Hakone, a picturesque town nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is famed for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, the tranquil Lake Ashi, and rejuvenating onsens. This is why Hakone is one of the perfect day trips from Tokyo.
Getting from Tokyo to Hakone is easy. We share the fastest, most picturesque, and budget-friendly methods to make your trip. Whether you’re considering the bullet train’s speed or the leisurely views from a bus, we’ll cover travel times, costs, and the easy step-by-step process for each option!
Why visit Hakone?
Hakone is celebrated for its postcard-worthy views of the iconic Mt. Fuji, especially when cruising on the serene Lake Ashi. The myriad of hot spring onsens also promise relaxation and rejuvenation after an action-packed time in Tokyo.
There are tons to do in Hakone Gora Park. Credits to Akira Deng on Pexels.
But that’s not all! This town is also a treasure trove of cultural attractions that offer a peek into Japan’s rich history and traditions, such as the venerable Hakone Shrine, ensconced in a dense forest, and the Hakone Open Air Museum with its eclectic sculpture collection.
Whether you're soaking in a hot spring bath, admiring the art, or simply basking in the natural beauty, Hakone is an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Hakone-jinja Shrine features a Torii gate in the waters of Lake Ashi
How to get from Tokyo to Hakone?
Getting to Hakone from Tokyo is a breeze, thanks to the numerous convenient transportation options. Let’s dive into each of these ways to get to Hakone in detail, and you can pick the one that best suits your travel style!
Tokyo to Hakone by Train
Tokyo to Hakone by Shinkansen
Kredit Foto: Fikri Rasyid on Unsplash
If speed is your need, the Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is your best bet. From Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station, you can hop on the Tokaido Shinkansen and reach Odawara Station in approximately 35 minutes. Talk about a speedy getaway!
Do note that only the Kodama and Hikari Shinkansen trains will make a stop at Odawara Station, and tickets start from ¥3,280 for a Non-Reserved Ordinary Car seat. Your Shinkansen ride will be covered by the Whole Japan JR Pass should you have one.
The Hakone Tozan Line connects you between Odawara and Gora Stations
Upon arrival at Odawara Station, the closest JR station to Hakone-Yumoto, you will need to transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line. This train takes you on a scenic ride into the heart of Hakone, passing through Hakone-Yumoto Station to end at Gora Station in about 45 minutes.
#KlookTip: This Hakone Tozan Train is not covered by the JR Pass, instead we highly recommend you get the Hakone Free Pass for affordable and seamless travel within Hakone. More on that later!
Tokyo to Hakone by JR Odoriko Express Train
Photo courtesy of JR East
For a blend of comfort and scenery, consider the JR Odoriko Limited Express Train. Departing from Tokyo Station, the Odoriko offers a direct and enjoyable ride to Odawara Station and the Izu Peninsula.
The journey takes approximately 90 minutes, providing a relaxing experience with coastal views should you continue your journey to the Izu region. While not as fast as the Shinkansen, the Odoriko Limited Express is a great option for those looking to start their Hakone adventure with a scenic and cheaper route at ¥2,540, which is covered by your JR Pass.
Tokyo to Hakone by Odakyu Line Train
Perhaps you’re someone who prefers to soak in the scenery as you travel. If that’s the case, the Odakyu Line’s Romancecar Limited Express train is your perfect match. Departing from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, this train provides a direct connection to Hakone-Yumoto Station in approximately 80 minutes at ¥2,470.
While the Romancecar offers an express service, regular train options are also available on the Odakyu Line. These journeys typically take more than 2 hours, with a possible change at Odawara Station. The fare is one of the cheapest at only ¥1,270.
Regardless of your choice, remember to make a separate seat reservation if you opt for the Romancecar service. Tickets can be conveniently purchased online, at an Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center, or via Odakyu Line ticket vending machines at Shinjuku Station.
Tokyo to Hakone by Highway Bus
For those who value comfort and convenience, the Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus offers a direct route from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Hakone Togendai. With buses departing every 30-60 minutes, your journey to Hakone is as hassle-free as it gets.
Ticket prices for the highway bus are quite affordable, costing around ¥2,000 yen to Hakone Togendai. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the 2-hour ride as you head towards your Hakone adventure!
