Hakone Travel Guide | Discover Hakone’s Attractions, Access, and Top Sightseeing Spots

About Hakone

What Makes Hakone Special

Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is located less than 100 kilometers from Tokyo. Known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and views of Mt. Fuji across Lake Ashi, it is a popular destination for both Japanese and international visitors.

Since 2022, the number of international visitors to Japan has recovered rapidly. Hakone continues to attract large numbers of travelers, particularly from China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, while the number of visitors from Europe and North America has also increased.

Geography of Hakone

Hakone is located in western Kanagawa Prefecture and is divided into several distinct areas:

• Hakone-Yumoto – The gateway to Hakone, with many restaurants and souvenir shops
• Gora – Known for its many museums and as the terminal station of the Hakone Tozan Railway
• Owakudani – A popular sightseeing area famous for its volcanic activity
• Lake Ashi – One of Hakone's best spots for views of Mt. Fuji
• Sengokuhara – Known for its pampas grass fields and art museums
• Moto-Hakone – Home to Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine

Getting to Hakone

Traveling from Tokyo to Hakone

By Train

Odakyu Romancecar (Recommended)

• Direct service from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station
• Travel time: Approximately 85 minutes (as little as 75 minutes on the fastest services)
• Fare: Approximately 2,470 yen one way (base fare 1,270 yen + limited express surcharge 1,200 yen)
• Advance reservations are required

JR Tokaido Line and Hakone Tozan Railway

• Tokyo Station → Odawara Station (JR Tokaido Line): Approximately 1 hour
• Odawara Station → Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway): Approximately 15 minutes
• Fare: Approximately 1,650 yen from Tokyo to Odawara, plus approximately 230 yen from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto

Shinkansen and Hakone Tozan Railway (Fastest Option)

• Tokyo Station → Odawara Station (Tokaido Shinkansen): Approximately 35 minutes
• Odawara Station → Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway): Approximately 15 minutes
• Fare: Approximately 3,220 yen from Tokyo to Odawara, plus approximately 230 yen from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto

By Bus

Highway Bus

• Direct bus service from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station
• Travel time: Approximately 2 hours (depending on traffic conditions)
• Fare: Approximately 2,000 yen
• Advance reservations are recommended

Getting Around Hakone

The following transportation options make it easy to explore Hakone:

• Hakone Tozan Railway – A mountain railway connecting Odawara, Hakone-Yumoto, and Gora
• Hakone Tozan Cable Car – A cable car connecting Gora and Sounzan
• Hakone Ropeway – A ropeway connecting Sounzan, Owakudani, and Togendai
• Hakone Pirate Ship – A sightseeing boat that cruises Lake Ashi
• Hakone Tozan Bus – A bus network connecting Hakone's major attractions

Making the Most of the Hakone Free Pass

What Is the Hakone Freepass?

The Hakone Freepass is a convenient sightseeing pass that offers unlimited rides on eight transportation systems throughout the Hakone area. It also includes a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu Line between your departure station and Odawara Station. In addition, pass holders can receive discounts at approximately 70 attractions and facilities within the Hakone area.

Sample Fares

Purchasing Within the Hakone Area

How to Purchase the Hakone Freepass

• EMot (Digital Ticket) – Easily purchase the pass using your smartphone
• Odakyu Line Stations – Available at station counters and ticket machines
• 7-Eleven – Available through 7Ticket with no additional service fee
• Hakone Tozan Railway Stations – Available from automatic ticket machines

Special Passes for International Visitors

Fuji Hakone Pass – A discounted sightseeing pass designed for international travelers, allowing visitors to explore both the Fuji and Hakone areas from Tokyo (departing from Shinjuku Station).

Hakone Kamakura Pass – A rail pass that offers convenient travel throughout the Hakone, Kamakura, and Enoshima areas. A digital version is also available for international travelers.

Major Attractions

Scenic Natural Attractions

Lake Ashi

Lake Ashi is a beautiful caldera lake located in the heart of Hakone and is famous for its spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding scenery from the water aboard the Hakone Pirate Ship. Hakone Shrine is also located along the lakeshore, and the sight of its red torii gate reflected on the water attracts many visitors.

