Hakone is the Tokyo area’s favourite mountain getaway — a volcanic resort region of hot springs, lakes and, on clear days, postcard views of Mt. Fuji. The classic experience is the “Hakone loop,” a fun chain of scenic transport: a switchback mountain railway, a cable car, the Hakone Ropeway soaring over the steaming Owakudani valley, and a pirate-ship cruise across Lake Ashi, where Fuji rises beyond a lakeside torii gate. Add world-class onsen, art museums and easy access from Tokyo, and Hakone is one of Japan’s most rewarding day trips or overnight escapes.

This guide covers the sightseeing loop, Fuji views, Owakudani, the Free Pass and access.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Location Hakone, Kanagawa (Fuji-Hakone-Izu NP)
Highlights Lake Ashi, ropeway, Owakudani, Fuji views
Time needed Day trip or overnight
Best time Clear days for Mt. Fuji
Good for Scenery, onsen, art, families, couples

The Hakone loop

A famous circuit using a chain of scenic transport (covered by the Free Pass):

  • Hakone Tozan Railway: a switchback mountain train (great for hydrangeas in June).
  • Cable car + Hakone Ropeway: glide over the Owakudani volcanic valley.
  • Lake Ashi cruise: ride a “pirate ship” across the lake to Moto-Hakone.
  • Loop back via bus or train — do it in either direction.

Mt. Fuji & Owakudani

  • Lake Ashi: the iconic shot is Mt. Fuji behind the red Hakone Shrine torii standing in the water.
  • Owakudani: a steaming, sulphurous volcanic zone famous for black eggs (kuro-tamago) cooked in the hot springs.
  • Fuji is shy — clear mornings, especially in winter, give the best odds.

Free Pass & tips

  • The Hakone Free Pass (Odakyu) covers the loop transport and discounts — the easiest, best-value way to tour.
  • Allow a full day for the loop; an overnight onsen stay is even better — see our Hakone onsen guide .
  • Don’t miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum — see our museum guide .

Combine your visit

Hakone pairs with the surrounding region:

  • Stop at Odawara for the castle and kamaboko en route — see our Odawara seafood guide .
  • Hikers can add nearby peaks like Mount Oyama — see our Oyama guide .

How to get there

  • Odakyu “Romancecar” to Hakone-Yumoto (~85 min from Shinjuku), then the loop transport.
  • Or Shinkansen to Odawara + the Tozan line.