Hakone Day Trip: Guide, Itinerary and Tips for Foreigner

Just a short trip from Tokyo, Hakone day trip is one of the most popular destinations for travelers looking for a relaxing escape from the city. Famous for its hot springs, scenic mountain views, and easy access from Tokyo, Hakone is perfect for a Hakone day trip or a short getaway. Many visitors come here to experience the famous Hakone Loop, where you can ride multiple unique transport systems while enjoying spectacular landscapes and views of Mount Fuji.

In this Hakone day trip guide, you’ll find a simple Hakone itinerary, the best things to do in Hakone, and useful travel tips for foreigners visiting Japan. From exploring the volcanic valley of Owakudani to cruising across Lake Ashi and visiting the famous torii gate of Hakone Shrine, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip and make the most of your time in Hakone.

Where is Hakone?

Hakone is a scenic mountain town located in Kanagawa Prefecture, about 80–100 km southwest of Tokyo. Nestled within the beautiful Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is surrounded by lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and peaceful lakes. Thanks to its convenient location and excellent transportation connections, it has become one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Tokyo, attracting both international visitors and local travelers looking for a quick escape from the city.

Best known for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji, especially on clear days when the iconic peak rises beautifully above the surrounding mountains. The area is also home to the scenic Lake Ashi, where visitors can enjoy relaxing boat cruises while admiring the famous floating torii gate of Hakone Shrine. In addition to its natural beauty, Hakone is famous for its traditional hot springs (onsen), with many visitors staying in local ryokan to experience authentic Japanese hospitality and relaxation.

Because of its unique mix of nature, culture, and easy access from Tokyo, Hakone has become one of the best places in Japan to experience mountains, lakes, hot springs, and views of Mount Fuji all in one trip. Whether you are visiting for a single day or planning a relaxing overnight stay, Hakone offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and tranquility.

How to Get to Hakone from Tokyo

Take a JR train from Shinjuku to Odawara
Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
It is highly recommended to buy the Hakone Free Pass, which covers most transportation and some attractions like the pirate ship cruise and ropeway.

What is Hakone Free Pass?

Japan is known for the convenience travel experience from it’s travel pass. Same applied with the Hakone Free Pass, a popular sightseeing pass that allows unlimited travel on most transportation in Hakone for 2 or 3 consecutive days. It covers major transport used in the famous Hakone Loop, including the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Ropeway, local buses, cable cars, and the sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi.

The pass also offers discounts for selected attractions, museums, and restaurants, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers who want to explore multiple attractions in Hakone without buying separate tickets for each ride.

What the Hakone Free Pass Covers

Unlimited access to major transportation in the Hakone area, including:

Hakone Tozan Line
Cable Car
Ropeway
Sightseeing Cruise (Pirate Ship)
Local buses (Odakyu, Tokai, and KANKO)
Round-trip travel from Shinjuku via the Odakyu Line

⚠️ Plus discount price for some major attractions in Hakone like Hakone Open Air Museum

Hakone Free Pass Pricing

From Shinjuku (Odakyu Line):
7,100 yen (2 days), 7,500 yen (3 days)
From Odawara (within the free area):
6,000 yen (2 days), 6,400 yen (3 days)
Optional upgrade:
Add 1,200 yen for a one-way ride on the Limited Express Romancecar
Child passes (ages 6–11):
Range from 1,500–1,850 yen

Where to Buy Hakone Free Pass

Online (Recommended for convenience):
- Klook: Offers 2-day or 3-day digital passes (e-tickets) that can be scanned directly from your phone.
  - Get 5% off using code KLOOKXNESSA
- Hakone Official Website: EMot Online Tickets is the Official digital option for both Hakone-area only or passes with a round-trip from Tokyo.
Ticket Booth:
- Odakyu Sightseeing Service Centers: Located at Shinjuku Station (West Exit) and Odawara Station.
- Odakyu Line Station Ticket Machines: Available at any Odakyu Line station between Shinjuku and Odawara.
- Hakone Area: Ticket offices at Hakone-Yumoto Station and other major stations.

Top Things to Do in Hakone

1. Hakone Open-Air Museum

As the name suggests, this is an outdoor art museum. There are plenty of sculptures spread throughout the area, as well as a Picasso Pavilion.

