15 Best Things to Do in Hakone, Japan: Day Trip Itinerary

I had seen photos of pirate ships sailing across Lake Ashi, cable cars floating over volcanic valleys, and, on clear days, beautiful views of Mount Fuji from Hakone. It looked like a place where nature, history, and adventure all came together.

One moment you are riding a scenic train through the mountains. Next, you are walking around steaming volcanic vents or relaxing by a peaceful lake.

When my husband and I planned our 10-day Japan trip, Hakone was one place we were not sure 100% to add in our itinerary, but we still did. Thanks to my scrolling habit.

After spending time there ourselves, I can understand why so many people take a Hakone day trip from Tokyo. It feels very different from Japan’s busy cities.

There are so many amazing things to do in Hakone that planning your visit can feel a little overwhelming at first.

Should you ride the Hakone Ropeway? Is the Hakone Free Pass worth buying? How do you fit everything into one day? I had the same questions before our trip.

That is exactly why I put together this guide. You’ll find the best things to do in Hakone, how to get there from Tokyo, how to travel around using the famous Hakone Loop, ticket prices, travel tips, and an easy Hakone one-day itinerary that helps you make the most of your time.

One thing my husband and I always do before visiting a new country is learn a few local words and numbers. We both enjoy learning languages, so naturally we learned a few basic Japanese words before our trip too.

You do not need to speak Japanese to visit Hakone, but simple words like “Arigatou” (thank you), “Sumimasen” (excuse me), and “Konnichiwa” (hello) are always appreciated and make small interactions more enjoyable.

If you are planning a day trip to Hakone or thinking about staying overnight, this guide will help you enjoy one of Japan’s most beautiful mountain destinations with confidence.

Hakone at a Glance

If you only have one day, don’t worry. You can still see many of Hakone’s top attractions by following the famous Hakone Loop. This route connects trains, cable cars, ropeways, sightseeing boats, and buses, making it easy to explore without renting a car.

If you have more time, spending one night in a traditional ryokan is a wonderful experience. Many ryokans have natural hot spring baths where you can relax after a full day of sightseeing.

• Location: Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
• Distance from Tokyo: About 80 km (50 miles)
• Travel Time: Around 75 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the train you choose
• Best Known For: Hot springs, Mount Fuji views, Lake Ashi, the Hakone Ropeway, scenic trains, museums, and nature
• Perfect Trip Length: One full day or one night
• Best For: Couples, families, solo travelers, photographers, and nature lovers
• Nearest Major Station: Odawara Station
• Famous Pass: Hakone Free Pass

Can You Visit as a Day Trip? Yes. A Hakone day trip from Tokyo is one of the most popular day trips in Japan.

Planning more stops on your trip? Check out my guide to Things to Do in Tokyo for the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.

15 Best Things to Do in Hakone

1. Ride the Hakone Ropeway

If you ask me to choose just one experience from all the things to do in Hakone, I would pick the Hakone Ropeway. It is fun, scenic, and gives you some of the best views in the area.

The Ropeway connects Sounzan Station, Owakudani, and Togendai Station. As the gondola slowly moves over the mountains, you’ll see forests, valleys, and volcanic landscapes below. On a clear day, you may even spot the beautiful Mount Fuji in the distance.

It was one of my favorite views during our trip.

The ride is smooth and takes about 30 minutes from Sounzan to Togendai, including the stop at Owakudani. Most visitors get off there to explore the volcanic valley before continuing their journey.

One thing to remember is that the Ropeway may stop operating during bad weather or when volcanic gas levels are higher than normal. It is always a good idea to check the latest operating status before you visit.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Hours may change slightly depending on the season and weather.
• Ticket Price: A one-way ticket between Sounzan and Togendai costs around ¥1,500 for adults.

If you have the Hakone Free Pass, the Ropeway ride is already included, so you do not need to buy another ticket.

Plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours if you want to ride the Ropeway and stop at Owakudani to walk around, take photos, and try the famous black eggs.

Sit near the window for the best mountain views. If the sky is clear, keep looking toward the northwest after leaving Owakudani. That is usually the best chance to see Mount Fuji.