Owakudani

Owakudani offers a chance to experience Hakone's volcanic activity up close. The area is known for its sulfurous aroma, rising steam vents, and dramatic volcanic landscape. One of its most famous specialties is the black egg (kuro-tamago). Although the shell turns black during the cooking process, the inside is the same as a regular egg. According to local tradition, eating one black egg is said to add seven years to your life.

Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields

The Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields are known for their stunning natural scenery. In autumn, the fields turn a beautiful golden color, creating one of Hakone's most iconic seasonal landscapes. The best viewing period is typically from late October through November.

Cultural and Artistic Attractions

The Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Hakone Open-Air Museum allows visitors to enjoy art in an outdoor setting. Works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore are displayed throughout the natural landscape, offering a unique combination of art appreciation and scenic walks.

POLA Museum of Art

The POLA Museum of Art showcases the art collection of the cosmetics company POLA, with a particular focus on Impressionist paintings. The museum features works by artists such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and the building itself is designed to blend harmoniously into the surrounding forest.

Hakone Glass no Mori Museum

The Hakone Glass no Mori Museum displays Venetian glass artworks from Europe. Its collection of colorful glass pieces and elegant surroundings allow visitors to enjoy a distinctly European atmosphere in the heart of Hakone.

Historical Attractions

Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine is a historic shrine located on the shores of Lake Ashi. Its iconic red torii gate standing by the lake has become one of Hakone's most recognizable landmarks and is featured in countless photographs. The shrine is also known as a popular spiritual destination, attracting visitors who come to pray for good fortune.

Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone Sekisho)

The Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone Sekisho) is a reconstructed checkpoint that once served as an important control point along the Tokaido Highway during the Edo period. Visitors can learn about the role of the checkpoint and gain insight into the experiences of travelers in historical Japan.

Kuzuryu Shrine

Kuzuryu Shrine is dedicated to the deity of water and is also known as an inner shrine of Hakone Shrine. It is a popular spiritual destination associated with the dragon deity and attracts many visitors seeking blessings and good fortune.

Activity Attractions

Hakone Ropeway

The Hakone Ropeway connects Sounzan and Togendai, offering spectacular aerial views of Owakudani and Lake Ashi. On clear days, visitors can also enjoy views of Mt. Fuji.

Hakone Tozan Railway

The Hakone Tozan Railway is a mountain railway that runs between Odawara and Gora. One of its most distinctive features is its switchback operation, which allows the train to climb steep slopes. The journey is also known for its beautiful scenery along the route.

Hakone Komagatake Ropeway

The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway carries visitors from the shores of Lake Ashi to the summit of Mt. Komagatake. From the top, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view that includes Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Sagami Bay.

Types of Hot Springs in Hakone and Their Benefits

The Characteristics of Hakone's Seventeen Hot Spring Areas

Hakone is home to 17 hot spring areas collectively known as the Hakone Jushichiyu (Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs). These hot springs can be broadly categorized into six different spring types, each with its own characteristics, including color, aroma, and reputed benefits.

1. Simple Hot Spring (Simple Thermal Spring)

This type of hot spring is gentle on the body and suitable for people of all ages. It contains less than 1,000 mg of dissolved minerals per kilogram of water, making it a relatively rare spring type.

Commonly Associated Benefits: Relief from insomnia and depressive symptoms

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Hakone-Yumoto Onsen, Ohiradai Onsen, Yunohanazawa Onsen, and Ashinoko Onsen

2. Sulfur Spring

Known for its distinctive sulfuric aroma, often compared to the smell of boiled eggs, sulfur springs are one of the most recognizable types of Japanese hot springs. They are believed to help dilate peripheral blood vessels, coronary arteries, and cerebral arteries, and are often associated with the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases.

Commonly Associated Benefits: Prevention of lifestyle-related diseases

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Yunohanazawa Onsen and Ashinoyu Onsen

3. Chloride Spring

Often referred to as a "warming spring," this type of hot spring leaves chloride minerals on the skin, helping to reduce moisture loss through evaporation. This natural "salt coating" helps retain warmth and moisture. Chloride minerals are also believed to promote circulation, helping the body stay warm even after leaving the bath.

Commonly Associated Benefits: Relief from sensitivity to cold and improvement of peripheral circulation

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Tounosawa Onsen, Dogashima Onsen, Miyanoshita Onsen, Sokokura Onsen, Ninotaira Onsen, and Ashinoko Onsen

4. Acidic Spring

As the name suggests, this type of hot spring is acidic and is sometimes referred to as a "sterilizing spring." Because it is highly acidic, it can be quite strong on the skin, and older adults or people with sensitive skin should use it with caution. The water has a sour quality similar to lemon and is known for its strong antibacterial properties.

