Lake Ashi Cruise (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Lake Ashi Cruise?
What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Couples get romantic Mt Fuji sunsets, optional private front cabin or premium seats, and a quick round-trip that pairs well with shrine walks, making it an easy date without strenuous activity.
Positives:
- Multiple Boarding Points: You can start at Togendai or Motohakone-ko and return to the same or the other.
- Audio Guide Available: Download the Hakone Navi app for free onboard commentary.
Challenges:
- Weather-Dependent Views: Mt Fuji may be hidden by clouds; check local weather before booking.
- Limited Onboard Food: Only a small snack cart operates; bring your own refreshments.
What is Lake Ashi Cruise?
- A sightseeing boat service operating on Lake Ashi in Hakone Prefecture
- A fleet of pirate-style vessels running scheduled crossings between major lakeside ports
- A nautical route traversing the lake’s 17.5-kilometer shoreline beneath Mount Fuji and cedar-lined slopes
What is so special about Lake Ashi Cruise for couple trip?
- Reserve a private cabin for undisturbed Mt Fuji views.
- Stand on the open deck at sunset to capture the torii gate in golden light.
- Relax on the SORAKAZE ship’s rooftop garden deck with a lake breeze.
- Use audio guides and multiple boarding points for flexible routing.
- Combine the cruise with a shrine visit for a full couple’s itinerary.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This gives time for the cruise, photo stops, and a stroll to Hakone Shrine.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Lake Ashi Cruise
Private Observation Cabin:
Reserve a small front cabin with large windows for two.
Tip: Book at least one day ahead to secure a sunset slot.
Sunset & Mt. Fuji Photo Moment:
Choose a late-afternoon departure to capture golden-hour light on Mt Fuji.
Tip: Stand on the open deck’s right side for an unobstructed view of the torii gate.
SORAKAZE Rooftop Garden Deck:
Climb to the open-air garden deck on the white SORAKAZE ship.
Tip: Buy ice cream onboard and enjoy it while you watch the lake breeze.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lake Ashi Cruise
- Book Cabin Early: Reserve the observation cabin online at least 24 hours before your cruise.
- Use Off-Peak Times: Board the 9 AM or 3 PM cruise to avoid midday crowds.
- Combine with Shrine Visit: Disembark at Motohakone-ko to walk to Hakone Shrine before returning.
Reviews of Lake Ashi Cruise
Rui Andrez
The boat ride was good and the view was very good, but the theme of a pirate ship doesn't suit japan or its culture at all. I understand it more as a lure for tourists but it didnt fit the atmosphere.
Stacey Ervin Jr.
Had such a great time on the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise! Mid-July & we were fortunate enough to have the cloud coverage minimal so we saw Mt. Fuji in the distance. Absolutely gorgeous! Absolutely recommend!
Bill Reichman
The ferry service to get from one side of the lake to the other is quite useful. It is much nicer than riding the bus, and the views along the way are great. I could pass on the fake pirate theme, but it doesn't hurt for the kids. They push getting the first class tickets, but I didn't see much of an advantage when we were there with low congestion. It might be worth the space if the ship is ...
Nunia Busines
The view is good even without first class tickets. If you're worried about space and want to make sure you have comfortable seating you can give it a go. But the first class upper deck doesn't have shelter, while the ordinary deck has multiple outdoor tiers, one of which is roofed by the top deck, so you get to sit in the shade while getting a view unobstructed by glass. The ship was pretty clean,...
Amit G
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise offers beautiful views and a unique experience on a pirate-themed ship, but overall, it falls short of expectations—especially considering the price. The biggest drawback is the high cost, particularly the “business class” upgrade, which feels unnecessary and poorly justified. The extra fee gives you minimal additional benefits—just a small, roped-off area and a slig...
When is the best time to visit Lake Ashi Cruise (Hakone, Japan)?
In spring, board around noon to see fresh greenery along the pines. In autumn, morning sails reveal vivid red and orange foliage. On clear winter days, you can spot snow-capped Mt Fuji sharply against the sky.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip tickets for two | JPY 4,320 |
| Private cabin surcharge (optional) | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 5,320 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Lake Ashi Cruise
Address: 161 Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0521, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Lake Ashi Cruise (Hakone)?
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, couple trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, couple trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!