Even on a short trip to Japan, it is very important to move away from Tokyo to understand the flow of energy, beauty and calm which is part of Japanese life all across the country. The best way to do this is to take a one or two-day trip to Hakone which is less than 100 km from Tokyo. Part of Fuji- Hakone- Izu National Park, It’s a hilly area with amazing views of Mt Fuji from various locations like Lake Ashi, Ropeway stops, Hotels and more.
If you start looking for things to do in Tokyo at various websites, the top thing to do is a day trip to Hakone and surrounding locations. We wanted to save money and chose to do this trip at our pace by buying this pass. Of course, a guide on the package tour is invaluable, but if you like to to do things at your pace and plan to stay an extra night go for this pass
Hakone free pass gives you unlimited access to all modes of transportation in the area ie Buses, Shuttle, Sightseeing Cruise, Tozan Cable Car and Hakone Ropeway. As amazing as Japenese are, they have made the trip to Hakone very accessible and fun with amazing pit stops. There is so much packed in the trip to relax or exhaust yourself completely, depending on how you plan your itinerary. With more than 20 attraction stops we were lucky to do most of the place in a day trip.
Tip: I would highly recommend doing a 2 night trip to Hakone to enjoy the Hotels, Onsen Experience (open bath), Mt Fuji views, Sulpher mountain and various modes of transportation
Where to buy Hakone Free Pass and Free Coupon Booklet?
The pass can be purchased at major railway stations and ticket counters along the Odakyu Railway Line, including Shinjuku Station in central Tokyo and Odawara Station, Hakone-Yumoto Station and Mishima Station inside the free area. Alternatively, the pass is sold by major travel agents inside Japan, and the 2-day pass can also be purchased online.
Use the coupon booklet during your trip at various eateries, shops and hotels to get a discount. Booklet also contains pages for your kids to get them stamped at various attractions.
Upgrade to Romancecar
Once you have bought the Hakone Day Pass and are at the Shinjuku station Odakyu line platforms for Hakone Yumoto, look or ask for ticket machines selling Romance Car tickets. These trains are similar to Shinkansen trains which are more luxurious and comfortable.
Tickets for Romance car, an Odakyu limited express train can be bought by paying normal fare + limited express surcharge. Holders of Hakone Free pass do not need to pay the normal fare.
Why buy a Romance Car upgrade?
Direct Shinjuku to Hakone Yomoto- Other wise you need to change trains at Odawara for Hakone
More comfortable and luxurious
Perfect for taking a nap early in the day or after finishing your excursion.
As we had time only for a day trip we all slept like babies after the whole day of excursion.
Fares:
Main Attractions on this Trip
Sengokukhara Pampas Grass Fields
Owakudani - Sulpher Mountains
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Gora Park - First French Garden
Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise
Onsens
Museums
Amazing Hikes
Yumoto Kenba - Geisha Show
Amazing hotels nestled deep into the mountains with views of Mt Fuji
An amazing blend of modern comfort with nature and an experience of a lifetime.
Links:
Official Odakyu site with Hakone Pass Info
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/deels/freepass/hakone/
Details about Romance Car
http://www.odakyu.jp/english/romancecar/
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