Commonly Associated Benefits: Relief of atopic dermatitis and support for diabetes treatment

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Sengokuhara Onsen

5. Bicarbonate Spring

Often known as a "beauty spring," bicarbonate springs are believed to soften the skin. They are also associated with soothing burns, skin conditions, and minor cuts.

Commonly Associated Benefits: Relief of minor cuts, burns, and dry skin

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Ninotaira Onsen and Yuzu Onsen

6. Sulfate Spring

Sulfate springs can be further classified according to their mineral composition, such as calcium- or sodium-rich varieties. They are generally associated with recovery from injuries and the prevention of arteriosclerosis. They are sometimes referred to as "healing springs" or "rejuvenating springs."

Commonly Associated Benefits: Relief of peripheral circulation disorders, sensitivity to cold, and dry skin

Found in the Hakone Seventeen Hot Springs: Kamogawa Onsen, Sengokuhara Onsen, and Kushi Onsen

Beauty Benefits of Hakone's Hot Springs

Hakone's hot springs are also known for their beauty-related benefits. Different spring types are associated with different effects on the skin.

1. Simple Hot Spring: Believed to help remove dead skin cells.
2. Sulfur Spring: Associated with reducing the appearance of dark spots and freckles by breaking down melanin, while also helping to remove dead skin cells. It is also known for its detoxifying properties.
3. Chloride Spring: Helps retain heat and moisture through a natural mineral coating, leaving the skin feeling hydrated.
4. Acidic Spring: Known for its natural exfoliating effect due to its acidity and is often associated with helping improve acne-prone skin.
5. Bicarbonate Spring: Believed to soften the skin and leave it feeling smooth and moisturized, even without the use of soap.
6. Sulfate Spring: Sometimes called a "rejuvenating spring," it is associated with improving skin firmness and elasticity. Many visitors enjoy soaking in its mineral-rich waters as part of a relaxing skincare experience.

How to Bathe for Maximum Beauty Benefits

To make the most of the beauty benefits associated with hot springs, the bathing process is just as important as the water itself. Consider the following approach:

1. Rinse Before Entering the Bath: Quickly rinse your body with hot water before entering the hot spring. There is no need to wash with soap at this stage. The goal is simply to remove any visible dirt before entering the bath.
2. First Soak: Soak in the hot spring up to your shoulders for about five minutes to warm your body.
3. Wash Your Hair: Wash your hair separately before continuing your bath.
4. Second Soak: Relax in the hot spring for another three to five minutes, allowing the mineral-rich water to come into contact with your skin.
5. Wash Your Body: Wash your body at this stage. Even if you use soap, avoid scrubbing vigorously with a towel and instead wash gently with your hands.
6. Final Soak: Finish with one more soak in the hot spring, allowing your body to warm thoroughly while enjoying the bath's mineral-rich waters.

The key is to divide your bathing time into several shorter sessions rather than staying in the bath continuously. This allows your body to warm gradually while giving your skin time to benefit from the hot spring water. Prolonged soaking may lead to dizziness, chills after leaving the bath, or dry skin, so moderation is recommended.

Recommended Accommodations

Luxury Ryokan

Gora Kadan

Built on the former site of the Kan'in-no-miya family's villa, Gora Kadan is a prestigious ryokan that combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design. Guests can enjoy natural hot spring baths supplied by the property's own spring source, either in private open-air baths or the public baths, providing a relaxing experience for both body and mind. The authentic kaiseki cuisine, prepared with seasonal ingredients, is as visually impressive as it is delicious. Surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere, the ryokan offers an elegant setting for a truly special stay. With its blend of nature, history, and hospitality, Gora Kadan is highly regarded by international visitors to Japan.

Hakone Ginyu

Perched in a valley overlooking the Hakone mountains, Hakone Ginyu is a luxury ryokan where every guest room features a private open-air bath. Blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with Balinese-inspired design, the property offers a unique and relaxing retreat. Guests can enjoy seasonal views of Hakone's natural beauty from their rooms, while the kaiseki cuisine served in private dining spaces showcases carefully selected seasonal ingredients. The on-site spa provides a tranquil setting to relax and unwind while surrounded by nature. Conveniently located and highly regarded by international visitors, Hakone Ginyu is one of Hakone's most sought-after accommodations.

Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Hakone, Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu is a modern Japanese-style ryokan featuring private open-air hot spring baths in every guest room. The property's large public bath, Ukiyo-no-Yu, offers spectacular views where the sky and surrounding mountains seem to blend into one. Guests can enjoy seasonal scenery from their rooms while relaxing in a peaceful atmosphere. Dining options include a restaurant serving creative Japanese and Western cuisine, as well as teppanyaki, shabu-shabu, and soba restaurants, providing a variety of culinary experiences throughout your stay. Located on the hills of Hakone with convenient access, Ten-yu is also a popular choice among international visitors.

Mid-Range Accommodations

Hakone Yumoto Hotel

Conveniently located within walking distance of Hakone-Yumoto Station, Hakone Yumoto Hotel offers easy access to the area's attractions. Guests can enjoy both indoor hot spring baths and open-air baths, making it a great option for experiencing Hakone's famous hot springs at a reasonable price.

Hakone Hatsuhana

Surrounded by nature in a peaceful setting, Hakone Hatsuhana is a ryokan known for its open-air hot spring baths and seasonal kaiseki cuisine. It offers a relaxing stay at a relatively affordable price.

Hakone Hotel Kowakien

Hakone Hotel Kowakien is a resort hotel featuring large public baths and open-air hot spring baths. The spacious grounds include beautifully maintained gardens, providing a comfortable environment for a leisurely stay.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Hakone Hostel 1914

Located in the Gora area of Hakone, Hakone Hostel 1914 is housed in a historic building. With shared common areas and a communal kitchen, it is well suited for longer stays.

Fukuzumiro

Fukuzumiro is a traditional ryokan located in Hakone-Yumoto. In addition to its shared baths, guests can also reserve a private bath for exclusive use. It offers an affordable way to experience a traditional Hakone ryokan.

Hakone Guest House Gaku

Hakone Guest House Gaku is a guesthouse within walking distance of Hakone-Yumoto Station. Some plans include breakfast, and the property is particularly popular with international travelers.

Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities

Tenzan Tohji-kyo

Tenzan Tohji-kyo is a spacious day-use hot spring facility located in Sengokuhara. It features a variety of indoor and open-air baths, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing beauty of the seasons while soaking in the hot springs.

Hakone Yuryo

Hakone Yuryo is a day-use hot spring facility located in Hakone-Yumoto. It offers large public baths, open-air baths, and an on-site restaurant, making it a convenient place to relax and enjoy a hot spring experience.

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

Known as a hot spring theme park, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun features two distinct areas: Yunessun, a hot spring zone where visitors wear swimsuits, and Mori no Yu, a more traditional hot spring area. It is a popular destination for families and groups.

Local Food Experiences in Hakone

Hakone's Specialty Foods

Yosegi Zaiku-Themed Sweets

Sweets inspired by Yosegi Zaiku, Hakone's traditional woodcraft, are a popular local specialty. These treats recreate the beautiful geometric patterns of Yosegi Zaiku by incorporating a variety of colors and designs.

Onsen Eggs

A specialty of Owakudani, these eggs are cooked using the area's hot spring waters and are known for their black shells. The inside remains soft and flavorful, giving them a distinctive taste.

Hakone Soba

Soba noodles are one of Hakone's best-known local foods. Made in an area known for its cool climate and high-quality water, Hakone soba can be enjoyed at many long-established soba restaurants in Hakone-Yumoto and Gora.

Hakone Maruyama Tofu

Located near Owakudani, Hakone Maruyama Tofu is known for its tofu dishes. Made with spring water, the tofu is prized for its smooth texture and rich flavor.

Recommended Restaurants

Hakone-Yumoto Area

• Hakone Yumoto Tenzan – Popular for dishes made with local ingredients, including hot spring egg rice bowls.
• Soba Kihin-kan – A long-established soba restaurant with more than 100 years of history.
• Tamago Chaya – A long-running eatery in Owakudani known for dishes featuring hot spring eggs.

Lake Ashi Area

• Lake View Shokudo – A restaurant where guests can enjoy meals while overlooking Lake Ashi.
• Hakone Hanauta – A Japanese restaurant located along the lakeshore.

