Hakone Part 3 Rides in Hakone

Having already talked about Hakone’s abundant nature, onsens, history, and culture, I will now give a brief description of Hakone’s special rides. Hakone has various kinds of rides available; for those who love rides this is the place to let your spirit run free.

Hakone Mountain Railway: This is a mountain railroad. While viewing Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park you will ascend the mountain. This car uses the switchback method to climb the mountain, and therefore, ascends not in a straight line, but in a zigzag method, because of this the train driver and the conductor alternate jobs.

Hakone Gora Cable Car: This cable car runs from Gora Station and ascends in a straight line. If the seats in the front car are available it’s best to sit in the front. It does not go that fast, however, you can feel a dynamic bodily sensation.

Gondola: This ride connects Soun-zan Station to Togendai Station, making a stop at Owakudani Station so that you can enjoy the view. This ride ascends at a gentle speed; 1 car holds about 8 people. The scenery from Owakudani Station to Togendai Station is absolutely stunning. If the weather is nice you will have a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. Lake Ashino will also come into your field of vision.

Hakone Pirate Ship: Once you reach Togendai Station the Hakone Pirate Ship will be awaiting you. There are several types of pirate ships; there is one with a Stateroom where they perform wedding ceremonies.

The boat cruises around Lake Ashino for about 40min and then drops you off at Moto-Hakone. On the way see a shrine that looks as if it’s floating in the water, see people fishing, and be able to see a lakeshore hotel. Once you reach Moto-machi please look on the left-hand side, and you will be able to view the Hakone Checkpoint, which was introduced in part 2.

You can take a bus from Moto-Hakone to return to Hakone-Yumoto. For those who are physically and mentally up to it walking on the Old Tokaido Highway with the goal of being able to drink the sweet sake in mind to give you strength is highly recommended.