Hakone Old Tokaido Road Hiking Tour to Hakone Shrine
5.0 / 5 · 9 traveler reviews
This private hiking tour combines nature, Japanese history, and traditional culture - all in one experience. Starting from Hakone-Yumoto Station, travel by local bus to the historic Old Tokaido Road and hike through the forest to Hatajuku, famous for Yosegi marquetry, Hakone's traditional woodcraft. Then take a bus to Amasake Chaya, a historic teahouse where travelers have stopped for refreshment for generations. From here, walk along the stone-paved sections of the Old Tokaido toward Lake Ashi where you may see Mt. Fuji on clear days. At the end of the walk, visit Hakone Shrine, one of Hakone's most iconic sites, and see its famous torii gate standing in Lake Ashi. During the tour, your guide will share history and stories in the Edo period. The tour is a chance to experience Japan's history by walking the historic route once used by travelers, merchants and sumurai centuries ago. The tour is private, so the experience can be adapted to your group's pace and interests.
Your experience
Stop 1
Meeting Point: Meet your guide at the ticket gate of Hakone-Yumoto Station. After a brief introduction, take a local bus toword the entrance of the Old Tokaido Road.
Stop 2
Old Tokaido Road Hiking - Sukumogawa to Hatajuku: Begin your hike through the forest along the historic Old Tokaido Road. Your guide will introduce the history of the Tokaido, one of the most important highways of Edo-period Japan, and explain how people traveled between Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto.
Stop 3
Traditional village and Yosegi marquetry: Arrive at Hatajuku, a village famous for Yosegi marquetry, and see the traditional woodcrafts made from various types of natural wood to create beautiful geometric patters.
Stop 4
Historic teahouse: Take a short bus ride from Hatajuku to Amasake Chaya, a historic teahouse. Take a break and experience Amasake, a traditonal Japanese drink which has been enjoyed for centuries by people traveling along the Old Tokaido Road. (Food and drinks are not included in the tour price.)
Stop 5
Continue on foot along the stone-paved section of the Old Tokaido for about an hour. Arrive in Moto-Hakone and enjoy views of Lake Ashi. On clear days, Mt. Fuji may also be visible. (Please note that views of Mt. Fuji depend on weather.) Have lunch by Lake Ashi.
Stop 6
Visit Hakone Shrine: Finish your journey at Hakone Shrine, one of Hakone's most important Shinto shrines. See the famous torii gate standing in Lake Ashi and learn about the shrine's history.
What’s included
- Private tour - only your group participates
- English speaking guide
Not included
- Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.)
- Meals
- Shrine offerings/fees if applicable
Meeting and pickup
The guide will be waiting for you at the ticket gate of Hakone-Yumoto Station.
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Weather and Safety: The Old Tokaido Road is a natural trail, and conditions can change depending on weather. In case of bad weather or unsafe trail conditions, the itiineray may be modified or an alternative activity may be offered. The decision is made based on safety.
- What to bring: Hiking appropriate shoes and clothing
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
Check dates and book on Viator →Confirm the meeting point, inclusions, cancellation policy and final price on Viator. We may earn a commission from your booking.