If you love art or finding great photo spots, this is definitely a place you shouldn’t miss.

2. Owakudani Valley

This is an active volcanic valley where you can see sulfur gas coming out from the ground. To be honest, it smells like farts lol.

Don’t forget to try the famous black sulfur eggs (kuro tamago). Legend says that each egg can extend your life by 7 years.

I (Nessa) only ate half… so sadly I probably only gained an extra 3.5 years.

3. Hakone Ropeway

Hakone Ropeway offers beautiful scenic views of Mount Fuji (if the weather is clear). The ropeway also takes you to the next destination along the Hakone route. However, the cabins are quite large and can fit up to 18 people, so it didn’t feel very intimate for us since we were sharing the car with many others.

4. Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

Located on Lake Ashi, you can board the cruise after finishing the ropeway ride.

The cruise is designed like a pirate ship, which makes the experience quite fun and unique. During the ride, you may also see the famous torii gate of Hakone Shrine and, on clear days, Mount Fuji in the distance.

5. Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine is famous for its torii gate located near Lake Ashi. The area feels very peaceful and aesthetic, and you can even spot the torii gate from the pirate ship cruise.

Best Time to Visit Hakone

❄️ Winter offers the clearest views of Mount Fuji, and you can also see the mountain covered with its beautiful snow cap.

🍁 Autumn foliage season and cherry blossom season are also incredibly beautiful times to visit Hakone.

⛔️ Try to avoid rainy or foggy days, as the visibility can be very low and you might not be able to see Mount Fuji.

Where to Stay in Hakone

Hotel Indigo HAKONE GORA by IHG
A stylish boutique hotel located in the Gora area of Hakone, Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora combines modern design with traditional Japanese onsen culture. Many rooms feature private hot spring baths, and guests can enjoy relaxing facilities such as a spa, fitness center, and riverside restaurant. The hotel offers a peaceful stay surrounded by mountains and nature while still being close to popular Hakone attractions.
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Luxury onsen resort known for its private open-air hot spring baths in every guest room with beautiful mountain views. The resort blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comfort and features large public onsen baths, including an infinity-style bath overlooking the valley. Guests can also enjoy seasonal Japanese cuisine and easy access to nearby attractions in Hakone.
Hakone Yutowa
A modern hot spring hotel located just a 5-minute walk from Gora Station, making it a convenient base for exploring Hakone. The hotel offers comfortable Japanese-modern rooms, public hot springs, private baths, and relaxing communal spaces such as a library lounge and foot bath area. Its all-inclusive style and cozy atmosphere make it popular for travelers looking for a relaxing and social stay in Hakone.

Hakone Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Start early to avoid crowds.
Check the Mount Fuji visibility forecast before visiting so you know your chances of seeing the mountain.
Bring a light jacket, as the weather in Hakone can be cooler.
Use luggage storage services if needed. You can find luggage storage locations around Japan using the Bounce app.
Get 10% off with the code: NESSAWITHBOUNCE.
If you prefer to pre-purchase your tickets, you can book them through Klook and get 5% off with the code: KLOOKXNESSA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is one day enough for Hakone?

Yes, one day is enough for the Hakone Round Course, but it will be a full day.

2. Can you see Mount Fuji from Hakone?

Yes, but only on clear days. Visibility depends heavily on weather conditions.

3. Is Hakone Free Pass worth it?

It is worth it if you plan to complete the Hakone Loop and use multiple transport types.

4. How long is the train from Tokyo to Hakone?

Around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your starting station.

5. Is Hakone good in winter?

Yes! Winter offers the clearest views of Mount Fuji, and you’ll also see its beautiful snow-capped peak.

6. Do I need to book Romancecar in advance?

It’s recommended during peak seasons and weekends.

7. Is Hakone suitable for families?

Yes, especially the pirate ship cruise and open-air museum.

Check out our China Hakone Day Trip vlog here

Explore More Hidden Gems in Japan

If you’re planning a longer trip in Japan, check out our other Japan travel blogs featuring destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka — each offering its own unique mix of culture, history, food, and unforgettable experiences.

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