Hakone Free Pass: how to use it and smart tips

The Hakone Free Pass is without a doubt one of the best ways to explore Hakone with ease — and save money while you’re at it. This tourist pass covers all the main transportation in the region — train, cable car, boat, and bus — and also offers discounts at many attractions and onsen. I used it during my stay and found it incredibly helpful for discovering Hakone without any hassle.

It really lets you make the most of everything the area has to offer. Here’s a clear, no-fuss guide to how it works, where to buy it, what’s included — and most importantly, whether it’s the right choice for you.

What is the Hakone Free Pass?

The Hakone Free Pass is an all-in-one ticket offered by the Odakyu company. It gives you access to all transportation in the Hakone area for 2 or 3 consecutive days.
As a bonus, it also includes discounts at many museums, onsen, and tourist attractions.

Two versions available: from Shinjuku or from Odawara

From Shinjuku (Tokyo): includes round-trip transport to and from Odawara
From Odawara: valid only within the Hakone region

It’s a great option for exploring stress-free — no need to buy multiple tickets or wait in long lines.

Which transportation is included with the Hakone Free Pass?

The Hakone Free Pass covers most major tourist transport in the Hakone area. It’s the easiest way to complete the popular Hakone sightseeing loop without paying extra.
Note: local hotel shuttles, JR trains, and taxis are not included in the pass.

If you depart from Tokyo:

Access to local or express trains on the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Odawara
The faster Romancecar is not included, but available for a seat reservation fee (~¥1200)

Romancecar reservation required: You must book in advance online, at the station, or via kiosk. No standing allowed. If the train is full and you board without a reservation, you may be fined or denied entry.

In Hakone (unlimited access):

The pass gives you unlimited access for 2 or 3 days to all of the following modes of transport:

Hakone Tozan Railway (Odawara to Gora)
Cable Car (Gora to Sounzan)
Ropeway (Sounzan – Owakudani – Togendai)
Lake Ashi pirate boat cruise
Tozan buses + select Izu-Hakone & Numazu Tozan buses
Izuhakone Line (Hakone-Yumoto to Moto-Hakone)

Covers most major transport options to complete the full Hakone Loop.

Not included: taxis, hotel shuttles, or JR lines outside Odawara.

Discounts with the Hakone Free Pass

With the pass, you get discounted or free entry to many museums, hot springs (onsen), cultural sites, and shops. Here are some examples:

Attraction	Regular Price	With Pass	Benefit
Hakone Gora Park	¥550	Free	Free Entry
Hakone Open Air Museum	¥ 2 000	¥ 1 900	-¥100
Hakone Kowaki en Yunessun / Mori no Yu	¥ 3 500	¥ 3 000	– ¥ 500
Hakone Yuryo	¥ 1 700	¥ 1 500	–  ¥ 200
Hakone Sekisho Checkpoint (Exhibition Hall)	¥ 500	¥ 400	–  ¥ 100
Hakone-jinja Shrine / Trésor Museum	¥ 500	¥ 400	-  ¥ 100
Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (Glass Forest)	¥ 1 800	¥ 1 700	–  ¥ 100

Other discounts:

Wood, ceramic, and glass art museums: ~¥100 off
Creative workshops: 5% off
Owakudani Restaurant: 20% off drinks
Shops and cafes: 5–10% off

You’ll receive a booklet with all participating partners when you buy the pass.

Is the Hakone Free Pass Worth It?

Yes, in most cases. It’s especially worthwhile if you:

Do the full Hakone Loop (train, ropeway, cruise)
Visit several museums or onsen
Stay 2–3 days in the area

My personal take I found the pass so useful I bought two 3-day passes back-to-back! Hassle-free travel, great value, and ideal for a flexible, slow-paced stay.

Where to Buy the Hakone Free Pass

The Hakone Free Pass can be purchased online or in person, depending on your departure point and preferences.

Where to buy the Hakone Free Pass:

At Shinjuku Station (Tokyo):
- Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center (West Exit)
- Ticket machines : Includes round-trip to Odawara
At Odawara Station:
- Odakyu counter inside the station : Only includes local Hakone transport (ideal with JR Pass or Shinkansen arrival)
Other Odakyu Line stations:
- Available at select stations like Noborito, Machida, Sagami-Ono
- Sometimes listed as « Hakone Area Only Pass »
Online:
- On the Odakyu official site, or platforms like Klook or Japan Experience
- Receive a QR code to present on your phone, or convert it into a paper ticket at Odakyu counters

Practical tip:

If you’re starting your trip from Shinjuku, it’s best to buy the pass at the station or online with the option “with transportation from Tokyo”.
If you’re getting to Hakone on your own, purchasing the pass at Odawara Station or another Odakyu station lets you choose the “local” version of the pass.

Current Prices (2025)

From Shinjuku	From Odawara
2-day pass: ¥6100	2-day pass: ¥5000
3-day pass: ¥6500	3-day pass: ¥5400

Children’s fares available at reduced price

Pass format depending on where you buy it

In person:
You’ll receive a paper ticket that must be shown during rides or ticket checks.
Online:
You can simply show the QR code on your smartphone — no need to print it.
If needed, you can exchange the QR code for a paper ticket at any Odakyu ticket counter by showing it to a station staff member.

Tips for Using the Hakone Free Pass

Start early to maximize use
Activated at purchase (in person) or on selected date (online)
Use the Hakone Navi app for live schedules and route planning
Most transport doesn’t require seat reservations
JR Pass holders: arrive in Odawara by Shinkansen, then buy local version of the pass.

Benefits of the Hakone Free Pass

Unlimited access to Hakone’s transportation network (train, cable car, cruise, etc.).
Discounts at over 70 spots (museums, onsen, shops).
No reservations needed for most rides
Available as a paper ticket or QR code, depending on how you purchase it.
Two versions available: with or without transportation from Tokyo.

Conclusion: a great deal for exploring Hakone

The Hakone Free Pass is a simple and cost-effective way to explore Hakone’s volcanic region without stress. With its wide range of included transportation, various discounts, and flexible use, it makes trip planning much easier.
It’s an excellent choice for enjoying Hakone’s must-see attractions — without having to buy a new ticket for every ride.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Hakone Free Pass

Is the Hakone Free Pass worth it?

Yes — especially if you plan to visit multiple sites and use different modes of transport over 2 or 3 days.
It lets you travel stress-free without worrying about buying tickets at every stop, while also giving you discounts at museums and onsen.

Is there a 1-day pass?

No. Only 2-day or 3-day passes are available.

Can I buy the pass on the same day?

Yes, at Shinjuku, Odawara, and other Odakyu stations.

Is it mandatory to print the QR code?

No. You can show it on your phone. Paper conversion is optional at Odakyu counters.

Is the Romancecar included?

No. You must pay a ¥1200 supplement and book a seat.

When does the pass become cost-effective?

Usually by the second day, especially if doing the loop or coming from Tokyo.

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