Discover Hakone Mountain Railway: A Complete Guide for Tourists

A journey on the Hakone Mountain Railway, presented by an author who has been visiting Hakone for 10 years. The red carriages that crawl up steep slopes have been running since 1919, seemingly in dialogue with the mountains, always offering new discoveries.

While there are risks of crowding with tourists and service suspensions due to bad weather, that's why the view from an empty window on the first train of a clear weekday morning is especially magnificent. One of Japan's leading mountain railways, employing the unique switchback operation method, invites you to discover the profound charms of Hakone.

Hot springs, museums, and spectacular views in every season - in this article, I'll carefully guide you through the spots that foreign tourists should know about from the perspective of a Hakone expert, following the railway line.

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Table of Contents
・What is the Hakone Mountain Railway
・Hakone-Yumoto Area
・Gora Area
・Odawara Area
・Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hakone Mountain Railway

The Hakone Mountain Railway holds a special place among Japan's mountain railways. Riding this railway is not just a means of transportation; it's a journey that allows you to feel the history and nature of Hakone firsthand.

This tourist railway, which runs extensively through the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, connects Hakone-Yumoto Station to Gora Station. Since its opening in 1919, it has been loved for over 100 years as a means of transportation for tourists and locals alike. Known for adopting the switchback method as a mountain railway, its unique operation method is highly popular among railway enthusiasts.

From this railway that weaves through the mountains of Hakone, breathtaking views unfold. It shows different faces throughout the year - cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snow scenes in winter.

The red-bodied trains that stand out against the mountain slopes are themselves a tourist attraction. Along with the retro-atmosphere stations, they are popular photogenic subjects. Not only for railway enthusiasts but also for others, the journey on this railway will become an unforgettable memory.

With good access from Odawara, it's also ideal for day trips from Tokyo or Yokohama. For foreign tourists, it serves as a convenient means of transportation to efficiently tour Japan's mountainous regions.

Hakone-Yumoto Area

The Hakone-Yumoto area is a charming region known as the gateway to Hakone. Here, Japanese hot spring culture and traditional townscapes blend beautifully, making it a wonderful starting point for a Hakone trip.

Hakone-Yumoto Onsen is the centerpiece of this area. This hot spring area, boasting a long history, is known as one of Japan's finest ancient hot springs.

When I first visited here, I was amazed by the abundant hot water and its high quality. With numerous day-trip hot spring facilities scattered around, you can enjoy hot springs even during a short stay. There are also many traditional inns where you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

After soaking in the hot springs, I recommend strolling through the Hakone Ekimae Shopping Street. This shopping street is a lively place where locals and tourists mingle. At the Japanese confectionery shops, you can taste the local specialty "onsen manju" (hot spring steamed buns). Every time I visit, I find myself soothed by their gentle sweetness and aroma.

The appeal of the Hakone-Yumoto area also lies in its convenient location. Buses frequently run from here to major Hakone tourist spots like Lake Ashi and Owakudani. I often like to take an early morning bus to Lake Ashi and gaze at the misty lake surface.

Furthermore, around Hakone-Yumoto Station, convenient facilities such as tourist information centers and currency exchange machines are available. It's an environment where foreign tourists can start their journey with peace of mind.

Gora Area

The Gora area is a region where particularly attractive tourist spots are concentrated in Hakone. This area, spreading from Gora Station, the terminus of the mountain railway, is a place where nature, art, and hot springs harmonize beautifully. For me, it's a place that could be called the essence of Hakone.

Gora Park is one of the representative tourist spots in this area. Known as Japan's first French-style garden, this park is a beautiful space where flowers bloom in every season. I especially love the autumn foliage season, and strolling among the trees dyed red and yellow has become my annual pleasure.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-visit spot for art lovers. Works by world-famous artists like Picasso and Henry Moore are scattered throughout the vast grounds. The sculptures displayed as if melting into nature make the entire forest feel like one big museum. I remember when I first visited here, I was captivated by the fusion of art and nature and walked around the park for hours.

Gora Onsen is also one of the great attractions of this area. There are many hot springs with different qualities from Hakone-Yumoto, allowing you to enjoy various baths.

Moreover, the charm of Gora is its easy access to Owakudani and Lake Ashi area using cable cars and ropeways.

Odawara Area

The Odawara area is located even before Hakone-Yumoto Station, the starting point of the Hakone Mountain Railway. While strictly speaking it's not included in the Hakone area, it's a charming place well worth visiting before or after your Hakone trip. Personally, I always extend my trip to Odawara when visiting Hakone to enjoy its history and culture.

