Quick Answer
The most popular way to get to Hakone from Narita Airport is by train with 2-3 transfers: Take Narita Express (N'EX) to Shinjuku or Tokyo, then transfer to either the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto or Shinkansen to Odawara, then local transport to your Hakone destination. Total travel time is 2.5-3.5 hours, and cost is approximately 5,000-8,000 JPY. Alternative options include: direct highway bus (3-4 hours, ~4,500-5,500 JPY) or private transfer (2.5-3.5 hours, ~35,000-50,000 JPY). There are no direct trains from Narita to Hakone.
How to Get from Narita Airport to Hakone by Train
Getting from Narita Airport to Hakone by train requires 2-3 transfers but is efficient and scenic. The two main routes are: via Shinjuku using the Odakyu Romancecar or via Tokyo Station using the Shinkansen. Both routes converge at Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto, where you'll transfer to local Hakone transport (train, bus, cable car, or ropeway).
| Route | Transfers | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N'EX to Shinjuku → Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto | 2 transfers | 2.5-3 hours | ~7,500-8,500 JPY | Most scenic, direct to Hakone-Yumoto |
| N'EX to Tokyo → Shinkansen to Odawara → Local to Hakone | 2-3 transfers | 2.5-3 hours | ~8,000-9,000 JPY | Fastest, JR Pass holders |
| Keisei Skyliner to Ueno → JR to Odawara → Local to Hakone | 2-3 transfers | 3-3.5 hours | ~5,500-6,500 JPY | Budget option |
| N'EX to Shinjuku → Local train to Odawara → Local to Hakone | 2-3 transfers | 3-3.5 hours | ~6,000-7,000 JPY | Cheaper than Romancecar |
Via Shinjuku: N'EX + Odakyu Romancecar (Recommended Route)
This is the most popular train route from Narita Airport to Hakone: 1. Take Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station (about 90 minutes, 3,250 JPY). 2. At Shinjuku, transfer to Odakyu Romancecar limited express to Hakone-Yumoto (about 85 minutes, 2,330 JPY + 1,190 JPY limited express fee). 3. At Hakone-Yumoto, transfer to local Hakone transport (train, bus, or taxi) to your final destination. The Romancecar offers comfortable reserved seating with large windows for mountain views.
Via Tokyo: N'EX + Shinkansen (Fastest Route)
The fastest train route to Hakone uses the Shinkansen: 1. Take Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station (about 60 minutes, 3,070 JPY). 2. At Tokyo, transfer to Shinkansen (bullet train) to Odawara Station (about 35 minutes, 3,500 JPY for non-reserved). 3. At Odawara, transfer to local Hakone transport to your destination. This route is covered by the Japan Rail Pass (except local Hakone transport).
From Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto to Your Destination
After reaching Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto, you need local transport to your final Hakone destination: Hakone-Yumoto to Gora: Hakone Tozan Railway (40 minutes, scenic mountain railway) Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto: Local train (15 minutes) if you arrived at Odawara To Lake Ashi (Moto-Hakone/Hakone-machi): Bus from Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara (30-50 minutes) To Sengokuhara/Gora area: Bus or Hakone Tozan Railway + cable car The Hakone Freepass covers most of these local transports.
Japan Rail Pass and Hakone Freepass
The Japan Rail Pass covers N'EX and Shinkansen to Odawara but does NOT cover Odakyu Romancecar or local Hakone transport. The Hakone Freepass (available from Shinjuku or Odawara) covers round-trip from Shinjuku to Hakone (Romancecar requires extra fee) plus unlimited local transport in Hakone. Consider buying Hakone Freepass at Shinjuku if using the Romancecar route.
Narita Airport to Hakone by Highway Bus
While there's no direct bus from Narita Airport to Hakone, you can take airport transportation to Tokyo, then board a direct highway bus to Hakone from major Tokyo stations. Direct buses operate from Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Yokohama stations to various Hakone destinations. Total travel time from Narita to Hakone via bus is 3-4 hours (plus time to reach bus station), and cost is approximately 4,500-5,500 JPY including airport transportation.
