Komagatake Ropeway

The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway (箱根駒ヶ岳ロープウェー) offers a scenic ride from Hakone-en, located on the shores of Lake Ashinoko, to the summit of Mount Komagatake (1,327 meters). On clear days, the ropeway provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Mount Fuji, the lake below, the surrounding mountains, and even the distant Pacific Ocean. At the summit, a short trail leads to Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine, an ancient mountaintop sanctuary that marks the original site of Hakone Shrine, steeped in mythology and spiritual heritage. Unlike the Hakone Ropeway (which connects Togendai to Owakudani), the Komagatake Ropeway is not covered by the Hakone Free Pass, though discounted tickets are sometimes available through local packages.

The ropeway’s lower station area, Hakone-en, is a lakeside resort complex featuring hotels, restaurants, a golf course, a small aquarium, and a petting zoo, making it a popular stop for families and leisure travelers. From the summit, several hiking trails branch out, including scenic routes to Owakudani and Sounzan, offering adventurous visitors the opportunity to descend through lush alpine forests and dramatic volcanic landscapes.