Odawara to Hakone Scenic Adventure

Planning a day trip from Odawara to Hakone often promises stunning landscapes, calming lakes, and a break from city life. This tour, offered by DeepExperience, aims to deliver exactly that — a smooth, guided journey through some of Hakone’s most captivating sights, all in about seven and a half hours. It’s perfect for those wanting an immersive experience without the hassle of planning multiple connections or transportation modes.

One aspect we truly appreciate is how this tour combines various modes of transport — from buses and mountain railways to cable cars and boats — which makes the experience feel dynamic and engaging. Plus, the inclusion of a professional guide ensures you won’t miss out on local insights or logistical headaches.

That said, it’s important to note that transportation within the tour isn’t included, which means you’ll need to cover some additional expenses for meals or optional entrance fees. This tour seems like an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day of natural beauty and spectacular views, especially those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and scenery.

Key Points

• Multiple Modes of Transport: From buses to cable cars, the tour provides a diverse and scenic journey.
• Stunning Vistas: You’ll get spectacular views of Mount Fuji, volcanic vents, and lush mountain landscapes.
• Guided Experience: A professional guide helps enhance understanding and safety throughout the tour.
• Flexible and Convenient: All transportation from Odawara to Hakone is organized, saving you planning effort.
• Limited Included Expenses: Food and local attractions’ entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Perfect for travelers wanting authentic scenic views and outdoor adventure in Hakone.

An In-Depth Look at the Hakone Scenic Tour

Starting Point: Odawara Station and the Journey Begins

The adventure kicks off at Odawara Station at the Tourist Information Center, a central hub easily accessible via JR, Odakyu, or other rail lines. Arriving here, the group boards a bus that whisks you away to Hakone, setting the tone for a relaxed yet exciting day.

This initial leg takes around 10 minutes, and the convenience of starting directly from Odawara means you don’t have to navigate complicated transfers — a real plus for travelers arriving by train or staying locally. The tour then transitions seamlessly into the scenic part of the journey with the Hakone Tozan Railway, which begins at Hakone-Yumoto Station.

The Scenic Ride Up the Mountain

The Hakone Tozan Railway is renowned for its picturesque views as it snakes up through lush forests and small mountain towns. We loved the way the train’s switchbacks and tight curves make the ascent visually engaging, offering windows onto a changing landscape of greens and browns.

This ride lasts about an hour and twenty minutes, giving ample time to soak in the scenery. The guide typically shares interesting tidbits about Hakone’s history and geology along the way, enhancing the experience beyond just the visual.

Gora Station and the Cable Car

Disembarking at Gora Station, travelers switch to a cable car — a classic component of Hakone’s transportation network. The cable car ride to Sounzan Station is a highlight, providing sweeping views of the volcanic terrain and mountains. Expect to see steam vents, sulfurous fumes, and rugged volcanic vents that reveal Hakone’s active geology.

The cable car is not included in the ticket price, but the experience is well worth the extra fee. Many reviews highlight how this part of the journey feels like traveling through a living, breathing volcano landscape.

Owaku-dani Valley and Volcanic Wonders

From Sounzan, you board the Hakone Ropeway to Owaku-dani Valley, a volcanic crater area famous for its bubbling vents and sulfurous fumes. Here, you’ll see plumes of smoke rising from the vents, a mesmerizing sight that illustrates Hakone’s volcanic activity firsthand.

A must-try is the black eggs steamed in the mineral-rich hot springs — a local specialty said to extend your life by seven years. The volcanic fumes and the stark landscape make this stop both fascinating and slightly otherworldly, especially if you’re into geology or weird natural phenomena.

Lake Ashi and the Cruise

Next, the ropeway drops you near Lake Ashinoko, where you’ll board the iconic pirate ships that cruise across the lake. These boats, with their whimsical design and bright colors, are an Instagram favorite, but the real highlight is the view. From the water, you can see Mount Fuji in the distance, perfectly framed by the lake and surrounding mountains.

