Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
Ascend Mt. Komagatake via ropeway for iconic views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and serene shrines. A key part of the Hakone experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji views
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Mt. Komagatake via ropeway for iconic views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and serene shrines. A key part of the Hakone experience.
"On a clear day, the views of Mt. Fuji from the Komagatake Ropeway are absolutely breathtaking!"
🎯 Check Fuji Visibility
Cloud cover can obscure Mt. Fuji. Check forecasts or local webcams before you go!
🎟️ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers ropeway, buses, boats & more. Saves money & hassle!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mt. Fuji Views
Summit of Mt. Komagatake
On a clear day, witness breathtaking vistas of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Suruga Bay from the summit.
Mototsumiya Shrine
Summit of Mt. Komagatake
Discover this striking red shrine nestled amidst the clouds, offering a unique spiritual and photographic experience.
Lake Ashi Scenery
From the ropeway and summit
Enjoy stunning aerial views of the picturesque Lake Ashi as you ascend and descend the mountain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fuji Views
Hakone Free Pass is Your Friend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Fuji Visibility
Cloud cover can obscure Mt. Fuji. Check forecasts or local webcams before you go!
🎟️ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers ropeway, buses, boats & more. Saves money & hassle!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Summit can be windy and cooler than the base. Be prepared for changing weather.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might want to explore around the summit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Fuji Visibility
Cloud cover can obscure Mt. Fuji. Check forecasts or local webcams before you go!
🎟️ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers ropeway, buses, boats & more. Saves money & hassle!
🧥 Dress in Layers
Summit can be windy and cooler than the base. Be prepared for changing weather.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might want to explore around the summit.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and the iconic Mt. Fuji.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views from the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, especially the potential glimpses of Mt. Fuji and the scenic Lake Ashi. The convenience of the Hakone Free Pass and the unique experience of the Mototsumiya Shrine at the summit are frequently praised. However, the elusive nature of Mt. Fuji due to weather is a common point of disappointment.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The ropeway is accessible via the Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station or Odawara Station. It's also part of the popular Hakone Loop, which can be navigated using various transport methods covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
Yes, the Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended as it covers the Komagatake Ropeway and other essential transportation like buses, trains, and boats in the Hakone area, making your travel much more convenient and cost-effective.
Yes, driving is an option, and some visitors find it allows for earlier starts to avoid crowds. Parking is available near the ropeway stations.
The Hakone Loop is designed for this! It typically includes the ropeway, a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, and scenic bus rides, allowing you to see multiple sights in one day.
From Tokyo, you can take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto Station, which takes about 85 minutes. From there, you'll need to transfer to local transport to reach the ropeway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost is typically covered by the Hakone Free Pass. If purchased separately, expect a round-trip fare. Check the official Hakone Ropeway website for current pricing.
While not always mandatory, purchasing the Hakone Free Pass in advance can save time. For the ropeway itself, tickets can usually be bought on-site or are included with the pass.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Hakone Ropeway website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
The Hakone Free Pass offers significant savings and is the most common way to access discounted travel for the ropeway and other attractions.
The Japan Rail Pass generally does not cover the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway or most local transport within Hakone. The Hakone Free Pass is a separate purchase.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can visit the Mototsumiya Shrine, enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and surrounding areas, and explore the natural landscape.
The ropeway ride is generally smooth, but it does involve heights. Some visitors have noted it can be a bit nerve-wracking if you have a fear of heights.
Early mornings offer the best chance for clear views of Mt. Fuji and fewer crowds. Late afternoons can also be beautiful, but cloud cover increases.
Yes, on clear days, Mt. Fuji is visible from the ropeway and the summit. However, it's notoriously difficult to see during summer due to haze and clouds.
There are typically restrooms and sometimes small shops or cafes at the summit station.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the ropeway cabins themselves, offering aerial views, and from the summit, especially with Mt. Fuji in the background. The Mototsumiya Shrine also provides unique shots.
Yes, it can be challenging due to weather conditions. Patience and visiting during optimal times (early morning, clear days) are key.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful if you're trying to zoom in on Mt. Fuji.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. Be respectful of any signage or local customs, especially near shrines.
Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, while spring brings cherry blossoms. Clear winter days provide the best chances for unobstructed Mt. Fuji views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining the ropeway with the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, which kids often find very entertaining. While Mt. Fuji views can be hit or miss, the overall experience of different modes of transport and the mountain scenery is usually a hit. Pack snacks, as options at the summit might be limited.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid larger groups. The summit provides opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural beauty at your own pace. Many solo travelers also enjoy the ryokan experience for a taste of traditional Japanese hospitality.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for variable weather conditions, as they significantly impact the visibility of Mt. Fuji. Visiting during autumn can yield beautiful foliage shots, while winter offers the best chance for clear Fuji views. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for landscapes and telephoto lenses for distant peaks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hakone Loop: A Traveler's Guide
Visitors often start the loop from Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara. The ropeway portion offers stunning aerial views as it ascends Mt. Komagatake. The pirate ship cruise provides a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine. The entire loop can be completed in a day, but many recommend taking your time to fully enjoy the sights and perhaps stop at museums or hot springs along the way.
Key takeaway: The Hakone Loop is an efficient and enjoyable way to experience Hakone's natural beauty and cultural sites. The Hakone Free Pass is almost universally recommended for its value and convenience, simplifying the logistics of this multi-transport adventure.
Chasing Mt. Fuji: Tips for Clear Views
Travelers consistently advise visiting in the early morning for the best chance of clear skies. Autumn and winter are generally considered the best seasons for unobstructed views due to drier air and less cloud cover. Even on a cloudy day, the journey itself and the views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains can be breathtaking.
Pro-tip: Don't be discouraged if you don't see Mt. Fuji. The experience of riding the ropeway and exploring the summit, including the serene Mototsumiya Shrine, is rewarding in itself. Consider checking local weather forecasts or webcams before your trip to manage expectations.
The Ryokan Experience in Hakone
Several ryokans in Hakone are praised for their private onsen (hot spring baths), providing a relaxing and luxurious experience. Some accommodations even offer car services from nearby stations, adding to the convenience. The ambiance of a ryokan, combined with the natural beauty of Hakone, creates a truly memorable stay.
Recommendation: If your budget allows, consider booking at least one night in a ryokan in Hakone. It's a chance to experience traditional Japanese hospitality and unwind in a serene setting, often with stunning views.
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