seven.
10-hour-plus or overnight calls, and people who have already done the Shimizu side.
Hakone is well over an hour's drive from Shimizu each way. For Mt. Fuji itself, the Fujinomiya tours above are closer and better value.
What you’ll do
Trade the port town for the mountains. With a government-licensed English-speaking guide in a private vehicle, you’ll take in the highlights of Hakone — the resort region of hot springs and lake views west of the port. Stand at Owakudani, where sulphurous steam still rises from the active volcano, and reach Lake Ashi, where a red torii stands in the water beneath Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
Why it’s worth it
- The most famous mountain-resort landscape near the port, done privately and efficiently.
- A licensed guide handles the logistics of a region that’s tricky to DIY on a port clock.
- 100% recommended by past travellers.
Good to know
- Hakone is further afield — this is for early-arrival, late-departure calls only. Confirm your all-aboard first.
- Lake Ashi’s Fuji view depends on the weather; the valley and lake reward you regardless.
- Booking and live pricing are on Viator.
Check dates and book
Booked through Viator (a Tripadvisor company) — free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead. There is no tour desk at the pier, so book before you sail.
- Private vehicle
- Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from 'What to expect' list'
- Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
- Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
- You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
- Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.
- Hakone Freepass
We may earn a small commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. It never decides what we recommend — the “think twice” notes above are there on purpose.
Before you book
Is the Hakone in a Day, Private Car & Licensed Guide worth it from Shimizu?
Hakone by private car with a licensed guide — only worth it on a very long call, because the drive eats the day. Best for: 10-hour-plus or overnight calls, and people who have already done the Shimizu side.
How long a port call do I need for this tour?
About 10 hours: the tour runs 6 hours (incl. ~3–4h round-trip drive), and you should be back at the pier 60 minutes before all-aboard, plus time to get off the ship.
What should I know before booking?
Hakone is well over an hour's drive from Shimizu each way. For Mt. Fuji itself, the Fujinomiya tours above are closer and better value.
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