The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (箱根観光船) is a popular tourist attraction located in the Hakone region of Japan, known for its natural beauty and hot springs. The cruise allows visitors to enjoy stunning views of Lake Ashinoko (芦ノ湖), a crater lake formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone, while cruising on a boat. The lake is surrounded by lush green mountains, including the iconic Mount Fuji.
The cruise connects three ports: Togendai-ko (桃源台港), Hakone-machi-ko (箱根町港), and Moto-Hakone-ko (元箱根港). Three differently designed ships operate between these ports, offering a unique experience each time. The boats include the “Royal II,” modeled after a French luxury liner, the “Victory,” resembling a battleship, and the “Queen Ashinoko,” inspired by an 18th-century British warship. These elaborately designed ships provide a fun and memorable experience for visitors, especially children.
Depending on the specific route chosen, the cruise typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. During the cruise, audio guides in multiple languages offer interesting information about the landmarks and attractions along the route. Passengers can capture panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings, including Mount Fuji, the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, and the surrounding mountains.
The Hakone Free Pass is a convenient and cost-effective option for visitors, as it includes the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise fee along with access to other transportation options and attractions in the area.
Many visitors combine the sightseeing cruise with other Hakone attractions, such as visiting the Hakone Shrine, exploring the Hakone Open-Air Museum, or taking the Hakone Ropeway for aerial views of the region.
Getting there
By Ropeway
- Take the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station
- The cruise port is directly connected to Togendai Station
By Bus
From Hakone-Yumoto Station:
- Take the Hakone Tozan Bus to “Hakonemachi-ko” or “Motohakone-ko” bus stops
- Short walk to respective ports:
- Hakonemachi Port: 2-minute walk from “Hakonemachi-ko” bus stop
- Motohakone Port: 1-minute walk from “Motohakone-ko” bus stop
Details
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Resource | https://www.hakonenavi.jp/hakone-kankosen/ |