Quick Answer
Hakone is a popular short getaway from Tokyo, with mountain roads, lake areas, and onsen towns that are easier to reach by car than by train. Expect winding roads and seasonal traffic, especially on weekends and during peak foliage or holiday periods.
Hakone is one of the most rewarding weekend escapes from Tokyo, blending mountain scenery, hot springs, and views of Mt. Fuji into a compact area that’s easy to explore by car.
Why Drive to Hakone
While Hakone is reachable by train, having a car lets you reach smaller ryokan, viewpoints, and hiking trailheads that are otherwise a longer bus ride away, and makes it easier to carry onsen gear or luggage for an overnight stay.
Highlights of the Area
Lake Ashi is the centerpiece of the area, with sightseeing boats and, on clear days, views of Mt. Fuji across the water. The Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Owakudani volcanic valley, and numerous traditional onsen ryokan are also popular stops. Many visitors combine a few of these into a single loop.
Driving Notes
The roads around Hakone are mountainous and winding in places, with some steep, narrow sections near the more remote onsen and viewpoints. Driving carefully and allowing extra time is worthwhile, especially in wet weather. Parking is available at most major sights, though it can fill up during busy weekends.
Best Time to Visit
Hakone is a year-round destination. Autumn brings colorful foliage to the hillsides, spring offers milder weather and flowers, and winter can bring clearer views of Mt. Fuji on cold, dry days, though mountain roads may occasionally require extra caution.
Continuing Your Trip
Hakone sits close to both the Mt. Fuji area and the Izu Peninsula, making it easy to combine into a longer itinerary. See our Best Road Trips from Tokyo guide for more route ideas.
Related: Driving in Japan Guide
Planning a longer road trip in Japan?
For stays of several weeks or more, a monthly rental can be simpler than booking a new car every few days.
Explore Long-Term Car Rental
