Hakone (箱根) is the most popular Tokyo side trip. There is something for everyone here, such as hiking, walking, volcano viewing and hot springs. Maps and signs are all in English as well, so it’s very easy to get around.
Budget travel tips
- Get the Hakone Free Pass. This provides free travel to and around Hakone, plus loads of discounts.
- Get a free map from the Odakyu Tourist Center in Shinjuku station before you go.
Things to do
Owakudani (FREE)
A must-see in Hakane, get off at Owakudani station on the ropeway and try some ‘kuro-tamago’ (black eggs). They have been boiled in the hot spring water, so have black shells!
Open: 8:30-17:00
Price: Free
Hakone Tozan Railway
A funny little train that takes you on a funny little ride around and up and down the mountain.
Hakone Shrine (FREE)
A stunning shrine complex, starting from a red gate standing in Lake Ashi, running up into the mountain.
Open: All day
Price: Free
Hakone Detached Palace Garden (FREE)
The old imperial family summer house and gardens are now free for you to roam around and take photos of.
Hakone Sekisho and Checkpoint
An authentic recreation of an old trading checkpoint and town.
Open: 9:00-17:00
Price: 400 yen with Hakone Free Pass
Cedar Tree Walk
A nice walk through an ancient cedar avenue. Between the Hakone Sekisho and Hakone Detached Palace Garden on the main road.
Old Tokaido Road Hike
An old trading route through the forest, this is an easy but enjoyable hike. Location well signposted from boat port and around.
How to get there and around
From Shinjuku, take the Odakyu line train to Odawara station, then to Hakone-Yumoto station (90 mins). It is highly recommended to get the Hakone Free Pass.
Recommended Hostels and Cheap Hotels
Masuya Ryokan Sengokuhara Onsen
Cheap guesthouse a short bus ride away from the main attractions.
More at Booking.com
Map
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