Hakone Pirate Ship (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Hakone Pirate Ship is a sightseeing boat that tours Lake Ashi, featuring a unique hull resembling a sailing ship. It is a popular attraction for families, couples, and foreign tourists, as it allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hakone Checkpoint from the Edo period and Lake Ashi from a pirate ship-like setting. On clear days, you can sometimes see Mount Fuji from the deck of the boat, and the contrast with the lakeside shrines and mountains makes for a photogenic sight.

Highlights

• View from the deck: The mountain ranges beyond Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji on a clear day are major highlights. You can take photos while feeling the breeze.
• Scenery around Hakone Shrine (Kuzuryu Shrine): Near Motohakone and Hakonemachi Port, you can see the lakeside torii gate and shrine grove nearby.
• Interior and exterior design of the ship: The sailing ship-like exterior, the atmosphere on deck, and the onboard announcements and guidance enhance the sightseeing experience.
• Seasonal attractions: The scenery changes with the seasons, with the fresh greenery of spring, the greenery of early summer, the colorful leaves of autumn, and the clear air and views of Mt. Fuji in winter.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest major stations: Odawara Station and Hakone-Yumoto Station (both are access points).
• From Hakone-Yumoto: Take the Hakone Tozan Bus or Hakone Tozan Railway, then transfer to a bus bound for Motohakone or Hakone-machi to the port (travel time varies depending on the route).
• From Odawara: Take the JR line and transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway or bus. There are also buses from Odawara to Hakone-machi.
• This route connects Togendai (the terminus of the Hakone Ropeway) with Hakone-machi Port and Motohakone Port. You can travel around the area by connecting with the ropeway or bus.
• By car: Parking is available at each port, but it can get crowded on weekends and during peak seasons. We recommend using public transportation.
• Free passes: Sightseeing passes such as Odakyu's "Hakone Free Pass" may include access to the pirate ship or discounts (please check at the time of purchase).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Sightseeing boat ride: It depends on the section, but it takes about 25 to 40 minutes one way.
• Stroll around the port area: Add an additional 30 minutes to an hour if you want to visit shrines and souvenir shops in Motohakone and Hakone Town.
• Overall guideline for sightseeing: If you just want to take a boat ride and stroll around the area, it will take 1-2 hours. If you want to combine this with more serious sightseeing in the area (visiting shrines, museums, cafes, etc.), you should allow half a day to a full day.

Nearby spots

• Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine (near Motohakone): Famous for their lakeside torii gates and approach to the shrine.
• Hakone Checkpoint Museum: Historical sites and exhibits related to the checkpoint from the Edo period.
• Hakone Ropeway (Togendai to Owakudani): Enjoy the views of Owakudani, the sulfurous landscape, and volcanic activity.
• Art and cultural facilities such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Pola Museum of Art (accessible by car or bus).
• Sengokuhara's Susuki Grass Field (Autumn): The scenery of Susuki grass is famous in autumn.
• Hot springs around Gora Onsen and Kowakien: We recommend relaxing in the hot springs after sightseeing.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Busy periods: Weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and the New Year holidays are particularly busy. Please allow plenty of time when traveling as you may have to queue for tickets or wait for the next ferry due to it being fully booked.
• Weather: Flights may be delayed or canceled due to wind, waves, or bad weather. Please check the flight information in advance, especially in the event of strong winds or stormy weather. There are days when Mount Fuji cannot be seen, even on clear days.
• Protection from the cold and wind: The wind is strong on the lake and the temperature feels low, so it's best to bring a jacket regardless of the season. Even in summer, it can get chilly in the evenings.
• Manners when crowded: Please be considerate of other guests by reserving a spot on the deck or occupying it for a long period of time, as this can be a nuisance to other guests. Please also observe basic manners such as taking your trash with you and not making noise.
• Traveling with small children: Please keep an eye on them as the railings on the deck may be low in some places.
• Tickets and fares: Fares vary depending on the route and section. Purchase early during peak times to secure a seat. Check in advance whether tourist passes are applicable.

(Additional Information) Please check the official website or local information before departure for the latest flight schedules, fares, and cancellation information.