Hakone is Tokyo's most popular day trip and weekend escape — a mountain resort area famous for views of Mount Fuji, rejuvenating hot spring baths (onsen), and the scenic Hakone Ropeway over volcanic Owakudani. The Odakyu Romancecar train offers a premium journey in reserved seats with stunning countryside scenery.
TransportTimeCostFrequency
Odakyu Romancecar (VSE/MSE)
Scenic reserved-seat express — most popular and comfortable option
85 min
¥2,470 (Shinjuku–Hakone-Yumoto)
Every 30–60 min
Odakyu Express + Hakone Tozan
Cheaper — use Odakyu Limited Express to Odawara, switch to Hakone Tozan
95 min
¥1,310
Every 15 min
JR Tokaido Line to Odawara
JR Pass: free to Odawara; Hakone Tozan Railway (¥310) not included
85 min
¥1,520 (JR Pass eligible)
Every 15 min
Highway Bus (Shinjuku→Lake Ashi)
Direct to Lake Ashi/Owakudani — useful if trains are crowded
2h 30min
¥2,200
Multiple daily
JR Pass Tips for Tokyo → Hakone
JR Pass covers the JR Tokaido Line to Odawara (free). From Odawara, the Hakone Tozan Railway (¥310) and Hakone Ropeway are not JR Pass eligible. Consider the Hakone Free Pass (¥6,100 from Shinjuku) which covers all Hakone transportation and is often better value.
Book a Japan Rail Pass or IC Card on Klook:
What is the Odakyu Romancecar?+
The Romancecar is Odakyu Railway's premium limited express train running from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto in 85 minutes. Tickets (¥2,470) include a reserved seat and the journey itself is scenic and relaxing. Book in advance on weekends as it sells out.
What is the Hakone Free Pass?+
The Hakone Free Pass (¥6,100 from Shinjuku, 2 days) covers round-trip travel on Odakyu to Hakone, plus unlimited use of the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi cruise, and shuttle buses within Hakone. Excellent value for a full Hakone experience.
Is Hakone worth visiting for just a day?+
Yes — a day trip from Tokyo is absolutely worthwhile. Focus on: Hakone-Yumoto arrival, Hakone Open Air Museum, Ropeway over Owakudani (volcanic valley), Lake Ashi cruise with Mt. Fuji views, and return via Odakyu. Start early to beat crowds.
What is the best time to see Mt. Fuji from Hakone?+
Mt. Fuji is most visible on clear winter days (December–March) when clouds are rare. In summer, clouds often obscure the peak. Early morning offers the best chances. The Ropeway and Lake Ashi provide the most iconic views.
Do I need to reserve seats on the Romancecar?+
Yes — the Romancecar is a reservation-required reserved-seat train. Book online at odakyu.jp, at Shinjuku Station Odakyu ticket office, or at travel agencies. Advance booking is essential on weekends and holidays.