A mountain railway offering scenic views, especially during the hydrangea season and autumn foliage.

The Hakone Tozan Railway is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Hakone, Japan. This unique mountain railway offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including lush greenery, beautiful mountains, and serene rivers. /n The railway is also known for its steep inclines and switchbacks, making it a thrilling ride for adventure seekers. Whether you're a nature lover or a thrill-seeker, the Hakone Tozan Railway is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

A scenic mountain railway offering stunning views of the Hakone region.

Gora is a district in Hakone known for its hot springs, parks, and the Hakone Gora Park, a Western-style park with a beautiful rose garden and tropical botanical garden.

Gora is a scenic area located in the mountainous region of Hakone, Japan. It's a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning views, hot springs, and beautiful gardens. The area is home to a number of attractions, including the Hakone Gora Park, a Western-style park that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features a variety of outdoor sculptures and artworks. /n In addition to its natural beauty, Gora also offers a variety of dining and shopping options. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at one of the many local restaurants, or shop for souvenirs at the local shops. The area is also home to a number of traditional ryokan, or Japanese inns, where visitors can experience traditional Japanese hospitality and enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot spring bath.

Gora is a scenic mountainous area in Hakone, known for its hot springs and beautiful gardens.

Owakudani Valley is a volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs in Hakone. It is famous for its scenic views, hiking trails, and Kuro-tamago - a local specialty of eggs hard-boiled in the hot springs.

Owakudani Valley is a popular tourist attraction in Hakone, Japan. This volcanic valley is known for its hot springs and the unique black eggs, which are boiled in the sulphuric waters. The eggs are a local delicacy and are said to add seven years to your life if you eat one. /n The valley offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Mount Fuji on clear days. The area is also home to several hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the natural beauty, Owakudani Valley also offers a glimpse into the region's volcanic activity, with steam vents and sulphur deposits visible throughout the area. Whether you're interested in geology, local cuisine, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery, Owakudani Valley is a must-visit when in Hakone.

A volcanic valley known for its hot springs and black eggs.

Hakone Yumoto is the gateway to the Hakone region and is famous for its hot springs. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing bath in the many ryokans and public bath houses in the area.

Hakone Yumoto is a popular destination in Hakone, Japan, known for its hot springs. The area is home to a number of traditional Japanese onsen, or hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the relaxing and therapeutic benefits they offer. /n In addition to the hot springs, Hakone Yumoto also offers a variety of other attractions. The area is home to a number of traditional ryokan, or Japanese inns, where visitors can experience traditional Japanese hospitality. There are also a number of restaurants and shops in the area, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. The area is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Hakone Yumoto is famous for its hot springs, offering a traditional Japanese onsen experience.

Experience the serene beauty of Hakone, Japan, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Famous for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji, Hakone offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the Hakone Shrine hidden in the forest, cruise on the pristine Lake Ashi, or take a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway. Don't miss the Open Air Museum, showcasing impressive sculptures set against stunning mountainous backdrops. Enjoy traditional Kaiseki Ryori (multi-course meal) and unwind in one of the many Onsens (hot springs) for the ultimate Japanese experience. Hakone is a perfect blend of culture, art, and nature.

Hakone Tozan Railway

Gora

Owakudani Valley

Hot Springs in Hakone Yumoto

Start your day with a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, Japan's oldest mountain railway. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you make your way to Gora.

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in Gora. Try the local delicacies such as Hakone's famous tofu or the region's fresh seafood.

After lunch, take a cable car ride up to the Owakudani Valley. Here, you can take a short hike to see the volcanic activity up close and enjoy the panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Don't forget to try the famous black eggs, boiled in the hot springs.

Have dinner in a local restaurant in Hakone Yumoto. Enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes, from sushi to tempura, in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.

End your day with a relaxing soak in one of the many Hot Springs in Hakone Yumoto. The perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Scenic Railway Ride, Gourmet Lunch, Volcanic Adventure, Traditional Dinner, and Hot Spring Relaxation

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This is the only mountain railway in Japan. It allows you to travel from Hakone-Yumoto Station (at the base of the mountain) to Gora Station (near the top). The train is known for its switchbacks, where the driver and the conductor change shifts and the train switches to reverse direction.

From Gora Station, you can take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan Station. The cable car travels up the steep slope of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

From Sounzan Station, you can take the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station. The ropeway offers stunning views of Lake Ashi, the Owakudani volcanic valley, and on clear days, Mount Fuji.

There are numerous bus lines that operate in Hakone, connecting various tourist attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Shrine, and many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).

From Togendai, you can take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. The boats are designed like pirate ships, adding a fun element to the journey. The cruise offers beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings.

Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Hakone, especially if you plan to visit areas that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Note that international visitors will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Japan.

Taxis are readily available in Hakone and can be a convenient way to reach your destination. However, they can be expensive for longer distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber are not widely available in Hakone. However, local taxi companies may offer similar services through their own apps.

Many of Hakone's attractions are located in scenic areas that are enjoyable to explore on foot. For example, the Old Tokaido Road is a historic highway that is now a popular hiking trail.

Renting a bicycle can be a fun and active way to explore Hakone. There are several rental shops in the area, and some ryokans may also offer bicycle rentals to their guests.

Yuba is a by-product of tofu and is very popular in Hakone. It's a delicacy often served in traditional multi-course meals.

Yuba

Black Eggs, or Kuro-tamago, are eggs hard-boiled in the hot springs of Hakone. Eating one is said to add seven years to your life.

Black Eggs

Hakone Beer is a local craft beer brewed in the region. It's a must-try for beer enthusiasts visiting Hakone.