Try to ride the Ropeway before late morning if possible. It becomes much busier after 10:30 AM, especially during weekends, holidays, and autumn.

If strong winds or volcanic activity affect operations, staff will guide passengers to replacement buses.

Heading to Kansai next? Read my list of Things to Do in Kyoto to plan your visit.

2. Visit Owakudani and Try the Famous Black Eggs

Owakudani is one of the most unique places in Hakone. It was formed around 3,000 years ago after the last eruption of Mount Hakone. Today, you can walk along viewing paths and see steam rising from the ground. The smell of sulfur is strong, but it is all part of the experience.

The biggest attraction here is the famous black eggs, called kuro tamago. These eggs are boiled in the naturally hot volcanic water, which turns their shells black because of minerals in the water. According to local legend, eating one black egg adds seven years to your life.

I cannot promise that part is true, but they make a fun snack and a great photo.

There are shops selling local souvenirs, snacks, and drinks, and you’ll also find several viewpoints overlooking the valley. If the weather is clear, this is another excellent place to enjoy views of Mount Fuji.

• Opening Hours: Around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit Owakudani. A bag of five black eggs costs around ¥500.

Allow 45 to 60 minutes to walk around, enjoy the views, and try the famous black eggs.

The smell of sulfur can be strong. If you have breathing problems, you may want to keep your visit short. Always check for volcanic activity updates before your trip because walking trails sometimes close for safety.

Don’t miss my guide to Things to Do in Osaka for food, shopping, and must-see attractions.

3. Take a Pirate Ship Cruise on Lake Ashi

A cruise across Lake Ashi is one of the most relaxing things to do in Hakone. The sightseeing boats are designed to look like old pirate ships, making the ride even more memorable.

The cruise connects Togendai, Hakone-machi, and Moto-Hakone. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake, green mountains, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji standing behind the water. It is one of the most photographed scenes in Hakone.

The ride itself is peaceful. Many people spend part of the journey on the outdoor deck to enjoy the fresh mountain air and take photos.

• Opening Hours: Boats usually operate between 9:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
• Ticket Price: A one-way ticket costs around ¥1,200 for adults.

The cruise is included with the Hakone Free Pass. Set aside about one hour, including waiting time and the cruise itself.

Wondering if Osaka’s most famous landmark is worth your time? Read my complete Osaka Castle guide.

4. Visit Hakone Shrine and the Floating Torii Gate

Hidden among tall cedar trees on the shores of Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine is one of the most peaceful places to visit in the area. The shrine was founded more than 1,200 years ago and has long been a place where travelers prayed for safe journeys.

The bright red Floating Torii Gate standing in Lake Ashi has become one of Hakone’s most famous landmarks. It is one of the best photo spots in the region, so do not be surprised if you see a line of people waiting to take pictures.

Even if you are not interested in history, the quiet forest path leading to the shrine makes the visit worthwhile. The fresh air, tall cedar trees, and calm surroundings give this place a very special feeling.

• Opening Hours: The shrine grounds are open all day. The shrine office is generally open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Cost: Visiting the shrine is free.

Plan for 45 minutes to one hour. Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds at the Floating Torii Gate. Wear comfortable shoes because there are several stone steps leading to the shrine.

5. Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum

If you enjoy art, this is one place you should not skip. The Hakone Open-Air Museum is Japan’s first outdoor art museum and has been welcoming visitors since 1969.

Instead of walking through indoor galleries all day, you’ll explore large gardens filled with sculptures, mountains, and open spaces. It is a museum that even people who are not big art fans often enjoy.

Do not miss the Picasso Pavilion, which displays paintings, ceramics, and other works by Pablo Picasso. Another highlight is the Symphonic Sculpture, a colorful glass tower that you can climb for beautiful views of the museum and surrounding mountains.

One of my favorite little surprises is the free hot spring foot bath. After walking around the museum, soaking your feet in warm natural spring water feels incredibly relaxing.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Last admission is usually 4:30 PM.
• Ticket Price: Adults: Around ¥2,000

The Hakone Free Pass also offers a small discount on admission.

Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours here if you want to enjoy both the outdoor sculptures and indoor exhibitions. If you plan to use the foot bath, bring a small towel or purchase one at the museum.

Thinking about Arashiyama? Read my honest guide to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Kyoto before you go.

6. Stroll Through Gora Park

If you need a quiet break between sightseeing, head to Gora Park. This beautiful French-style garden opened in 1914 and is filled with colorful flowers, fountains, greenhouses, and peaceful walking paths.

The park changes with the seasons, so every visit looks a little different. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer is full of bright flowers, autumn adds beautiful red and orange leaves, and winter has a calm, peaceful charm.

One thing that makes Gora Park different from many gardens is that you can join hands-on workshops. Visitors can try glass blowing, pottery, or even make their own pressed flower artwork.

It is a fun activity if you are traveling with children or simply want a unique souvenir.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Ticket Price: Around ¥650

Visit in spring or autumn if you want to see the gardens at their most colorful.

The park is just a short walk from Gora Station, making it an easy stop before or after visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Planning to visit Kyoto? Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha. Another popular day trip is Nara from Kyoto. You may like my Nara Day Trip Guide: 10 Best Things to Do in Nara blog post.

7. Relax at Hakone Yuryo Onsen

After walking around Hakone all day, there is nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring. Hakone Yuryo is one of the most popular onsen in the area and is only a few minutes from Hakone-Yumoto Station by free shuttle bus.

The outdoor baths are surrounded by trees, making it feel like you are relaxing in the middle of nature. There are also private baths that couples and families can reserve if they want a quieter experience.

If this is your first time visiting an onsen, do not worry. The facilities are clean, well organized, and signs are available in English. Just remember that tattoos may not be allowed in the public baths unless they are covered.

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays. 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends and public holidays
• Ticket Price: Public bath admission starts at around ¥1,700.

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours if you want to fully enjoy the experience.

8. Visit the Pola Museum of Art

Even if you are not a big art lover, the Pola Museum of Art is worth visiting. The building blends beautifully into the surrounding forest, with much of it built underground to protect the natural landscape.

Inside, you will find works by famous artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh, along with impressive collections of Japanese art and modern exhibitions.

Outside the museum, peaceful walking trails wind through the forest. They are perfect if you want to enjoy a quiet walk after exploring the galleries.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Ticket Price: Around ¥2,200

Visit on a rainy day if outdoor sightseeing is limited. Do not miss the forest walking trail behind the museum. Many visitors overlook it.

Not sure when to book your flights? Here’s the Best Time to Visit Japan for every season.

9. Explore the Narukawa Art Museum

Narukawa Art Museum is one of Hakone’s hidden gems. It is best known for its beautiful collection of modern Japanese paintings and one of the best panoramic views of Lake Ashi.

Large windows inside the museum frame the lake, the Floating Torii Gate, and Mount Fuji on clear days. Even visitors who are not interested in art often stop here for the incredible scenery.

The museum also has a lovely café where you can enjoy tea while looking out over the lake. It is a peaceful place to slow down for a while.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Ticket Price: Around ¥1,500.

The café has one of the nicest views in Hakone, so it is worth taking a short break there.

10. Step Inside the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum

The Hakone Venetian Glass Museum feels like a small piece of Italy in the middle of Japan. It is famous for its beautiful Venetian glass collection, elegant gardens, and sparkling glass decorations that shine in the sunlight.

Inside, you can admire delicate glass art that dates back hundreds of years. Outside, the gardens are just as beautiful, with glass sculptures, seasonal flowers, and a small bridge crossing a peaceful stream.

Live music performances are often held in the gardens, making the visit feel even more special.

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: Around ¥1,800.

Visit on a sunny day when the glass decorations sparkle the most. The museum café serves Italian-style desserts and drinks if you want a relaxing break before continuing your trip.

Planning a bigger adventure? Start with my complete Japan Travel Guide.

11. Walk Along the Old Tokaido Road

If you want to experience a quieter side of Hakone, take a walk along the Old Tokaido Road. This historic route was once part of the famous Tokaido Highway, which connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period.

For hundreds of years, merchants, samurai, and travelers used this road as they journeyed across Japan.

