Save money, skip the stress, and see the best of Hakone with one pass
Hakone, located in Kanagawa Prefecture just west of Tokyo, is one of Japan’s top destinations for hot springs, art museums, and scenic views of Mt. Fuji. But navigating all the local trains, buses, and cable cars can get confusing and expensive—unless you’re using the Hakone Freepass.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through exactly what the Hakone Freepass is, how much it costs, who can use it (yes, international visitors too!), what transportation it covers, and how to get even more value through bundle plans that include Romancecar tickets and even hotel stays.
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🌟 What is the Hakone Freepass?
The Hakone Freepass, offered by Odakyu Electric Railway, is a transportation pass that gives you unlimited rides on almost every form of transportation in Hakone for 2 or 3 consecutive days. You can ride:
- Odakyu Line (from Shinjuku to Odawara)
- Hakone Tozan Train
- Hakone Tozan Cable Car
- Hakone Ropeway (to Owakudani)
- Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (pirate ship across Lake Ashi)
- Hakone Tozan Bus
- Certain Tokai and Odakyu Highway Bus routes
You also get discounts at museums, hot springs, and shops around the area—over 70 locations in total.
💵 How Much Does It Cost?
| Duration | Departure Point | Adult Price | Child Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Days | From Shinjuku | ¥6,100 | ¥1,100 |
| 2 Days | From Odawara | ¥5,000 | ¥1,000 |
| 3 Days | From Shinjuku | ¥6,500 | ¥1,300 |
| 3 Days | From Odawara | ¥5,400 | ¥1,100 |
📝 Note: Prices may change, so check before you book.
👛 Is It Worth It for a Day Trip?
Although there’s no 1-day version, a 2-day pass can still save you money even on a day trip. A round trip from Shinjuku plus transport around Hakone and a few attractions easily adds up to over ¥11,000. With the pass, you’ll likely pay around ¥9,800. It’s both cheaper and much more convenient.
🚆 Bundle Deals: Even Better Value!
If you’re planning a full getaway, consider these set plans:
1. 🚄 Romancecar + Freepass + Hotel Package
Available through Odakyu Travel, this package includes:
- Round-trip tickets on the Romancecar (reserved seats)
- Hakone Freepass (2 days)
- 1 night in Hakone with dinner and breakfast
This is a top choice for couples or families who want a full Hakone experience without the hassle of booking everything separately.
2. 🚄 JR + Hotel + Digital Freepass
Japan Travel Bureau (Nihon Ryokou) offers a plan that includes:
- Round-trip shinkansen (e.g. from Osaka or Kyoto)
- Hotel accommodation
- Digital Hakone Freepass
Book online, use your smartphone for tickets, and enjoy a fully paperless experience.
🎟️ Reserving a Romancecar Ticket with the Hakone Freepass
When purchasing the Hakone Freepass, you have the option to reserve a Romancecar limited express ticket simultaneously. This can be done through:
- Odakyu Travel Service Centers: Located at major stations like Shinjuku, where staff can assist with both the Freepass and Romancecar reservations. Odakyu official website
- Online Platforms: The EMot app (only available on mobile phones) allows you to purchase the Hakone Freepass and reserve Romancecar tickets in one transaction. This is convenient for travelers who prefer digital tickets.
- Travel agencies: Japan Travel Bureau (JTB), Klook, etc.
🗓️ Reserving a Romancecar Ticket Separately
If you’ve already purchased the Hakone Freepass or prefer to reserve the Romancecar ticket separately, you can do so via:
- e-Romancecar: An online reservation system where you can book Romancecar tickets without prior registration. Visit the e-Romancecar website to make your reservation.
- EMot App: In addition to combined purchases, the EMot app allows for standalone Romancecar ticket reservations. Download the app and follow the prompts to reserve your seat.
- Ticket Counters and Machines: At Odakyu Line stations, you can use ticket machines or visit service counters to reserve and purchase Romancecar tickets.
🕒 Reservation Timing and Tips
Ticket Collection: If you reserve online, you can use digital tickets via the EMot app or collect physical tickets at station machines or counters.
Advance Reservations: Romancecar tickets can be reserved up to one month in advance. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Seat Selection: When reserving online or via the EMot app, you can choose your preferred seat from a seat map, including the popular front-row seats in observation cars.
💡 Pro Tips
- Start early: You’ll want as much time as possible to explore!
- Use the Ropeway & Cruise: They offer the best views of Mt. Fuji.
- Pair with the Romancecar: Upgrade your trip from Tokyo with reserved seating.
- Use discounts: The pass comes with coupons for major attractions like:
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Gora Park
- Hakone Shrine
- Yunessun Hot Springs
📱 Want Convenience? Go Digital
The Digital Hakone Freepass lets you skip the ticket machines entirely. Buy it on EMot or Klook, and show the QR code on your phone. Ideal if you don’t speak Japanese or want to plan in advance.
🌸 Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to Hakone, don’t skip the Freepass. It makes sightseeing smoother, cheaper, and more enjoyable—especially if you’re planning to hit all the highlights in one go. Add a hotel and Romancecar ticket, and you’ve got yourself a perfect mini-getaway from Tokyo.
✨ For booking and more details, visit:
👉 Odakyu Freepass Official Page (EN)
👉 Odakyu Travel Set Plans (JP)
