11-Days of Free & Easy: Japan (Hakone Highlights), Hakone, Japan

Hakone is a mountainous and scenic region approximately an hour (by train) east of Tokyo. It is renowned for its hot springs, panoramic settings, views of Mt Fuji and various mode of enthralling transports.

Its proximity to and easy accessibility from Tokyo help in cementing its popularity amongst locals and tourists alike. Though a huge region, it could be easily explored within 1-2 days via the various mode of unique transports within the region.

One of the most systematic and easiest ways to tour Hakone is via making a circular course of the region. Starting from Hakone-Yumoto, make a circuit of the region via travelling on 5 different modes of transport, before returning the starting point; hence the name “Hakone Round Course”.

The circuit could be done in clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. If done in anti-clockwise, below would be the sequence of travel:

*Important Note (accurate as of 25Aug2015): Due to potential volcanic activities, access to Owakudani area is restricted. Accordingly, Hakone Ropeway operation has been suspended. Refer to official website for further update. Other areas in Hakone is not affected.  ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).