What Is the Hakone Romance Car?
The Hakone Romancecar is a limited express train operated by Odakyu Electric Railway, connecting central Tokyo (Shinjuku Station) and Hakone-Yumoto Station. Affectionately known as the "Romancecar" in Japanese, this limited express train has been the most popular and scenic route from Tokyo to Hakone since its launch in the 1950s. While the name "Romancecar" evokes the original concept of a luxurious trip for couples, it is now loved by a wide range of people, including solo travelers, families, and international tourists.
regular commuter trains on the Odakyu Line, the Romance Car offers reserved seating, panoramic windows, and a smooth, comfortable ride that transforms the journey to Hakone into an experience in itself. The trip from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto takes approximately 85 minutes — making it the unlikeliest and most convenient rail option for reaching this iconic hot spring and nature destination.
-
-
Hakone: The Ultimate Travel Guide for 2026 — Hot Springs, Mt. Fuji Views & Scenic Drives
Why Hakone Should Be on Every Japan Traveler's List Hakone is one of the most beloved destinations n ...
続きを見る
Romance Car Models and What to Expect on Board
Odakyu operates several Romance Car models on the Hakone route in 2026. Each offers a distinct onboard experience, and which model you ride depends on the schedule and timing of your trip.
GSE (70000 Series) — The Flagship
The Graceful Super Express (GSE) is the newest and most sought-after model, launched in 2018. Its striking vermillion exterior is instantly recognizable. The GSE features massive panoramic windows that extend from floor level to above the racks, flooding the cabin with natural light. The front observation car, where passengers sit behind a floor-to-ceiling glass wall with no driver's cab obstruction, is the most coveted seating area. Seats are arranged in a 2+2 configuration with generous legroom, power outlets, and fold-down tray tables.
EXEα (30000 Series) — The Comfortable Commuter
The EXEα is a refurbished version of the older EXE model, offering a more understated but highly comfortable ride. It seats more passengers than the GSE and is often used during peak hours. While it lacks the dramatic observation windows, the EXEα provides a quieter, well-appointed cabin with upgraded upholstery and modern amenities. This model is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and availability over the panoramic view.
VSE (50000 Series) — Retired Legend
The beloved VSE model, known for its sleek white exterior and dome-shaped observation car, was retired from regular service in 2023. While it no longer runs scheduled routes, it occasionally appears for special event services. Travelers in 2026 should not count on riding the VSE but may see it referenced in older guides.
How to book Hakone Romancecar tickets
Riding the Romance Car requires two components: a base Odakyu Line fare and a limited express surcharge (special express ticket). Understanding this two-part pricing system is essential for planning your trip.
Pricing Breakdown (Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, 2026)
- Base fare: Approximately ¥1,110
- Limited express surcharge: Approximately ¥1,200 (standard seat)
- Total one-way cost: Approximately ¥2,310
- Front observation seat (GSE): Same surcharge, but availability is extremely limited
If you plan to use the Hakone Free Pass , the base fare portion is covered by the pass. You only need to pay the limited express surcharge of around ¥1,200 on top. This makes the Free Pass an excellent value proposition if you intend to use multiple forms of transport within Hakone.
-
-
Hakone Free Pass 2026: Complete Guide to Pricing, Coverage, and How to Use It
What Is the Hakone Free Pass? The Hakone Free Pass is an all-in-one sightseeing ticket issued by Oda ...
続きを見る
List Methods
- Online (e-Romancecar): Odakyu's official English-language reservation site allows you to book seats up to one month in advance. This is the recommended method for securing front observation seats, which sell out quickly — especially on weekends and holidays.
- Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center (Shinjuku): Located on the ground floor of the Odakyu department store near Shinjuku Station's west exit. Staff speak English and can help you purchase tickets and the Hakone Free Pass simultaneously.
- Ticket machines at Shinjuku Station: The automatic ticket machines near the Odakyu Line platform are available in English. You can also purchase same-day tickets, but popular departure times may already be sold out.
