There are 2 way(s) to get from Yokohama to Hakone
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
If you plan to explore Hakone extensively, the Hakone Free Pass (available for 2 or 3 days) can save you money on transport within the area, including buses, trains, ropeways, and even some boat trips. It often pays off quickly.
While trains are frequent, popular bus routes, especially those connecting to sights like Lake Ashi or the Hakone Open-Air Museum, can fill up fast. Booking your bus tickets online ahead of time ensures you get a seat and avoid queues.
From Yokohama, you'll likely take a JR line to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway. These are different operators, so your JR Pass might not cover the entire journey. Always check for specific inclusions.
Be aware that the Shinkansen doesn't go directly to Hakone. You'll need to take it to Odawara Station, then switch to the local Hakone Tozan Railway or a bus. Don't assume a bullet train will get you door-to-door.
If you have heavy luggage, consider using a luggage delivery service (Taqbin) between your hotels. Navigating multiple transfers on local trains and buses in Hakone with large suitcases can be cumbersome.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip from Yokohama to Hakone can seem a bit daunting with all the options Japan offers. We know you want clear, honest information on whether a route is Shinkansen, a JR limited express, a highway bus, or a flight, and to see real door-to-door times and prices. This guide cuts through the confusion, helping you make the best choice for your journey to the stunning landscapes of Hakone, known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji.
For your Yokohama to Hakone journey, you have two primary options: train or bus. The train typically costs around €12 and takes approximately 0 hours, often involving a combination of local JR and private lines to reach Hakone. The bus, a more budget-friendly alternative, costs about €4 and takes around 1 hour. These options offer different balances of speed, cost, and directness, allowing you to tailor your trip to your preferences.
Forget the fear of overpaying or getting lost in Japan's intricate network. While Japan boasts the world's best rail system, knowing when a Japan Rail Pass pays off, when an overnight highway bus beats the bullet train on price, or when a flight is faster for distant regions like Hokkaido or Kyushu is key. For Hakone, understand that it's largely serviced by local trains and buses rather than the Shinkansen directly. Always check the specifics for each leg of your journey – we're here to help you book smart and travel smoothly.
Frequently asked questions — Yokohama → Hakone
For most travellers, the train is the most balanced option, offering a good mix of speed and convenience. You'll typically take a JR line from Yokohama to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway. While a direct bus is cheaper, it can be slower and less frequent, making the train a more reliable choice for accessing Hakone's core attractions.
A train ticket from Yokohama to Hakone, involving a transfer at Odawara, typically costs around €12. If you opt for the bus, the fare is generally lower, around €4, making it the more budget-friendly choice. Remember that these are point-to-point prices and a Hakone Free Pass might save you more if you plan extensive local travel within Hakone itself.
The train journey from Yokohama to Hakone, including transfers, typically takes around 0 hour, depending on the specific connections. The bus can take slightly longer, usually about 1 hour. These times represent the travel duration itself, not including potential waiting times or transfers between different train or bus lines at junction stations.
The Japan Rail Pass covers the JR portion of your journey, typically from Yokohama to Odawara. However, the Hakone Tozan Railway, which connects Odawara to Hakone, is a private line and is NOT covered by the JR Pass. You'll need to purchase a separate ticket for this final leg, or use a Hakone Free Pass if you have one.
✨ 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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