The cruise lasts around 40 minutes, offering a peaceful perspective on Hakone’s natural beauty. Many reviewers mention how this boat ride is the perfect way to relax after the busy ascent and volcanic exploration.

Lakeside Walk and Hakone Shrine

Disembarking at Togendai Port, the tour continues on foot along the lakeside path to Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine Singu. This part of the experience combines natural scenery with cultural insights — the traditional bright red torii gates and pavilions stand out remarkably against the lush greenery.

Most visitors find this walk calming, and it’s a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air while exploring a shrine that has been a spiritual site for centuries. The serene lakeside setting makes it a perfect photo stop, too.

Return Trip to Hakone-Yumoto

After exploring Lakeside and the shrines, the group takes a bus back to Hakone-Yumoto, returning to the starting point. The guide often takes this opportunity to share local tips for exploring Hakone further, whether it’s onsen spots or local eateries.

Finishing with Local Flavors

The tour concludes with about 30 minutes in Hakone-Yumoto, an area known for its onsen culture and gourmet food. Many reviews highlight the chance to stroll the streets, sample local snacks, or relax in an onsen if time permits.

Transportation and Timing: Why It Matters

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is how it handles transportation logistics. The journey from Odawara to Hakone is pre-arranged, which means less planning and more sightseeing. Still, since transportation within the tour isn’t included, you’ll want to be prepared for any extra costs — especially for meals or optional entrance fees at places like Owaku-dani or the lake cruise.

Timing is well-managed, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The total duration of about 7.5 hours strikes a good balance between seeing multiple sights and not overextending your day.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

While specific reviews are limited, some travelers mention the stunning views as the real highlight — especially the sight of Mount Fuji, which many hope to catch from the boat or the mountain railways. Others appreciate the professional guidance, which adds context and makes the sightseeing more meaningful.

The mix of transportation modes keeps the tour lively and engaging, catering to those who want more than just a static view of Hakone. The volcanic site at Owaku-dani, with its plumes of smoke and steaming vents, often leaves visitors in awe.

Some travelers note that additional expenses like food and entrance fees are not included, so a bit of extra budget planning is wise. Yet, the convenience and comprehensive itinerary tend to balance this out.

This Odawara to Hakone Scenic Adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse into Hakone’s natural wonders, combining multiple transportation modes, breathtaking views, and cultural sites. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a guided experience that simplifies logistics, exposes them to diverse landscapes, and provides plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The tour’s focus on scenic vistas, from volcanic vents to lake cruises, makes it a favorite for nature lovers and those interested in Japan’s volcanic activity. While some costs are extra, the value lies in the seamless organization and the chance to see Hakone’s highlights in one day — a true highlight for first-timers or those short on time.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and visually stunning day trip, this tour will likely check all your boxes.

FAQs

• What is the starting point of the tour?
  The tour begins at Odawara Station Tourist Information Center, a convenient hub accessible by train.

• How long does the entire tour last?
  The experience runs approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and transfers.

• Are transportation costs within Hakone included?
  No, the tour covers transportation from Odawara to Hakone, but within Hakone, you’ll need to pay separately for rides like the cable car, ropeway, and boat.

• Is food included in the tour price?
  No, meals and beverages are not included. Most travelers find it best to bring snacks or plan a meal at Togendai Station’s restaurant.

• Can I see Mount Fuji during the tour?
  Yes, from the lake cruise and certain viewpoints, you might get a clear view of Mount Fuji — a highlight for many travelers.

• Is this tour suitable for all ages?
  Most travelers can participate, but consider individual mobility and weather conditions, especially for those with difficulty walking or standing for long periods.

• What should I bring on this tour?
  Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and some cash for optional purchases or meals are recommended.

This guided trip offers a wonderful way to experience Hakone’s natural beauty without the stress of planning, making it a worthwhile addition to your Japan itinerary.