By TokyoCityscape 東京の街並み

This beautifully narrated video offers a perfect day trip itinerary exploring Hakone (箱根), one of Japan's most beloved travel destinations. The journey begins with directions on how to reach Hakone, starting from Hayakawa (早川) and passing through Odawara (小田原), before diving into Day 2’s highlights along the Hakone Tozan Line (箱根登山鉄道), Japan’s oldest mountain railway.

First up is Gora (強羅), a peaceful onsen town and hub for transportation between the mountain valley and higher elevation locations in Hakone. From Gora, the traveler boards the Hakone Ropeway, offering stunning panoramic views of Owakudani Valley (大涌谷), an active volcanic zone known for its sulfur vents and black eggs. The adventure continues as they board the Hakone Pirate Ship, a themed cruise boat crossing Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖), which is famous for stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days.

At Hakone Harbor and Moto-Hakone (元箱根), this video captures the tranquil lakeside atmosphere and a unique bus stop featuring a turntable, adding quirky charm to the journey. The itinerary continues with a visit to the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (箱根ガラスの森美術館), a romantic, European-style attraction filled with glass art exhibitions and lush gardens. The trip wraps up with a stop in Gotemba (御殿場), a town near the base of Mount Fuji popular for its shopping outlets and as a transit point.

This video is an excellent visual guide for visitors eager to experience the scenic beauty, transportation novelties, and cultural richness of Hakone. Whether it's cruising on Lake Ashi, catching panoramic mountain views from cable cars, or appreciating antique glasswork, it reflects why Hakone remains a top day trip destination from Tokyo.

For those planning a visit, the Hakone Freepass is recommended for convenient access to multiple transportation modes featured in this journey, including trains, buses, the ropeway, and pirate ships.