JapanTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Hakone Open-Air Museum

1. What is the most convenient way to travel to the Hakone Open-Air Museum from Tokyo?

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to the Hakone Open-Air Museum is by taking the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone Yumoto Station. From there, you can transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway and take the train to Chokoku-no-mori Station, which is right next to the museum.

2. How long does it take to get from Tokyo to the Hakone Open-Air Museum?

It takes approximately 1.5-2 hours to travel from Tokyo to the Hakone Open-Air Museum by train. The exact travel time may vary depending on your starting location in Tokyo and any potential delays or transfers along the way.

2. Are there any public transportation options available to get to the museum?


Yes, there are several public transportation options available to get to the museum:
– Bus: The Museum is served by multiple bus routes, including routes 5, 9, 14 and others. To plan your route, you can visit the website of the nearest transit agency.
– Subway/Train: The closest subway/train stop to the museum is the Red Line station at Park Street. From there, the museum is about a 10-minute walk away.
– Commuter Rail: The museum is also accessible via Commuter Rail on the Providence/Stoughton and Franklin lines at South Station. From there, you can take the Red Line to Park Street or walk about 20 minutes to reach the museum.
– Ride-sharing services: Services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Boston and can drop you off directly at the museum entrance.

3. Is there a specific bus or train line that goes directly to the museum?


This is not a question about the content of the article. However, depending on your location and the specific museum you are trying to visit, there may be bus or train lines that go directly to the museum. It is best to check with the local public transportation authority or the museum’s website for more information on how to get there by public transportation.

4. How long does it take to get to the Hakone Open-Air Museum from popular tourist destinations like Shinjuku or Shibuya in Tokyo?


It takes approximately 2-3 hours to get to the Hakone Open-Air Museum from Shinjuku or Shibuya in Tokyo. This includes taking the train from Shinjuku or Shibuya Station to Odawara Station, and then transferring to a bus or train to reach the museum. The exact travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation and any potential delays.

5. Can I use my Suica/Pasmo card on the transportation to Hakone Open-Air Museum?


No, Suica/Pasmo cards are not accepted for the transportation to Hakone Open-Air Museum. You will need to purchase a separate ticket for the Hakone Tozan Railway or the Hakone Ropeway.

6. Are there any shuttle services provided by the museum for visitors?


There is no public shuttle service provided by the museum for visitors. However, some organized tours and private transportation companies may offer shuttle services to and from the museum. It’s best to check with the museum or your tour operator for more information on transportation options.

7. Can I rent a car or bike near the museum for easier transportation around Hakone?


Yes, there are car rental and bike rental services available near the museum in Hakone. Some nearby options include:

1. Nippon Rent-A-Car – This car rental service has a branch located about a 15-minute walk from the museum.

2. Rent a Car ODS Hakone Yumoto – This car rental service is located about a 20-minute drive from the museum and offers a variety of vehicles for rent.

3. Bike Rental Hakone – This bike rental service is located about a 10-minute walk from the museum and offers both electric and regular bicycles for rent.

It is always advisable to confirm with your choice of rental service beforehand to ensure availability and make reservations if desired.

8. How far is the nearest train station or bus stop from the entrance of the museum?


The distance to the nearest train station and bus stop varies depending on the specific museum. Some museums may have a train station or bus stop directly in front of their entrance, while others may be several blocks away. It is best to check the museum’s website or contact them directly for specific transportation information.

9. Are taxis readily available in this area?


Yes, taxis are usually readily available in this area. However, it is always recommended to have the phone number of a local taxi company on hand in case there is a shortage or you need a taxi at an odd hour. Additionally, ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in this area.

10. Is it possible to take a boat ride as part of transportation to and from Hakone Open-Air Museum?


No, it is not possible to take a boat ride as transportation to and from Hakone Open-Air Museum. The museum is located in Ninotaira, Hakone and the nearest boat or ferry pier is Hakone-machi. Although a boat ride can be taken from various points around Lake Ashi to Hakone-machi, it would still require additional transportation (such as bus or train) to reach the museum from there. The most convenient way to get to the museum is by taking the Hakone Tozan Bus from Togendai Station or the Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus from Odawara Station directly to the museum’s entrance.

