JAPAN TRIP GUIDE

Fuji, Lake Ashi & the Hakone Pirate Ship – A Classic Day Trip from Tokyo

　How to Get to
　Hakone from Tokyo

Hakone is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Tokyo, famous for its hot springs, Mt. Fuji views, and scenic Lake Ashi

In this guide, I will show you the easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Tokyo to Hakone using the Romancecar train.
This route is perfect for first-time visitors who want a smooth and stress-free journey.

Map showing the route from Tokyo to Hakone, indicating key locations such as Shinjuku, Odawara, and Hakone, with Mt. Fuji depicted to the southwest.

Discover Hakone – Japan’s Most Popular Hot Spring Resort

Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous resort towns, located in the mountains of Kanagawa Prefecture, just 90 minutes from Tokyo.

It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, relaxing hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. With its unique transportation system and rich cultural heritage, Hakone is the perfect destination for both first-time visitors and repeat travelers.

Hakone is where nature, culture, and relaxation come together in one unforgettable destination.

A scenic view of Mount Fuji in the background with a traditional pirate-style boat sailing on Lake Ashi, surrounded by lush greenery.

Mount Fuji Views

Hakone is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, especially from Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains.

A serene outdoor onsen (hot spring) surrounded by lush greenery and mist, with sunlight filtering through the trees and distant mountains in the background.

Hot Springs & Relaxation

Hakone is famous for its natural hot springs. From traditional ryokan to modern spa resorts, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Twilight view of a traditional Japanese ryokan illuminated by soft lights, set against a natural backdrop.

Nature & Culture

Enjoy scenic lakes, volcanic valleys, historic shrines, and museums — all connected by Hakone’s unique mountain transportation system.

Take the Romance-car from Shinjuku

Hakone is easily accessible from Tokyo, making it one of the best destinations for a day trip or a short getaway. The most comfortable and popular way to travel is by taking the Odakyu Romance-car train directly from Shinjuku.

The Romancecar is a limited express train operated by Odakyu Railway. It connects Shinjuku Station directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station without any transfers, offering a smooth and relaxing journey.

A red Odakyu Romancecar train traveling on tracks with overhead electrical lines, surrounded by mountainous scenery.

Travel Time : Approx. 90 minutes
Departure Station : Shinjuku Station
Arrival Station : Hakone-Yumoto Station
Seat : All seats are reserved

The Romance-car departs from Shinjuku and travels directly to Hakone-Yumoto, passing through Odawara before entering the Hakone mountain area.
This route is perfect for first-time visitors who want a stress-free journey without changing trains.

Hakone Round Course – The Perfect One-Day Loop

The Hakone Round Course is a popular sightseeing route that lets you explore Hakone’s top attractions using six different types of transportation, including trains, cable cars, ropeways, boats, and buses.
This loop route is perfect for a one-day trip and allows visitors to experience Hakone’s mountains, lakes, volcanoes, and hot springs in one unforgettable journey.

Hakone-Yumoto → Gora (Mountain Railway)
Gora → Sounzan (Cable Car)
Sounzan → Owakudani (Ropeway)
Owakudani → Togendai (Ropeway)
Togendai → Moto-Hakone (Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi)
Moto-Hakone → Hakone-Yumoto (Bus)

The Hakone Round Course forms a circular route around the Hakone area, starting and ending at Hakone-Yumoto Station. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji, volcanic landscapes at Owakudani, and a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi aboard the famous pirate ship.