Hakone Beer

Soba, or buckwheat noodles, are a staple in Hakone. They are often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup.

Soba Noodles

Unagi, or freshwater eel, is a popular dish in Hakone. It's usually grilled and served over rice.

Unagi

Tempura is a dish of battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Tempura

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine. There are several breweries in the Hakone region where you can try different varieties.

Sake

Miso Soup is a traditional Japanese soup consisting of a stock called dashi, miso paste, and various other ingredients. It's a staple in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Miso Soup

Matcha Tea is a type of powdered green tea that is often served in traditional tea ceremonies in Hakone.

Matcha Tea

Yakitori is a popular street food in Hakone. It consists of skewered and grilled chicken, often served with a soy-based sauce.

Yakitori

Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle often served hot in a mildly flavored broth. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Udon

Amazake is a traditional sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's often enjoyed during the New Year's holidays in Hakone.

Amazake

New Year's Day

Day off for New Year's Day

Coming of Age Day

National Foundation Day

Emperor's Birthday

Spring Equinox

Shōwa Day

Constitution Memorial Day

Greenery Day

Children's Day

Sea Day

Mountain Day

Respect for the Aged Day

Autumn Equinox

Sports Day

Culture Day

Labor Thanksgiving Day

National Foundation Day observed

Children's Day observed

Day off for Mountain Day

Autumn Equinox observed

Culture Day observed

A reconstructed castle with a museum inside.

Odawara Castle

A small offshore island, home to some of the closest sandy beaches to Tokyo and Yokohama and offers a variety of attractions.

Enoshima Island

A city known for its significant Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Kamakura

Japan's highest mountain and the focal point of the sprawling Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Mount Fuji

Japan's bustling capital, mixes the ultramodern and the traditional.

Tokyo

Japan's second largest city with a rich history and many attractions.

Yokohama

A city at the entrance to Nikko National Park, most famous for Toshogu, Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine.

Nikko

Fukuoka

Hiroshima

Kanazawa

Kyoto

Morioka

Okinawa

Osaka

Sapporo

Hakone is located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo.

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

Japanese is the official language. English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic phrases.

Hakone is known for its hot springs, or 'onsen'. Remember, it's customary to bathe naked and wash thoroughly before entering the hot springs.

The weather in Hakone is relatively mild. Summers (June to August) can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while winters (December to February) can drop to 32°F (0°C).

Public transportation is efficient and reliable. The Hakone Tozan Train and Hakone Tozan Bus are popular options for getting around.

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be seen as rude.

Hakone is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, so it's a great location for hiking and outdoor activities.

The Hakone Free Pass is a cost-effective way to travel around Hakone. It provides unlimited use of Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cablecars and ropeways in the Hakone area.

Hakone is famous for its traditional inns, or 'ryokan'. Staying in a ryokan can provide a unique cultural experience.

Most ryokan provide meals as part of the accommodation package. These meals often feature local and seasonal ingredients.

It's customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments in Japan.

Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Hakone is in the Japan Standard Time zone, which is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9).

Japan has a low crime rate and Hakone is generally a safe place to visit. However, it's always important to take standard travel precautions.

The emergency phone number in Japan is 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance.

Japan has a national health insurance system, but it does not cover short-term visitors. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health.

Hakone is known for its traditional crafts, such as Yosegi Zaiku (marquetry) and Hakone Glass.

The drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.

Japan is a predominantly cash-based society, so it's a good idea to have cash on hand for small purchases, transportation fares, and at locations where cards may not be accepted.

January is the coldest month in Hakone, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit the hot springs and enjoy the winter landscapes.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

April is a popular time to visit due to the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The weather is mild, but it can be a bit rainy.

May brings warm and comfortable weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The lush greenery and blooming flowers make for beautiful scenery.

June is the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for wet weather. Despite the rain, the temperatures are warm and the scenery is lush.

July is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers. It's a good time to visit the indoor attractions or enjoy a dip in the hot springs.

August is the hottest month in Hakone, with high humidity. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for the heat.

September sees the end of summer and the start of autumn. The weather is still warm, but the humidity decreases, making it more comfortable.

October brings cooler temperatures and the beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the fall colors.

November is quite cool, with the autumn foliage at its peak. It's a great time to visit the outdoor hot springs and enjoy the fall scenery.

December is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping and a chance of snow. It's a great time to enjoy the winter scenery and the indoor attractions.

Hakone, Japan is known for its diverse weather patterns, which can greatly influence your travel experience. Here are some weather-related tips to help you plan your trip.

Hakone experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. The summer months, from June to August, can reach temperatures of around 85°F (29°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. However, sudden rain showers are common during this period, so don't forget to bring a raincoat or umbrella.

The winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild with temperatures usually hovering around 41°F (5°C). However, Hakone is located in a mountainous region, so it can get quite chilly, especially at night. Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Snowfall is not uncommon during these months, so be prepared for potential disruptions to travel plans.

The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are considered the best times to visit Hakone. The temperatures during these seasons are quite comfortable, usually ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). These periods also coincide with the beautiful cherry blossom bloom and the vibrant autumn foliage, respectively.

Regardless of when you visit, Hakone's mountainous terrain can lead to sudden changes in weather. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast regularly during your stay and plan your activities accordingly. Also, remember to pack layers so you can adjust to any unexpected changes in temperature.

Lastly, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, which can be particularly enjoyable during the colder months. So, don't forget to pack a swimsuit, regardless of the season. Enjoy your trip!

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1-Day Hakone Adventure & Relaxation Itinerary for Local Couples

About Hakone, Japan