Direct Highway Bus from Tokyo to Hakone
After reaching Tokyo from Narita Airport, take a direct highway bus to Hakone from: Shinjuku Station: Most frequent service to Hakone-Yumoto, Gora, Sengokuhara (about 2 hours) Tokyo Station: Buses to Hakone-Yumoto and other Hakone areas (about 2-2.5 hours) Yokohama Station: Alternative departure point (about 1.5 hours to Hakone) Buses are comfortable with rest stops and offer scenic views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Bus Routes and Operators
- Odakyu Highway Bus: From Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, Gora, Sengokuhara
- JR Bus Kanto: From Tokyo Station to various Hakone destinations
- Fujikyu/Keikyu Buses: From Shinjuku and other locations
- Frequency: Every 30-90 minutes depending on route and season
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto
- Cost: 2,000-3,500 JPY one-way from Tokyo to Hakone
- Advance Booking: Highly recommended during peak seasons (spring, autumn, holidays)
Why Consider the Bus to Hakone?
The highway bus to Hakone can be preferable if you want to avoid multiple train transfers with luggage. Buses have under-carriage storage and take you directly to Hakone destinations like Gora or Sengokuhara. Some buses even stop at major hotels/ryokan. However, you still need to get from Narita Airport to the Tokyo bus departure point (additional 60-90 minutes and 1,000-3,000 JPY). During peak traffic (Friday evenings, holiday weekends), bus travel time can increase significantly.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Hakone
Narita Airport to Hakone Taxi
Taking a taxi from Narita Airport to Hakone offers door-to-door convenience but at a premium price. The distance is approximately 140 km (87 miles), with travel time of 2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic. Taxi cost ranges from 35,000 to 50,000 JPY (approximately $230-330 USD) for regular taxis, plus highway tolls (around 4,000-5,000 JPY). This option is most cost-effective for groups of 3-4 people splitting the fare.
Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Hakone
Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with English-speaking driver. Prices are similar to taxis (40,000-60,000 JPY) but offer fixed rates, meet-and-greet service, and larger vehicles for groups or extra luggage. You can book online in advance. This is the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families, those with heavy luggage, or arrivals after hours when train/bus connections are poor.
Is a Taxi Worth It to Hakone?
For solo travelers: Rarely (train/bus is 5,000-8,000 JPY vs taxi 35,000-50,000 JPY). For 2 people: Unlikely unless convenience is paramount. For 3-4 people: Possibly if splitting cost (8,750-12,500 JPY per person). For late night arrivals when train/bus connections are impossible: Taxi may be the only practical option. For ryokan guests with precise check-in times: Private transfer ensures timely arrival.
Narita Airport to Hakone Route Map
The map below shows the travel routes from Narita International Airport to Hakone. Train routes typically go via Tokyo or Shinjuku to Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto, then into the Hakone mountain area. Highway routes for buses/taxis use the Tomei Expressway and then the Odawara-Atsugi Road into Hakone.
The distance from Narita Airport to Hakone is approximately 140 km (87 miles) by road. Train routes are similar in distance but travel through urban Tokyo before reaching the mountainous Hakone region. Hakone's elevation and winding mountain roads mean the final segment is slower regardless of transport mode.
Narita Airport to Hakone: Ticketing & Costs
| Transport Option | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N'EX + Romancecar + Local Hakone transport | 2.5-3.5 hours | ~7,500-10,000 JPY | 2-3 | Scenic route, direct to Hakone-Yumoto |
| N'EX + Shinkansen + Local Hakone transport | 2.5-3 hours | ~8,000-11,000 JPY | 2-3 | Fastest, JR Pass holders |
| Keisei Skyliner + JR + Local Hakone transport | 3-3.5 hours | ~5,500-7,000 JPY | 2-3 | Budget travelers |
| Airport train + Highway bus | 3-4 hours | ~4,500-6,500 JPY | 1-2 | Direct to Hakone hotels, less transfers |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 2.5-3.5 hours | 35,000-60,000 JPY | 0 | Groups, late night, door-to-door ryokan |
Hakone Freepass from Narita Airport
The Hakone Freepass does not cover travel from Narita Airport, but can be combined with airport transportation. Options: 1. Buy Odakyu Hakone Freepass from Shinjuku (covers round-trip from Shinjuku + local Hakone transport). 2. Buy Hakone Freepass from Odawara (covers local Hakone transport only). The Shinjuku version costs about 6,100 JPY (2-day) or 6,500 JPY (3-day) and includes Romancecar discount (add ~1,200 JPY for limited express).