11. Are there any scenic routes or roads that are recommended for driving or biking in Hakone?


1. Hakone Skyline (Hakone Toll Road): This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashinoko, and the surrounding valleys. It is a popular route for both driving and biking.

2. Yumoto and Sengokuhara Loop: This route takes you through the charming town of Yumoto and then up to the peaceful countryside of Sengokuhara, passing by beautiful forests and small local farms.

3. Ashi Lake Drive: This circular route around Lake Ashinoko offers stunning views of the lake, Mt. Fuji, and the surrounding mountains. The road winds through picturesque villages and past traditional Japanese temples.

4. Owakudani to Togendai: This scenic drive starts at the famous Owakudani Valley where you can see volcanic activity up close. The road then takes you along the shore of Lake Ashinoko to Togendai, where you can take a short boat tour.

5. Amazake-chaya Drive: This short but scenic drive takes you through forested roads to the historic Amazake-chaya teahouse, offering gorgeous views of greenery and glimpses of Mount Fuji.

6. Hakoneyama Skyline Drive: This route is known for its sharp curves, steep slopes, and stunning vistas overlooking Hakone Town and Mt. Fuji in the distance.

7. Cedar Avenue (Cedar Tree Lined Road): Located near Moto-Hakone area, this tranquil road stretches 800 meters lined with majestic cedar trees that arch over the roadway creating a beautiful tunnel effect.

8. Ashigara Mountain Pass: Cross through a mountainous area on this winding yet picturesque drive from Hakone to Gotemba, offering lovely views of Mount Fuji along the way.

9. Old Tokaido Highway: For an immersive cultural experience while driving or biking in Hakone, take this historic highway that was once a major route between Tokyo and Kyoto.

10. Kyu-Kaido: Another historic road, the Old Tokai Road stretches from Mishima City towards Hakone Yumoto station. It offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and chance to see traditional Japanese houses and local shops along the way.

11. Cycle Around Ashinoko: For those looking for a leisurely bike ride, the area around Lake Ashinoko is perfect. You can rent a bike and explore the lake’s picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

12. Are there any parking facilities at the museum or nearby areas for private vehicles?


Yes, there is a parking lot located next to the museum for private vehicles. Additionally, there are several nearby public parking lots and street parking options available.

13. What is the best time of day to visit in terms of avoiding traffic and crowds while travelling in and around Hakone Open-Air Museum?


The best time of day to visit Hakone Open-Air Museum to avoid traffic and crowds would be early morning or late afternoon. These times are before or after the peak tourist hours, so it is less likely to be crowded on the roads and at the museum. Weekdays may also be quieter than weekends.

14. Are there any discounts on transportation tickets if I am travelling with a large group/family?

Many transportation providers offer group discounts for large groups, such as families or tour groups. These discounts may vary based on the provider and the size of the group, but it is worth inquiring about when purchasing tickets. Some providers also offer discounted family passes or group passes that allow for a certain number of people to travel together at a reduced rate. It’s best to check with the specific transportation provider you will be using to see what options they have available for group travel discounts. Additionally, some cities or countries may offer special tourist passes that provide discounted transportation options for visitors travelling in large groups.

15. What is the frequency of bus/train rides between Tokyo and Hakone Open-Air Museum throughout the day?


The frequency of bus/train rides between Tokyo and Hakone Open-Air Museum varies throughout the day. On weekdays, there are usually 5-6 trains departing from Tokyo Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station every hour. From Hakone-Yumoto Station, there is a local train that runs to Gora Station, which is the closest station to the museum. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and trains depart about every 30 minutes.

There are also direct buses from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Hakone Open-Air Museum, with departures every 20-30 minutes throughout the day. The journey takes around 2 hours and there may be additional stops on the way.

