The Ultimate Hakone One Day Itinerary: Discover Top Things to Do in Hakone Japan

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Hakone is a destination I had heard so much about before my trip to Japan. Located just an hour away from Tokyo. Hakone seemed like the perfect spot for escaping the fast-paced city life. My goal was simple: to see the iconic Mount Fuji, explore Hakone’s attractions, and relax in it’s famous hot springs.

If you’re planning a Hakone day trip from Tokyo and wondering what to do in Hakone Japan. Or looking for a Hakone 1 day itinerary, this guide is for you. Hakone has something for everyone, from cultural landmarks like the Hakone Shrine to breathtaking experiences like the Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi cruise.

In this blog, I’ll share:

Things to do in Hakone Japan that you shouldn’t miss.
Tips on when to visit and how to get there, especially if you’re coming from Tokyo.
A step-by-step Hakone one day itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, Hakone is an experience you’ll never forget. Let’s dive in!

Visit Hakone Travel Sites For More Information.

How to Get to Hakone (From My Experience)

Getting to Hakone from Tokyo is simple and convenient. Making it a top choice for a day trip. I opted for public transportation, which was not only affordable but also stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know:

The Train Journey from Tokyo to Hakone

I took the train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto, which is the main gateway to Hakone. I highly recommend getting the Hakone Free Pass for this trip. The pass lets you take buses, trains, the Hakone Ropeway, the Lake Ashi pirate ship tour, and more. It also covers your round-trip fare from Shinjuku.

Why Use the Hakone Free Pass?

It saves money if you plan to visit multiple Hakone attractions.
It simplifies your travel since everything is included in one ticket.
Costs: ¥5,000 for a 2-day pass from Shinjuku or ¥4,000 if you’re starting from Odawara Station.

Pro Tip: Sit on the right side of the train if it’s a clear day for a chance to see Mount Fuji during your ride.

Should You Drive to Hakone?

While driving is an option, public transport in Hakone is so efficient that you really don’t need a car. Buses, trains, and cable cars connect all the top things to do in Hakone, so getting around is hassle-free. Plus, you’ll avoid the stress of navigating mountain roads or finding parking.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Get the free pass for Hakone One Day
The 1-day Hakone Free Pass is a must if you’re only there for a short time. It covers important sights like Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine. You can also ride buses, trains, and even the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi as much as you want. This pass gives you access to the best of Hakone in one package.

Everything Depends on When
Get up early! If you get up early, you can beat the crowds and make the most of your time. Most sites open around 9 AM. Also, the most peaceful views are in the early morning, especially at well-known spots like Hakone Shrine and the Torii Gate.

Best Place to Start
Are you from Tokyo? The best place to start your trip is at Shinjuku Station. It’s a short, beautiful ride to Hakone-Yumoto Station from there, where you can start your day of exploring.

Best Time to Visit Hakone

Hakone is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own unique charm. When planning your trip, it’s essential to consider what you want to see and do. Here’s what I learned during my visit:

Seasonal Highlights from My Experience

I went to Hakone in December, and it was simply amazing. The crisp winter air enhanced the vistas of Mount Fuji, and bathing in an onsen (hot spring) seemed especially cosy given the cold weather.

Here’s what to expect in different seasons:

Spring (March-May): Hakone turns into a cherry blossom wonderland surrounding Lake Ashi, resulting in postcard-perfect scenery. It’s the best time to come if you enjoy bright colours and pleasant weather.

Summer (June-August): Escape Tokyo’s heat and enjoy cooler mountain weather. Hakone’s rich foliage makes it a pleasant hideaway, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Autumn (October-November): The mountains come alive with blazing red, orange, and yellow foliage, making it one of the most picturesque seasons to visit. If you love autumn colours, this is the season for you!

Winter (December-February): With bright sky and snow-capped peaks, winter is the greatest time to observe Mount Fuji in its full beauty. Furthermore, it is less congested, resulting in a more tranquil and serene atmosphere.

Best Time to See Hakone Torii Gate

I got there right after sunrise, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful moments of my trip. The water was so calm, and there were no crowds around. Mount Fuji looked absolutely majestic in the background—what an unforgettable sight!

Here’s a helpful tip:

Try to get there early in the morning or swing by during the week to dodge the crowds and have a more peaceful time.
For photographers, sunrise is the perfect time! Now’s a great time to snap some amazing photos of the Torii Gate and its lovely reflection in the lake.

