There are 2 way(s) to get from Tokyo to Hakone
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Your Japan Rail Pass won't cover the Odakyu Romancecar or other private lines to Hakone. Don't overpay for a Shinkansen to a distant JR station hoping to connect; just buy a separate ticket for the Odakyu line or take a bus directly. This is a common pitfall for first-timers.
If you plan on exploring Hakone's attractions (ropeway, boats, buses), the Hakone Free Pass (from Odakyu) is usually more cost-effective than individual tickets, even without the Tokyo-Hakone transport. It covers most local transport within the Hakone area.
Especially during peak season or weekends, the Odakyu Romancecar can get busy. Booking your seats online through Odakyu's website in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred departure time and avoid standing or waiting for the next train.
The Romancecar offers spacious, reserved seating and a smoother ride. Highway buses are generally comfortable but can be subject to traffic, especially on weekends or holidays, potentially extending travel time. Factor this into your decision if time is tight.
Once you arrive at Hakone-Yumoto, it's the gateway to the Hakone Loop. You can easily transfer to local trains (Hakone Tozan Railway), buses, or taxis to reach your specific destination or start your sightseeing circuit. Signage is clear and staff are helpful.
🛣️ The journey experience
Heading from Tokyo to Hakone for those iconic views of Mount Fuji and serene onsen experiences? You've got solid choices for this popular route, and understanding them will save you both time and potential overspending. Forget just checking the theoretical fastest train; we'll show you the real door-to-door times and what you can expect to pay, whether you choose a speedy train or a convenient bus. Making the right call means you arrive relaxed, not wondering if you made the best transport decision.
For your Tokyo to Hakone journey, the main players are the Odakyu Romancecar (limited express train) and direct highway buses. The Romancecar offers a comfortable, direct trip from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto in around 85-95 minutes, costing about 2,330 JPY (including basic fare and limited express surcharge). If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, highway buses from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station can get you to Hakone-Yumoto or Lake Ashi in about 2-2.5 hours for roughly 1,800-2,000 JPY. While technically a JR station, Hakone-Yumoto is primarily served by Odakyu, meaning the JR Pass won't cover the Romancecar fare.
So, when weighing your options, remember that the Japan Rail Pass won't be your best friend for Hakone; it's a private line journey. Don't fall into the trap of assuming every scenic spot is on the JR network. For Hakone, the private Odakyu line is king. Decide between the slightly faster, more comfortable Romancecar and the cheaper, slightly longer bus ride based on your budget and preference for comfort. Both are reliable, so pick the one that fits your travel style best and enjoy the stunning scenery. You won't get lost; both options are straightforward.
Frequently asked questions — Tokyo → Hakone
The 'best' way depends on your priorities. For speed and comfort, the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto is often preferred (around 85-95 minutes). For a slightly cheaper option, direct highway buses are excellent, taking about 2-2.5 hours. Both are efficient, but the train offers a more scenic and less traffic-dependent journey. The JR Pass is not valid for either.
A one-way ticket on the Odakyu Romancecar costs approximately 2,330 JPY, including the basic fare and limited express surcharge. Highway buses typically range from 1,800 JPY to 2,000 JPY. If you plan extensive sightseeing in Hakone, consider the Hakone Free Pass, which includes round-trip transport from Tokyo and unlimited use of local transport.
The Odakyu Romancecar will get you from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto in about 85 to 95 minutes, making it the fastest option. Direct highway buses generally take a bit longer, ranging from 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and your exact destination within Hakone. Both offer direct connections without the need for complex transfers.
No, the Japan Rail Pass is not valid for the direct routes to Hakone. The primary train service, the Odakyu Romancecar, operates on a private railway line (Odakyu Electric Railway), not JR. While you can use your JR Pass to get to Odawara (a JR station), you'd still need to pay for the private Odakyu train from Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto. It's usually simpler and more cost-effective to use Odakyu from Shinjuku directly.
✨ Why visit Hakone?
- ✓ Cruise on Lake Ashi, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and the Torii Gate of Hakone-jinja Shrine.
- ✓ Ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic vistas of the active volcanic Owakudani valley and its sulfur vents.
- ✓ Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, featuring sculptures by renowned artists amidst natural landscapes.
- ✓ Relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath) with diverse mineral compositions.
- ✓ Visit the Hakone Shrine, nestled in ancient cedar forests by Lake Ashi, with its iconic 'Torii of Peace'.
☀️ When to visit Hakone?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
Spring (April-May) or Autumn (October-November) — pleasant weather, vibrant foliage, and clear views of Mount Fuji.
What to do in Hakone?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Hakone?
For an independent francophone traveler, Hakone is best explored over 2 to 3 days. This allows ample time to enjoy the Hakone Free Pass attractions without rush, including the Open-Air Museum, boat cruise on Lake Ashi, and several onsen experiences. A single day trip is feasible but will feel very rushed, limiting the depth of your experience and preventing full relaxation.
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