It is recommended to check the schedule beforehand or ask at the station for specific departure times on the day of travel.

16. How do I book tickets/reservations for public transportation or shuttle services beforehand?


The process for booking tickets or reservations for public transportation or shuttle services may vary depending on the specific mode of transportation and your destination. However, here are some general guidelines and tips:

1. Plan ahead: It’s always a good idea to research your options and make reservations beforehand, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or to popular destinations.

2. Check the official website: Start by visiting the official website of the transportation company or service you wish to use. Many offer online booking services that allow you to purchase tickets in advance.

3. Use third-party websites: You can also use third-party websites, such as Rome2rio or GoEuro, which allow you to compare prices and book tickets for various modes of transportation worldwide.

4. Contact Information Centers: If you’re unsure about how to book tickets for a particular service, don’t hesitate to reach out to information centers at airports, train stations or bus terminals. They can guide you through the process and help you with any questions you may have.

5. Consider package deals: Some companies offer package deals that include transportations, accommodation, and activities all in one price. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.

6. Book through a travel agent: If you prefer not to handle the booking process yourself, consider using a travel agent who specializes in your desired destination. They can help arrange all of your transportation and accommodations.

7. Pay attention to cancellation policies: Before making any reservations, make sure to read and understand the cancellation policies in case your plans change unexpectedly.

8 .Be aware of additional fees: Some companies may charge extra fees for baggage or seat selection. Be sure to check these details before booking your ticket.

9. Make sure to have all necessary information ready: You will likely need personal information such as names, contact details, and passport numbers when booking tickets/reservations online or through an agent.

10.Ensure payment is secure: When making online bookings, make sure the website has a secure payment system to protect your personal and payment information.

Overall, it’s important to plan ahead and research your options before booking tickets for public transportation or shuttle services. With these tips in mind, you should be able to easily reserve your tickets and enjoy a smooth trip.

17. Is it possible to walk from one attraction within the museum grounds to another, or do I need separate transportations between each exhibit/area?


It depends on the size and layout of the museum grounds. Some museums have multiple buildings and exhibits within walking distance, while others may require separate transportation between certain areas. It is best to consult a map or inquire with museum staff for specific information about transportation within the museum.

18. Will navigation apps like Google Maps be helpful when trying to find my way around Hakone and its transportation system?


Yes, navigation apps like Google Maps can be helpful when trying to find your way around Hakone and its transportation system. These apps typically include accurate information about public transportation schedules and routes in the area, making it easier to plan your journey and navigate through the city. They also provide real-time updates on any delays or changes to routes, allowing you to adjust your plans accordingly. However, it is always a good idea to have a physical map or guidebook with you as well in case of any technical difficulties with the app.

19. Are there any unique modes of transportation available in and around Hakone Open-Air Museum, such as cable cars or ropeways?


Yes, there are two unique modes of transportation available in and around Hakone Open-Air Museum: the Hakone Ropeway and the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise.

1. Hakone Ropeway: This aerial tramway connects Togendai Station on the shore of Lake Ashi with Sounzan Station near the museum. The 30-minute journey provides stunning views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the surrounding nature.

2. Hakone Sightseeing Cruise: This sightseeing boat operates on Lake Ashi, offering a scenic 30-minute cruise between various ports, including Moto-Hakone Port, which is located near the museum. Passengers can enjoy views of Mount Fuji and other landmarks along the lake while on board.

Both of these transportation options are convenient for visitors who want to travel between different attractions in Hakone or for those who want to experience unique perspectives of the area’s natural beauty.

20. Is it advisable to book a guided tour for transportation and navigation purposes, or can I easily navigate the area on my own?


It depends on your personal preference and travel style. Booking a guided tour can offer convenience and ease of navigation, as well as an informative experience with a knowledgeable guide. However, exploring on your own can give you more freedom and flexibility in your itinerary. If it is your first time visiting the area, a guided tour may be recommended to help navigate and learn about the area. But if you are comfortable with independent travel and doing research beforehand, exploring on your own can also be a great option.