Hakone, Japan, is a must-visit destination just a short trip from Tokyo, offering the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. While it’s best known for its soothing onsens and charming ryokans, Hakone has so much more to offer – from world-class art museums and open-air sculptures to steaming volcanic valleys and, on a clear day, breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat or an exciting day of exploration, Hakone should be on your Japan itinerary. Trust us, you don’t want to miss it!
How to get to Hakone, Japan
There are multiple ways to get to Hakone, Japan from Tokyo and it all depends on your budget and time availability.
- If you are not in a hurry, we highly recommend the Odakyu Romancecar, as it offers the best views while being a very comfortable ride. It is a limited express train that you can take from the Shinjuku Train Station. It takes about 90 minutes to get to Hakone and you can purchase your tickets for around $17 one way.
- If you are short on time, you can take the Shinkansen Kodama or Hikari from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station. From there, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway or a bus to Hakone-Yumoto. The cost is around $30.
- Another popular option is to buy the Hakone Free Pass. As of this writing, it costs $42 for a two-day pass which includes round-trip travel on the Odakyu Line plus unlimited rides on local transportation, including buses, boats, and the famous Hakone Ropeway.
- For around $15 you can take the Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus, which departs from Shinjuku and goes directly to Hakone. However, it takes about 2 hours to get there.
Where to stay in Hakone, Japan
There is no shortage of hotel options in the Hakone area. It is important to research your preferred options and book ahead of time, as the top places tend to book up quickly. Keep in mind that many of the hotels offer discounts when reserved well ahead of your visit.
Here are some recommendations from us with a focus on location and luxury accommodations. Additionally, it was very important to us that the hotel has an in-room onsen.
- Kinnotake Tōnosawa – a serene hotel nestled in the Tonosawa Forest. Every room features a terrace and an open-air onsen bath. No detail has been overlooked. We really wanted to stay here on our most recent trip to Hakone. However, the property was fully booked for our dates.
- Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu – a property we fell in love with from the moment we stepped inside. Understated, excellent facilities and the food options were top notch. We highly recommend this hotel.
- Karaku, Gora – a beautiful property with open air baths and top notch facilities.
- Hotel Kajikaso – very conveniently located near the Hakone-Yumoto Station with views of the Hayakawa River. Some rooms have in-room onsen baths, and we highly recommend staying in one of them.
- Kanaya Resort Hakone – beautiful setting! Suite rooms with private onsen baths on the balcony. A must!
- Fujiya Hotel – a more traditional but beautiful hotel and accommodations. An outdoor pool open in the summer and an indoor pool for use year-round. Beautiful hotel grounds.
Day 1 in Hakone, Japan
In the morning
People visit Hakone, Japan, to experience the perfect blend of traditional ryokans, rejuvenating onsens, and stunning natural beauty. To make the most of your stay, dedicate a full morning to indulging in your hotel’s serene amenities. Sip on green tea, soak in the mineral-rich waters, and take in the breathtaking mountain views. Slow down, breathe deeply, and fully embrace the tranquility of this magical part of the country.
In the afternoon
Spend your afternoon immersed in world-class art at the Hakone Open Air Museum – one of our absolute favorites! This incredible museum features stunning sculptures by renowned international artists, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Hakone’s lush mountains. As you wander the beautifully curated grounds, you’ll not only admire the art, but also soak in the surrounding natural beauty. Don’t miss the Picasso Pavilion, home to the largest private collection of Picasso’s works in Japan. Before you leave, unwind in the onsen-style foot bath, the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring. If you love art, nature, and unique cultural experiences, this museum is a must-visit in Hakone!
In the evening
Evenings in Hakone are best spent indulging in a memorable dining experience, and there’s no better way to do that than with a traditional kaiseki meal. If your ryokan offers this multi-course dining experience, don’t miss it! Our hotel’s kaiseki dinner was absolutely incredible, featuring beautifully plated dishes made from high-quality, seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art, from delicate sashimi to perfectly simmered dishes, all carefully curated to reflect the flavors of the season. The thoughtful presentation and impeccable service elevated the entire experience.
If you’re dining out, explore one of Hakone’s restaurants and enjoy everything from wagyu beef to local specialties like yuba (tofu skin) and soba noodles.
Day 2 in Hakone, Japan
Visit the Hakone Jinja Shrine
Take the morning to visit the Hakone Jinja Shrine – a historically significant Shinto shrine dating back to 757AD. Nestled in a lush forest and steeped in history, this shrine has drawn travelers, including samurai, for over 1,200 years. One of the highlights? The ⛩️Heiwa No Torii (“The Great Gate of Peace”), a stunning red gate floating in Lake Ashinoko – an absolute must-see if you are in the area. Whether you’re here for history, nature, or just some peace and quiet, this spot will leave you in awe.
