Hakone: Day Trips and Tours from Tokyo

A postcard-perfect paradise, Japan's Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, west of Tokyo, is home to the picturesque mountain town of Hakone. Famous for its hot springs resorts and sweeping views of Mount Fuji, Hakone has quickly become a popular Tokyo day trip destination.

Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ashi or enjoy a thrilling cable car ride up the mountainside in the Owakudani Valley — an active volcanic zone with natural hot springs, and bubbling mud pools.

Explore the tranquil Hakone Open-Air Museum with its colorful sculptures and beautiful gardens, or simply admire the majestic Hakone Shrine — its iconic red torii gate overlooks tranquil Lake Ashi, delivering a truly breathtaking sight.

Whether you're looking for adventure or some peaceful relaxation, Hakone has something to offer everyone! Hakone is one of the most popular destinations among Japanese and international tourists looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

So if you're after a welcomed change of pace, a Hakone day trip from Tokyo is definitely worth considering when you're visiting the nation's fast-paced capital.

Check out our detailed guide on Hakone, one of the most exciting day trips from Tokyo.

How to get to Hakone from Tokyo?

Nestled in the mountains of Japan's far west prefecture, Hakone is located on the east side of Hakone Pass and mostly falls within the boundaries of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, with Lake Ashi at its center.

Hakone is about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of Tokyo and about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the waters of Sagami Bay.

Tokyo to Hakone by car

Driving is one of the most convenient options to get to Hakone from Tokyo, it'll get you there between one and a half to two hours. It's usually recommended to take the Tomei Expressway from the capital city, as it is a toll road that offers a direct route to Hakone.

The highway runs along the coast of Tokyo Bay, around Mount Fuji, and through the mountains of Hakone.

Tokyo to Hakone by train/public transport

For those looking for a more economical way to get from Tokyo to Hakone, taking the train is a great option, not to mention the train system in Japan is particularly quick.

The Odakyu Romancecar train is one of the most popular modes of transportation and runs directly from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station or Shibuya Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The journey takes about an hour and costs about US$30.

Guided tour to Hakone from Tokyo

For the easiest and most enjoyable experience, book a guided tour of Hakone. This is the perfect option for travelers wanting to make the most of their time in Hakone.

These tours provide round-trip transportation and sometimes include tickets to attractions and a local lunch — all accompanied by an experienced guide that can offer informed insight into the area's history and culture.

What is the typical itinerary?

While every Hakone day trip from Tokyo differs depending on the tour operator, most itineraries follow a similar structure throughout the day. In the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Tokyo.

After meeting the tour guide and other participants, the journey begins with a scenic drive to Hakone, passing through the scenic Japanese countryside.

Once in Hakone, you'll usually be given the chance to go for a boat ride on the picturesque Lake Ashi, then stop by the Gotemba Premium Outlets for some retail therapy and souvenir shopping, before sitting down to a lunch of local fare at a restaurant in town.

After lunch, you'll likely continue exploring the area with anything from a hike through the national park to climbing up to the 5th station of Mount Fuji.

Finally, you'll get the chance to hop into a hot spring to unwind prior to a scenic drive back to Tokyo.

Throughout the day, you'll be accompanied by the tour guide, who will be there to assist with anything you need, from directions and ticketing to pointing out interesting points of interest.

What types of tours are available to go to Hakone?

Exploring stunning Hakone from Tokyo is a breeze with a day trip. All tours include round-trip transportation, entrance to diverse attractions and an experienced guide who will provide educational services throughout your journey. Read on for further details about the most popular options available.

Guided tours to Hakone from Tokyo

A guided tour is the most budget-friendly option and provides a stress-free way to explore the area. These tours usually include round-trip transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and sometimes even tickets for attractions like the Hakone Ropeway or a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi.

These tours are great for solo travelers who are looking to meet a few like-minded people on their day trip from Tokyo to Hakone.

Private tour to Hakone from Tokyo

Ideal for couples, families and small groups, private tours to Hakone from Tokyo are a great way to explore the picturesque town and its surrounds in a more intimate setting.

