Kinnotake Blog #Onsen #Railways
Kinnotake Blog
2/28/2025
Hakone-Yumoto: The Gateway to Hakone's Onsen and Scenic Railways
Hakone-Yumoto: The Gateway to Hakone's Onsen and Scenic Railways
Hakone-Yumoto is the main gateway to the Hakone region—a charming onsen town filled with souvenir shops, traditional snacks, and easy connections to the mountains beyond.
Best of all, it’s incredibly accessible: you can reach Hakone-Yumoto directly from Shinjuku in about 90 minutes via the Odakyu Romancecar, making it a perfect day trip or the first stop on your Hakone adventure.
Hidden Gems Along the Hakone Tozan Railway

Take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto to discover peaceful spots beyond the crowds.
Tonosawa – A quiet onsen town surrounded by forest, known for traditional ryokan and seasonal experiences at Kinnotake Tōnosawa.
Ohiradai – A small, scenic village perfect for a peaceful walk, especially beautiful during hydrangea season.
Miyanoshita – A historic area with old Western-style buildings, charming paths, and access to mountain trails.
Local Treats and Souvenirs in Hakone-Yumoto

Hakone-Yumoto is known for local sweets like onsen manju—steamed buns with sweet bean filling—and yubadon, a tofu dish made with Hakone’s pure water. Shops also sell yosegi zaiku, traditional woodcrafts perfect for gifts.