Hakone Tozan Railway – Complete Travel Guide for 2025
The Hakone Tozan Railway is Japan’s first mountain railway and remains one of the most scenic train routes in the country.
As a top Hakone sightseeing train, it is not only a means of transport but also a gateway to hot springs, art museums, and volcanic landscapes.
This Hakone Tozan Line travel guide provides detailed access information, key stations, travel tips, and practical advice for visitors planning their Hakone trip in 2025.
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Hakone Tozan Railway Overview
The Hakone Tozan Railway connects Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, covering 8.9 kilometers of mountainous terrain.
It is famous for its three switchbacks, allowing trains to climb an elevation of about 400 meters in less than 40 minutes.
Today, it serves both as a daily commuter line for locals and a sightseeing attraction for millions of travelers.
History of Hakone Tozan Line
The Hakone Tozan Line began as a tram service in 1919 and was later upgraded into Japan’s first full-scale mountain railway.
Inspired by European mountain railways, engineers adapted the switchback method to handle Hakone’s steep slopes.
Over a century later, it still operates on its original alignment, surviving wartime disruptions and multiple typhoon damages.
- 1919: Hakone-Yumoto to Gora section opened
- 1930s: Integration with Odakyu Line improved Tokyo access
- 2019: Centennial celebrations marked with refurbished rolling stock
Unique Features of the Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway is notable for engineering techniques rarely seen elsewhere in Japan.
Switchback maneuvers, sharp curves, and a rapid elevation gain create a distinctive travel experience.
Seasonal flowers and landscapes along the tracks add to its uniqueness.
- Switchbacks: Three points where the train reverses direction to climb
- Altitude gain: 96m at Hakone-Yumoto → 541m at Gora
- Rolling stock: 3000 and 3100 series trains with wide windows
- Scenery: Hydrangeas in June–July, red maples in autumn
Hakone Tozan Railway Access and Stations
Travelers typically start from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station and transfer at Odawara. Below is a guide to the main routes and the most important stations.
How to Reach Hakone Tozan Line from Tokyo
Visitors from central Tokyo have several options to reach Hakone-Yumoto, the starting point of the Hakone Tozan Line.
Travel time varies between 85 and 120 minutes depending on the train type. The following table outlines the main choices.
| Departure | Route | Transfer Point | Duration | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | Odakyu Limited Express “Romancecar” | Direct | 85 min | ¥2,470 |
| Shinjuku | Odakyu Local/Express | Odawara → Tozan Line | 120 min | ¥1,330 |
| Tokyo Station | JR Tokaido Line | Odawara → Tozan Line | 110 min | ¥2,000 |
| Tokyo Station | JR Shinkansen (Kodama) | Odawara → Tozan Line | 40 min + transfer | ¥3,500 |
Key Stations and Their Attractions
The Hakone Tozan Line stops at several historically and culturally significant stations.
Each station offers different attractions, from hot springs to art museums. Travelers often plan their itinerary around these stops.
- Hakone-Yumoto Station: Gateway to Hakone, known for onsen resorts and shopping streets
- Miyanoshita Station: Historic Fujiya Hotel and old-style hot spring town
- Chokokunomori Station: Direct access to Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Gora Station: Terminal station, connection to cable car and ropeway
Hakone Tozan Line Travel Tips
To make the most of the Hakone Tozan Railway, it is important to plan ahead. Peak seasons bring heavy crowds, and ticket passes can save both time and money.
The following sections provide essential advice for first-time visitors.
Ticket Information and Hakone Freepass
Tickets can be purchased at Odakyu Line stations, Odawara, or Hakone-Yumoto.
For international travelers, the Hakone Freepass is highly recommended as it covers unlimited rides on the Hakone Tozan Line and related transport.
It also includes discounts at many attractions.
- One-way Hakone-Yumoto → Gora: ¥440
- Hakone Freepass (2-day): ¥6,100 (from Shinjuku), ¥5,000 (from Odawara)
- Covers Hakone Tozan Railway, cable car, ropeway, and sightseeing cruise
Best Time to Ride the Hakone Tozan Railway
The line is scenic year-round, but certain times of day and season enhance the experience.
