Practical Tips & Hacks: Hakone

Money-Saving Strategies

The Odakyu Hakone Free Pass is the single best money-saving tool for Hakone. It covers major transportation modes within the region (trains, buses, ropeway, pirate ship) and offers discounts on admission to many attractions. Purchasing the pass is more economical than individual tickets for the Hakone Round Course.

Pass Benefits

Odakyu Hakone Free Pass for comprehensive transport and attraction discounts.
Covers trains, buses, ropeway, and pirate ship.
Discounts on museum and park entries.
Better value than separate tickets for the full loop.

Free Activities

Hakone Shrine (excluding specific prayer services).
Walking sections of the Old Tokaido Road.
Viewing Lake Ashi from its shores.
Mount Fuji views from designated points.

Dining Deals

Happy hour deals are uncommon in Hakone.
Seek lunch sets (Teishoku) at local restaurants.
Lunch sets offer complete, good-value meals.
Better value than à la carte or dinner options.

Transportation Savings

Strictly use routes covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
Avoid expensive taxis for long distances.
Walk for shorter distances when feasible.
Public transport is the budget-friendly choice.

Accommodation Alternatives

For budget travel, consider guesthouses or hostels instead of traditional ryokan or full-service hotels.

Budget Stays

Guesthouses and hostels suit tighter budgets.
Often feature shared facilities.
Opportunity to cook own meals for savings.
Alternative to traditional ryokan.

Practical Tips

Check for online coupons or local tourist office flyers for discounts.
Many attractions offer student or senior discounts, bring relevant ID.
Look for bundled tickets that combine transport and attraction entry.
Off-peak season travel often yields lower prices on accommodation and flights.

Smart Choices

Consider local supermarkets for snacks and drinks over convenience stores.
Refillable water bottles reduce plastic waste and save money.
Utilize free Wi-Fi spots to minimize mobile data costs.
Participate in free walking tours if available in specific areas.

Cultural Experiences

Free local festivals (matsuri) offer deep cultural insight.
Visiting local markets for fresh produce and local specialties.
Enjoying public parks and scenic viewpoints.
Observing daily life in local neighborhoods.

Checking Ropeway/Owakudani Status

Always check official advisories for Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani volcanic activity or weather closures. Avoid disappointment by verifying operational status before heading there.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficiency in travel allows more sightseeing and less waiting.

Smart Pass Purchases

Purchasing the Hakone Free Pass in advance, e.g., at Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, saves time at Hakone-Yumoto Station, allowing seamless boarding of your first mode of transport.

Strategic Timing

Visit iconic spots like Hakone Shrine and Owakudani early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) to avoid peak crowds. Weekends and Japanese public holidays are the busiest; visit on weekdays.

Express Travel

The Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku is the fastest, most direct way to Hakone-Yumoto. Within Hakone, the 'Hakone Round Course' moves travelers efficiently between different transport modes.

Efficient Movement and Planning

Routing Suggestions

Follow the Hakone Round Course loop (clockwise or counter-clockwise).
Optimize travel between attractions.
Reduce unnecessary backtracking.

Booking Recommendations

Book accommodation and Odakyu Romancecar train tickets early.
Especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage, national holidays).
Secures preferred options and reduces last-minute stress.

Public Transport Etiquette

Maintaining quiet on public transport is a local social norm. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls to respect other passengers.

Practical Tips & Hacks