ฮา โก เน่ Day Guides
Hakone is one of Japan’s most popular getaway spots, known for its natural hot springs, beautiful lake views, mountain scenery, and relaxing atmosphere. If you're coming from Tokyo, this guide will help you enjoy a peaceful and fun-filled day in Hakone.
Let’s explore a perfect itinerary for your visit!
The best way to get to Hakone is by train. Your first stop will be Hakone-Yumoto Station, the gateway to the area.
Take the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station
Travel Time: ~85 minutes
Cost: Around 2,300 JPY one way
Take a JR train to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto
Traveler’s Tip: Buy the Hakone Free Pass (2-day or 3-day) from Odakyu. It covers most local transport — trains, buses, ropeways, and the lake cruise.
Once you arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station, drop off your bags to enjoy the day hands-free.
Your Hotel or Ryokan (if check-in is available)
Coin lockers at Hakone-Yumoto Station
Luggage storage service at the station or nearby
Take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto to Chokoku-no-Mori Station (about 35 minutes). The museum is a short walk from there.
Entrance Fee: Around 1,600 JPY
This unique museum features art and sculptures spread out over a beautiful outdoor space.
✔ Walk through outdoor artwork and sculptures
✔ Visit the Picasso Pavilion
✔ Soak your feet in the free hot spring foot bath
✔ Enjoy peaceful mountain views
Just 5 minutes from the museum, this casual restaurant is known for delicious dumplings and Japanese comfort food.
What to Try:
Pan-fried or steamed gyoza
Set meals with rice and soup
Vegetarian gyoza and veggie side dishes are available
Tamura Ginkatsutei – Famous tofu cutlet (vegetarian-friendly)
Cafe Douce– Western-style lunch and desserts
Itoh Dining by Nobu – Stylish Japanese food with some vegetarian dishes (reservation recommended)
From Gora, take a bus or taxi to Moto-Hakone Port (about 30 minutes).
At Lake Ashi (Ashinoko), you can enjoy beautiful lake views and try the famous pirate cruise.
✔ Ride the Hakone Sightseeing Pirate Cruise
✔ Enjoy Mt. Fuji views (if the weather is clear)
✔ Walk to the red torii gate in the water
✔ Visit Hakone Shrine through a quiet forest path
From Togendai Port (end of the lake cruise), ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani.
Ropeway Fare: Included with the Hakone Free Pass
Owakudani is a volcanic area with steam vents, sulfur smells, and great views.
✔ See the volcanic steam and hot springs
✔ Try kuro-tamago (black eggs boiled in volcanic water)
✔ Take in views of Mt. Fuji (on clear days)
After visiting Owakudani, continue the ropeway to Sounzan Station.
From there, ride the cable car or Hakone Tozan Railway back to Gora or Hakone-Yumoto Station. This route gives you amazing views and completes most of the famous Hakone Loop.
Soak your body in a hot spring bath — it’s one of Hakone’s most famous experiences.
Most hotels and ryokan in Hakone have their own private or shared onsens
Tenzan Onsen (near Hakone-Yumoto) – Traditional outdoor baths in a peaceful forest
Yunessun Spa Resort – Fun and family-friendly with themed baths (like wine and green tea!)
Tip: Don’t forget to shower before entering the bath. Most baths are shared and nude (men and women are separated).
After a refreshing onsen soak, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Elegant Japanese meals with wagyu, fish, and vegetables
Vegetarian-friendly course available (call ahead)
Local craft beer and grilled dishes
Offers veggie sides and salads
Warm and casual place known for tofu cutlets
Great for vegetarians
4. Bakery & Table (near Lake Ashi)
Beautiful view and cozy Western-style food
Salads, soups, breads — good vegetarian options
If you're staying overnight, head back to your hotel to rest.
If you're returning to Tokyo:
Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Odawara Station
From there, catch the Romancecar or a JR train back to Tokyo or Shinjuku
