How to Get from Tokyo to Hakone (By Train)

Last updated: August 12, 2025

The distance between Tokyo and Hakone is approximately 85 km (53 miles), with Hakone-Yumoto Station serving as the main transportation hub and a popular base for accommodations.

Which Route Should I Choose?

Route 1. Tokyo to Hakone via Shinkansen

Step 1: From Tokyo or Shinagawa Station, take the Shinkansen to Odawara Station. The ride takes about 33 minutes and costs 3,280 yen, but it’s free with the JR Pass. Trains run frequently (every 10-15 minutes during peak hours), and non-reserved seats are available, so no advance reservation is required.

Step 2: At Odawara Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The ride takes 14 minutes and costs 360 yen. It’s free with the Hakone Freepass. You can also buy tickets on the spot or use a Suica IC Card. This is a private railway and is not covered by the JR Pass.

You can use Japan Transit Planner to find more information
Watch: Daytrip from Tokyo to Hakone on the Shinkansen Bullet Train

Route 2. Tokyo to Hakone via Romancecar

The Romancecar runs direct from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto in about 1 hour 25 minutes. The fare is 2,451 yen.

• Romancecar is operated by Odakyu Electric Railway. Seats are assigned when you buy a ticket. You must buy a ticket with a reserved seat before boarding — you cannot just tap an IC card and find a seat. (You can buy tickets online or at the Odakyu service center on the day of travel, subject to availability.)
• You can buy tickets online or at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center (West Exit, 1F, Shinjuku Station). Trains depart frequently (every 30-60 minutes), and sell-outs are rare outside peak seasons.
• If you already have the Hakone Freepass, you need to pay an extra 1,200 yen for a reserved seat at the Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center.
• This is a private railway and is not covered by the JR Pass.

You can use Japan Transit Planner to find more information
Watch: Odakyu Romance Car is the most convenient way to Hakone

Route 3. Tokyo to Hakone via Odakyu Line Rapid Express

Step 1: From Shinjuku Station, take an Odakyu Line train to Odawara Station. The ride takes 1 hour 27 minutes and costs 910 yen.

Step 2: At Odawara Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The ride takes 14 minutes and costs 360 yen.

• We recommend the Hakone Freepass, as it covers both train legs plus unlimited rides on buses, cable cars, and other transport in Hakone.

• If you don’t have the Hakone Freepass, you can buy tickets on the spot or use a Suica IC Card.

• These trains are private railways and are not covered by the JR Pass.

• All seats are non-reserved, so no booking is needed.

You can use Japan Transit Planner to find more information
Watch: Odakyu Train from Shinjuku Station to Odawara Station

Hakone Freepass

The Hakone Freepass gives you unlimited rides on transportation in the Hakone area and discounts at some attractions. You can buy it online Affiliate link: on Klook or at the station.