My One Day Hakone Itinerary

With so many amazing things to see and do in Hakone, making a one-day plan might seem impossible. But if you plan ahead, you can easily fit in all the best things to do in Hakone without feeling rushed. To make the most of every moment, here’s how I planned my day:

Morning: Start Your Day with Stunning Views

Hakone Ropeway (9:00 AM)

The Hakone Ropeway, one of the most famous things to do in Hakone, was the first thing I did that day. From the cable car, you can see Mount Fuji and the volcanic scenery around it in a way that is truly stunning. It’s the best way to enjoy the beautiful scenery because the ride is smooth and the windows open all the way.

The price of a one-way ticket is ¥1,500 (check for changes).
It takes about 25 minutes to go on the whole ride.
The store is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but this can change, especially in the winter.
Tip: The ropeway only works when the weather is good, so check the weather report before you go to make sure the skies are clear. This will give you the best chance of getting a great view of Mount Fuji!

Highlight: The best part is going over Owakudani, where steam vents rise sharply from the ground. This is one of the most memorable sights in Hakone.
Tip: To dodge crowds, go early or during the week. If you go in the winter, you might get a rare view of Mount Fuji with snow on top of it.

Owakudani (9:30 AM)

After taking the Hakone Ropeway, I went to Owakudani, which is one of the most interesting volcanic places in Hakone. The air in Owakudani is full of sulphur, and the hot springs are known to bubble and bubble. It feels like you’re breathing in another world. I was walking around in a strange place because there were steam leaks rising from the ground all around me.

The famous kuro-tamago (black eggs) that are cooked in the hot volcanic water are one of the best things to see here. There is a story that eating one of these eggs will make you live seven years longer, so I had to try two! With their dark shells, the eggs taste different and are a must-try snack while you’re there.

A helpful hint is to check the weather before you go to the Owakudani area because it can be very misty there in the morning. When the sky is clear, you can see Mount Fuji better and have a more fun time.

Best Spot

The observation platform in Owakudani offers the greatest panoramic views of Mount Fuji, particularly on clear days. This vantage point offers a breathtaking perspective of the mountain soaring over the surrounding area. It’s a great photo opportunity, so bring your camera!

Time to Explore

Explore Owakudani in around 30-40 minutes. This is plenty time to go about, see the sites, and try the famed kuro-tamago. However, if you enjoy photography or want to explore the volcanic region at your leisure, you may want to stay a little longer.

Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise (10:30AM)

After touring Owakudani, I travelled to Togendai Station to take the legendary Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise. While the ship’s pirate motif may seem a touch touristic, the experience was well worth it. Cruising on the serene waters of Lake Ashi, with Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance, was a really amazing experience. The scenery was breathtaking, and the calm wind made the journey much more delightful.

Pro tip:
For the finest experience, choose a morning cruise. You’ll see less people and enjoy the mellow, golden light that’s ideal for photography. Furthermore, the tranquil waters at this time of day provide for spectacular, reflection-filled images of the Torii gate and Mount Fuji.

Afternoon: Dive into Culture and Art

Hakone Shrine (12:30 PM)

After my beautiful trip, I walked a short distance from Moto-Hakone Port to the peaceful Hakone Shrine, which is tucked away in a wooded area. Approaching the shrine is truly magical. Tall, old cedar trees line the road, making it feel peaceful and holy. After I got there, the beautiful Hakone Torii Gate stood out in the lake, surrounded by water. It was a famous sight that day.

Must-Do: Don’t forget to do what the locals do: make a wish and throw a coin into the shrine’s gift box. You get to know the local practices through this important experience.

Tip for Photographers: The Torii gate looks great with Mount Fuji in the background. Visit on a quiet day when the water is still, making the surface look like a mirror.

Hakone Open Air Museum (2:00 PM)

The Hakone Open Air Museum was my next stop. It is one of Japan’s most unique cultural gems, and the lines between art and nature are very blurry there. This outdoor museum is a dream for art and nature fans alike. It is set in the beautiful Hakone mountains. This place is truly unique because it displays an amazing collection of large statues that are perfectly blended into the lush environment, making harmony between the two.

Highlight: The Picasso Pavilion is the museum’s crown jewel. It holds a huge collection of more than 300 works by the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. From Picasso’s early sketches to his later, more abstract works, this building shows how his artistic genius changed over time in an interesting way. Not only are the works of art impressive, but the experience of watching them in this peaceful outdoor space is what makes it memorable.

How Long to Spend: Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the displays and the peaceful settings. You should take your time looking at the sculptures, going to the different rooms inside, and taking in the stunning views of the mountains. Please don’t forget to take a break in the museum’s café and enjoy the beautiful views.

