Hakone is well-connected from Tokyo by train, making it easy to plan a stress-free day trip.
Below are the most common transportation options and tips for first-time visitors.
Is Hakone Worth Visiting on a Day Trip from Tokyo?
Why Hakone Is One of the Best Day Trips from Tokyo
Hakone is one of the most popular and well-balanced day trips from Tokyo — and for good reason.
In just 1.5 to 2 hours, you can escape the city and enjoy nature, scenic views, historic shrines, and hot springs all in one day.
Another big appeal of Hakone is its variety. Whether you prefer relaxing by a lake, walking through cedar forests, visiting photogenic shrines, or enjoying local food, Hakone offers something for every travel style.
How to Get to Hakone from Tokyo
By Train (Odakyu Line / Romance car)
The most common way to reach Hakone from Tokyo is via the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station.
- Odakyu Express: budget-friendly, about 2 hours
- Romancecar: more comfortable, reserved seating, about 90 minutes
The Romancecar is especially recommended if you want a smooth and stress-free start to your day trip.
Hakone Free Pass: Is It Worth It?
If you plan to visit multiple spots in Hakone, the Hakone Free Pass can be a great deal.
It covers unlimited rides on most local transportation, including trains, buses, ropeways, cable cars, and sightseeing boats.
For a 1-day trip, it’s worth it if you plan to move around a lot.
If you’re only visiting Hakone-Yumoto and one nearby area, buying individual tickets may be cheaper.
Travel Time & Cost Comparison
Hakone is surprisingly accessible compared to other popular day trips from Tokyo.
- Travel time: about 1.5–2 hours one way
- Budget range: ¥2,000–¥4,000 depending on train type and passes
This balance of short travel time + rich experiences is what makes Hakone such a strong choice.
Best Hakone 1-Day Itinerary from Tokyo
Lake Ashi / Ashinoko
Lake Ashi is one of Hakone’s most iconic sights, with beautiful views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
The calm water and surrounding mountains make it a perfect place to start your day.
Morning is the best time to visit for fewer crowds and clearer views.
Hakone Shrine – the iconic photospot & Hidden Spot
Hakone Shrine is famous for its torii gate standing in the water, but the shrine grounds themselves are just as beautiful. If you walk a little away from the main photo spot, you’ll find quiet paths and peaceful forest scenery.
Why morning is best:
- Fewer people
- Better lighting for photos
- A calmer, more spiritual atmosphere
Walk Through the Cedar Avenue (Old Tokaido Road)
The Old Tokaido Cedar Avenue is quiet, peaceful, and incredibly photogenic.
It’s a perfect place to slow down and enjoy a different side of Hakone.
Snacks & Cafe Stops in Hakone
- Bakery and Cafe – Lake Ashi
- Coffee Camp – Gora Area
- Watanabe Bakery – Miyanoshita
The details below.
Afternoon: Relax & Stroll Around Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street
Street Food on Hakone Yumoto Shopping Street
Hakone-Yumoto has a lively shopping street filled with small food stalls and souvenir shops. You’ll find Japanese sweets, fish cakes, and local specialties that are easy to enjoy while walking.
Souvenirs
This area is one of the best places in Hakone to buy souvenirs. From traditional sweets to Hakone-exclusive items, there’s plenty to choose from.
My most favorite souvenir is Onsen Manju from Nakajima Shoten.
Stroll by the River
Just behind the shopping street, there’s a peaceful riverside path. It’s a nice place to take a short walk and rest your feet before heading back to Tokyo.
Food & Cafe Recommendations in Hakone
Coffee Camp – Gora Area
Coffee Camp is a stylish cafe located just a few minutes from Gora Station.
The cafe is housed in a beautifully renovated building that used to be a JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperative) office.
We ordered:
- Matcha Latte
- Drip Coffee
- Crème Catalana
It’s a perfect stop for a relaxed coffee break between sightseeing spots.
Watanabe Bakery – Miyanoshita Area
Watanabe Bakery is a long-established local bakery famous for its anpan (sweet bread). They offer many varieties, including seasonal flavors, and everything is reasonably priced. Great for a quick snack or something to take away for later.
I highly recommend “Beef stew bread bowl” if you can dine-in.
Hakone-Yumoto Street Food
Hakone Tiramisu
Hakone Tiramisu has Tiramisu Soft served ice cream, which has a rich taste of mascarpone and espresso. They have They have Matcha tiramisu too, that I’d like to try next time!
Gelato Stella
Their gelato is beautiful and tasty with seasonal ingredients. We had pistachio and nut party (chestnut, almond, etc). You can also enjoy the pairing with alcohol there.
Bakery and Table with Hot Spring for Feet – Lake View
The deep fried Curry bread from “Bakery and Table” is great! This cafe is located in front of the Lake Ashi, so that you can have a great lake view.
There is terrace seats with foot bath. Honestly, I felt a bit disappointed with the foot bath, as it wasn’t very warm when I visited. Some people may enjoy it, but it didn’t meet my expectations.
Bring your own towel, or they also sell a small towel.
Things to Know Before Visiting Hakone
Best Time to Visit Hakone
Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Hakone, with comfortable weather and beautiful scenery.
On January 1st and 2nd, the famous Hakone Ekiden relay race takes place.
During this time, roads and transportation may be restricted, and crowds are heavy.
Crowds & Weekend Tips
Hakone can get crowded on weekends and holidays. Arriving early and avoiding peak lunch hours will make your experience much smoother.
What to Skip on a Day Trip
If you only have one day:
- Skip overly time-consuming attractions
- Avoid long restaurant wait times
- Focus on areas that are close together
Choosing fewer spots will help you enjoy Hakone more.
Can You Visit Hakone with Kids?
Yes, Hakone is family-friendly, but planning is important.
- Some areas are not stroller-friendly
- Choose stations with elevators
- Keep travel distances short
A relaxed route works best when traveling with kids.
Is Hakone Better as a Day Trip or Overnight Stay?
When You Should Stay Overnight
Consider staying overnight if:
- You want to enjoy hot springs
- You prefer slow travel
- You plan to visit multiple areas
Best Option for First-Time Visitors
For first-time visitors, a day trip from Tokyo is more than enough to experience Hakone’s highlights.
If you love it, you can always come back for a longer stay.
Best Day Trips from Tokyo
You can find more ideas here:
Hakone is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for travelers who want to experience nature, culture, and great food in a short amount of time. With easy access from the city, beautiful spots like Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, and plenty of cafes and street food, a Hakone day trip from Tokyo is both relaxing and rewarding.
Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or looking for a quick escape from Tokyo, this Hakone 1-day itinerary helps you make the most of your time without feeling rushed.
If you’re planning more short trips, be sure to check out other popular day trips from Tokyo to build the perfect Japan itinerary.