Today, parts of the old stone path are still preserved. Tall cedar trees line the trail, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels far away from the busy tourist spots. As you walk, it is easy to imagine what travel was like in Japan hundreds of years ago.

The walk is not difficult, but some sections have uneven stone steps. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time.

• Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
• Cost: Free

After your walk, stop by the nearby Amazake Chaya, a traditional teahouse that has been serving travelers for more than 400 years. It is a great place to try a warm cup of amazake, a sweet rice drink.

If you are going to Osaka too, you should not miss Universal Studios Japan.

12. Discover the Historic Hakone Hachiri

If you enjoy history, do not miss Hakone Hachiri. This is the most famous section of the old Tokaido Highway and stretches for about 32 kilometers between Odawara and Mishima.

The route passes through forests, mountains, and small villages. Along the way, you will see old stone pavements, historic milestones, and places where travelers once stopped to rest.

You do not need to walk the entire route. Even a short section gives you a glimpse into Japan’s past and lets you enjoy beautiful natural scenery.

• Opening Hours: Open all day
• Cost: Free

Bring water and wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain. Look for the old cedar avenue, which is one of the most scenic parts of the route.

13. Ride the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway

Many visitors head straight to the Hakone Ropeway, but the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway is another fantastic experience that is often overlooked.

The cable car takes you to the top of Mount Komagatake in about seven minutes. From the summit, you can enjoy wide views of Lake Ashi, the surrounding mountains, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.

At the top, you can also visit Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine, a peaceful shrine that sits high above the clouds. Since fewer people visit this area, it often feels much quieter than other viewpoints in Hakone.

• Opening Hours: Usually 9:00 AM to 4:50 PM
• Ticket Price: Round-trip tickets cost around ¥1,800 for adults.

It can be windy at the top, so carrying a light jacket is a good idea, even in summer.

If you’re visiting the capital, don’t miss my complete Tokyo Travel Guide.

14. Visit Odawara Castle

If you are arriving in Hakone by train, consider spending a few hours at Odawara Castle before heading into the mountains. It is only a short walk from Odawara Station and is one of Japan’s best-preserved castle towns.

The original castle dates back to the 15th century and played an important role in protecting the region. Today, the reconstructed castle tower houses a museum where you can learn about samurai history and enjoy panoramic views from the top floor.

During spring, the castle grounds become one of the best cherry blossom spots near Hakone.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Ticket Price: Around ¥510 for the castle tower

If your schedule allows, visit Odawara Castle in the morning before continuing to Hakone.

The castle park is free to enter, so you can still enjoy the gardens even if you do not visit the museum.

15. Enjoy Forest Bathing in Hakone

One of my favorite things about Hakone is how peaceful it feels. Between the mountains, forests, and quiet walking trails, it is the perfect place to slow down for a while.

Japan has a practice called shinrin-yoku, which means “forest bathing.” It is not about taking a bath. Instead, it means spending time in nature and enjoying the fresh air, the sounds of birds, and the calm surroundings.

Hakone has many beautiful forest trails where you can do exactly that. Whether you are walking near Lake Ashi, exploring the Old Tokaido Road, or hiking around Gora, taking a slow walk through the trees is one of the most relaxing things to do in Hakone.

You do not need any special equipment or hiking experience. Simply put your phone away for a little while, walk slowly, and enjoy the peaceful scenery around you.

• Opening Hours: Most forest trails are open all day
• Cost: Free

How to Get to Hakone from Tokyo?

Getting to Hakone from Tokyo is easier than you might think. There are several ways to travel, and the best one depends on your budget, how much time you have, and whether you plan to buy the Hakone Free Pass.

1. Odakyu Romancecar (The Easiest Option)

If you want the most relaxing journey, take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station. This limited express train goes directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station, so you do not need to change trains along the way.

• Travel Time: About 85 minutes
• Fare: Around ¥2,470 ($15) one way, including the limited express surcharge

Seats are reserved, the windows are large, and the trip is smooth. If you are planning a Hakone day trip, this is one of the easiest ways to start your adventure.

2. JR Tokaido Line + Hakone Tozan Railway (A Budget-Friendly Choice)

If you have a Japan Rail Pass or want to save some money, you can take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station. From there, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway, which takes you to Hakone-Yumoto Station.

