Guide
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise is a premier sightseeing vessel operating on Lake Ashi in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. The fleet is characterized by its magnificent design, modeled after 18th-century French and British warships, transporting passengers into an extraordinary, non-daily world. Togendai Port serves as a vital hub for travelers, located adjacent to the terminus of the Hakone Ropeway, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Hakone area.
The culture of sightseeing on Lake Ashi has flourished alongside the rich natural beauty and history of Hakone. The current style of the 'pirate ships' incorporates historical naval designs to elevate the experience from mere transportation to a high-value tourist attraction. The Togendai area has long supported Hakone tourism as a critical transportation node where the ropeway, buses, and boats converge.
The greatest attraction is the stunning contrast between the silhouette of Mt. Fuji and the waters of Lake Ashi. As the ship passes near the Motohakone area, you can capture the iconic sight of the 'Peace Torii' standing in the lake with Mt. Fuji in the background. This is arguably the most photogenic spot on the entire cruise. Additionally, the fleet features different vessel designs, such as the 'Royale II,' 'Queen Ashi,' and 'Victory,' each offering a unique atmosphere.
Lake Ashi displays a different face in every season. In spring, the shores are adorned with fresh greenery, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. For the clearest views of Mt. Fuji, we recommend boarding during the early morning hours when the air is crisp and the sky is often clearest. Because the scenery changes significantly with the seasons, your experience will feel unique depending on when you visit.
Inside the ships, you can feel as though you have traveled back in time. Walk through the heavy, majestic interiors inspired by warships, and enjoy the panoramic views of the lake while feeling the breeze on the open deck. Although the cruise takes approximately 30 minutes one way, the experience is incredibly dense and rewarding, blending the natural beauty of Hakone with striking historical design.
Togendai Port is a highly convenient base that seamlessly connects land and water transport. It is located right next to the end of the Hakone Ropeway, allowing for smooth transfers to routes heading toward Owakudani via the ropeway, or toward Motohakone via the Hakone登山 (登山) Bus. It is an ideal starting point for a well-planned sightseeing loop.
The ships are designed with open decks. Depending on the season and weather, it can become quite windy on the water, so please bring appropriate clothing (such as a light jacket) to stay comfortable. When taking photos of the scenery, please be mindful of other passengers to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Payments can be made via cash, transportation IC cards (like Suica/Pasmo), or credit cards. While English signage is available, we recommend checking details in advance if you require specific assistance.