Gora and Sengokuhara Area

• Unaju Yuki – A popular eel restaurant in Sengokuhara.
• Gora Kadan – The restaurant of the luxury ryokan Gora Kadan, where guests can enjoy kaiseki cuisine.
• Sengoku Kogen Ohako Hitokuse – A restaurant serving creative dishes made with ingredients from the mountains.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring (March – May)

• Hakone Glass no Mori Museum – Enjoy Venetian glass art alongside the flowers blooming in the museum's gardens.
• Gora Park – A Western-style garden filled with colorful spring flowers.
• Hakone Tozan Railway – Take in views of cherry blossoms from the train windows.

Summer (June – August)

• Lake Ashi – Enjoy boating and sightseeing cruises on this cool highland lake.
• The Hakone Open-Air Museum – Appreciate art in a lush outdoor setting surrounded by greenery.
• Hakone's Hot Springs – Hakone remains relatively cool even in summer, making it an ideal place to relax in a hot spring bath.

Autumn (September – November)

• Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields – Vast fields of golden pampas grass create a spectacular seasonal landscape.
• Hakone Museum of Art – Known for its beautiful autumn foliage and moss garden.
• Hakone Ropeway – Enjoy aerial views of the mountains as they turn vibrant autumn colors.

Winter (December – February)

• Owakudani – The contrast between snowy scenery and rising volcanic steam creates a striking landscape.
• Lake Ashi – On clear days, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Fuji in the crisp winter air.
• Hot Spring Hopping – Winter is the perfect season to experience the true appeal of Hakone's hot springs.

Helpful Information for International Visitors

Services for International Travelers

Multilingual Tourist Information Centers

• Hakone Town Tourist Information Center (in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station) – Assistance available in English, Chinese, and Korean.
• Hakone Geo Museum – Offers multilingual exhibits and informational brochures.

Free Wi-Fi Spots

• Hakone-Yumoto Station and Gora Station
• Tourist information centers
• Owakudani Visitor Center
• Major museums, hotels, and cafés

Payment Methods

Credit cards and mobile payment services are accepted at many facilities in Hakone. However, some smaller shops and certain transportation services may only accept cash, so it is a good idea to carry some Japanese yen during your visit.

Suggested Itineraries

One-Day Itinerary

1. Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station
2. Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora
3. Ride the cable car and ropeway to Owakudani
4. Explore Owakudani and try the famous black eggs
5. Take the ropeway to Togendai
6. Cruise across Lake Ashi on the Hakone Pirate Ship
7. Visit Hakone Shrine
8. Return to Hakone-Yumoto by bus and relax in a hot spring

Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1

1. Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station and leave your luggage at your accommodation
2. Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora
3. Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum
4. Ride the cable car and ropeway to Owakudani
5. Explore Owakudani
6. Return to your accommodation and enjoy a hot spring bath and dinner

Day 2

1. After breakfast, take the ropeway to Togendai
2. Cruise across Lake Ashi on the Hakone Pirate Ship
3. Visit Hakone Shrine
4. Take the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway to the summit
5. Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji
6. Return to Hakone-Yumoto by bus and begin your journey home

Important Tips and Etiquette

Hot Spring Etiquette

• Wash your body before entering the bath.
• Do not place towels in the bathwater.
• Keep noise to a minimum.
• If you have tattoos, consider using a tattoo cover sticker or reserving a private bath.

Sightseeing Etiquette

• Take your trash with you or dispose of it in designated bins.
• Stay on marked paths in protected natural areas.
• Do not take photographs in areas where photography is prohibited.

Climate and Clothing

Because Hakone is located in a mountainous area, temperatures are often lower than in Tokyo. Mornings and evenings can be particularly cool, so it is a good idea to bring a light jacket regardless of the season.

Conclusion

Although located just about 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone offers a rich combination of natural beauty, history, culture, and hot springs. For international visitors, it is also one of the best places to experience Japan's traditional onsen culture.

With the Hakone Freepass, travelers can efficiently explore the area's major attractions, while the variety of hot springs provides a relaxing and refreshing experience. Whether you're admiring the seasonal scenery, visiting world-class museums, or unwinding in a hot spring bath, Hakone offers unforgettable experiences that can become a highlight of any trip to Japan.