Togendai Hakone
Togendai is a scenic hub on Lake Ashi, offering pirate ship cruises, ropeway rides with Fuji views, and Evangelion fan attractions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, blooming nature
Togendai Hakone
Best Time
Clear skies, blooming nature

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Togendai is a scenic hub on Lake Ashi, offering pirate ship cruises, ropeway rides with Fuji views, and Evangelion fan attractions.
"The pirate ship cruise and ropeway offer stunning views, making Togendai a must-visit for nature and anime lovers."
✅ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for the loop!
🧥 Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cooler temps, especially on the ropeway. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hakone Pirate Ship Cruise
Lake Ashi
Sail across Lake Ashi on a unique pirate-themed ship, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
Hakone Ropeway
Sounzan to Togendai
Experience breathtaking aerial views of volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and Mount Fuji as you glide between stations.

Owakudani Volcanic Valley
Intermediate stop on Hakone Ropeway
Witness active volcanic hot springs and try the famous black eggs, said to prolong your life.

Evangelion NERV Headquarters
Togendai Station
For anime fans, Togendai Station is transformed into the NERV headquarters, featuring special exhibits and statues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hakone Free Pass is Your Best Friend
Evangelion Fans, Rejoice!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for the loop!
🧥 Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cooler temps, especially on the ropeway. :cloud:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Mt. Fuji views
Clear days offer stunning Mt. Fuji vistas from the ropeway & cruise. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Get the Hakone Free Pass
Covers most transport, saving money & hassle. Essential for the loop!
🧥 Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cooler temps, especially on the ropeway. :cloud:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Mt. Fuji views
Clear days offer stunning Mt. Fuji vistas from the ropeway & cruise. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Check ropeway status
Maintenance can occur. Check the website to avoid disruptions. :informationdeskperson:
🍜 Try local eateries
Restaurants at Togendai offer great views and local flavors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Togendai for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, and its role as a key transport hub for the Hakone Loop. The unique pirate ship cruises and the Hakone Ropeway are consistently highlighted as enjoyable experiences. However, some note that it can get very crowded, and the volcanic smell at Owakudani might be strong for some.
"Our family couldn’t go on the pirate ship on Lake Ashi due too much snow yesterday. Rather than wait for the ice to melt away we drove straight to Togendai station from Hakone checkpoint. The ride was fantastic as the skies cleared and blue skies and sunlight began to break in this early morning. When we reached the peak Owakudani, there were hot springs and super smell all around. Very cool! The peak was very scenic and worth our time up with a better view than on the pirate ship."
Mui Fong Lai
"The terminus cable car station which leads to the Pirate Ship. Has interesting exhibits for Evangelion fans, which has the Eva statue.
Visited in November 2024."
Paul C.
"Gets busy as everyone that uses the pirate ship ends up here. Same thing with the other transportation methods, the unlimited free pass works here. There are also some Evangelion surprises that you can go search out.
Wait for the ropeway when busy is around 10 minutes. They can fit around 10 people and travels across 3 stations. Ride to the end is around 15 minutes."
Sharn Kung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Togendai Station is a key hub in the Hakone Loop. You can reach it via the Hakone Ropeway from Sounzan, or by taking the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise across Lake Ashi from Hakonemachi-ko or Motohakone-ko. Many visitors arrive via the Hakone Free Pass, which covers these transportation methods.
The Hakone Loop is generally well-signposted, especially with the Hakone Free Pass. Togendai Station is a major transfer point for the ropeway and cruise, making it easy to find your next mode of transport.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available at Togendai Station. However, many visitors opt for the Hakone Free Pass to enjoy the scenic public transport and avoid parking hassles.
The most scenic route is to take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, then the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan, followed by the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai. Alternatively, you can take a bus or the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi.
Yes, several bus routes connect Togendai to other parts of Hakone and surrounding areas. These are often covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Togendai Station itself is free to enter. However, you will need tickets or a pass for the attractions and transportation departing from it, such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise.
The price of the Hakone Free Pass varies depending on the duration (2-day or 3-day) and point of purchase. It's generally around ¥5,000-¥6,000 for a 2-day pass. It's highly recommended for cost savings and convenience.
