Hakone Round Trip with Pirate Ship and Ropeway – Japan

Experience Highlights

Escape the bustle of Tokyo and dive into the natural and cultural wonders of Hakone, one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s most picturesque destinations. The Hakone Round Trip with Pirate Ship and Ropeway – Kanagawa, Japan combines effortless travel with spectacular scenery. This self-guided round trip tour covers the iconic pirate ship cruise, the Hakone Ropeway, and optional stops at local attractions—with all transportation organized for you.

Begin your journey by boarding a pirate-style sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi, one of three elegant vessels that glide across the water. These aren’t theatrical cruises but offer spacious open-air decks and panoramic vistas of the ash-grey lake waters, surrounding forested hills, and the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine resting along the lake’s edge. On clear days, the view is completed by Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance, creating an unforgettable photo opportunity that feels straight out of a postcard.

Disembark at Togendai Port, where you’ll connect to the Hakone Ropeway, a multi-leg aerial tram linking Togendai, Owakudani, and Sounzan. As the cable car ascends, passengers are treated to sweeping views of volcanic peaks, sulphuric steam vents, and rolling clouds that drift through the valley. The highlight is Owakudani, also known as “Hell Valley,” a steaming geothermal area created during the last eruption of Mount Hakone some 3,000 years ago. You can step out here to sample the famous black eggs—boiled in natural hot springs—and witness bubbling pools and sulphur vents firsthand.

From Owakudani, the ropeway continues to Sounzan, allowing you to complete the round trip before circling back to Lake Ashi. The descent offers a renewed vantage of the region’s lush landscape and, on clear days, more opportunities to see Mount Fuji from above. The panoramic windows in the gondolas make this part of the journey particularly popular with photographers and families.

This itinerary is especially convenient with the Hakone Freepass, which provides unlimited travel on designated trains, buses, cable cars, ropeways, and boats in the region. Available at major Tokyo train stations, the pass simplifies planning and eliminates ticket confusion—ideal for international visitors. With it, you can explore Hakone’s highlights at your own pace without worrying about complex transfers or additional fees.

Additional sights include the Hakone Open-Air Museum, home to sculptures by world-renowned artists and relaxing hot spring foot baths. Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s creative harmony with its mountain setting. Another must-visit is Hakone Shrine, nestled within cedar forests and known for its large red torii gate standing in the lake—an enduring symbol of spiritual tranquility that has attracted pilgrims and tourists for generations.

Reviews of the Hakone Round Trip with Pirate Ship and Ropeway highlight both charm and crowds. Travelers note that the pirate ship is more of a scenic ferry than an amusement ride, and though sometimes crowded, the experience is still praised for its comfort and scenery. One visitor remarked, “The pirate ship is just a ferry with lots of space on deck for getting views of the area. Treat it as such and you won’t be disappointed.” Others mention that the ropeway provides “the most epic views in Hakone,” especially in the early morning or near sunset.

Whether you’re after iconic views, cultural touchpoints, or volcanic landscapes, this Hakone Round Trip with Pirate Ship and Ropeway – Kanagawa, Japan offers a seamless and immersive experience. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned explorers seeking a stress-free day trip with diverse attractions and transportation handled in advance.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as Hakone’s higher elevation can bring cooler temperatures. Bring a camera—you’ll want to capture the serene water, dramatic volcanic steam, and the unforgettable sight of Mount Fuji floating above the clouds like a dream.

As you return to Tokyo in the evening, you’ll carry with you images of magenta skies, tranquil shores, and ancient shrines. Whether enjoyed solo or with family, this round trip promises a perfect day steeped in the beauty and spirit of Japan’s countryside.