Tokyo to Hakone by Private Car Charter
If you’re all about flexibility and prefer to travel at your own pace, then a private car charter from Tokyo to Hakone might be the ideal choice. It allows you to customize your itinerary, choose the attractions you wish to visit, and enjoy a relaxing journey without the constraints of a set schedule.
Various car models are available for charter, accommodating different group sizes. And the best part? The chartered car service provides door-to-door pick-up and drop-off services from hotels in the 23 wards of Tokyo. So, enjoy the freedom of a private car charter and make the most of your Hakone experience!
Tokyo to Hakone by Car Rental
For those who enjoy the thrill of the open road, renting a car for a self-drive trip from Tokyo to Hakone might be the perfect option. With a rental car, you can explore Hakone and its surroundings at your own leisure, offering maximum flexibility.
However, it’s essential to be aware of potential challenges like narrow roads, traffic, and tolls. But with careful planning and a sense of adventure, a self-drive trip can be an unforgettable experience.
Utilizing Train Passes from Tokyo to Hakone
When planning your rail journey from Tokyo to Hakone, train passes can be an economical and convenient choice. Among the popular options is the Japan Rail Pass, which is available for tourists and offers unlimited travel on most JR trains nationwide, including the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Odawara.
For those focusing on regional travel, there are also specific regional passes like the JR East Tohoku Pass, which covers the areas around Tokyo and can be used for travel on the JR Odoriko Express to Odawara, the gateway to Hakone.
Hakone Free Pass
For the ultimate travel convenience within Hakone itself, the Hakone Free Pass stands out. This pass provides unlimited access to a network of trains, cable cars, ropeways, boats, and buses within the Hakone region, including the scenic Hakone Tozan Line. It also offers discounts at numerous attractions, making it an indispensable pass if you're looking to explore the full breadth of Hakone’s natural and cultural offerings.
With options for a 2-day or 3-day pass, you can travel freely around Hakone, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective journey from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Apart from unlimited use of various forms of transport, the pass also offers perks like discounts or free entry to around 70 locations.
Hakone Free Pass gives you discounted and free entry to over 70 tourist spots around Hakone
Do note, however, the Hakone Free Pass only covers a return journey on the Odakyu Line local trains from Tokyo to Odawara. Should you prefer to take the Romancecar Limited Express, there'll be a surcharge that you'll have to pay to reserve your seat at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center.
Getting around Hakone
While Hakone’s attractions are a treat to the senses, getting around the region is an adventure in itself. Thanks to the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, ropeways, sightseeing boats, and buses, you can traverse this scenic landscape with ease. And the best part? All of these modes of transportation are covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
Staying Overnight at an Onsen
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu Onsen
While a day trip to Hakone is certainly feasible, an extended stay lets you delve deeper into this region’s charms. And what could be better than wrapping up your day with a stay at a traditional onsen ryokan? Immersing yourself in a hot spring bath, followed by a traditional Kaiseki banquet, is a quintessential part of the Hakone experience that shouldn’t be missed.
An overnight stay in Hakone allows for a more relaxed and in-depth exploration of the onsens and natural attractions. Whether you choose to unwind in the soothing waters of an onsen or simply soak in the serene surroundings, staying overnight in Hakone provides an unforgettable cultural and sensory experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to reach Hakone from Tokyo?
Take the Shinkansen, or bullet train, from Tokyo to Odawara, which takes about 35 minutes. Then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to reach Hakone-Yumoto Station.
What is the Hakone Free Pass and what does it offer?
The Hakone Free Pass offers unlimited use of transportation in Hakone and provides discounts or free entry to around 70 attractions, including the Hakone Open Air Museum and Hakone Shrine. It's a great option for exploring the area.
How can I book a private car charter from Tokyo to Hakone?
You can easily book a private car charter online for a day tour from Tokyo to Hakone, with convenient door-to-door pick-up and drop-off from hotels in the 23 wards of Tokyo.
What is the Hakone Tozan Line and what does it offer?
The Hakone Tozan Line is a scenic train service offering a picturesque journey through mountains, ravines, and lush forests from Hakone Yumoto Station to Gora Station, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts.
What accommodations are available in Hakone for an overnight stay?
In Hakone, for an overnight stay, you can find traditional ryokans, luxury resorts, and western-style hotels in areas like Gora, Yumoto, Miyanoshita, Sengokuhara, and Moto-Hakone. Enjoy a variety of options during your visit.
