As I stepped onto the deck of the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty of Lake Ashi. This iconic cruise offers visitors a unique perspective of Hakone’s natural wonders and cultural landmarks. From the possibility of spotting the elusive Mt. Fuji to gliding past the famous floating torii gate, I knew this journey would be unforgettable. Join me as I share my experience and essential tips for making the most of your Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise adventure.
1. What is the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise?
The Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise is a captivating boat tour that I had the pleasure of experiencing on the serene waters of Lake Ashi. Located in the heart of Hakone, this cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks from a different perspective.
As I boarded the vessel, I was immediately struck by its design. The cruise boats are replicas of European-style pirate ships, adding a touch of whimsy to the journey. These ships, with their distinctive red and white color scheme, have become iconic symbols of Hakone tourism.
During the cruise, I was treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and, on clear days, the majestic Mt. Fuji. The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly gliding past the famous floating torii gate of Hakone Shrine, a sight that left me in awe of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Pro tip: Sit on the upper deck for the best views and photo opportunities!
2. Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise Route and Highlights
As I embarked on the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, I was eager to explore the picturesque route and its many highlights. The cruise typically begins at Moto-Hakone Port and gracefully glides across Lake Ashi, offering breathtaking views along the way.
One of the most iconic sights on the journey is the vermilion torii gate of Hakone Shrine, which appears to float on the water’s surface. This stunning landmark serves as a perfect photo opportunity and symbolizes the area’s rich cultural heritage.
As the cruise progresses, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. On clear days, I was fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the majestic Mt. Fuji looming in the distance, its snow-capped peak a true sight to behold.
Pro tip: Sit on the right side of the boat for the best chances of spotting Mt. Fuji during your cruise!
The cruise also passes by several charming lakeside villages, offering a glimpse into local life. Finally, the journey concludes at Togendai Port, where passengers can connect to other attractions in the Hakone area.
3. Best Time to Take the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
After experiencing the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise at different times, I’ve found that timing can significantly enhance your journey. Early morning cruises often offer the best chance to see Mt. Fuji, as the air is typically clearer before midday. However, if you’re not an early riser, don’t worry – there are other factors to consider.
Seasonal changes also play a crucial role in your cruise experience. In spring, I was mesmerized by the cherry blossoms dotting the shoreline, while autumn treated me to a breathtaking display of fiery foliage. Summer, on the other hand, provides longer daylight hours, perfect for evening cruises and stunning sunset views.
Pro tip: If possible, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience on the lake.
Ultimately, the best time for your cruise depends on your preferences and schedule. Regardless of when you choose to sail, Lake Ashi’s beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.
4. Ticket Options and Prices for the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
When I planned my Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise adventure, I was pleased to discover a range of ticket options to suit different preferences and budgets. First and foremost, the standard one-way ticket is the most popular choice, offering a scenic journey across Lake Ashi.
For those seeking more flexibility, I highly recommend the round-trip ticket. This option not only provides excellent value for money but also allows you to explore different parts of the lake. Additionally, if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in Hakone, consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass, which includes the cruise along with other local transportation and discounts on attractions.
Pro tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. While prices may vary slightly depending on the season, I found the experience to be well worth the cost, given the breathtaking views and unique perspective of Hakone’s natural beauty.
5. Onboard Amenities and Services
As I boarded the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, I was pleasantly surprised by the range of amenities available. First and foremost, the spacious deck offers ample seating, allowing passengers to enjoy the breathtaking views in comfort. Moreover, I found the indoor cabin to be a cozy retreat, especially useful during inclement weather.
One of the highlights was undoubtedly the onboard café. Here, I could savor a warm cup of coffee while taking in the scenic beauty of Lake Ashi. Additionally, the cruise provides informative audio guides in multiple languages, which I found incredibly helpful in understanding the historical and cultural significance of the landmarks we passed.
For those seeking souvenirs, there’s a small gift shop selling local crafts and memorabilia. Notably, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this spectacular journey across Lake Ashi.
6. Photography Tips for the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
As I embarked on the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, I quickly realized that capturing the perfect shot would require some preparation. First and foremost, I recommend bringing a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive lake views and Mount Fuji (if visible). Additionally, a polarizing filter can help reduce glare from the water’s surface, enhancing the overall image quality.
Timing is crucial when it comes to photography on the cruise. Early morning or late afternoon cruises often offer the best lighting conditions. Moreover, I found that positioning myself on the right side of the boat provided optimal views of the iconic floating torii gate and potential Mt. Fuji sightings.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to turn off your flash when photographing distant subjects like Mount Fuji or the shoreline. It won’t reach that far and may disturb other passengers.
Lastly, while it’s tempting to spend the entire cruise behind the lens, remember to put the camera down occasionally and soak in the breathtaking scenery with your own eyes. After all, some memories are best captured in our minds rather than on a memory card.
7. Combining the Cruise with Other Hakone Attractions
After enjoying the Moto Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, I discovered that there are numerous ways to enhance your Hakone experience. Firstly, I recommend taking the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding landscape. This scenic cable car ride complements the cruise perfectly, offering a different perspective of the area.
Another must-visit attraction is the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Here, I wandered through an expansive outdoor gallery featuring impressive sculptures set against the backdrop of Hakone’s natural beauty. Additionally, the Owakudani volcanic valley is worth exploring for its unique geothermal activity and famous black eggs.
To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass. This all-inclusive ticket allowed me to enjoy the cruise, ropeway, and various other local transportation options, making it both convenient and cost-effective. By combining these attractions, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of Hakone’s diverse offerings.
