Why You Need the Hakone Free Pass: Exploring Hakone on a Budget
Hakone, a picturesque town in the mountains of Japan, is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. From its scenic views of Mount Fuji to its relaxing hot springs, Hakone offers many experiences.
However, exploring this gem can be costly if you're not careful. It is where the Hakone Free Pass or Fuji Hakone Pass comes into play.
Designed to provide unlimited access to the area's transportation and attractions, the Hakone Free Pass is a must-have for any traveler looking to explore Hakone on a budget. This comprehensive guide will explore why you need it, how to use it, and where to buy it.
What is the Hakone Free Pass
The Hakone Free Pass is a convenient and economical ticket that allows you to enjoy unlimited rides on various modes of transportation in the Hakone area. It includes the Hakone Tozan Train, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, Hakone Tozan Bus, and even the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi.
Whether planning a day trip or a more extended stay, this pass covers it all, offering incredible value for money.
Hop on a spectacular journey to the heart of Japan's iconic natural beauty.
Hakone Free Pass Cost
The cost of the Hakone Free Pass varies depending on the duration and point of purchase. Typically, you can choose between a 2-day or 3-day pass.
The prices are slightly higher for those departing from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, as they include a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu Line. If you're starting your journey within the Hakone area, such as at Odawara Station or Hakone-Yumoto Station, the pass is available at a lower rate.
The two-day pass costs approximately 6,100 yen from Shinjuku, while the three-day pass is around 6,500 yen. If you begin your journey within the Hakone area, the prices drop to around 4,600 yen for two days and 5,000 yen for three days.
Where to Buy the Hakone Free Pass
Purchasing the Hakone Free Pass is simple and convenient. You can buy it at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center at Shinjuku Station, a popular departure station for travelers heading to Hakone.
Additionally, the pass can be found at ticket vending machines at Odawara Station, Hakone-Yumoto Station, and other Odakyu Line stations. It is also available online through the Odakyu website for those who prefer to plan.
Buying the pass before arriving at Hakone is advisable to avoid delays.
Exploring Hakone with the Hakone Free Pass
With your Hakone Free Pass in hand, the entire Hakone area is at your fingertips. Let's explore some of the top attractions you can enjoy with this pass.
Hakone Tozan Train and Hakone Tozan Cable Car
Start your journey with a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Train, Japan's oldest mountain railway. The train winds its way through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
At Gora Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, which will take you up the steep slopes to the top of Mount Sounzan. You'll pass through the beautiful Hakone Gora Park, a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the serene environment.
Experience Japan's natural beauty and cultural highlights on a private day trip from Tokyo.
Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani
From Sounzan, hop onto the Hakone Ropeway for a spectacular aerial view of the volcanic valley of Owakudani. On a clear day, you can even glimpse the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance.
Owakudani is famous for its sulfurous hot springs and black eggs, which, when eaten, can extend one's life by seven years. The ropeway continues to Togendai Station, where one can embark on a serene cruise on Lake Ashi.
Hakone Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Ashi
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise is one of the highlights of the Hakone Free Pass. Board the pirate-themed ships at Togendai and sail across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi, also known as Lake Ashinoko.
The cruise offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains. Near the lake, you can stop at Hakone Shrine to explore the ancient torii gates that stand majestically on the water's edge.
Experience the beauty of Mt. Fuji and Hakone on a day tour featuring scenic drives, stunning shrines, and lakes.
Hakone Tozan Bus and Other Transportation
In addition to the Hakone Tozan Train and Ropeway, the Hakone Free Pass grants unlimited access to the Hakone Tozan Bus, also known as Kanko Shisetsu Meguri Bus (Tourist Attraction Sightseeing Bus). This bus network connects you to attractions across the Hakone area, including museums, hot springs, and other tourist spots.
Whether visiting the Hakone Open Air Museum or relaxing at one of Hakone's famous hot springs, the Tozan Bus makes getting around easy and stress-free.
Additional Benefits of the Hakone Free Pass
Aside from transportation, the Hakone Free Pass offers various discounts on admission to popular tourist attractions and museums. For instance, you can enjoy discounted entry to the Hakone Open Air Museum, which houses an impressive collection of sculptures against the backdrop of the stunning Hakone mountains.
The pass also saves entrance fees to other cultural sites, making it even more economical for those interested in the local culture.
Convenience and Flexibility
One of the most significant advantages of the Hakone Free Pass is its convenience. With the pass, you don't need to worry about purchasing individual tickets or calculating transportation costs for your trip.
The pass covers everything, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Whether staying for one day or three, the pass will enable you to see as much or as little as you like without the stress of planning every detail.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Hakone on a day tour from Tokyo by private car.
Is the Hakone Free Pass Worth It?
For most travelers, the Hakone Free Pass is undoubtedly worth the investment. Not only does it provide significant transportation savings, but it also offers the freedom to explore Hakone without the constraints of individual tickets.
The pass is particularly beneficial for those planning to visit multiple attractions, as the costs can quickly add up if you pay separately for each mode of transport. Using the Hakone Free Pass, you can enjoy a stress-free and budget-friendly trip, maximizing your time and experience in this beautiful region.
Explore on a Budget with the Hakone Free Pass
Visiting Hakone is an unforgettable experience, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxation. The Hakone Free Pass makes this experience accessible and affordable, ensuring you can enjoy everything Hakone offers without breaking the bank.
Whether you're soaking in the hot springs, marveling at the art in the Hakone Open Air Museum, or simply taking in the stunning views of Mount Fuji, the Hakone Free Pass is your ticket to a seamless and enjoyable adventure. So, if you're planning to visit Hakone, don't hesitate to invest in the Hakone Free Pass—it's your gateway to exploring Hakone on a budget.
Experience the enchanting beauty of Hakone with a private tour.
FAQs
What does the Hakone free pass do?
The Hakone Free Pass from Odakyu Railway is a budget-friendly ticket that grants unlimited access to Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cable cars, and ropeways throughout the Hakone area. Additionally, it offers discounted entry to select tourist attractions, making it perfect for two or three consecutive days of exploration.
Is Hakone Freepass included in the JR Pass?
You can reach Odawara Station with your JR Rail Pass, but transportation costs must be covered separately.
Can you see Mt Fuji from Hakone?
As you travel from Moto-Hakone Port to the Hakone Pirate Ship at Togendai Port, you can take in the sights of both Heiwa no Torii and the majestic Mount Fuji. Dusted with glistening white snow, Mount Fuji radiates a brilliant brightness.
Do I need to buy a Hakone Freepass ahead of time?
The Hakone Freepass can be purchased up to one month before your departure at all Odakyu Line stations, from Shinjuku Station to Odawara Station. Please note that ticket vending machines only sell tickets valid for the same day.
Is Hakone closer to Tokyo or Osaka?
While Hakone is closer to Tokyo, it's also reasonably easy to reach from Osaka by train or bus.
