Hakone offers a perfect escape from the busy streets of Tokyo.
You can find this magical region just a short trip away from Japan’s capital, where mountains, hot springs, and stunning views of Mount Fuji await.
The area mixes old and new Japanese culture, from ancient shrines to modern art museums.
Your visit to Hakone can be as short as a day trip or as long as a few nights.
The region has lots to explore, with fun transport options like ropeways and boats that take you through beautiful mountain scenery.
You can soak in hot springs, walk through peaceful forests, and visit art galleries.
When the weather is good, you’ll get amazing views of Mount Fuji that make perfect photos for your trip memories.
Here are our recommended tours for your Hakone trip:
Planning Your Hakone Visit
You’ll find the perfect spot to start your adventure at Hakone-Yumoto Station.
Before you set off exploring this lovely area, pop your bags in storage to travel light.
You’ve got two handy places to stash your luggage:
Storage Spots:
- Hakone-Yumoto Station lockers
- Odawara Station lockers
These storage spots are brilliant if you’re heading somewhere else after your day out.
You won’t need to lug your bags around while you take in the sights.
Train Travel Options from Tokyo to Hakone
Getting Your Hakone Transport Pass
The Hakone Free Pass offers brilliant value for your journey.
You can choose between a 2-day or 3-day pass which covers your transport needs.
The pass includes return trips from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station on the local Odakyu Line trains.
You’ll need to switch trains at Odawara Station, with the total journey taking about 1 hour and 52 minutes.
Your pass gives you access to:
- All Tozan buses in the Hakone area
- The scenic Hakone Tozan Train
- The Hakone Ropeway
- Lake Ashi boat rides
- Special discounts at many attractions
Want a faster trip?
You can upgrade to the Odakyu Romancecar, a lovely express train with viewing areas.
This direct service to Hakone-Yumoto takes just 1 hour and 23 minutes.
Book early – seats often sell out quickly!
Taking the Fast Train to Hakone
The bullet train offers a quick way to reach Hakone.
From Tokyo Station, you can zip to Odawara in just 33 minutes.
You’ve got three starting points to choose from:
- Tokyo Station
- Shinagawa Station
- Shin-Yokohama Station
Top tip: Not all bullet trains stop at Odawara.
Make sure to check the schedule and book the right train.
Once you reach Odawara, catch the Hakone Tozan Train to Hakone-Yumoto Station.
This local trip takes 14 minutes.
You can pay with:
- Single tickets
- Transport cards (Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA)
- Hakone Free Pass
Making the Most of Your Rail Pass
Your Japan Rail Pass works for the bullet train part of your journey to Odawara.
Yet, it won’t cover the Hakone area transport network.
To get around Hakone, you’ll need:
- A Hakone Free Pass, or
- Individual tickets for each ride, or
- A transport card like Suica or Pasmo
The Free Pass often saves you money if you’re planning to use multiple types of transport in Hakone.
It’s worth comparing the costs based on your planned activities.
Money-saving tip: If you’re using the bullet train with a rail pass, you can buy a cheaper version of the Hakone Free Pass at Odawara Station that doesn’t include Tokyo transport.
Planning Your Hakone Adventure
Start your trip at Hakone-Yumoto Station.
Getting there by 9 am gives you plenty of time to explore.
Must-See Spots:
- Scenic Hakone Loop
- Owakudani volcanic valley
- Mount Fuji viewing points
- Historic Hakone Checkpoint
- Amazake-chaya tea house
The loop connects all the main sights brilliantly.
You can hop on and off at different spots using buses, trains, and cable cars.
Take in the stunning views of Mount Fuji, try the famous black eggs at Owakudani, and wander through lovely hiking trails in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
Top Tip: The order you visit places isn’t set in stone – mix it up based on the weather and crowds.
Public Hot Springs in Hakone
The Yuryo Hot Spring Resort
The Yuryo Hot Spring Resort offers a peaceful escape with both shared and private bathing areas.
You’ll find traditional Japanese-style baths separated by gender, plus private options for a more personal experience.
A lovely restaurant sits on-site for post-bath dining.
The resort sits near Hakone-Yumoto Station with a free shuttle bus that runs every 10-15 minutes.
The journey takes just 3 minutes.
If you prefer to walk, Tonosawa Station is only 200 metres away.
Important rules to note:
- No swimming costumes allowed
- No tattoos permitted
- Check child age restrictions
- Open until late evening
The Kowaki-en Water Park and Spa
This unique water park brings fun to the hot spring experience.
