The Ultimate Hakone (Japan) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Hakone, Japan? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

Hakone is a town located in Kanagawa Prefecture, approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and views of Mount Fuji.
With a population of around 13,000, it has been a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists seeking relaxation and scenic landscapes.
The area is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which features breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for art exploration.
Nickname: The Onsen Town of Japan.

Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY).
Spoken Languages: Japanese; English is spoken in some tourist areas but may be limited.
Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage. Summers can be humid, while winters are cold with occasional snow.
Arriving via train: The Odakyu Electric Railway provides access from Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The trip takes about 85 minutes and costs approximately ¥2,080 for a one-way ticket.

Hakone-Yumoto is the main area with a variety of accommodations, including traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and modern hotels, many featuring onsen (hot springs).
Gora offers a mix of upscale hotels and beautiful gardens, along with easy access to the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Sengokuhara is known for its serene atmosphere, great views of the surrounding mountains, and is close to the Odawara Castle.
Note: many ryokans charge 30-50% single-occupancy fees (e.g., ¥15,000/night becomes ¥22,500 for solo travelers).

The Hakone Free Pass, available for ¥6,100 for a 2-day adult ticket, allows unlimited access to the area’s transportation system, including buses, the Hakone Tozan Railway, the Hakone Ropeway, select museums, and the sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi.
– Tip: the Free Pass covers 95% of transit needs, saving ~¥3,000 vs. à la carte tickets.
The local bus system is operated by Hakone Tozan Bus, with most routes connecting key attractions and accommodation areas.
Taxis are available but can be expensive; starting fare is approximately ¥450.

Hakone is primarily a serene getaway, so nightlife is minimal. Most visitors relax and unwind in their accommodations.
Some ryokan offer traditional kaiseki dinners that provide an immersive culinary experience.
Late-night options include small izakayas (Japanese pubs) in Hakone-Yumoto, which serve drinks and local dishes.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum features impressive sculptures and installations set against a backdrop of beautiful landscapes; entrance fee is ¥1,600 for adults.
Owakudani is a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents, hot springs, and scenic views; try the famous black eggs boiled in the hot springs.
The Hakone Shrine, located by Lake Ashi, is famous for its iconic red torii gate that appears to float on the water.
Hakone Ropeway: One-way fare: ¥1,550 (included in Free Pass).
– The 24-minute ride offers views of Mount Fuji and Owakudani’s sulfur vents.
– Try black eggs at Owakudani Station (¥500 for 5 eggs)
Day-use Onsens:
– Mount View Hakone: ¥2,000–4,000 for 45-minute private baths.
– Yunessun Spa: Entry from ¥1,500 for mixed-gender pools
Hidden Gem: Narukawa Art Museum (¥1,300 entry) near Motohakone Port for panoramic Mount Fuji views.

Take a serene stroll along Lake Ashi and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, especially from the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway.
Visit the old Hakone Checkpoint on the Tōkaidō road, a reconstructed historical site reflecting Edo period travel.
Explore the scenic trails of the Hakone Hiking Course, with routes suitable for various skill levels.

Don’t miss out on trying onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) and generous servings of local soba (buckwheat noodles).
Save on food costs by dining at konbini (convenience stores) or casual restaurants that offer delicious bentō (boxed meals).
Super cheap meals: Konbini bento is ¥500–800 at FamilyMart/Lawson convenience stores.
Local eats: Akakura restaurant (steamed meals from ¥1,200) and Salon de the Rosage (desserts from ¥600).

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; excellent service is expected as standard.
Look for hidden gems by checking out lesser-known ryokan that may not be on main tourist routes for a more authentic experience.
Dangerous areas: Owakudani’s sulfur vents emit toxic gases. Follow marked trails and avoid restricted zones.

Recommended trip duration: 2-3 days if including day trips to Odawara Castle (20 minutes by train) and Lake Ashi cruises.