The biggest attraction of Odawara is undoubtedly Odawara Castle. This castle, which flourished as the headquarters of the Hojo clan during the Warring States period, is a must-see spot for history enthusiasts. Climbing to the castle keep, a spectacular view unfolds, overlooking the Hakone mountains and Sagami Bay.

The charm of the Odawara area also lies in its convenient access. It's only about 15 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto Station, making it a good option to remember for shopping or nightlife during your stay in Hakone. In fact, there are many restaurants around Odawara Station that stay open late, so you can enjoy an after-party in Odawara after dinner in Hakone.

Also, accommodation in Odawara is often relatively more affordable than in Hakone, making it an attractive option for those wanting to keep their budget in check. I often spend the first or last day of my Hakone trip in Odawara myself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Drawing from my experience, I'll answer some common questions that many people have when using the Hakone Mountain Railway.

Does the Hakone Mountain Railway operate year-round?

The Hakone Mountain Railway basically operates daily. However, there are some points to note unique to railways running through mountainous areas.

During heavy rain or typhoons, operations may be suspended for safety reasons. I once encountered a suspension due to an approaching typhoon. I recommend checking the operation status in advance if bad weather is expected.

Operations may also be suspended during heavy snow in winter. However, the snowy scenery in Hakone is exceptionally beautiful, so if operations resume the day after snow accumulation, you might be able to enjoy a wonderful view.

You can check the operation status in real-time on the official website of the Hakone Mountain Railway. I recommend checking it before your trip and on the morning of your travel day.

Website: https://www.hakonenavi.jp/transportation/

How do I purchase tickets?

Tickets can be easily purchased from ticket vending machines at each station.

My recommendation is the "Hakone Free Pass." This is a cost-effective ticket that allows unlimited rides on various transportation in the Hakone area. It can be used not only for the Hakone Mountain Railway but also for ropeways and buses, making it ideal for those who want to efficiently tour Hakone.

This free pass can also be purchased at the Odakyu Line counter in Shinjuku, which is very convenient for those heading directly to Hakone from Tokyo.

Website: https://www.hakonenavi.jp/international/en/discount_passes/free_pass

Is photography allowed inside the train?

Generally, photography from inside the train is allowed. In fact, there are many scenic spots visible from the train windows that make you want to snap a photo. I always take photos of the autumn foliage from the train window every fall.

However, there are a few points to keep in mind. It's better to refrain from using flash or tripods. Especially during crowded times, consideration for other passengers is necessary. Also, it's strictly prohibited to enter platforms or tracks for photography. Let's enjoy taking photos safely while observing manners.

When is the best season to visit?

Hakone is beautiful in every season, each with its own charm, but I'll introduce some particularly recommended times.

The autumn foliage season (late October to mid-November) is breathtakingly beautiful, with the mountains dyed in red and yellow. The view of the autumn leaves from the train window is exceptional, and I visit every year during this time.

The cherry blossom season (late March to early April) is also wonderful. The cherry blossom-lined streets in Hakone-Yumoto and Gora match the hot spring town atmosphere, creating a scenic view.

The fresh greenery season (May) is beautiful with vivid greens that are soothing to the eyes, and you can feel a cool breeze.

On clear winter days, Mt. Fuji is clearly visible thanks to the crisp air. The sight of Mt. Fuji covered in snow is truly spectacular.

In summer, Hakone is relatively cool due to its elevation, making it popular as a summer retreat. However, be aware that it gets very crowded during the "Obon" holiday in August.

Personally, I recommend the autumn foliage season. However, as this time is also popular with tourists, I think it's best to visit on weekdays.

Is it possible to use a wheelchair?

The Hakone Mountain Railway is putting effort into becoming barrier-free. Major stations are equipped with elevators and ramps, making wheelchair use possible.

Also, boarding and alighting assistance services by station staff are well-developed. When I took my grandmother in a wheelchair, the station staff were very kind and helpful, which was a great relief.

I recommend consulting with the station staff before entering the ticket gates.

The Hakone Mountain Railway is not just a means of transportation. It's a moving tourist attraction where you can experience the nature, history, and culture of Hakone. The beautiful scenery changing with the seasons, retro carriages, and the unique atmosphere of a hot spring town will make your journey special.

The reason I've been visiting for 10 years is that there are new discoveries every time. The scenery that changes with seasons, time of day, and weather conditions gives fresh excitement no matter when you visit.

I hope the information introduced in this article will be helpful in planning your Hakone trip. Ride the Hakone Mountain Railway and fully enjoy the charm of Japan's mountain resort!