You can wear your swimming costume here and try an amazing mix of themed baths:
- Green tea pools
- Red wine baths
- Coffee-infused waters
- Indoor and outdoor water slides
The park sits close to two popular art spots:
- Okada Museum of Art
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
Getting there is simple:
- Take a direct bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station (19 minutes)
- Or catch the train to Kowakudani Station, then a short bus ride
Please note: The park does not allow tattoos.
The Tenzan Natural Hot Springs
Set in lovely natural surroundings, Tenzan offers a more rustic bathing experience.
You’ll find 11 different baths split between men’s and women’s areas:
- 5 pools for men
- 6 pools for women
- Various water temperatures
- Beautiful outdoor settings
Key information:
- Opens: 9 am to 10 pm daily
- Location: Western Hakone
- Travel time: 8-minute bus ride from Hakone-Yumoto Station
- A short 200-metre walk from the bus stop
- Tattoos are welcome here
- Traditional rules apply (no swimming costumes)
Helpful tip: This spot works perfectly as your last stop before heading back to the station, as it sits along the main route from Lake Ashi.
Each of these hot springs needs about 1-2 hours to fully enjoy.
If you’re staying overnight in Hakone, many hotels have their own private baths too.
For a quick break during your travels, you’ll find foot baths scattered around town where you can rest your tired feet in warm spring water.
Climb Through the Mountains on the Hakone Tozan Train
The scenic railway journey from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora offers you a fantastic way to start your mountain adventure.
The train winds through lush forests and valleys, climbing from 96 metres to 541 metres above sea level in just 37 minutes.
Trains leave Hakone-Yumoto Station every 10 minutes, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
The route features three fascinating switchbacks where the train changes direction to tackle the steep mountain slopes.
Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip in June or July to see beautiful hydrangea flowers blooming along the tracks.
During these months, special night trains run with lights that shine on the colourful blossoms.
Travel Options from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora:
- Hakone Tozan Train
- Journey time: 37 minutes
- Scenic mountain route
- Included in Hakone Free Pass
- Tozan Bus
- Journey time: 14 minutes
- Stops at Kigasakashita
- Included in Hakone Free Pass
The train journey might take longer than the bus, but the stunning views make it worth your time.
You’ll pass through tiny mountain stations and get amazing views of the valleys below.
Keep your camera ready for some brilliant photos along the way.
You can hop off at several stops before reaching Gora to explore the local area.
Each station offers its own unique sights and walking trails.
Art and Culture in Gora
Outdoor Art Experience
This famous art space brings creativity into nature with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
The star attraction is a collection of Picasso’s works, including his paintings, sculptures and pottery pieces.
Your little ones will love the children’s play area while you can soothe tired feet in the outdoor foot bath.
Pop into the cafés and shops during your visit.
Art and Dining North of Gora
The Glass Museum of Hakone
Located a short 11-minute bus ride from Gora Station, this stunning museum houses more than 100 pieces of beautiful glassware.
You’ll find both classic and modern Venetian pieces spread across the Italian-styled halls.
Take time to wander through the lovely gardens and stop for a treat at the charming café.
Dining at Yuzen
Looking for an elegant meal?
This adults-only dining spot sits just 17 minutes away by bus from Gora Station.
Try some of Japan’s finest dishes paired with their wide range of sake.
If you’re coming from the glass museum, it’s only a five-minute journey away.
The Pola Art Gallery
A 13-minute bus ride takes you to this remarkable gallery, home to an impressive private collection.
You’ll discover stunning works from both European and Japanese artists.
Some of the world’s most famous painters are featured here, including:
- Claude Monet
- Pablo Picasso
- Pierre-Auguste Renoir
- Paul Cézanne
Travel tip: The Tozan Bus connects all these spots, making it easy to visit several in one day.
The museums are perfect for art lovers, while the restaurant offers a peaceful break between visits.
These cultural spots north of Gora show off some of the area’s finest attractions.
Where to Stay in Gora
Gora makes a perfect base for your Hakone adventures.
Many lovely ryokans dot the area, giving you a chance to experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
These inns often feature relaxing hot springs and serene gardens.
You’ll find accommodation to match any budget in Gora.
The area has everything from cosy guesthouses to luxurious hotels.
The best places to stay near Gora Station:
- Odakyu Hotel de Yama – Beautiful lake views
- Traditional ryokans with private onsen baths
- Boutique hotels with modern amenities
- Family-run guesthouses with personal service
Hakone Cable Car and Aerial Ropeway
The Hakone Tozan Cable Car takes you on a steep climb from Gora to Sounzan.