Evening: Relax and Recharge

Tenzan Onsen (5:00 PM)

After a day of sightseeing, I went to Tenzan Onsen, which is one of Hakone’s most famous hot spring spas, to relax and soak in the baths. This onsen is in a quiet, wooded area that is great for getting away from the busyness of travel. It’s a quiet place to get away from it all and reconnect with yourself, surrounded by nature.

Tenzan Onsen is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience real Japanese hot spring culture. People can come during the day, and there are pools both inside and outside, each offering a unique experience. The natural setting of the outdoor baths lets you take a bath while taking in the fresh mountain air and peace and quiet. After a long day of walking, the mineral-rich waters are known to heal and soothe, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to go again.

As a helpful tip, always bring cash with you to smaller businesses like Tenzan because many places in Japan, especially those in more rural areas, do not accept credit cards. You only need to remember this small thing to make sure everything goes smoothly and without any stress.

Return to Tokyo (7:00 PM)
After a refreshing soak at Tenzan Onsen, I returned to Hakone-Yumoto Station to take the train back to Tokyo. The gorgeous train trip through Hakone’s verdant surroundings was the perfect way to wrap up a fantastic day of exploring. The breathtaking panoramas from the Hakone Ropeway and the peaceful retreat at the onsen were just a few of the unforgettable moments that I pondered as the sun dipped below the horizon. The ride back to Tokyo was tranquil, allowing me to savour the memories of a wonderful day spent in one of Japan’s most gorgeous places.

Things to Do in Hakone Japan

It’s impossible to list all of Hakone’s activities and sights because there are so many great ones. Hakone has everything you could want: beautiful nature, a lot of cultural activities, or just a place to relax. The best things to do in Hakone, Japan, are what I did all day:

Morning: Start with Scenic Views

Hakone Ropeway

I started my day with the Hakone Ropeway, which is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The cable car trip provided stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. But the genuine highlight was travelling over Owakudani, a volcanic zone where you can view scorching vents and gushing hot springs up close—a very unique experience!

Don’t Miss: While in Owakudani, taste the famed kuro-tamago (black eggs). According to legend, eating one extends your life by seven years—I had two just to be cautious!

Tip: Before taking the ropeway, check the forecast. Clear skies will reward you with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, so choose a sunny day for the greatest experience!

Lake Ashi and Pirate Ship Cruise

I travelled to Lake Ashi after the ropeway and boarded the famous pirate ship. It was far more enjoyable than I had anticipated! It was a picture-perfect experience to cruise over the placid lake with Mount Fuji towering over the horizon.

Insider Tip: Upgrade to the luxury cabin for a more tranquil journey. It provides unhindered views of Mount Fuji and the lake, as well as a more tranquil experience.

Best Time to Visit: I suggest visiting early in the morning for ideal picture conditions and less crowds. It’s the ideal time of year for gorgeous early light and beautiful skies!

Afternoon: Cultural and Artistic Highlights

Hakone Shrine

Walking through the calm woodland route to Hakone Shrine seemed like going back in time. The temple itself is calm and beautiful, but the true attraction is the renowned Hakone Torii Gate, which rises towering in the waters of Lake Ashi—a must-see.

Don’t Miss: Toss a penny into the shrine and make a wish—it’s a local practice that adds a touch of enchantment to the experience!

Photography Tip: For the ideal photo, position yourself so that you can get both the Torii gate and Mount Fuji in the backdrop, especially if the water is calm and you get that gorgeous reflection.

Hakone Open Air Museum

This museum totally amazed me. The mix of outdoor sculptures against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain vistas was a highlight of my vacation. One of the most remarkable portions was the Picasso Pavilion, which showcased a broad collection of his most famous paintings. It’s an ideal location for art and nature aficionados alike!

Cost: ¥1,600 per adult (or ¥1,400 with the Hakone Free Pass).
Time to Explore: I recommend allowing at least 1-2 hours to properly appreciate the displays. There is lots to see, so take your time!

Evening: Unwind in a Hot Spring

Relaxing in a Hakone Onsen

Tenzan Onsen was the perfect way to end my day. Being in a traditional setting and being close to nature made it a great place to relax after a day of travelling. The peaceful environment really helped me get back on track.

How come Tenzan Onsen?

The fact that it’s cheap, quiet, and open to day tourists makes it very useful if you’re not staying in Hakone overnight.

Tip: This is a great place to have a quick onsen experience if you’re only in town for the day. The hot springs are nice to enjoy even if you don’t plan to stay the night.

Why This Itinerary Works

It includes the most iconic Hakone attractions without feeling rushed.
Combines natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation.
Perfect for a Hakone day trip from Tokyo or a one-day tour.

