The basics for getting to Hakone for the first time (check each operator's official site for current times and fares).
See Hakone private-onsen ryokan →By train
The Odakyu Line runs from Shinjuku, and the limited-express Romancecar gets you to the Hakone-Yumoto area without changing trains. From Yumoto, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway or a bus to go further.
By car, and traveling with a dog
The Tomei Expressway is a convenient route by car. Train travel can be harder with a dog, and driving makes it easier to stop at multiple spots along the way.
Ship your luggage ahead to travel light
If you're going by train, having your bags delivered to your ryokan the same day or the day before lets you handle the slopes and transfers without heavy luggage. You can arrange this through your ryokan's front desk or a convenience store courier service.
Does the Hakone Freepass pay for itself?
As a rough guide, the Freepass costs ¥7,100 for a 2-day pass from Shinjuku, or ¥6,000 for a 2-day pass from Odawara (within the Hakone area) (revised October 2025). If you're doing a full loop using the mountain railway, cable car, ropeway, Lake Ashinoko cruise, and buses, buying individual tickets often adds up to more than ¥8,000 — so the Freepass tends to pay off. On the other hand, if you're only using a small part of the network, such as a round trip to Lake Ashinoko (around ¥5,000 in individual fares), the Freepass can end up costing more. It also gets you discounted admission at around 70 attractions.
Paying with an IC card or credit card
Many Odakyu Line trains and buses accept IC transit cards like Suica and PASMO, as well as major credit cards, though some situations still require cash to top up an IC card. The Freepass itself can be bought with a credit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.) at the Odakyu Travel Center in Shinjuku and similar counters. Visitors to Japan also have access to IC cards designed for short stays, such as Welcome Suica and Tourist Pasmo.
Courier costs and timing
Same-day luggage delivery typically runs about ¥2,500–3,000 per piece (varies by size and distance). Drop your bags off by the morning of the day before at your ryokan, a convenience store, or a station counter, and they'll usually arrive at your next destination the following day. Arranging it the day before, rather than rushing on the morning of, is the safer bet.
Check accessibility in advance
Hakone has a lot of slopes, and older ryokan can have plenty of stairs with no elevator. If you have mobility concerns or are traveling with young children, it's worth confirming step-free access and elevators before booking.
Book early during busy seasons
Popular seasons like spring, autumn, and long holiday weekends fill up months in advance. Even if a ryokan is fully booked, pressing the bell (🔔) on Aitayo means you'll get a LINE alert the moment a cancellation opens up (see catching last-minute cancellations).
FAQ
Where is Hakone's gateway?
Hakone-Yumoto Station. You can reach it from Shinjuku via the Odakyu Line and Romancecar.
Is it better to travel with a dog by train or car?
A car is often more comfortable for traveling with a dog, both for the journey itself and for getting around to different spots.
Does the Hakone Freepass pay for itself?
If you're doing a full loop with the mountain railway, ropeway, cruise, and buses, individual fares often add up to more than ¥8,000, so the Freepass (2-day pass from ¥7,100) tends to pay off. If you're only using part of the network, such as a round trip to Lake Ashinoko, it may not.
Can I buy the Freepass with a credit card?
Yes, at counters like the Odakyu Travel Center in Shinjuku. Note that topping up an IC card sometimes requires cash.
Can I store luggage or have it sent to my ryokan from Hakone-Yumoto Station?
Hakone-Yumoto Station has coin lockers and a staffed baggage counter, and also handles the Hakone Carry Service, which can deliver your bags to your ryokan the same day. There's a cutoff time for drop-off, so check the current details on-site.
Do Hakone ryokan and shops take cash or card?
Larger ryokan generally accept cards, but smaller ryokan and restaurants may be cash-only. You can withdraw cash at 7-Eleven or Japan Post Bank ATMs, so it's safest to carry both cash and a card.
Do I need to reserve a seat on the Romancecar?
Yes — the Romancecar is fully reserved seating, so you'll need a limited-express ticket in addition to your regular fare. You can buy one at a ticket window, machine, or online. Book early during busy periods.
Last updated: 2026-07-17 ・ Reservations are on Rakuten Travel (Japanese site).