Nestled in the foothills of Japan’s Mt. Fuji lies the enchanting town of Hakone, a destination worth exploring. With my carefully curated Hakone 2 Days itinerary and tips, you will certainly maximize your stay and leave no regrets at the end of your trip. For this trip, we bought Hakone Freepass so that we could explore and enjoy Hakone without worrying about travel fares and admission fees.
On day 1, head to the iconic Lake Ashi for a picturesque boat ride overlooking the Hakone Volcano. End your day with a soak in the therapeutic waters of Hakone’s famous hot springs.
On day 2, visit the Mishima skywalk where you can have a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji and experience a breathtaking 400-meter-long hanging bridge and considered the longest hanging bridge in Japan. End your day enjoying Hakone Kowakien Yunessun.
With stunning vistas and diverse attractions, Hakone remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Japan. So, what are you waiting for? Grab my Hakone 2 day itinerary now for free.
The Hakone Free Pass offered by Odakyu Railway is a cost-effective pass designed for exploring Hakone. It grants unlimited access to Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cable cars, and ropeways in the Hakone region, along with discounted entry to specific tourist attractions for either two or three consecutive days. Additionally, the pass optionally covers a discounted round trip from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station.
Hakone Freepass Price
| Departing station | Valid for 2 days | Valid for 3 days | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | child | Adult | child | |
| Shinjuku | 6,100 yen | 1,100 yen | 6,500 yen | 1,350 yen |
| Machida | 5,820 yen | 1,100 yen | 6,220 yen | 1,350 yen |
| Fujisawa | 6,050 yen | 1,100 yen | 6,450 yen | 1,350 yen |
| Odawara | 5,000 yen | 1,000 yen | 5,400 yen | 1,250 yen |
Where to buy Hakone Freepass?
- Go to the Odakyu lines vending machine.
- You can change the language to English in the upper right corner of the screen.
- Select the ticket button. -Select the Freepass button.
- Select HAKONE. -You can purchase 2-day or 3-day ticket.
- On the left side of the screen. Select how many tickets to buy.
- Pay via credit card or cash
Using the Hakone 2-day Freepass (a 3-day pass is also available), we took the Hakone Tozan Bus to Togendai from Odawara Station. The Hakone Freepass covers the Hakone Tozan Bus ride, show the pass to the driver when getting on and off the bus. We got off at the Ohiradai bus stop, the nearest bus stop from the hotel where we were staying.
This is the Ohiradai bus stop in front of Yamazaki convenience store, one minute walk from our hotel. Also a minute walk from here is the Ohiradai station. We were waiting for the bus to start our Hakone adventure. The bus ride is still covered by the Hakone Freepass.
Day 1 of Hakone 2 days Itinerary
Manten-no-Hoshi (満天の星)
We arrived at Odawara Station promptly at 7 am, proceeding to the bus stop en route to Manten-no-hoshi Hotel, where we temporarily left our luggage.
Fond memories of Ohiramachi in Tochiken, where I resided for three years in Japan, resurfaced as the landscape echoed familiar scenes of rivers and mountain vistas.
Hakone Shrine - Heiwa no Torii
Our journey to Hakone Shrine revealed the remarkable Japanese ingenuity in developing the city’s mountainous terrain. From transportation infrastructure to the culinary delights, every aspect consistently astounded me. Japan has undeniably set a lofty standard, meticulously orchestrating a city that, in its entirety, serves as a captivating tourist destination.
Lake Ashi
This is the view walking to the Hakone Shrine. The traditional Japanese gate at the entrance of the shrines called Torii, which is visible from here is the Heiwa no torii of Hakone Shrine.
Heiwa no Torii
Main Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine, founded in 757 CE, holds a significant spiritual role as the sanctuary for deities of the nearby mountains. During the Kamakura period, Minamoto no Yoritomo sought refuge there after a defeat, eventually establishing the Kamakura shogunate and fostering a tradition of pilgrimage among his successors.
The shrine’s influence continued into the Edo period, where it resisted the construction of a checkpoint, and today, its precincts include notable structures such as the main hall, an annex honoring a dragon deity, and the Heiwa no Torii, built in 1952 to commemorate the Treaty of San Francisco.
Hakone Checkpoint
Hakone Checkpoint Entrance Fee :
Adult: 500 Yen
Hakone Freepass: 400 Yen
After visiting the Hakone shrine, we took the bus back to Motohakone. We got off at Hakone Sekisho, an important site in the history of transportation in the Edo period.
This is a stone step going up to the “lookout area”.
Menbansho was the main room of the office where officials inspects travelers.
Use as a bedroom for Sekisho officials.
Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
After visiting the Hakone checkpoint, we headed to Hakone Machi-ko to experience the Hakone sightseeing cruise. You don’t need to pay if you purchase Hakone Freepass.
Hakone Sight Seeing Cruise Fare
One-way fare from Hakone Machi-ko Port to Togendai Port:
Adult : 1,200 yen
Student: 600 yen
Hakone Freepass: Free
Round trip fare from Motohakone Port
Adult : 2,200 yen
Student: 1,100 yen
Hakone Freepass: Free
The journey from Hakonemachi-ko port to Togendai port took just under 20 minutes. With some extra time on our hands, we opted to enjoy a quick, light snack as we boarded the ship. It provided the perfect opportunity to unwind, taking in the breathtaking scenery surrounding us.
Reflecting on the tranquil landscape, it was hard not to consider the tumultuous history this land had witnessed. In times past, chaos reigned, and the fervent desire for peace and freedom echoed through every heart. Today, we are fortunate to live in an era where peace is a precious commodity, unburdened by the constant fear of violence or the shackles of servitude.