• Travel Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
• Fare: Around ¥1,900 ($11), depending on your starting station

The Hakone Tozan Railway is more than just a train ride. It climbs through the mountains, crosses bridges, and passes forests and small villages, making the journey part of the experience.

3. Shinkansen to Odawara (The Fastest Option)

If you are short on time, take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station. From there, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway or a local bus.

• Travel Time: About 35 minutes on the Shinkansen, plus another 15 to 20 minutes to Hakone-Yumoto
• Fare: Around ¥3,700 to ¥4,000 ($22-$25) one way

Although this is the quickest option, it is also the most expensive.

Is the Hakone Free Pass Worth It?

In most cases, yes. If you plan to see several attractions in one day, the Hakone Free Pass can save you both money and time. It gives you unlimited rides on most of Hakone’s public transportation, so you do not have to buy separate tickets throughout the day.

The pass includes the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi, and most Hakone Tozan buses. It also offers discounts at many museums, hot springs, restaurants, and other attractions around Hakone.

You can buy the pass for either 2 days or 3 days. Most visitors choose the 2-day pass because it gives enough time to explore the area without rushing. Even if you are visiting Hakone on a day trip from Tokyo, the pass can still be worth it if you plan to complete the Hakone Loop.

Save time by booking your Hakone Free Pass, attraction tickets, and transportation before your trip.

Hakone Free Pass Prices

• 2-Day Pass from Shinjuku: Around ¥6,100 ($37)
• 3-Day Pass from Shinjuku: Around ¥6,500
• 2-Day Pass from Odawara: Around ¥5,000
• 3-Day Pass from Odawara: Around ¥5,400

Prices may change over time, so it is always a good idea to check the latest fares before your trip.

Getting Around Hakone: Understanding the Hakone Loop

The easiest way to explore Hakone is by following the famous Hakone Loop, also called the Hakone Round Course.

It connects the area’s most popular attractions using different types of transport. Instead of going back and forth, you travel in one big loop and stop wherever you like along the way.

Many visitors start at Hakone-Yumoto Station and travel in a clockwise direction, but you can also do the route in reverse.

Both work well. I recommend starting early in the morning so you have enough time to enjoy the best things to do in Hakone without rushing.

Here is how the Hakone Loop works:

Your journey begins on the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Gora Station. This scenic mountain train slowly climbs through forests, crosses bridges, and passes small villages. During June, you can even see colorful hydrangeas blooming along the tracks.

At Gora Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car. This short ride climbs even higher into the mountains and takes you to Sounzan Station.

From Sounzan Station, board the Hakone Ropeway. This is one of the most exciting parts of the trip. The cable car glides high above the mountains and volcanic landscape, offering incredible views on clear days.

The Ropeway stops at Owakudani, where you can walk around the volcanic valley, see steaming vents, and try the famous black eggs. After exploring, continue on the Ropeway to Togendai Station near Lake Ashi.

From Togendai, hop on the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise. The colorful pirate ships sail across Lake Ashi and stop near Hakone Shrine and Moto-Hakone Port.

If the weather is clear, keep looking toward the lake. This is one of the best places to see Mount Fuji in Hakone.

After visiting Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, or the nearby shops and cafés, take a Hakone Tozan Bus back to Hakone-Yumoto Station to complete the loop.

Where to Eat in Hakone?

After a morning of sightseeing, you’ll probably be ready for a good Japanese meal. Hakone has everything from cozy cafés to traditional Japanese restaurants. You will also find plenty of local dishes that are worth trying during your visit.

Try Hakone’s Local Specialties

One of the most popular local foods is yuba, also known as tofu skin. It has a soft texture and is served fresh, in soups, or over rice.

Another must-try dish is soba noodles. Since Hakone has fresh mountain water, many restaurants make excellent handmade soba. They are simple, filling, and perfect after a busy morning.

If you visit Owakudani, do not miss the famous black eggs (kuro tamago). They are cooked in the volcanic hot springs and have become one of Hakone’s most famous snacks.

For dessert, try Hakone pudding or a creamy soft serve ice cream. Many cafés also sell sweets made with matcha, chestnuts, or seasonal fruit.

