Day 1: Embrace the Beauty of Lake Kawaguchiko

As the sun rises over Gotemba on April 19th, the day promises a perfect blend of sun and clouds, with temperatures peaking at a comfortable 71.7°F. It’s the ideal setting for an exhilarating adventure at Lake Kawaguchiko. This private tour kicks off at 7:30 AM, offering a full day of breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.

Lake Kawaguchiko is renowned for its panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji, where the contrast of white clouds, blue lake, and green mountains creates a scene straight out of a postcard. As you explore, you’ll have the chance to visit the iconic Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, a gateway to the mountain’s majestic beauty. The tour also includes a visit to Oshino Hakkai, a group of eight natural spring ponds with crystal-clear waters fed by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji.

The day is packed with adventure, from the scenic boat cruises on Lake Ashi to the spiritual tranquility of Moto Hakone Shrine. As you wander through these stunning landscapes, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery at every turn. One recent review from February 2025 captures the essence of this tour:

“Great private car trip to Mt Fuji and Hakone! Aryana picked us up on time at the hotel. Once we got going we talked about our itinerary and what we wanted to see. We switched up the itinerary to go to Chureito Pagoda and Lake Kawaguchiko and Aryana made it work to make sure we got to see it and to stick to the itinerary to see the other spots. Our trip included stops at Chureito Pogoda, Lake Kawaguchiko, Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Shrine, Lake Ashi on the pirate boat (ropeway was closed) and Hakone Open Air Museum. We lucked out with a clear day and saw Fuji in all its glory. This tour was great to be able to see lots of things in the comfort of a private van. Aryana gave us little bits of history of each place then allotted us our time at each stop. Overall it was a wonderful day!” - Reviewed at February 19, 2025

Day 2: Conquer Mt. Fuji and Beyond

April 20th brings a shift in weather, with overcast skies and a high chance of rain. But don’t let that dampen your spirits! The day is perfect for a thrilling journey to Mt. Fuji Adventure. Starting at 7:15 AM, this tour is a whirlwind of scenic views and cultural delights.

Begin your adventure at the Mt. Fuji Fifth Station, where you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring landscapes from 2,400 meters above ground. The crisp mountain air and breathtaking views make it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike. As you descend, the Gotemba Premium Outlets await, offering a shopping experience like no other. With over 200 stores, it’s a paradise for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts.

The excitement doesn’t stop there. The Hakone Ropeway takes you to the heart of the Ōwakudani Volcanic Valley, where you can witness the raw power of nature up close. The day culminates with a cruise on a giant pirate ship across Lake Ashi, a fitting end to an action-packed adventure. As one review from December 2024 notes:

“Amazing Private Tour of Hakone! - We took a tour with Wasi Javet and he was absolutely amazing! Highlights of the tour were the Open Air museum, Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashinoko, Hakone Ropeway, and Gora Park. Wasi was extremely knowledgeable and answered all of our questions about what we were seeing. My wife and I took a private tour with Wasi and he was able to tailor the tour to what we were most interested in and recommend an appropriate amount of time to spend at each stop based on what we wanted to see. As well, Wari was very prompt and responsive to our communications prior and during the tour. Wasi clearly knows the different sites and how to make the most out of a tour. Would recommend Wasi to anyone coming to Tokyo for the first time or returning!” - Reviewed at December 27, 2024

Cultural Immersion and Local Delights

No trip to Gotemba is complete without immersing yourself in the local culture. The region is rich with history and tradition, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s past and present. As you explore, take the time to savor the local cuisine, from fresh sushi to hearty ramen, each dish a testament to the area’s culinary heritage.

Visit the traditional markets and artisan shops, where you can find everything from handcrafted souvenirs to exquisite local crafts. The high humidity and potential rain on April 20th make it an ideal day to explore these indoor attractions, ensuring you stay dry while soaking up the local culture.

Whether you’re scaling the heights of Mt. Fuji or delving into the cultural treasures of Gotemba, this Golden Week getaway promises an unforgettable adventure. With its stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich cultural experiences, Gotemba is the perfect destination for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and let the magic of Gotemba captivate your senses.