📖 Hakone Tozan Railway 箱根登山鉄道

The Hakone Mountain Railway runs along the line connecting major tourist attractions in Hakone and is an indispensable mode of transportation for sightseeing in the area. It consists of the "Hakone Mountain Railway," which connects Odawara Station to Gora Station, and the "Hakone Mountain Cable Car," which connects Gora Station to Sōunzan Station. By transferring twice at Hakone Yumoto and Gora Station, you can reach the final destination, Sōunzan Station. The Hakone Mountain Railway is a traditional mountain railway that travels on steep slopes of the Hakone Mountains. From the train window, you can gaze at the Hakone mountain range, and from mid-June to late July, hydrangeas bloom along the route. There is also a designated "Night Hydrangea Train" that operates at night after the lights are turned on. The "Hakone Mountain Cable Car," which connects Gora Station to Sōunzan Station, has a total of 6 stops and spans approximately 1.2 kilometers, with a travel time of about 10 minutes. Although the route distance is short, there is a height difference of up to 200 meters, giving you a true "mountain climbing" experience as it travels on steep slopes. Additionally, the train features large windows, allowing passengers to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Hakone.

Taking the mountain railway and cable car to ascend the steep slopes of Hakone is the most convenient way to explore Hakone. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hakone mountains from the train window. The lighting event during the hydrangea season from June to July each year is particularly popular.