TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Hakone Tozan Railway is a mountain railway that runs through Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is characterized by its ability to overcome Hakone's steep gradients with switchbacks (backing up) and curves as it ascends in altitude. Its history dates back to the Taisho and Showa periods, and it has long been a popular route connecting the tourist destinations of Hakone. Along the tracks, there are a series of natural attractions, such as valleys, hydrangea colonies, and autumn leaves that change with the seasons, and the railway's appeal lies in being able to enjoy the mountain scenery up close.
Highlights
- Switchbacks and steep gradients: This is a unique operation method of the Hakone Tozan Railway, and you can see the unique sight of the train backing up the hill.
- Scenery from the train window: You can see the valley, the Yuzaka Road Forest, and seasonal flowers and autumn leaves up close. The hydrangeas in the rainy season and the autumn leaves are especially popular.
- Historic station buildings: You can also enjoy strolling through the hot spring towns around charming stations such as Hakone-Yumoto Station and Miyanoshita.
- Starting point for transit sightseeing: Transfer to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car at Gora, and you can access Owakudani (ropeway) and Lake Ashi.
- Photo spots: There are many photogenic spots scattered throughout the trail, including sections overlooking waterfalls and streams, switchback curves, and old iron bridges.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Main stations: Hakone-Yumoto Station and Gora Station. The line runs through Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto to Gora.
- From Tokyo: Take the Odakyu Romancecar directly from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto Station (approximately 85-90 minutes, depending on the service). As Romancecars require reserved seats, we recommend making a reservation in advance during peak periods.
- By JR: Take the JR Tokaido Line or Shinkansen from JR Shinjuku or Tokyo to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway at Odawara (Odawara → Hakone-Yumoto: approximately 15 minutes).
- Car/Express Bus: There are many express buses bound for Hakone (from Shinjuku, Yokohama, Haneda, etc.). Parking is available around Hakone-Yumoto. However, be aware of traffic jams during the tourist season.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Round-trip train ride only: Approximately 35-40 minutes one way from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, and approximately 1-1.5 hours round trip (not including waiting time).
- Enjoy the scenery from the train and get off along the way to explore: about half a day (3-4 hours). If you want to visit Miyanoshita, Gora, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, etc., you'll have plenty of time to plan for a full day (half a day to a full day).
- If you use this as a base for sightseeing in Hakone in combination with other facilities: 1 to 2 days (a generous amount if you include an overnight stay at the hot springs).
Nearby spots
- Hakone Yumoto Onsen Town: The entrance area is home to souvenir shops, foot baths, and restaurants.
- Miyanoshita: Dotted with historic hotels, cafes, and hot spring inns.
- The Hakone Open-Air Museum (near Gora): A popular spot where outdoor sculptures and nature come together.
- Gora Park: A park where you can enjoy gardens and greenhouses.
- Owakudani-Hakone Ropeway: Accessible by cable car and ropeway from Gora, famous for its geothermal energy and black eggs.
- Lake Ashi (Hakone Checkpoint and Pleasure Boat): Take a pirate ship tour and stroll along the lakeside.
- Odawara Castle (around Odawara Station): Enjoy a historical stroll along the way.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The trains are extremely crowded on weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and during the autumn foliage season (around November). To ensure a seat, we recommend arriving early and reserving a reserved seat on the Romancecar.
- Train congestion and carriage size: The mountain sections of the Hakone Tozan Railway have many small carriages, so when it gets crowded, like a commuter train, you may have to stand. Please be considerate of other passengers when carrying large luggage.
- Possibility of service suspension or delay: Service suspension or delay may occur due to bad weather (heavy rain, typhoons, snow) or falling rocks. Please check the service information in advance, especially during heavy rain during the rainy season and typhoon season.
- Prepare for the weather and natural conditions: As this is a mountainous area, the weather can change quickly. Bring a jacket and rain gear. In winter, it can get very cold and the roads can freeze, so we recommend wearing warm clothes and non-slip shoes.
- Manners: Avoid shouting, littering, or cutting in line at stations or on trains. When taking photos, please do so without disturbing others, and please be mindful of safety by staying within the white lines on station platforms.
- Transfer times to tourist facilities: Check the connection times for cable cars, ropeways, and buses. Connections may be delayed, especially during peak hours, so make sure you leave plenty of time in your schedule.
The Hakone Tozan Railway is a line where travel itself is a form of sightseeing. Plan a relaxing trip to Hakone, combining seasonal scenery with a stroll through the hot spring town around the historic station.
