Hakone Tozan Railway
Ride Japan's first mountain railway, a historic engineering marvel winding through lush landscapes with views of Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views
Hakone Tozan Railway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride Japan's first mountain railway, a historic engineering marvel winding through lush landscapes with views of Mt. Fuji.
"This might have been my favorite thing I did in Japan."
🎒 Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for exploring!
⏰ Start Your Day Early
Beat the crowds by arriving at sunrise for a more peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Mountain Railway Ride
Hakone Tozan Railway Line
Experience a historic train journey winding through lush mountains with steep switchbacks and stunning views.
Views of Mount Fuji
Various points along the route
Catch breathtaking glimpses of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, especially on clear days.
Hydrangea Season Spectacle
Hayakawa Bridge (Tonosawa to Ohiradai)
Witness the beautiful hydrangeas bloom along the tracks, particularly stunning near Hayakawa Bridge.
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Traditional Ryokan Experience
Various locations in Hakone
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a stay at a traditional ryokan, often featuring onsen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hakone Free Pass is Your Best Friend
Beat the Crowds by Starting Early
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for exploring!
⏰ Start Your Day Early
Beat the crowds by arriving at sunrise for a more peaceful experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The train ride offers incredible photo opportunities, especially switchbacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for exploring!
⏰ Start Your Day Early
Beat the crowds by arriving at sunrise for a more peaceful experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfy shoes are a must.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The train ride offers incredible photo opportunities, especially switchbacks.
♨️ Book Ryokan with Onsen
For a true Hakone experience, stay at a ryokan with hot springs. +1
🍜 Try Local Delicacies
Don't miss out on Hakone's unique foods, like amazake or sukiyaki. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Hakone Tozan Railway for its unique engineering and scenic beauty, calling it a highlight of their Japan trips. The opportunity to experience traditional ryokans and onsen is also a major draw. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, and recommend starting early or visiting during off-peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo directly to Hakone-Yumoto. This journey takes about 85 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) to Odawara Station and then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway. +1
Yes, Hakone is very well-connected by public transport. The Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended as it covers most of the essential transportation methods within Hakone, including buses, trains, cable cars, and boats.
Absolutely! Hakone is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, easily reachable within 1.5 to 2 hours. However, many visitors recommend staying overnight to fully experience the onsen and attractions. +2
The Hakone Loop is a popular sightseeing route that utilizes various modes of transport to circle the Hakone region. It typically includes the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Cable Car, Hakone Ropeway, and a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi.
While the Hakone Loop has many components, it's generally well-signposted. Having a map and understanding the sequence of transport is helpful. The Hakone Free Pass simplifies the process by covering all the necessary tickets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Hakone Free Pass offers unlimited travel on most transportation within Hakone for 2 or 3 days. You can purchase it online, at Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center in Shinjuku, or at Odawara Station.
The price varies depending on the duration (2 or 3 days) and the departure station. As of recent information, a 2-day pass from Shinjuku is around ¥6,100. It's best to check the official Odakyu website for current pricing.
While the Hakone Free Pass covers transportation, many individual attractions like museums and gardens have separate entrance fees. It's advisable to check the admission costs for any specific sites you plan to visit.
Yes, you can purchase individual tickets for the Hakone Tozan Railway, but it will be significantly more expensive than using the Hakone Free Pass, especially if you plan to use other modes of transport.
The Hakone Tozan Railway generally operates from early morning until late evening. Specific timings can vary by season and section, so it's recommended to check the official timetable for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key stops include Hakone-Yumoto for its shops and onsen, Gora for access to art museums and the cable car, and the scenic route itself with its switchbacks and bridges. Don't miss the views of Mount Fuji and the chance to see hydrangeas in season.
Ride the entire length from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora to experience the full engineering marvel of the mountain railway. Consider riding it during hydrangea season or autumn for spectacular natural scenery.
Yes, the railway offers numerous stunning photo opportunities, especially as it navigates steep inclines and sharp curves. The Hayakawa Bridge area is particularly famous for train photography.