Where to Stay in Hakone

Hakone offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, whether you’re planning an overnight stay or just stopping by for a day. From luxurious ryokans with breathtaking views to budget-friendly options near transportation hubs, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what I discovered during my visit:

My Recommendation: Gora Kadan

Stay at Gora Kadan

The ryokan Gora Kadan was where I stayed in Hakone. It is a very nice place that combines traditional Japanese kindness with modern ease. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views, this famous ryokan in the mountains was the perfect place to relax and rest. As soon as I got there, I felt like I had stepped into a peaceful oasis, far from the chaos of regular life.

Why I Chose It:

Panoramic Mountain Views: The ryokan is situated in a way that provides stunning views of Hakone’s natural beauty, making it a great place to relax and reconnect with nature.
Private Onsens: Lingering in my own private onsen in such a peaceful setting was the highlight of my trip. There is no better way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Exquisite Kaiseki Dining: The kaiseki meals that were given to me in my room were a journey through food. Each course was a work of art that showed off the best products from the area.

Pro Tip: Gora Kadan is a popular choice for people looking for luxury in Hakone, so make your ticket as soon as possible to make sure you get a spot. There are prices starting at about ¥50,000 per night, but believe me, it’s well worth it.

Other Great Options in Hakone

Budget-Friendly: Hakone Yuryo

Hakone Yuryo is a great choice if you want to stay in a beautiful and affordable ryokan. This warm ryokan is a peaceful place to stay with public hot spring baths. It’s great for people who want to experience traditional Japanese kindness without spending a lot of money.

Why I Feel This Way:

Excellent Location: It’s not far from Hakone-Yumoto Station, which makes it perfect for people who are travelling without a car and want to easily get there from Tokyo and see the nearby sights.
Hot Springs for Relaxation: The ryokan has public hot spring baths where you can soak in the mineral-rich water to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Great Value for Money: With prices starting at just ¥12,000 per night, it’s a great deal for travellers on a budget who still want to experience a real ryokan.

Tip: Book early during busy times, because Hakone can get crowded. This ryokan is a secret gem for people on a budget who want to enjoy nature and rest. The low price doesn’t mean a lack of comfort.

Mid-Range: Hanaori Hakone Ashinoko

Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori is a great choice for people who want the best of both traditional Japanese kindness and modern comforts. This ryokan on the shore of Lake Ashi has modern comforts and amazing views of the lake, making it hard to find a more peaceful and beautiful place to stay.

Why I Feel This Way:

Amazing Views: When you wake up, you can see Lake Ashi and the mountains around it in an amazing way. When it comes to seeing the beauty of nature, the ryokan is the best place to be, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Combining Modern Comforts with Traditional Touches: each room is tastefully decorated with tatami mats, futons, and other traditional ryokan furnishings. This makes it the perfect place for a cosy yet real stay.
Relaxation and health: Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori has hot spring baths and spa services, as well as beautiful natural surroundings, so you can fully relax.
Rates: Rooms start at ¥25,000 to ¥35,000 per night, which makes it a great mid-range choice that doesn’t skimp on comfort or experience.

Tip: To see the most beautiful views, book a room with a view of the lake. If you like quiet mornings by the water, it’s worth the extra money.

Mid-Range: Hanaori Hakone Ashinoko

Why I Feel This Way:

Amazing Views: When you wake up, you can see Lake Ashi and the mountains around it in an amazing way. When it comes to seeing the beauty of nature, the ryokan is the best place to be, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Combining Modern Comforts with Traditional Touches: each room is tastefully decorated with tatami mats, futons, and other traditional ryokan furnishings. This makes it the perfect place for a cosy yet real stay.
Relaxation and Health: Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori has hot spring baths and spa services, as well as beautiful natural surroundings, so you can fully relax.

Rates: Rooms start at ¥25,000 to ¥35,000 per night, which makes it a great mid-range choice that doesn’t skimp on comfort or experience.

Tip: To see the most beautiful views, book a room with a view of the lake. If you like quiet mornings by the water, it’s worth the extra money.

For Day Visitors

Visit an onsen during the day to enjoy the peace and quiet without staying the night.

Hakone’s onsens are great for relaxing, even if you’re not planning to stay the night. Keep reading for more information. You can enjoy a traditional onsen experience without having to book a room at many ryokans and bathhouses, like Tenzan Onsen, which is open to day guests.