Tips for Getting Front Observation Seats
The front seats on the GSE Romance Car offer arguably the best train view in the Tokyo region. To secure them, book online exactly one month before your travel date, ideally at the moment bookings open (10:00 AM JST). Weekday departures have better availability than weekends. If front seats are unavailable, regular window seats on the GSE still provide an exceptional panoramic experience thanks to the oversized windows.
The Journey: What You Will See from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto
The 85-minute ride on the Hakone Romance Car is a gradual transition from dense urban Tokyo to the lush, mountainous terrain of the Hakone region. Here is what to expect at each stage of the journey.
Shinjuku to Machida (First 30 Minutes)
The train glides through Tokyo's western suburbs. The skyline gradually gives way to residential neighborhoods. While this section is not the most scenic, it provides a fascinating glimpse of everyday suburban Japan.
Machida to Odawara (30–65 Minutes)
As the train enters Kanagawa Prefecture, the landscape opens up. Rice paddies, small rivers, and distant hills come into view. On clear days, you may catch your first glimpse of Mount Fuji to the west — a moment that never fails to thrill first-time visitors.
Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto (Final 15 Minutes)
This is the most dramatic section. The train begins its climb into the mountains, following the Hayakawa River through a narrow valley. Steep, forested hillsides close in on both sides. In autumn, the foliage transforms this stretch into a tunnel of red and gold. In spring, cherry blossoms line the riverbanks. The Romance Car slows through several switchback-like curves before arriving at Hakone-Yumoto Station.
-
-
Hakone Yumoto Station: The Complete 2026 Guide to Hakone's Gateway
What Is Hakone Yumoto Station? Hakone Yumoto Station (箱根湯本駅) is the main gateway to the Hakone regio ...
続きを見る
Hakone Romancecar vs. Shinkansen: Which should you choose?
Many travelers debate whether to take the Romance Car from Shinjuku or the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Odawara, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway. Here is a direct comparison.
- Romance Car: 85 minutes, ¥2,310 one-way, direct to Hakone-Yumoto, no transfers, scenic ride, reserved seats
- Shinkansen + Hakone Tozan: ~55 minutes total (35 min Shinkansen + 15 min local train + transfer time), approximately ¥3,500–¥4,000 one-way, faster but more expensive and less scenic
For most tourists visiting Hakone as a day trip or overnight excursion, the Romance Car is the superior choice. It is cheaper, requires no transfers, departs from a more accessible station (Shinjuku), and the journey itself is part of the Hakone experience. The Shinkansen option is primarily advantageous for travelers already holding a Japan Rail Pass or those coming from stations along the Tokaido Shinkansen line.
Romance Car Return Trip: Hakone-Yumoto to Shinjuku
The return journey is equally enjoyable, and some travelers argue the views are even better heading back toward Tokyo, as the river valley scenery unfolds on the opposite side of the train. A few practical tips for the return trip:
- Book in advance: Return Romance Car seats, particularly on Sunday afternoons and holiday evenings, sell out rapidly. Reserve your return ticket when you book your outbound journey.
- Arrive early at Hakone-Yumoto: The station area has souvenir shops, bakeries, and a small foot bath near the entrance — perfect for killing time before your departure.
- Consider off-peak times: Departures between 14:00 and 16:00 tend to be less crowded than the 17:00–19:00 rush.
Combining the Romance Car with Your Hakone Itinerary
The Romance Car is the ideal starting point for the classic Hakone loop — a circular sightseeing route that connects Hakone's major attractions using various forms of transport: the Hakone Tozan Railway, cable car, ropeway, pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, and bus. Arriving at Hakone-Yumoto by Romance Car, you can immediately board the Hakone Tozan Railway to begin the loop.
Key attractions accessible from this route include the volcanic valley of Owakudani, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi with views of Mount Fuji. After completing the loop, you return to Hakone-Yumoto to catch the Romance Car back to Shinjuku.
-
-
Owakudani Hakone: Complete Guide to the Volcanic Valley, Black Eggs & Stunning Views in 2026
What Is Owakudani in Hakone? Owakudani — literally translated as "Great Boiling Valley" — is one of ...