The journey is quite exciting, as you rise 214 metres at gradients up to 20%.
Once you reach the Sounzan Observation Deck at 767 metres, you’ll get lovely views of Gora and Mt Hakone.
On clear days, you might spot Sagami Bay in the distance.
Your next adventure is the spectacular Hakone Ropeway.
This aerial lift whisks you from Sounzan to Owakudani and then onwards to Togendai Port by Lake Ashi.
Must-Try Experience at Owakudani:
- Sample the famous black eggs
- Watch active volcanic vents
- Take photos of the unique landscape
Fun Fact: The black eggs are normal eggs cooked in volcanic water.
They’re perfectly safe to eat and are a local treat!
Important Travel Tips:
- Check the ropeway status before visiting
- Alternative buses run if the ropeway closes
- The best views of Mt Fuji are on clear mornings
- Bring warm layers – it gets chilly up high
The final ropeway leg from Owakudani to Togendai Port offers stunning mountain scenery.
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi offers stunning views across its peaceful waters.
The most popular way to explore is aboard the quirky pirate ships that glide across the lake’s surface.
On clear days, you might spot the majestic Mt Fuji in the distance.
The pirate ships run frequently throughout the day, with sailings every 20-40 minutes.
Your journey from Togendai Port to Hakonemachi takes about 25 minutes, whilst the shorter hop between Hakonemachi and Motohakone is just 10 minutes.
Travel tip: Take the ship to Motohakone Port and return via bus or walking through Hakonemachi.
Near the lake’s edge stands the striking Hakone Shrine with its iconic red torii gate that appears to float on the water.
It’s just a 5-minute walk from Motohakone Port to reach this magical spot.
Motohakone to Hakonemachi Walk
Fancy a peaceful stroll?
The path between Motohakone and Hakonemachi follows the old Kyukaido road.
This gorgeous 1.5km walk takes you through a magical tunnel of towering Japanese cedar trees.
The route typically takes 20-30 minutes at a relaxed pace.
At the Hakonemachi end, you’ll find a fascinating rebuilt checkpoint from Japan’s Edo period.
It’s a brilliant spot to imagine what travel was like hundreds of years ago.
Walking route highlights:
- Ancient cedar-lined pathway
- Historic checkpoint building
- Lake views
- Easy, flat terrain
Getting Back to Hakone-Yumoto
The Hakone Tozan Bus provides a straightforward route back to Hakone-Yumoto Station.
You can catch the bus from two main points:
Travel times:
- Motohakone to Hakone-Yumoto: 29 minutes
- Hakonemachi to Hakone-Yumoto: 23 minutes
The bus service offers two route options.
You can take the direct path or choose the scenic route through Kowakudani.
Plan extra travel time during morning and evening rush hours, as traffic can build up on these mountain roads.
Onsen options:
- Get off at Tenzan Tohji-kyo Onsen (direct route only)
- Travel to Hakone-Yumoto and use the free shuttle to Hakone Yuryo Onsen
Before leaving Hakone-Yumoto Station, take time to explore the local shops and eateries.
Two popular spots near the station are:
- Nisshin Tei restaurant
- Hakone Curry Cocoro Both stay open until 9 pm.
Onward travel options:
- Direct trains to Tokyo
- Connection to Odawara Station for Shinkansen services
The station area features plenty of souvenir shops where you can pick up special items to remember your trip.
Many visitors enjoy browsing these shops before heading to their next destination.
Alternative Journey from Lake Ashi to Mishima
A lovely travel option takes you from Lake Ashi’s Hakonemachi area to Mishima by bus.
The Tokai Orange Shuttle runs this route, giving you a chance to make a unique stop along the way.
Japan’s Largest Walking Bridge
The Mishima Skywalk stands as Japan’s longest footbridge, stretching 400 metres across a stunning valley.
This remarkable suspension bridge opens daily from 9:00 to 17:00.
You’ll spot amazing views of Mount Fuji and Suruga Bay as you walk across.
Getting There and Away:
- Bus journey time to Skywalk: 16 minutes from Hakonemachi
- Bus journey time to Mishima Station: 34 minutes from Skywalk
Travel Tips:
- Check bus times before your trip
- Buses run less often on this route
- Mishima Station connects to major cities via high-speed rail
- Tokyo
- Nagoya
- Kyoto
- Osaka
The bridge gives you brilliant photo chances, especially on clear days when Mount Fuji stands proud in the distance.
Make sure to bring your camera!