The shrine is free of charge to visit. Be prepared for the crowds at the Heiwa No Torii if you want to take a picture at the gate. Go as early as you can to avoid the wait.
You will need to take a bus to get to the beginning of the hike to the shrine. From Hakone-Yumoto Station, about 45 minutes by Hakone-Tozan bus Line H (¥980 / ~US$6.35 or covered by the Hakone Free Pass). From Moto-Hakone Station or the port, about 10 minutes on foot.
Relax at an onsen
Make the most of your time in Hakone by fully indulging in the onsen and spa experiences offered at your ryokan or hotel. These natural hot springs are the heart of Hakone’s charm, providing the ultimate way to relax, unwind, and soak in the healing mineral waters. Whether you choose a private open-air bath with stunning mountain views or a large communal onsen steeped in tradition, don’t rush the experience—this is what makes Hakone so special. Trust us, you won’t want to leave wishing you had spent more time soaking in these rejuvenating waters!
Sample more local cuisine
In the evening, choose a different food venue and try as many of the local specialties as you can. Some recommendations from us:
- Hakone Kappei – for great sushi expertly prepared by a local couple.
- Itoh Dining by Nobu – highly praised restaurant using high quality seasonal ingredients.
- GORA Brewery & Grill – sample local craft beers and expertly prepared dishes.
- BEER BAR by GORA Brewery – a more casual venue serving local brews and appetizers.
If you have more time
Here are some additional areas of interest t0 consider for your visit to Hakone, Japan:
So many more museums
- Hakone Museum of Art – visit this museum if you enjoy landscaped gardens and Japanese earthenware. The gardens are especially beautiful during the spring and fall seasons.
- Okada Museum of Art – visit this museum if you are a fan of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean art. Walk the beautifully landscaped gardens of the museum. Also be sure to grab a drink at the Cafe and enjoy a foot bath with constantly flowing hot spring water.
- Pola Museum of Art – visit this museum to see works of art by European and Japanese artists including Monet, Picasso, Foujita, and others. And if you are an architecture fan like us, the design of this museum will surely impress you.
- Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (Glass Forest) – visit this unusual museum to see Venetian works of art and more beautifully landscaped gardens. The seasonal flowers and colors are simply spectacular.
- Hakone Geo Museum – visit this museum if you are interested in volcanic activity. Located in the heart of Owakudani, an active geothermal area, the museum offers an in-depth look at the region’s volcanic history, geology, and ongoing activity. It’s the perfect stop to gain a deeper understanding of the powerful natural forces shaping Hakone’s landscape.
Other activities
- Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine – situated atop Mount Komagatake, this shrine is accessed via the Komagatake Ropeway. You can take the ropeway at the Hakone-end at the shores of Lake Ashinoko. It takes about 7 minutes to get to the top and you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Ashinoko. On a clear day you can even see Mount Fuji.
- Owakudani – hop off at the midpoint of the Komagatake Ropeway and on a clear day enjoy views of Mount Fuji as well as the active volcanic area around. Locals refer to this area as “Jigokudani” (the Valley of Hell.) Additionally, be sure to try black eggs known as Kuro-Tamago, boiled in the geothermal springs of the area. Legend has it that eating one of these eggs adds 5-7 years to a person’s life!
- Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields – visit this area of Hakone to see the tall grasses, which cover the hillside for hundreds of meters. The fields are especially beautiful in the fall, but the seasonal color changes are also worth seeing. A single path runs through the grasses. Be sure to stay on it and not enter the fields in order to protect the plants.
- Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – visit this indoor/outdoor hot spring park and enjoy scenic views, cave baths, a waterfall, wine, coffee, sake baths and much more. This park is especially fun if you have kids on the trip with you.
What we loved about Hakone, Japan
- Hakone National Park is a really beautiful national park. Rolling hills and everchanging cloud covers make the area magical.
- An ideal setting for a relaxing vacation. One can truly visit just for the onsens and have a wonderful time.
- However, there is so much else to see and do!
- Hakone is very easily accessible from Tokyo.
- World class art museums! Notice museums – plural!
- Active volcanic activity that you can easily observe.
- The quality of food we enjoyed was beyond excellent.
In closing, Hakone, Japan is a magical place offering as much or as little to do and see as you desire. We loved our two days in Hakone and look forward to returning and spending more time in the area.
[All pictures taken by the Styled Traveler]
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