You'll travel through lush forests, past mountainsides, and over impressive bridges. On clear days, you'll be treated to iconic views of Mount Fuji.
The older sections of the railway might present challenges. While efforts are made for accessibility, it's advisable to contact the railway company directly for specific information regarding stations and train cars.
🎫 ♨️ Onsen & Relaxation
An onsen is a Japanese hot spring. Hakone is famous for its abundant natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and therapeutic experience. Many hotels and ryokans feature onsen facilities. +2
Yes, some onsen facilities in Hakone offer day passes, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs without booking a room. Tenseien Onsen is one such popular option.
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. Staying at one often includes tatami mat rooms, futon beds, kaiseki (multi-course) dinners, and access to onsen. It's a deeply cultural experience. +2
Yes, many ryokans and some hotels offer private onsen baths, which can be booked for an additional fee. This provides a more intimate and personalized hot spring experience.
Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, often served at ryokans. It's an artful presentation of seasonal ingredients, showcasing exquisite culinary skills.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
Hakone offers various local treats. Popular options include amazake (sweet fermented rice drink), black eggs from Owakudani (said to prolong life), and regional specialties like sukiyaki. +2
Yes, stations like Hakone-Yumoto have numerous restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining experiences.
Ryokans typically serve elaborate kaiseki dinners and traditional Japanese breakfasts. The meals are a highlight of the stay, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentation.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat and fish-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to research specific restaurants or inform your ryokan in advance about dietary restrictions.
Look for local sweet shops and markets, especially around Hakone-Yumoto station. You might find unique mochi or other regional confections. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the train ride itself is enjoyable, look for attractions that cater to younger visitors. The Hakone Open-Air Museum, with its sculptures and open spaces, is often a hit. For a more adventurous experience, the Hakone Ropeway (part of the loop) offers views of volcanic activity, though it might be intense for very young children.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Consider staying in a ryokan with private onsen options for a more personal and tranquil experience. Many ryokans are welcoming to solo guests, and it's a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality. Don't hesitate to try local eateries and enjoy the scenic beauty at your leisure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1For iconic train photos, aim for the section between Tonosawa and Ohiradai stations, especially during hydrangea season or autumn foliage. The early morning light can also offer beautiful, less crowded shots. Remember to check the train schedules to time your shots effectively.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Hakone Tozan Railway
+1The railway's history dates back to 1888 with a horse-drawn line, evolving into its electric-powered form in 1919. The construction involved overcoming significant geographical obstacles, making it a remarkable feat of its time. Today, it remains a vital and picturesque mode of transport for exploring Hakone.
Travelers often marvel at the train's ability to navigate these tight curves and inclines, providing a unique and engaging journey. The engineering itself becomes part of the attraction, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century railway innovation.
Experiencing Hakone's Onsen Culture
Accommodation options in Hakone range from modern hotels to traditional ryokans, most of which offer onsen facilities. Ryokans provide an immersive cultural experience, often featuring communal baths, private onsen rooms, and exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinners. For those on a day trip, facilities like Tenseien Onsen offer day passes, allowing a taste of the onsen experience without an overnight stay.
When visiting an onsen, it's important to be aware of the etiquette, which includes washing thoroughly before entering the baths and refraining from wearing swimwear. The experience is about quiet contemplation and soaking in the natural hot waters, often with scenic views.
The Allure of a Traditional Ryokan Stay
A significant part of the ryokan experience is the culinary journey. Dinners are usually elaborate kaiseki meals, showcasing seasonal ingredients prepared with artistic precision. These multi-course feasts are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Many ryokans also include a traditional Japanese breakfast to start your day.
Beyond the rooms and dining, ryokans are synonymous with onsen (hot springs). Whether communal or private, the opportunity to soak in the therapeutic waters is a key draw. The serene atmosphere, attentive service, and cultural immersion make a ryokan stay in Hakone an unforgettable experience for many travelers.
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