Hakone Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Comprehensive Planning Stages

Detailed preparation streamlines your trip, covering all things from bookings to local customs.

Planning Timeline

Follow this timeline for a stress-free travel experience.

1

-6 Months Prior

Major Bookings

Book international flights, particularly in high season.

Accommodation

Secure high-demand lodging like traditional ryokan.

Visa Application

Submit an application for your visa if required for Japan.

2

-2 Months Prior

Pass & Insurance

Purchase the Odakyu Hakone Free A pass or arrange pickup.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).

Attraction Research

Begin exploring specific attractions and dining options in Hakone.

3

-4 Weeks Prior

Confirmations

Make sure all bookings: flights, accommodation, and passes.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit when renting a car.

Financial Alerts

Notify your bank and inform your credit card companies of your trip.

Bookings & Research

Prior reservations and thorough research are important.

Required Reservations

International flights to NRT or HND.
Odakyu Romancecar seat reservation (recommended).
Popular ryokan (many months in advance).
Specific upscale restaurants might require reservations.

Home & Local Preparedness

Prepare your home and familiarize yourself with local context.

Home Preparation

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Hold mail or arrange for collection.
Notify trusted contacts of itinerary and emergency info.
Secure your home before departure.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Japanese etiquette, the Hakone Round Course, and typical weather.

Cultural Norms

Read up on Japanese manners for respectful interactions.
Understand bowing as a greeting.
Removing shoes indoors is a common practice.
Quiet on public transport is appreciated.

Hakone Transportation

Familiarize yourself with Hakone’s unique transport loop.
Understand the sequence of trains, buses, ropeway, and ship.
Plan your route to optimize sightseeing.
The Hakone Free Pass covers most local travel.

Weather & Packing

Check weather patterns for your travel dates.
Pack climate-appropriate clothing.
Consider layers for changing temperatures.
Bring good walking footwear for exploration.

Final Confirmation

Confirm all bookings and prepare necessary documents in the weeks leading up to your trip. This proactive approach minimizes last-last-minute stress.

Arrival Checklist

First steps upon arrival help you get oriented and begin your Hakone adventure smoothly.

Airport Procedures

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs at Narita or Haneda Airport.
2
Connectivity
Activate your tourist SIM card or pick up pre-booked pocket Wi-Fi.
3
Tourist Information
Locate tourist information at Hakone-Yumoto Station for maps and advice.

Getting Oriented

Currency Exchange
Exchange cash at the airport or withdraw Yen from 7-Eleven/Japan Post Bank ATMs. Consider an IC card (Suica/Pasmo) for wider Japan travel.
Transportation to Accommodation
From Tokyo, use the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto. From there, use local Hakone Free Pass transport to reach your lodging.
Packing Organization
Consider Eagle Creek for well-organized packing cubes.

Arrival Points

Airport Procedures

Efficiently clear immigration and customs.

Activate SIM or pick up Wi-Fi upon landing.

Hakone-Yumoto Orientation

Find the tourist information center for maps.

Get to know station layout, bus stops, and platforms.

Currency & IC Card

Exchange or withdraw Japanese Yen from Cash machines.

Consider an IC card for general purchases and wider travel.

Arrival Guidance

Upon arrival, remember to activate your mobile connectivity (SIM or pocket Wi-Fi) and search for the nearest tourist information center for initial guidance.