Morning trains are quieter and offer better lighting for photography. Evening rides provide a peaceful atmosphere with illuminated town views.
- Morning (8–10 am): fewer crowds, crisp air
- Midday: better for connecting to attractions
- Evening: relaxed ride, less crowded
Avoiding Crowds and Ensuring Comfort
Hakone is one of Japan’s busiest tourist destinations, especially on weekends and public holidays.
To secure a comfortable ride, plan your departure strategically. These practical steps can improve your journey.
- Travel on weekdays rather than weekends
- Use early morning or late afternoon trains
- Sit on the left side when climbing up for better views
Hakone Tozan Railway Connection to Other Attractions
The Hakone Tozan Railway is more than a train ride.
It connects visitors to major attractions. By transferring at Gora, travelers can easily reach the cable car, ropeway, and Lake Ashi.
Below are highlights accessible directly from stations.
Gora Station and the Hakone Ropeway
Gora Station is the final stop of the Hakone Tozan Railway and the transfer point to the cable car.
From here, visitors can continue to the Hakone Ropeway, which passes over Owakudani volcanic valley.
The journey ends at Lake Ashi, famous for sightseeing cruises.
- Gora → Cable Car → Sounzan → Ropeway → Owakudani → Togendai (Lake Ashi)
- Total time: approx. 35 minutes
- Ropeway closed during volcanic activity alerts (check before travel)
Onsen Town Connections
Hot springs are central to Hakone’s appeal.
Several stations provide easy access to historic and modern onsen facilities. From day-use baths to luxury ryokan, options vary widely.
- Hakone-Yumoto: Over 20 public baths and ryokan
- Miyanoshita: Fujiya Hotel Onsen and traditional baths
- Gora: Ryokan-style onsen with mountain views
Practical Quick Guide to Hakone Tozan Line
For travelers in a hurry, here is a concise summary of the Hakone Tozan Railway.
Use this guide to quickly plan your trip. The information below is structured in a table and bullet points for clarity.
| Station | Elevation | Travel Time from Hakone-Yumoto | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hakone-Yumoto | 96m | Start | Hot springs, shopping street |
| Miyanoshita | 436m | 25 min | Fujiya Hotel, onsen |
| Chokokunomori | 540m | 35 min | Hakone Open-Air Museum |
| Gora | 541m | 40 min | Cable car, ryokan, art museums |
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes
- Ride time Hakone-Yumoto → Gora: ~40 minutes
- Best pass: Hakone Freepass
- Peak crowd: weekends, hydrangea season (June–July)
FAQ about Hakone Tozan Railway
- Can I use JR Pass on the Hakone Tozan Railway?
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No, the JR Pass is not valid. Use Hakone Freepass or purchase tickets separately.
- How long is the ride from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora?
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About 40 minutes.
- Is the Hydrangea Train running every year?
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Yes, hydrangeas bloom along the tracks in June–July, with night illuminations on select days.
- Are seats reserved or free seating?
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All trains are non-reserved seating.
- Can I bring luggage on the train?
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Small luggage is fine, but there is limited space. Coin lockers are available at Hakone-Yumoto and Gora.
- How often do the trains run?
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Every 15–20 minutes from morning to evening.
- Is Wi-Fi available on board?
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Currently, onboard Wi-Fi is not provided. Wi-Fi is available at major stations.
Final Thoughts on Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway remains an essential part of any Hakone itinerary. It combines historic engineering with practical access to the region’s most famous attractions.
For 2025 visitors, it offers both convenience and cultural depth.
In just 40 minutes, travelers ascend nearly 450 meters, crossing switchbacks and forests rarely accessible by train.
With direct connections to the Hakone Ropeway, Open-Air Museum, and onsen towns, it simplifies the entire journey.
Riding the Hakone Tozan Railway is not only efficient but also the best way to immerse yourself in Hakone’s landscape and culture.