Best Budget Restaurants in Hakone

One of the best places to enjoy handmade soba noodles is Hatsuhana Soba Honten. The restaurant has been serving visitors for many years and is known for its fresh ingredients.

• Average Cost: Around ¥1,500 to ¥2,000 per person.

A great choice is Gyoza Center if you want something affordable and filling. Their handmade dumplings are crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

• Average Cost: Around ¥1,000 to ¥1,500 per person.

Bakery & Table Hakone, Located beside Lake Ashi, this café is famous for its fresh bread, sandwiches, coffee, and beautiful lake views. One of the most popular spots is the outdoor foot bath terrace, where you can enjoy your drink while soaking your feet in warm spring water.

La Terrazza Ashinoko, This Italian restaurant overlooks Lake Ashi and serves fresh pizzas, pasta, and seasonal dishes. It is a lovely place for lunch if you want a break from traditional Japanese food.

Cafés Worth Visiting

If you need a short break between attractions, Hakone has plenty of charming cafés.

Many visitors stop at cafés around Moto-Hakone after visiting Hakone Shrine, while others enjoy coffee near Gora Station before continuing their journey. Several museums, including the Narukawa Art Museum and the Pola Museum of Art, also have cafés with beautiful views.

Where to Stay in Hakone?

Although many people visit Hakone on a day trip from Tokyo, spending one night here is a completely different experience. Once the day-trippers leave, the town becomes much quieter, and you can enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere at a slower pace.

Many visitors choose to stay in a traditional ryokan, where dinner, breakfast, and access to natural hot springs are often included. It is one of the best ways to experience Japanese hospitality.

Find the latest hotel deals in Hakone before prices increase during cherry blossom and autumn seasons.

Best Area for First-Time Visitors: Hakone-Yumoto

Hakone-Yumoto is the main gateway to Hakone and one of the most convenient places to stay. It has plenty of hotels, ryokans, restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops, and it is well connected by train and bus.

This area is a great choice if you are arriving late in the evening or leaving early the next morning.

Best Area for Nature Lovers: Lake Ashi

If waking up to mountain views sounds like your kind of trip, look for a hotel near Lake Ashi. Many hotels and ryokans here offer peaceful surroundings, beautiful lake views, and easy access to Hakone Shrine and the sightseeing cruise.

Compare hotels, traditional ryokans, and guesthouses in Hakone to find the best place for your stay.

Best Area for Hot Springs: Gora

Gora is one of the most popular places to stay in Hakone because of its many hot spring resorts. It is also close to attractions like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Gora Park, and the Hakone Ropeway.

Best Tours for a Hakone Day Trip

If you prefer not to plan train schedules, buy tickets, or figure out the Hakone Loop yourself, joining a guided tour is a great option. Many tours include transportation from Tokyo, making your day much easier.

Here are some of the best tour options to consider.

If you only have one free day in Japan, this is one of the most popular tours. It combines Hakone with Mount Fuji, giving you the chance to visit two famous destinations in a single trip.

If you prefer a slower pace, a private tour is worth considering. Your guide can adjust the itinerary based on your interests, whether you enjoy nature, photography, museums, or hot springs.

Hakone Travel Tips

A little planning can make your trip much smoother. Here are some simple tips that will help you enjoy Hakone and avoid common mistakes.

• Hakone is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo, so attractions become much busier after 10:00 AM. Catch an early train if you can. You’ll have more time to explore and a better chance of taking photos without large crowds.
• Many people visit Hakone hoping to see Mount Fuji. On cloudy or rainy days, the mountain may not be visible at all. If seeing Mount Fuji is one of your main goals, check the weather forecast before your trip. Winter mornings usually offer the clearest views.
• Even though Hakone has excellent public transportation, you will still do quite a bit of walking. Attractions like Hakone Shrine, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Gora Park, and the Old Tokaido Road all involve walking on paths, stairs, or uneven ground. Comfortable shoes will make a big difference by the end of the day.
• Hakone sits higher than Tokyo, so it is often cooler, especially in the morning and evening. Even during spring and autumn, carrying a light jacket is a good idea.
• Most hotels, museums, and larger restaurants accept credit cards, but some small cafés, souvenir shops, and local food stalls may still prefer cash.
• If you are traveling around Japan, consider using an IC card such as Suica or PASMO. These cards make it easy to pay for trains, buses, and other public transportation without buying a new ticket each time.
• The Hakone Ropeway sometimes closes because of strong winds or increased volcanic activity around Owakudani. Before leaving your hotel or Tokyo, check the latest operating updates so you can adjust your plans if needed.

