Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Togendai is a tourist hub located on the northeastern shore of Lake Ashi in Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture. It serves as both a departure and arrival point for Lake Ashi sightseeing boats and the terminus of the Hakone Ropeway (Sounzan - Owakudani - Togendai), and has developed as a key point connecting the "seaside" and "mountain side" of Hakone tourism. Its greatest attraction is the magnificent view of Lake Ashi and the Hakone outer rim mountains stretching out beyond, and on clear days, the spectacular view of Mount Fuji.
Historically, it was developed after Hakone tourism began in earnest during the Showa era, and it has attracted many tourists, including foreigners, as a departure and arrival point for sightseeing boats and ropeways. In recent years, with the renovation of facilities and the improvement of tourist services, it has taken on an increasingly important role as the starting and ending point for day trips.
Highlights
- Views of Lake Ashi: You can see the Hakone mountains and Mount Fuji across the lake. There are many great photo spots.
- Sightseeing boat (pirate ship): A sightseeing boat with a "pirate ship" style exterior is in operation. It connects Togendai, Motohakone, and Hakone-machi Port, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery from the lake.
- Hakone Ropeway's Togendai Station: Accessible via ropeway to Owakudani and Sounzan. The scenic views from the aerial stroll are a major attraction.
- Strolling area: There are lakeside walking paths, rest areas, souvenir shops, cafes, and more, making it a great place to relax.
- Seasonal scenery: Enjoy the ever-changing scenery of each season, including fresh greenery, autumn leaves, the crisp winter air, and Mount Fuji.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- The nearest train stations are Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway) or Odawara Station (JR, with direct service to Hakone Tozan Railway). However, there is no direct train line to Togendai; you will need to take a bus or ropeway from the station.
- Bus: Take a Hakone Tozan Bus or Izu Hakone Bus bound for "Togendai" from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Odawara Station, Gora Station, Hakone-machi Port, etc. The journey time varies depending on the departure point, but it is generally about 30-40 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto Station and about 40-50 minutes from Gora (this may vary depending on road conditions).
- Ropeway: Take the Hakone Ropeway via Sounzan Station and Owakudani to arrive at Togendai Station. The most common route is to transfer from Sounzan.
- By car: Take the Tomei Expressway and Odawara-Atsugi Road towards Hakone. There are parking lots around Togendai (may be full depending on the season and time of day). The roads tend to be congested during tourist season.
- Tourist Pass: The Hakone Free Pass (Odakyu) is convenient as it allows you to use major transportation options such as buses, ropeways, and sightseeing boats at discounted rates.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour (lakeside stroll and photography only)
- Standard: 1.5 to 3 hours (including boat ride or cable car ride and cafe break)
- Extended plan: Half a day to a full day (combined with nearby attractions such as Owakudani, Hakone Shrine, and art museums)
Nearby spots
- Owakudani: Famous for its geysers and black eggs (a few minutes away by ropeway). However, access may be restricted depending on volcanic activity.
- Hakone Shrine (Moto-Hakone): A historic shrine located on the shores of Lake Ashi. Accessible by sightseeing boat.
- Moto-Hakone/Hakone Checkpoint Ruins: A spot where you can feel the history of the Edo period.
- Pola Museum of Art and Hakone Open-Air Museum: A group of museums accessible by car or bus.
- Gora Onsen area: An area where hot spring inns, cafes, gardens, and other amenities are concentrated.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets especially crowded on weekends, public holidays, long weekends, and during spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (autumn leaves), and summer vacation periods. Waiting times for parking, sightseeing boats, and ropeways can be long, so we recommend arriving early.
- Volcanic Activity: Due to volcanic gases, the Owakudani area may experience ropeway service suspensions and access restrictions. Please check the Hakone Ropeway and Hakone Town Tourism Association's service information and warnings in advance.
- Weather and Visibility: Visibility of Mount Fuji depends on the weather. It is easier to see in the early morning on a clear day, while clouds tend to form in the afternoon.
- Clothing: The lakeside can be windy and cold, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket regardless of the season. In winter, take precautions against the cold.
- Manners: To protect the natural environment, please take your trash with you and refrain from smoking or making noise outside of designated areas. Please follow instructions and act safely on sightseeing boats and within facilities.
- Accessibility: Some stations and ferry terminals may have steps or be crowded, making movement difficult. Those using wheelchairs or strollers should contact the facility in advance for assistance.
Togendai is a convenient base for sightseeing around Lake Ashi, offering easy access to both lake and mountain scenery. If you have the time, be sure to plan a "tour" of Hakone's landscape by combining the ropeway and sightseeing boat.
