How To Travel To Hakone Without Spending A Fortune
When the idea of exploring Japan crossed our minds, the desire to explore the majestic Mt. Fuji took center stage. However, the pre-packaged tours, each costing a hefty $230Aud per person, seemed like daylight robbery. Reviews weren't reassuring either, so we decided to forge our own path and create an adventure, the Outback Polaks way.
I've never been a fan of guided tours. Being told where to go and when doesn't appeal to my sense of adventure. After a disappointing attempt with a travel agent, who suggested I find my own tour, we turned to the realm of social media for inspiration. TikToks and travel videos led us to the Holy Grail – the Hakone Free Pass. Use our promo code on Klook OUTBACKPOLAKS to get a 5% discount!
This magical pass, purchased for just over $50 through Klook, grants you two days of unlimited travel on trains, buses, ropeways, boats, and other modes of transportation. All you need to do is get to Odawara train station, convert your pass to a ticket, and set yourself free to explore this incredible destination.
Let's kick things off with the mountain train. The journey, winding through hills, exploring old tunnels, and immersing in the forest's fragrance, was a train lover's dream. The ability to open windows and feel the breeze as the train changed directions to climb higher made it an unforgettable experience.
Next up, a cable train took us 1.2km straight up the mountain, preparing us for the cable car, or what they call a ropeway. While all this could be conquered on foot, we opted for the quicker route due to the sweltering heat. Little did we know, the cable car would treat us to a breathtaking view of an active volcano below, emitting sulfur gas and an aroma that could challenge a giant fart after a dozen eggs.
As we looked up from our fragrant cable car, there it was – Mt. Fuji, clear and magnificent. No car tour could prepare you for this surreal sight. The cable car dilemma – focus on the volcano below or the one ahead with Mt. Fuji – left our minds thoroughly blown. Serioulsy, are we still on Earth.
Post a quick lunch indulging in the famous curry, we ventured to taste eggs cooked in volcano steam. Legend has it, each egg adds 7 years to your life. Two eggs down, let the life extension experiment begin! Hurry up with those flying cars.
Our journey continued to Lake Ashinoko, where a fake pirate ship transported us to Motohakone to witness the famous Tori Gates in the lake. The catch? Everyone else had the same idea. After a stroll through a beautiful forest and the distant sound of military artillery, we faced a 1-hour wait for the perfect shot with the Tori gate. Being the savvy individuals we are, a selfie from the steps sufficed – who has time to wait an hour?
A stroke of brilliance from Amandda led us to the Amazake-Chaya Tea House. Opting to walk the old Tokaido Highway instead of taking a bus added an extra layer of adventure. Sweating through a bear-infested forest in 30-degree heat, we marveled at the ancient stone road's charm. It was a strenuous but worthwhile trek. I love a good hike but I hate humidity and I seriously sweated in places I did not want to sweat.
Founded 400 years ago, the Amazake-Chaya Tea House proved to be a serene haven. Their sweet rice wine, made through an unchanged recipe, was a delightful treat after our sweaty escapade.
In conclusion, don't succumb to overpriced tours. Do it yourself, and use our Klook link to grab the Hakone Free Pass. It's an adventure worth every penny, just keep an eye out for those bears and watch our sweaty vlogs.
