The classic Mt Fuji day trip from Tokyo. Hot spring resorts, open-air museums and Japan's most iconic view.
Hakone is Japan's greatest escape. Just 85 minutes from Tokyo by Romancecar, the volcanic landscape delivers something the city cannot — onsen hot springs, crisp mountain air, ryokan inns serving kaiseki dinners and, on clear days, the full panorama of Mount Fuji rising above Lake Ashi.
It's the perfect counterpoint to Japan's urban energy. After Tokyo's neon sensory overload, an evening soaking in a private rotenburo (outdoor hot spring bath), looking out at pine forests and mist, resets everything. Most visitors come for a day trip. Many stay longer.
Click any spot on the map to learn more
Ivan Shirokov
Author
"Hakone is where Tokyo residents go to exhale. A ryokan with an outdoor onsen, Mt Fuji appearing through the mist — it's the Japan you imagined before you came."
Day Trip
Tokyo to Hakone — the perfect day trip
Fuji views, volcanic valleys and hot springs — Japan's most rewarding day trip from Tokyo.
Nature
Owakudani — volcanic valley and black eggs
Bubbling sulfur vents, dramatic views and the legendary black eggs.
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Scenic
Lake Ashi cruise and Mt Fuji views
The pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi with the perfect Fuji backdrop on a clear day.
Ryokan
Best ryokan in Hakone
Stay in a traditional Japanese inn with private onsen — the quintessential Hakone experience.
Budget
Hakone-Yumoto hotels — best value
Affordable hotels at the Hakone gateway with easy train access to the whole area.
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Luxury
Luxury hotels in Hakone
Private onsen suites, kaiseki dinners and impeccable service with Mt Fuji as your backdrop.
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Onsen
Hakone onsen guide — best bathhouses
Public vs private, indoor vs outdoor — where to soak in Hakone without booking a ryokan.
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Day Onsen
Day onsen in Hakone — no overnight required
You can enjoy Hakone hot springs without staying overnight. Best day-use onsen picks.
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Experience
Hakone Ropeway — tips and best views
The complete guide to the ropeway — when to go, queues, passes and where to photograph Fuji.
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From Tokyo
Tokyo to Hakone — how to get there
Romancecar, Shinkansen or highway bus — all options compared with prices and journey times.
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Pass
Hakone Free Pass — is it worth it?
The Hakone Free Pass covers trains, buses, ropeways and boats. How much can you save?
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Transport
Getting around Hakone without a car
Tozan Railway, ropeway, cable car, pirate ship — the full Hakone Loop explained.
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