Japan Rail Pass to Hakone
The Japan Rail Pass covers N'EX to Tokyo/Shinjuku and Shinkansen to Odawara, but does NOT cover Odakyu Romancecar or most local Hakone transport. JR Pass holders should take N'EX to Tokyo, then Shinkansen to Odawara (both covered), then purchase Hakone Freepass from Odawara or pay separately for local transport. The Romancecar route is not covered by JR Pass.
Combination Tickets and Discounts
Odakyu Romancecar + Hakone Freepass: Purchase together at Shinjuku for discount. N'EX Round-trip Discount Ticket: 4,000 JPY for round-trip N'EX (valid 14 days). Keisei Skyliner + Tokyo Subway Ticket: Discount package for Skyliner + subway access. Consider your full itinerary when choosing tickets - if visiting Tokyo after Hakone, different combinations may be better.
Traveler Experience: Getting to Hakone from Narita
Getting from Narita Airport to Hakone is a journey of 2.5-4 hours that transitions from urban Tokyo to mountainous hot spring country. First-time visitors should allow plenty of time (3-4 hours minimum) and consider that many Hakone ryokan have specific check-in times (often 3-5 PM). The Romancecar from Shinjuku offers comfortable reserved seating with large windows for enjoying the changing scenery. Traveling with luggage can be challenging due to multiple transfers and Hakone's mountainous terrain - many visitors use luggage forwarding service (takkyubin) from airport directly to ryokan. Late afternoon arrivals at Narita may not reach Hakone until evening - consider staying in Tokyo overnight if arriving after 2 PM. The journey is part of the Hakone experience, with the final approach by mountain railway, cable car, or winding bus routes offering stunning views.
Practical Tips & Advice for Narita to Hakone
- With luggage: Multiple train transfers plus Hakone's mountainous terrain can be challenging. Use luggage forwarding service (takkyubin) from airport to ryokan (1-2 days delivery, 1,500-2,500 JPY per piece).
- First-time visitor tip: N'EX to Shinjuku + Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto is most straightforward. Purchase Odakyu Hakone Freepass at Shinjuku for simplified local transport.
- Late afternoon arrivals: If arriving at Narita after 2 PM, you may not reach Hakone until 6-7 PM. Consider staying in Tokyo/Ueno/Shinjuku overnight and going to Hakone next morning.
- Ryokan check-in times: Most Hakone ryokan have check-in between 3-5 PM. Time your arrival accordingly or inform ryokan if arriving later.
- With kids: Private transfer may be worth the cost to avoid multiple transfers. Romancecar has family-friendly features.
- Cost-saving tip: Keisei Skyliner + JR to Odawara + Hakone local transport (~5,500-7,000 JPY) is cheapest train option.
- Time-saving tip: N'EX to Tokyo + Shinkansen to Odawara is fastest train route (2.5 hours to Odawara).
- Peak season advice: Autumn foliage (Oct-Nov) and cherry blossom (Apr) are extremely busy. Book Romancecar/Shinkansen seats 1-2 months in advance.
- Hakone Freepass: Excellent value if staying 2+ days in Hakone. Covers most local transport plus discounts on attractions.
- Weather considerations: Hakone is mountainous and cooler than Tokyo. Pack layers. Check weather as cable cars/ropeways may close in high winds.
- Day trip possibility: From Narita to Hakone and back in one day is not practical (5-7 hours round-trip travel). Stay at least one night.
- Mobile apps: Use "Japan Travel" app for train schedules, "Google Maps" for navigation (works well even in Hakone), "Japan Official Travel App" for general info.
- Money: Have cash for local buses, small restaurants, and ryokan that may not accept credit cards.
- Onsen etiquette: Most ryokan include dinner/breakfast. Familiarize yourself with basic onsen (hot spring) rules before arrival.
Map showing train routes from Narita Airport to Hakone, typically via Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station, then to Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto.
Frequently Asked Questions: Narita Airport to Hakone
What is the best way to get from Narita Airport to Hakone?
For most travelers: N'EX to Shinjuku + Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto (2.5-3 hours, ~7,500-8,500 JPY). For JR Pass holders: N'EX to Tokyo + Shinkansen to Odawara (2.5-3 hours, covered by pass + local transport). For convenience: Direct highway bus from Tokyo stations (3-4 hours, ~4,500-5,500 JPY). For door-to-door: Private transfer (2.5-3.5 hours, ~40,000-60,000 JPY).
