Researched guide · Checked on Nov 11, 2026
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Hakone is a hot spring area in the mountains west of Tokyo, known for its lake, volcanic valley and, on clear days, views of Mt. Fuji. A classic loop takes you through all of it using a mountain train, a cable car, a ropeway and a boat, and you can do it in one long day from Tokyo.
Quick answer
Getting there: Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, or the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara
Time needed: One full day. Two days if you stay the night at a ryokan
Best time: Leave early. Clear mornings give the best chance of seeing Mt. Fuji
Good for: Mountain scenery, hot springs, art museums and a change from the city
| Getting there | Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, or the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara |
| Time needed | One full day. Two days if you stay the night at a ryokan |
| Best time | Leave early. Clear mornings give the best chance of seeing Mt. Fuji |
| Good for | Mountain scenery, hot springs, art museums and a change from the city |
Getting there from Tokyo
- Odakyu Romancecar: the fastest way between Shinjuku and Hakone-Yumoto, with big windows and reserved seats. Book online with e-Romancecar.
- Shinkansen to Odawara: good if you are staying near Tokyo Station or Shinagawa. From Odawara, take the train or bus into Hakone.
- Highway bus: buses also run from Shinjuku. Check the current timetable.
The Hakone loop
- StartHakone-Yumoto
- Hakone Tozan Train up the mountain
- NextGora
- Cable car to Sounzan, then the Hakone Ropeway
- MiddayOwakudani
- Hakone Ropeway down to Togendai
- AfternoonLake Ashi cruise
- Boat to Hakone-machi or Moto-Hakone
- Late afternoonHakone Shrine
- Bus back to Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara
Hakone Tozan Train
This small mountain railway zigzags up steep slopes from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, stopping at hot spring villages on the way.
Owakudani
The ropeway crosses a volcanic valley full of steam and the smell of sulfur. At Owakudani you can try kuro-tamago, eggs boiled in the hot spring water until the shells turn black. Parts of the area and the ropeway can close because of volcanic activity, bad weather or maintenance, so check the service status on the morning you go.
Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine
Sightseeing boats cross Lake Ashi to Hakone-machi and Moto-Hakone. Near Moto-Hakone, the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine stands in the water, one of Hakone’s best-known sights. On clear days you can see Mt. Fuji across the lake.
Hakone Freepass
If you follow the loop, the Hakone Freepass is usually the easiest ticket. It covers the Hakone Tozan Train, cable car, ropeway, sightseeing cruise and buses in set areas, plus one return trip on the Odakyu Line from your departure station to Odawara.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Valid for | 2 or 3 days |
| Price example | ¥7,100 for a 2-day adult pass from Shinjuku (from October 1, 2025) |
| Not included | The Romancecar limited express fee (pay separately) |
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Hot springs
Hakone is one of the best places near Tokyo for an onsen. Many hot spring inns and day-use facilities welcome visitors for a day bath. Read our onsen and sento etiquette guide before you go.
Tips
- Start early. The loop takes most of the day, and weekends and autumn leaves season are busy.
- Send big suitcases ahead or leave them in Tokyo. See our luggage guide.
- Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a layer, even in summer.
- Mt. Fuji is often hidden by cloud. Think of it as a bonus, not a promise.
Tours and staying overnight
A guided day tour from Tokyo is an easy option if you do not want to plan trains and transfers. To make the most of the hot springs, stay a night at a ryokan.
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FAQ
How do I get to Hakone from Tokyo?
Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, or the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara.
What is the Hakone loop?
A route using the Hakone Tozan Train, a cable car, the Hakone Ropeway and a boat on Lake Ashi, which you can do in one long day.
Is there a 1-day Hakone Free Pass?
No. Odakyu sells the Hakone Freepass as a 2-day or 3-day pass, so on a day trip you buy the 2-day pass. Odakyu suggests it for the classic Hakone day trip course, and it includes one return trip on the Odakyu Line from your departure station.
Can I see Mt. Fuji from Hakone?
On clear days, yes. Leave early, because clear mornings give the best chance.
What are the black eggs at Owakudani?
Kuro-tamago, eggs boiled in the volcanic hot springs of Owakudani.
Keep reading
Sources
This guide is based on the official information below, not on our own visit. Facts last checked against official sources on November 11, 2026. Timetables, prices and service status can change, so please check before you go.