On this type of tour, you'll be chauffeured around in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle as your guide takes you through each location and its attractions, providing commentary along the way.

These tours generally are more expensive, however, you'll have more flexibility to tailor the itinerary according to your wishes and also get the full attention of your guide.

Day trip to Hakone plus Mount Fuji from Tokyo

For those wanting to see a bit more of the local Kanagawa and Shizuoka prefecture landcapes, you can also add a stop to Mount Fuji to your day trip to Hakone.

Not only do you get to see all the sights mentioned above, in and around Hakone, but you'll also get a chance to climb up to the 5th station of Mount Fuji — situated at 2,300 meters above sea level — to see one of the most photographed views in Japan!

Day tour to Hakone plus Owakudani from Tokyo

Another popular add-on to a day trip to Hakone is Owakudani, also found in the Kanagawa prefecture. Owakudani is a volcanic valley formed nearly 3,000 years ago from the last eruption of the Hakone Volcano — the modern result is a tourist-friendly destination full of sulfur hot springs that are both scenic and rejuvenating.

Take a scenic cable car overhead or soak in the springs at ground level — either way, you can expect a panoramic view of both Lake Ashinoko and Mount Fuji.

How much does a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo cost?

The price of a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo starts at around US$60 but varies according to the type of tour you choose, as well as the number of people in your group. Generally speaking, guided small-group tours start at around US$60 per person, and range all the way up to US$90. Day tours to Hakone plus Mount Fuji or Owakudani start at around US$90 and range up to US$140.

Private tours to Hakone from Tokyo are more expensive, and you are usually required to book a whole vehicle, which can then be divided by the number of people in your group. Total costs range from US$320 to US$840 for groups of 4 to 8.

What are the highlights in Hakone?

There are several key sights and activities to do in Hakone and the surrounding areas. Some of the highlights are listed below.

Soaking in a hot spring

There are many onsens (hot spring resorts) in the area, due to volcanic activity. Relaxing in a hot spring is not only a great way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing but also an essential part of the Hakone experience. Some of the more popular ones include Tenzan Onsen, Hakone Yuryo, and Tenseien Onsen.

Exploring nature at Lake Ashi

Spanning close to 7 square kilometers, Lake Ashi is the crown jewel of Hakone – an ideal location for cruises, hiking, or simply relaxing by the shore. One popular activity is to cruise around Lake Ashi on the iconic ‘pirate ship’ and take in views of Mount Fuji. You'll also find many shrines and temples dotted around the water.

Visiting Hakone Shrine

With its red torii gates, the famous Hakone Shrine, which dates back to the year 757, is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan and is considered a must-visit while you’re here. While the shrine itself is historically significant, most visitors flock for the Lake Ashi views it provides.

Taking a cable car to the top of Mount Komagatake

The Hakone Ropeway takes you up to an observation platform with panoramic views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. From an altitude of about 130 meters, it’s one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Hakone.

Climbing Mount Fuji

Given the proximity to Hakone, Mount Fuji is a common visit on a trip from Tokyo. You're able to climb all the way up to the 5th station of the mountain and find some incredible panoramic views of Japan.

When is the best time to visit Hakone?

Autumn is the most popular time to visit Hakone, as the changing colors of the trees create a beautiful backdrop to explore. Spring is also a great time in Hakone, with cherry blossoms blooming from late March onwards and temperatures warming up nicely by April.

Most attractions are open year-round, however, so there's always something to do if you need a break from Tokyo.

Are there any other day trips from Tokyo?

• Day trips to Nikko from Tokyo
• Kamakura day trips from Tokyo
• Lake Kawaguchi day tours from Tokyo
• Ashikaga day trips from Tokyo
• Day tours to Mount Takao from Tokyo

Travel tips

• Book your day trip to Hakone from Tokyo online and in advance. This ensures you get the best deals and can also skip any long queues.
• It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking throughout your tour (especially if climbing Mount Fuji).
• Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks when you take your adventure in Hakone.
• Finally, don't forget to bring a camera along to capture the amazing photo opportunities that Hakone offers!