Hakone has long been recognized as one of the most enchanting travel destinations in Japan, especially for those who dream of witnessing the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji. Situated in the southeastern part of Kanagawa Prefecture, within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is more than just a picturesque town. It is renowned for its hot springs, scenic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and convenient access from Tokyo. Travelers often regard Hakone as the best vantage point for viewing Mount Fuji, offering both natural charm and modern attractions.
This guide will take you through how to reach Hakone, how to make the most of the Hakone Free Pass, and the must-visit attractions that make Hakone an unforgettable destination.
Getting to Hakone from Tokyo
If you are searching for a convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, Hakone is an excellent choice. Reaching Hakone is simple, with efficient train and bus connections available daily.
By Train
One of the most popular routes is taking the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes, making it a quick escape from the bustling city.
Alternatively, you can board the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station, which only takes about 30 minutes. From Odawara, continue by the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station, bringing the total travel time to roughly one hour.
By Pass Options
For those planning a day trip or short stay, the Hakone Free Pass is an economical and practical solution. It not only covers round-trip transportation from Tokyo to Hakone but also provides unlimited use of local transport within Hakone, including trains, buses, ropeways, and even sightseeing cruises.
Hakone Free Pass: Usage and Benefits
The Hakone Free Pass is designed for travelers who want to explore Hakone with ease and save money. It includes round-trip travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku Station) to Odawara, plus unlimited access to a wide range of transport options inside Hakone.
Included Transportation Services
With the Hakone Free Pass, you can freely use the following modes of transport:
- Hakone Sightseeing Cruise Pirate Ship
- Hakone Tozan Train
- Hakone Ropeway
- Hakone Tozan Cable Car
- Kanko Shisetsu Meguri Bus
- Hakone Tozan Bus
- Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus
- Tokai Bus Orange Shuttle
This means you can travel around Hakone without worrying about additional transportation costs, making it especially convenient for those visiting multiple attractions.
Ticket Options and Prices
Travelers can choose between a 2-day or 3-day pass:
- 2-Day Pass: Starting from around Rp 637,942
- 3-Day Pass: Starting from around Rp 679,700
Upon purchase, you will receive an electronic ticket via email. Simply show it when boarding Hakone’s transportation systems or entering selected tourist sites to enjoy discounted or free access.
Must-Visit Attractions in Hakone
1. Lake Ashinoko
No trip to Hakone is complete without visiting Lake Ashinoko, often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Japan. It offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji, particularly on clear days. A unique way to experience the lake is by boarding the Hakone Sightseeing Pirate Ship, a boat designed to resemble a pirate vessel, complete with treasure chest décor. The cruise runs between Hakonemachi-ko or Motohakone-ko and Togendai-ko, allowing travelers to admire both the serene lake and Mount Fuji from an unusual perspective.
2. Hakone Ropeway
The Hakone Ropeway is another highlight included in the Free Pass. This aerial cable car provides breathtaking views of volcanic activity at Owakudani Valley, Lake Ashinoko, and Mount Fuji in the distance. The ropeway runs between Sounzan and Togendai, with stops at four stations, and the entire journey takes about 30 minutes. Visitors are free to hop on or off at any station, making it easy to explore nearby attractions such as hot spring resorts.
3. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Hot Springs
Hakone is famous for its hot springs, and one of the most popular facilities is Hakone Kowakien Yunessun. Unlike traditional onsens, this hot spring complex offers themed pools with unusual experiences. Visitors can soak in a Green Tea Spa, Coffee Spa, or even a Sake Spa. There are also special outdoor baths like the Cypress Bathtub, which overlooks a Japanese garden, and Uchi Yu, equipped with jet streams that create a massage-like sensation. The facility even includes a water park with fun attractions such as Rodeo Mountain, a thrilling water slide.
4. Hakone Open-Air Museum
Art enthusiasts should not miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum, an expansive 70,000-square-meter outdoor museum established in 1969. The site features over 100 sculptures by Japanese and international artists. Highlights include the Picasso Pavilion, which houses more than 300 of Picasso’s works, and pieces by iconic artists such as Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore. With the Hakone Free Pass, visitors can enjoy discounted entry. The museum is easily accessible via the Hakone Tozan Railway.
5. Hakone Tozan Train
The Hakone Tozan Train is more than just transportation—it is an attraction in itself. This scenic railway winds through lush forests, over dramatic bridges, and past hydrangea-covered slopes, especially stunning during the summer bloom. One highlight is crossing the Hayakawa Bridge, Japan’s oldest railway bridge, dating back to the early 20th century. The area around the bridge is also renowned as one of the best spots to view autumn foliage. Travelers with the Hakone Free Pass can ride the train at no additional cost.
Conclusion
Hakone offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern conveniences, making it a must-visit destination in Japan. From the tranquil waters of Lake Ashinoko and the panoramic views from the Hakone Ropeway to the rejuvenating hot springs of Kowakien Yunessun and the artistic treasures at the Open-Air Museum, Hakone has something for every traveler.
Its accessibility from Tokyo, combined with the cost-saving benefits of the Hakone Free Pass, ensures that exploring this stunning region is both easy and affordable. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Japan or a returning traveler, Hakone provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japanese nature and culture, all with the iconic Mount Fuji as your backdrop.