続きを見る
Best Season to Ride the Hakone Romance Car
While the Romance Car runs year-round, the experience varies significantly by season.
Spring (Late March – May)
Cherry blossoms in early April and fresh greenery through May make this one of the most beautiful times for the journey. The final stretch along the Hayakawa River is particularly stunning with sakura in bloom.
Summer (June – August)
The rainy season in June can obscure mountain views, but July and August offer lush green scenery. Hakone's elevation makes it several degrees cooler than Tokyo, so the Romance Car serves as an escape from summer heat.
Autumn (Late October – November)
This is peak season for the Hakone Romance Car. The autumn foliage (koyo) transforms the mountain corridor into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and golds. Book well in advance — this is the most popular time to visit Hakone.
Winter (December – February)
Clear winter skies offer the best chances of seeing Mount Fuji during the ride. The mountains around Hakone may have light snow, creating a serene landscape. Hot springs in Hakone are at their most appealing during the cold months.
Alternatives to the Romancecar for getting to Hakone
While the Romance Car is the most popular option, it is not the only way to get to Hakone from Tokyo. For travelers who prefer flexibility or want to explore the region at their own pace, driving offers a completely different experience. The Tomei Expressway and Odawara-Atsugi Road connect Tokyo to Hakone in approximately 90 minutes by car, and the mountain roads leading into Hakone are genuinely enjoyable to drive — particularly the Hakone Turnpike, which offers sweeping views of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji.
-
-
Rent a Car Tokyo to Hakone Onsen: Complete Driving Guide for Visitors
Why Drive from Tokyo to Hakone Onsen? Renting a car gives you door‑to‑door access to hot spring town ...
続きを見る
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hakone Romance Car
Do I need to reserve seats, or can I board without a reservation?
The Romance Car is all-reserved seating. You cannot board without a reserved seat ticket. Walk-up purchases are possible at Shinjuku Station if seats remain, but advance booking is strongly recommended.
Is luggage storage available?
Yes. There are overhead racks and small luggage spaces near the entrance vestibules. However, the Romance Car is not designed for large suitcases. If you are traveling with heavy luggage, consider using a luggage forwarding service (takkyubin) to send your bags to your hotel in Hakone.
Can I eat and drink on the Romance Car?
Yes. Eating and drinking are permitted. There are no onboard food sales on most services, so purchase bento boxes, snacks, or drinks at Shinjuku Station before boarding. The Odakyu department store basement food hall is an excellent place to pick up a premium ekiben (station lunch box).
Is the Romance Car covered by the Japan Rail Pass?
No. The Romance Car is operated by Odakyu, a private railway company. The JR Pass does not cover any Odakyu services. However, the Hakone Free Pass (sold by Odakyu) covers the base fare and provides unlimited use of most transport within Hakone.
How far in advance should I book?
For standard seats, booking one to two weeks ahead is usually sufficient on weekdays. For front observation seats on the GSE, or any seat on weekends, holidays, and during autumn foliage season, book exactly one month in advance.
Experience Japan’s Finest JDM Adventures
From Daikoku PA tours to JDM sports car rentals and drift experiences, we offer premium driving adventures for visitors who want more than ordinary sightseeing.
Get behind the wheel of iconic machines such as the GT-R, RX-7, and Supra, and experience Japan’s legendary car culture in the most unforgettable way. Whether you want a scenic Tokyo car experience or something more thrilling and immersive, we can guide you to the right plan.
Not sure which experience suits you best? No problem. Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll help you choose the ideal option based on your travel plans, interests, and driving experience.
Popular dates sell out quickly, so we recommend contacting us early.
Customer Reviews
Important Information
- This is a drive tour where you drive your rental car, and our guide navigates from the seat.
- This is a self-drive tour where you drive your rental car, and our guide navigates from the passenger seat.
- The tour begins and ends at the same location (Shibuya).
- If the Daikoku Parking Area is closed, we will instead guide you to another car meet further away.
- The consultant is a cultural expert and navigator, not a taxi service.