Yes, children typically receive discounted fares for the Hakone Ropeway and the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise. The Hakone Free Pass also offers child rates.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (Pirate Ship) directly at Togendai Port. However, using the Hakone Free Pass is often more economical.
Operating hours vary seasonally, but generally, the Hakone Ropeway runs from around 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and the Pirate Ship cruises run frequently throughout the day. It's best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date schedules.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Togendai Station is a hub for the Hakone Ropeway and Pirate Ship cruises. It also features shops, restaurants with scenic views, and a dedicated area for Evangelion fans.
From Togendai, you get panoramic views of Lake Ashi, the surrounding mountains, and on clear days, the majestic Mount Fuji.
Most major transportation hubs in Hakone, including Togendai Station, are designed to be accessible. Elevators and ramps are generally available for the ropeway and cruise boarding areas.
Yes, Togendai Station has restaurants, including the Togendai View Restaurant, offering meals with beautiful lake views. There are also souvenir shops with snacks.
Togendai Station is featured as Tokyo-3 in the anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion. Fans can find special exhibits and statues, making it a popular spot for pilgrimage.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The boarding areas for the Pirate Ship and Hakone Ropeway offer great vantage points. Look for shots of the lake with the pirate ships, or the ropeway cars against the mountain backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds. Clear days are essential for capturing Mount Fuji in your photos.
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from Togendai and the surrounding areas, especially from the Hakone Ropeway and the Pirate Ship cruise.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within exhibits or private establishments.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be good for zooming in on Mount Fuji. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Purchase the Hakone Free Pass for easy and cost-effective travel. Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are dining options, having your own can be convenient. Consider the duration of the ropeway ride and potential wait times during busy periods. The views of Mount Fuji, if visible, are also a great way to engage children with the natural beauty of Japan.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Romantic tips: Look for restaurants with lake views at Togendai for a memorable dinner. On clear days, the sight of Mount Fuji together is a truly special experience. The tranquil atmosphere of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains provides a perfect backdrop for a peaceful and romantic escape.
✨ Anime and Pop Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond Evangelion, the scenic beauty of Hakone itself is often featured in various anime and manga. The pirate ships on Lake Ashi and the dramatic landscapes of the Hakone Ropeway provide iconic backdrops that anime fans will recognize and appreciate. It's a chance to connect with the real-world locations that inspire beloved fictional worlds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Hakone Pirate Ship
Many visitors find the pirate ship theme charming and a fun addition to their trip, especially for families. The journey provides excellent photo opportunities, and on clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. The experience is enhanced by the fresh mountain air and the tranquil waters of the lake.
Pro-tip: The Hakone Free Pass covers the pirate ship cruise, making it an economical choice. Be sure to check the schedule as sailings are frequent but can vary by season. Some travelers note that during peak times, the ships can get crowded, so consider visiting during off-peak hours if possible.
Ascending with the Hakone Ropeway
As you glide through the air, keep an eye out for Mount Fuji, which often makes a spectacular appearance on clear days. The ropeway also offers stunning views of Lake Ashi as you approach Togendai. The journey is divided into sections, with an intermediate stop at Owakudani, allowing passengers to disembark and explore the volcanic area.
Important considerations: The Hakone Ropeway can experience temporary closures due to volcanic gas levels or maintenance. It's always advisable to check the official Hakone Ropeway website for the latest operational status before your visit. The ride is generally smooth, but some may find the altitude or the sulfurous smell at Owakudani noticeable. The cost is covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
Togendai Station: A Hub of Activity and Anime
For fans of the anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, Togendai holds special significance. The area is depicted as Tokyo-3 in the show, and the station itself has been transformed to resemble the NERV headquarters. Visitors can find Evangelion-themed exhibits, statues, and merchandise, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts. This unique blend of natural beauty and pop culture makes Togendai a memorable stop.
Traveler insights: Many reviewers mention the convenience of Togendai as a transfer point. Some also highlight the well-stocked gift shop and the opportunity to enjoy a meal with a view. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, as it's a popular nexus for various Hakone attractions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit