Take an aerial stroll on the Hakone Ropeway! Experience the breathtaking views of volcanic activity and Mount Fuji from Japan's longest cable car route. The Hakone Ropeway is located in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, operated by the Hakone Tozan Railway. It connects Sounzan Station and Togendai Station in about 25 minutes. While riding the ropeway, you can enjoy stunning sights like the volcanic smoke of Owakudani and attractions like Lake Ashi. Each station offers tourist spots, foot baths, cafes, and more for your enjoyment during this aerial adventure in Hakone.
Starting from April 18, 2023, the Hakone Ropeway adopted a flat fare system. One-way fares are ¥1,500 for adults and ¥500 for children. Round-trip fares are ¥2,500 for adults and ¥800 for children. The fare remains the same regardless of the section you travel. Operating hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM, but there might be suspensions due to inclement weather or regular maintenance. For the latest updates, please refer to the official Hakone Ropeway website or their social media.
One of the highlights of the Hakone Ropeway is Owakudani. It's a collapsed volcanic crater formed about 3,000 years ago after the eruption and collapse of Mt. Kamiyama. Even now, smoke containing hydrogen sulfide rises from various areas, providing a close encounter with volcanic activity. At Owakudani, you can try black eggs cooked using geothermal heat. It's said that eating one extends your lifespan by seven years. Additionally, the Hakone Geo Museum allows you to learn about the formation of Hakone's volcanoes and its natural history.
The Hakone Ropeway tends to be crowded on weekends, holidays, and between 11 AM to 3 PM. Due to COVID-19 measures, capacity is limited, which can lead to longer queues. To avoid crowds, consider arriving early in the morning or checking the ropeway's operating status. The congestion forecast calendar might also be useful.
The Hakone Ropeway is one of Japan's iconic volcanic tourist destinations. It boasts the longest cable car route in the country, providing splendid views of Owakudani's volcanic activity, Lake Ashi, and Mount Fuji. Feel free to explore this unforgettable experience!