A Perfect 1-Day Trip to Hakone: Owakudani Black egg

On December 7th, 2024, I embarked on an exciting one-day trip to Hakone, a beautiful destination known for its hot springs, scenic views, and unique attractions. Since I was short on time as I was moving-out of Japan , I planned my itinerary carefully to visit some of Hakone’s most iconic spots. Here’s a detailed account of my journey, which might inspire you to explore this charming destination.

Starting the Journey

My day began early at 7:50 AM from Nishi-Kasai Station. I took a train to Shinjuku Station, one of Tokyo’s major transit hubs, to begin my journey toward Hakone. At Shinjuku, I followed the signs for the Odakyu Line to purchase the Hakone Free Pass.

Hakone Free Pass

I chose the 2-day Hakone Free Pass for 6,100 yen, which covers all transportation within Hakone, including trains, buses, ropeways, and the famous pirate ship ride.
While I was only staying for a day, this pass was still economical and convenient for exploring multiple locations without worrying about individual tickets.

At 9:41 AM, I boarded the Rapid Train bound for Odawara, arriving at 11:15 AM.

Exploring Hakone

Upon reaching Odawara Station, I transitioned to the Hakone-Yumoto Station to begin my exploration. My goal was to experience the scenic transportation and cover a few key attractions.

Special Train to Gora Station

From Hakone-Yumoto, I boarded the Hakone Tozan Train, a unique mountain railway.

This train weaves through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
The steep inclines and switchbacks make the journey feel like an adventure.

I reached Gora Station, a charming mountain station that serves as a gateway to further exploration.

Cable Car to the Ropeway

At Gora Station, I hopped onto the Hakone Tozan Cable Car.

This ride took me up to Sounzan Station, the starting point of the famous Hakone Ropeway.
The cable car offered stunning views of the mountains and valleys below.

Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani

The Hakone Ropeway was a highlight of my trip.

The ride to Owakudani was smooth and offered panoramic views of Mount Fuji (on clear days) and the steaming volcanic landscape below.

Owakudani – The Land of Black Eggs

Owakudani, a volcanic valley, is famous for its Kuro-Tamago (black eggs).

The eggs are boiled in the sulfur-rich hot springs, which turns their shells black.
Local legend says eating one black egg adds five years to your life!

I enjoyed the unique flavor of the black eggs while taking in the dramatic scenery. The area’s sulfur vents and geothermal activity made it a fascinating stop.

Pirate Ship Cruise Across Lake Ashi

After exploring Owakudani, I continued my journey via the ropeway to Togendai Station. From there, I boarded the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise, a pirate-themed ship that crosses Lake Ashi.

The cruise was relaxing, and the views of the lake and surrounding mountains were mesmerizing.
The ship itself was a fun attraction, with its pirate design adding a whimsical touch to the ride.

The cruise ended around 4:00 PM, and I decided to start heading back to Odawara to conclude my trip.

Skipping the Sky Walk

One place I wanted to visit but couldn’t due to time constraints was the Hakone Sky Walk, a suspension bridge offering stunning views.

Unfortunately, buses to this location stop running after 5:00 PM, so I had to skip it this time.
If you have more time, the Sky Walk is a highly recommended addition to your itinerary.

Returning to Tokyo

After completing my exploration, I took a direct bus from Togendai to Odawara Station. This was a convenient and comfortable way to wrap up my journey without retracing my steps.

From Odawara Station, I boarded the train back to Tokyo, feeling satisfied with the day’s adventures.

Highlights of My Hakone Trip

1. Scenic Transportation

The combination of trains, cable cars, ropeways, and a pirate ship cruise made traveling in Hakone an experience in itself.
Each mode of transport offered unique views of Hakone’s natural beauty.

2. Owakudani’s Unique Landscape

The volcanic valley of Owakudani was both fascinating and educational, with its steaming vents and sulfur springs.
Trying the famous black eggs was a fun and memorable experience.

3. Lake Ashi and the Pirate Ship

Cruising across Lake Ashi was a peaceful and picturesque experience, and the pirate-themed ship added a playful touch to the trip.

Tips for a One-Day Hakone Trip

Start Early: Hakone has so much to offer, and starting early allows you to make the most of your day.
Buy the Hakone Free Pass: It simplifies transportation and saves money if you’re visiting multiple attractions.
Plan Your Itinerary: Decide which places to prioritize based on your time constraints.
Check Bus Timings: Some locations, like the Hakone Sky Walk, have limited bus services, so plan accordingly.
Dress Comfortably: Hakone’s weather can vary, especially in higher altitudes, so wear layers and comfortable shoes.

Final Thoughts

My one-day trip to Hakone was packed with adventure, stunning views, and unique experiences. From the scenic train rides and cable cars to the volcanic wonders of Owakudani and the tranquil cruise across Lake Ashi, every moment was memorable.

While I couldn’t visit everything, Hakone’s charm and beauty left a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or exploration, Hakone is a destination that offers something for everyone.

Plan your visit, and don’t forget to enjoy a black egg for a few extra years of good fortune!