Last verified: September 7, 2026. Ropeway service can stop for high winds, severe weather or annual maintenance; check live operating information on the day.
The Hakone Ropeway links Sounzan with Togendai on Lake Ashi via Owakudani and Ubako. It is both transportation and an attraction: the gondolas pass over volcanic terrain, and clear conditions can reveal Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
Route and travel time
| Section | Approximate ride time | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Sounzan–Owakudani | 15 minutes | The most dramatic volcanic views; transfer at Owakudani. |
| Owakudani–Ubako | 15 minutes | A quieter middle section with mountain scenery. |
| Ubako–Togendai | 15 minutes | Descends toward Lake Ashi and the sightseeing-boat connection. |
Passengers riding the full route change gondolas at Owakudani. The official operator says cabins generally depart about every minute, but queues can make the total journey much longer on busy days.
Regular operating hours
Published boarding hours are 9:00–17:00 from February through November and 9:00–16:15 in December and January. Final boarding and temporary service patterns can differ, so do not plan around the last possible cabin.
Tickets and stopovers
You can leave the ropeway at Owakudani and continue using a ticket purchased to your final destination; the operator says a separate ticket is not required for that stopover. Credit cards and common IC cards such as Suica and PASMO are accepted at ticket offices. The Hakone Freepass covers the ropeway and can be better value when your day also uses other included transport.
What to do at Owakudani
Owakudani is the natural midpoint for views of the active volcanic landscape, food and short walks in permitted areas. “Earth Valley” features added around Owakudani Station make the stop more than a transfer, but access can change with volcanic gas, weather and maintenance. Follow on-site restrictions immediately.
Luggage, wheelchairs and families
- Coin lockers and station-office luggage storage are listed at ¥500, subject to space.
- Wheelchair users can remain in their chairs in the gondola; stations are described as barrier-free.
- Baby-care spaces are available at each station—ask staff for access.
- Pets must be fully enclosed in an appropriate carrier, except trained service dogs.
- On crowded days, allow extra time for the Owakudani transfer and toilets.
Avoid the Owakudani parking queue
The operator warns of car congestion during Golden Week, three-day weekends and autumn foliage season. Parking at Sounzan, Ubako or Togendai and approaching by ropeway can be easier than driving directly to Owakudani.
For travelers deciding whether Hakone fits the larger route, compare transport days in our Hidden Japan trip-planning guide and use the regional rail-pass calculator guide before buying a pass.