Hakone Ropeway

The Basics

Two hours away from Tokyo city, the Swiss-built Hakone Ropeway cable car opened to the public in 1959. It travels the 2.5 miles (4 km round-trip journey) from Togendai to Sounzan in 30 minutes with chances to stop along the way at Ubako and Owakudani stations. The cable car passes over the hot spring sulfur fields at Owakudani, where clouds of the volcanic gas can often be seen erupting from a crater in the ground. Visitors can find their own way to Hakone or join a guided tour that visits the area along with other major sites in the region.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Visitors must buy a ticket to ride the ropeway.
• Purchase a Hakone Free Pass for easy access to all the different public transport options in the area.
• The Hakone Ropeway is wheelchair accessible.
• Over 2 million people ride the cable car each year.
• The best views of Mt. Fuji are at the Owakudani stop.

How to Get There

Visitors can get on the ropeway at Togendai station in Hakone. Hakone is 50 miles (82 km) southwest of Tokyo and is accessible by car. Regular train services run to Hakone from Tokyo’s Shinjuku station, and there are also guided tours with transport provided.

When to Get There

Hakone Ropeway is open all year round. In bad weather, the ropeway might close to ensure the safety of visitors. The ropeway can get especially busy during holidays and summer weekends.

Explore Lake Ashi

One of the highlights of the Hakone region, Lake Ashi is a famous destination of natural beauty in Japan—and considered a holy place by the Japanese. From boat trips on the lake to a visit to see the holy Hakone Shinto shrine or a trip to one of the many ryokans (Japanese hot springs), there’s a lot to see here.

Ways to explore

The Hakone Ropeway travels the 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) round-trip route between Togendai and Sounzan stations in about 30 minutes and makes stops along the way at Ubako and Owakudani stations. The cable car passes over the hot spring sulfur fields at the Owakudani Valley, where clouds of volcanic smoke can often be seen emitting from steaming vents in the ground. The Hakone Ropeway is included in most multi-attraction Hakone passes, and it is a typical feature of Hakone day tours, including those departing from Tokyo.

Accessibility

The Hakone Ropeway is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Your camera to capture the stunning landscape views as you ride

What to wear

Dress warmly in winter and bring a light layer in summer, as the temperature at elevation can be chilly.

Not allowed

Large pieces of luggage are not allowed on the ropeway.

Amenities

Stations have gift stores, coin lockers, restaurants, and restrooms.

Address

The Hakone Ropeway connects Sounzan Station with Togendai Station in the Japanese town of Hakone.

Driving

From Tokyo, take the Tomei Expressway (E1), then follow Route 134 and Hakone Turnpike for around 62 miles ( 100 kilometers). Find parking at the ropeway stations.

Public transportation

From Hakone‑Yumoto train station, take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora, then transfer to the Tozan Cable Car and get off at Sounzan Station.

Best times to visit

Visit in the early evening to enjoy the light of golden hour on Lake Ashi.

Best days to visit

Visit on a clear day for the best views.

Best months to visit

October provides beautiful views of fall foliage on the surrounding mountains. Avoid the peak visitor months of July and August.