Is there a direct train from Narita Airport to Hakone?
No direct train. Hakone is not directly connected to airport train lines. You need at least 2 transfers: Airport train to Tokyo/Shinjuku, then train to Odawara/Hakone-Yumoto, then local transport within Hakone. Minimum travel time is about 2.5 hours with optimal connections.
Should I go to Hakone via Tokyo or Shinjuku?
Via Shinjuku is often better for Hakone: N'EX goes directly to Shinjuku (90 min), then Odakyu Romancecar goes directly to Hakone-Yumoto (85 min). Via Tokyo Station: N'EX to Tokyo (60 min), then Shinkansen to Odawara (35 min), then local transport to Hakone. Shinjuku route has simpler transfer and Romancecar is scenic. Tokyo route is slightly faster with Shinkansen.
How many transfers from Narita Airport to Hakone?
Minimum 2 transfers. Most common route: N'EX to Shinjuku (1 transfer from airport), Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto (2nd transfer), then local bus/train to your hotel (3rd transfer if needed). Total transfers depend on your specific Hakone destination (Gora, Sengokuhara, Lake Ashi, etc).
Is Hakone easy to reach from Narita Airport?
Moderately challenging but well-organized. Requires multiple transfers but signage is good in English. First-time visitors should allow 3-4 hours total and consider luggage forwarding. The journey is part of the experience, with beautiful scenery as you enter the mountains. Not recommended as a day trip from Narita due to long travel time.
How long does it take from Narita Airport to Hakone?
Train routes: 2.5-3.5 hours to Hakone-Yumoto/Odawara, plus 15-60 minutes to your specific destination in Hakone. Highway bus: 3-4 hours (including transfer to bus station). Private transfer: 2.5-3.5 hours (traffic dependent). Add time for luggage collection, transfers, and waiting for connections.
What is the cheapest way from Narita Airport to Hakone?
Keisei Skyliner to Ueno (2,470 JPY) + JR/Tokaido Line to Odawara (~2,000 JPY) + local transport in Hakone (~500-1,500 JPY) = ~5,000-6,000 JPY total. Takes 3-3.5 hours. Highway bus is similarly priced but may be more convenient with luggage.
Are taxis worth it from Narita to Hakone?
For 3-4 people with luggage: Possibly (split cost 35,000-50,000 JPY = 8,750-12,500 JPY per person). For solo travelers: No (very expensive vs 5,000-8,000 JPY train/bus). For late night arrivals or ryokan guests with precise check-in times: Taxi/private transfer may be worth the convenience despite the cost.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover travel to Hakone?
Partially. JR Pass covers N'EX to Tokyo/Shinjuku and Shinkansen to Odawara but does NOT cover Odakyu Romancecar or most local Hakone transport (except JR buses from Odawara). JR Pass holders should take Shinkansen to Odawara, then purchase Hakone Freepass from Odawara or pay separately for local transport.
What if I arrive at Narita Airport after 2 PM?
For afternoon/evening arrivals: Last Romancecar to Hakone departs around 7-8 PM. If arriving after 2 PM, you may not make last train. Options: 1) Stay in Tokyo/Shinjuku overnight, go to Hakone next morning, 2) Take Shinkansen to Odawara (runs later), then taxi to Hakone, 3) Direct highway bus (some run later), 4) Taxi/private transfer (expensive but available).
Should I buy Hakone Freepass from Narita Airport?
You can't buy Hakone Freepass at Narita Airport. Purchase options: 1) At Shinjuku Station (Odakyu Sightseeing Center) - covers round-trip from Shinjuku + local Hakone transport. 2) At Odawara Station - covers local Hakone transport only. 3) Online in advance for pickup at Shinjuku. If taking Romancecar, buy at Shinjuku before boarding.
Can I do Hakone as a day trip from Narita Airport?
Not recommended. Narita to Hakone is 2.5-3.5 hours one way, so 5-7 hours round-trip travel. With 4-6 hours in Hakone, that's a 9-13 hour day. Better to: 1) Stay in Hakone overnight (highly recommended for ryokan/onsen experience), 2) Stay in Tokyo, do Hakone as day trip next day, 3) If must do same day, take earliest possible transport and prioritize key sights only.