One-Day Hakone Itinerary

If you only have one day in Hakone, don’t worry. You can still visit many of the area’s most famous attractions without feeling rushed. This Hakone one-day itinerary follows the Hakone Loop, making it an easy route for first-time visitors.

8:00 AM – Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station

Try to catch an early train from Tokyo so you can arrive in Hakone around 8:00 AM. Starting early gives you a better chance of enjoying the popular attractions before they become crowded.

If you have not already bought a Hakone Free Pass, this is a good time to get one.

8:30 AM – Ride the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora

Begin your adventure on the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway. Sit by the window and enjoy the mountain views as the train climbs through forests and small villages.

9:20 AM – Take the Cable Car and Hakone Ropeway

At Gora Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car and then continue on the Hakone Ropeway.

The views become even more impressive as you glide above the mountains.

10:00 AM – Explore Owakudani

Get off at Owakudani and spend some time exploring the volcanic valley. Walk to the viewpoints, enjoy the scenery, and do not leave without trying the famous black eggs.

If the weather is clear, this is one of your best chances to see Mount Fuji.

11:15 AM – Cruise Across Lake Ashi

Continue on the Ropeway to Togendai and board one of the famous pirate ships for a relaxing cruise across Lake Ashi.

Keep your camera ready because the lake offers some of the most beautiful views in Hakone.

12:15 PM – Visit Hakone Shrine

After getting off the boat, take a short walk to Hakone Shrine. Spend some time exploring the peaceful grounds and taking photos of the Floating Torii Gate.

1:15 PM – Lunch

Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants near Moto-Hakone. This is a great chance to try regional dishes such as soba noodles, curry rice, or grilled fish.

2:30 PM – Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum

Take a bus or train to the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Walk through the sculpture garden, visit the Picasso Pavilion, climb the Symphonic Sculpture, and relax at the hot spring foot bath before leaving.

5:00 PM – Return to Tokyo

Head back to Hakone-Yumoto Station and catch your train to Tokyo.

If you have extra time before your train, stop at one of the local cafés or pick up some souvenirs to take home.

This itinerary covers many of the best things to do in Hakone while following the Hakone Loop, so you spend more time sightseeing and less time traveling between attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hakone

Is Hakone Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, yes.

Out of all the places we visited during our 10-day Japan trip, Hakone was one of the most memorable. It was a nice change from the busy streets of Tokyo and Osaka. The slower pace, fresh mountain air, and beautiful scenery made it feel like we had stepped into a completely different side of Japan.

What I loved most about Hakone was how much variety it offers in one place. In a single day, you can ride a mountain train, float above a volcanic valley in a cable car, sail across a peaceful lake on a pirate ship, visit a centuries-old shrine, admire world-class art, and relax in a natural hot spring. Very few places offer so many different experiences so close together.

I also think Hakone is one of the easiest day trips from Tokyo. The transportation is well organized, the Hakone Loop is simple to follow, and the Hakone Free Pass makes getting around much easier for first-time visitors.

If you enjoy nature, scenic train rides, mountain views, hot springs, or photography, I think you’ll have a wonderful time here. Families, couples, solo travelers, and even people visiting Japan for the first time can all enjoy what Hakone has to offer.

If I ever return to Japan, Hakone is one place I would happily visit again. Next time, I would stay in a traditional ryokan for a night and spend even more time exploring the quieter corners of this beautiful mountain town.

I hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect Hakone trip. From riding the Hakone Ropeway and tasting the famous black eggs in Owakudani to cruising across Lake Ashi and relaxing in a traditional onsen, there are so many incredible things to do in Hakone.

Have you visited Hakone already, or are you planning your first trip? Which attraction are you most excited to see?

Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your travel plans and answer any questions you have!

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