Why Go:

Relaxation Without the Commitment: You don’t have to stay the night to enjoy the healing effects of mineral-rich hot springs in the great outdoors.
Authentic Onsen Experience: These places have the same peaceful atmosphere and traditional swimming practices as a full ryokan, so you can still fully experience Japan’s long history of bathing.
Great for travellers on a budget: Not having much time or money? Day trips to Hakone’s famous hot springs are a great way to enjoy them without having to pay more for overnight stays.
Cost: Depending on the building, entrance fees are generally between 1,000 and 2,000 yen per person. It’s a cheap way to enjoy the healing waters of Hakone’s best onsens.

What to Bring:

While some places let you rent blankets, it’s better to bring your own to save some cash and avoid any extra fees.
Bring flip-flops with you so you can walk around the onsen area.

Tip: If you want to save money and visit more than one onsen in a day, you might want to get a day pass, which is offered at some places.

Travel Tips for Hakone

Hakone is a popular destination for travelers, but a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are my top travel tips based on my visit to this beautiful area:

Be Prepared for Hakone Weather

Hakone’s weather can vary significantly depending on the season, so it’s essential to pack appropriately.

Winter (December–February): Mornings and evenings are chilly, but clear skies make it the best time to see Mount Fuji. Bring a warm jacket!
Spring (March–May): Expect mild weather, but carry an umbrella just in case—it can be rainy during cherry blossom season.
Autumn (October–November): Layers are your best friend as mornings are cool, but afternoons can be warm.
Summer (June–August): It’s cooler than Tokyo but still humid. Pack lightweight clothing.

Save Money with the Hakone Free Pass

The Hakone Free Pass is a must-have for anyone planning to visit multiple attractions in a day. It includes:

Unlimited rides on Hakone buses, trains, the Hakone Ropeway, the Lake Ashi pirate ship, and more.
Discounts at many attractions, including the Hakone Open Air Museum.
Costs: ¥4,600 for a 2-day pass from Shinjuku or ¥5,000 for a 1-day pass starting from Odawara.

Pro Tip: Plan your day around the pass to maximize its value. It’s available at major train stations and online.

Start Early and Avoid Crowds

Hakone is a popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early ensures you can visit the most popular Hakone attractions—like the Torii gate at Hakone Shrine or the Hakone Ropeway—before they get crowded.

Best Times:

Weekdays: Quieter than weekends.
Morning: Most attractions open around 9 AM, so plan to arrive at least by then.

Onsen Etiquette

If you’re visiting a hot spring, it’s essential to follow Japanese onsen etiquette:

Shower and wash thoroughly before entering the communal baths.
Tattoos may not be allowed in some onsens, so check ahead.
Bring your own towel, or rent one at the facility.

Is Hakone Worth Visiting Without a Car?

Absolutely! Public transportation in Hakone is efficient and connects all major attractions. Whether it’s the train to Hakone-Yumoto, the buses to Owakudani, or the pirate ship on Lake Ashi, you can easily navigate without a car.

Tip for Public Transport:

The Hakone Tozan Bus and Hakone Tozan Railway are your best friends for getting around. Use the Hakone Free Pass for unlimited rides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about planning a trip to Hakone, based on my experience and insights:

What Are the Best Things to Do in Hakone Japan?

Hakone has a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Here are the top highlights:

Hakone Ropeway: A must for incredible views of Mount Fuji and Owakudani.
Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise: A scenic and unique way to explore the lake.
Hakone Shrine: The iconic Torii gate in the water is a must-see.
Hakone Open Air Museum: A perfect mix of art and nature.
Onsens: Relax in natural hot springs like Tenzan Onsen or at a ryokan.

How Far Is Hakone from Tokyo?

Hakone is about 85 kilometers (53 miles) from Tokyo.

By Train: It takes approximately 1.5 hours from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station using the Odakyu Limited Express “Romancecar.”
By Car: Driving takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Is the Hakone Free Pass Worth It?

Yes! The Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended for those visiting multiple attractions in a day.

Covers round-trip train fare and unlimited access to buses, the ropeway, the cable car, and the pirate ship.
Includes discounts at popular spots like the Hakone Open Air Museum.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hakone?

It depends on your preferences:

Spring: Cherry blossoms around Lake Ashi.
Autumn: Vibrant fall foliage.
Winter: Clear skies and snow-capped Mount Fuji views.
Summer: Cooler temperatures than Tokyo, ideal for escaping the heat.

What Is the Best Place to See Mount Fuji in Hakone?

The top spots for stunning views of Mount Fuji include:

The Hakone Ropeway (on clear days).
Lake Ashi (especially from the pirate ship).
Owakudani’s observation deck.

Can You Visit Hakone in One Day?

Yes, Hakone is perfect for a day trip from Tokyo, especially if you plan your itinerary in advance.

A Hakone one day itinerary can include the ropeway, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and a relaxing onsen visit.