Togendai Port
Upon arrival, we noticed that the port had a lot to offer so we decided to take a few walks and take some shots.
The park surrounding Togendai Station is a lovely and tranquil place to hang out because the trees have changed their colors and turned beautiful shades of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns.
Hakone Ropeway
From Togendai Port, we rode the Hakone Ropeway going to Owakudani. Travel time is roughly 30 minutes. Hakone Ropeway ride is free if you purchase Hakone Freepass.
Hakone Ropeway fare
Adult: 950-1550 yen (One-way)
Elementary student: 480-780 yen (one-way)
Hakone Freepass: Free
Owakudani
Owakudani stands out as one of Hakone’s renowned tourist destinations, drawing visitors with its volcanic allure. This geothermal valley offers an up-close encounter with vigorous volcanic activity, coupled with breathtaking scenic vistas. On clear days, the spectacle extends to include a stunning view of Mt. Fuji, adding an extra layer of awe to the experience.
Owakudani’s black egg landmark.
Owakudani is also famous for its black eggs. It is cooked in the hot springs of the volcanic valley. This hard-boiled eggs shells are blackened by sulfur from the Owakudani springs during cooking. It is said that eating this egg will add 5-7 years of your life.
Gokuraku Tea Shop
We ate lunch at Gokuraku Tea Shop and ordered cutlet curry for only 1,100 yen . The prices are cheap considering it a good spot to view Owakudani sulfur mountain. I recommend this restaurant to everyone.
Sounzan Station
Following our lunch, we returned to Owakudani station and boarded the ropeway bound for Sounzan Station. With some time to spare before embarking on the cable car journey to Gora Park, we stepped outside the station to relish the enchanting beauty of the natural surroundings.
Beside the railway going to Koen-Shimo Station is filled with colorful trees that add charm to the place, it is a must-visit for every tourist to see.
Shot from Koen-Kami Station
Koen-Shimo Station
We got off at Koen-Shimo Station, 1 stop before Gora Station. This is the nearest station for our next destination-Gora Park.
Gora Park
Hakone Gora Park is said to be the oldest French-style park in Japan. The entrance fee is 550 yen but free for Hakone Freepass holder.
This fountain is the heart of the park. I can see from here the boiling valley of Owakudani.
Gora Station
After relaxing at the Hakone Gora Park, we walked to Gora Station to take the train for our next destination.
Hakone Open-Air Museum
Situated a short stroll from Chokokunomori Station, the Hakone Open-Air Museum (箱根彫刻の森美術館, Hakone Chōkoku No Mori Bijutsukan) skillfully attains a seamless fusion of art and nature. The expansive grounds exhibit a diverse collection of sculptures, framed by picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Hakone Open-Air Museum Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is 1600 yen, but holders of the Hakone Freepass can enjoy a discounted rate of 1400 yen. I can’t show everything but here are some of my favorites.
Culpture la pleureuse
The weeping woman head in sculpture La pleureuse by Francois-Xavier and Claude Lalanne.
Picasso Pavilion
Picasso Pavilion-exclusively dedicated to exhibit artworks of the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso.
Woods of net
Inside this wooden dome is a giant hammock made of many colorful, interconnected hand-knit nets where you can climb, jump and play.
Symphonic Sculpture
When you say The Open-Air Museum, this is what I always imagine. It is a tower constructed throughout of stained glass formed from thick glass fragments that creates a beautiful structure once penetrated by light from the outside.
Miss Black Power
Miss Black Power by Nikki de Saint Phalle
Close III
Close III by Anthony Gormley
Manten-no-hoshi Private Onsen
Following an exhausting day, we indulged in a rejuvenating bath at our accommodation’s complimentary private onsen (hot spring). It proved to be the perfect remedy for replenishing our energy and ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
Day 2 of Hakone 2 days Itinerary
Mishima Skywalk
We started our day two by visiting Mishima Skywalk. Mishima skywalk is said to be the longest hanging bridge in the entire Japan. There are many fun activities here perfect for friends and family. We stayed for almost two hours here watching activities
Mori-no-athletics
Segway guide tour
Mt. Fuji
Perfect view of Mt. Fuji from Mishima Skywalk. Good thing the weather is good today and we had the chance to watch Mt. Fuji’s beauty.
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun: Themed Hot Spring
Here’s a 記念写真(kinen shashin) or a commemorative photo taken by the staff of Hakone Kowakien Yunessun as part of their welcome greetings.
The entrance fee at Yunessun is below, and Hakone Freepass holders are entitled to a 500 yen discount.
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Entrance Fee:
Swimwear area:
Adult: 2500 yen
free pass: 2000 yen
Mori no Yu area(no clothes area): 1500yen
Passport/all areas access: 3500yen
Swimwear area
We took advantage of the swimwear area, paying just 2000 yen thanks to our Hakone Freepass. Alternatively, you can opt for the “Mori no Yu area” at a rate of 1500 yen. For those seeking a combination of both experiences, the cost is 3500 yen.
Rodeo mountain water slides
Despite the chilly weather outdoors, I relished the Rodeo mountain water slides. The exhilarating slides made me forget the coldness of the surroundings, providing a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Yunessun Coffee
Yunessun Wine bath
Japanese sake bath
Outdoor hot spring
Summary
The Hakone Freepass allowed us to make the most of Hakone in a mere two days. This destination truly shines in favorable weather, offering the opportunity to embark on the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise and Ropeway, all while enjoying the splendid vista of Mount Fuji.
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