This guide helps travelers make the most of rainy days in Hakone. It answers: “What to do in Hakone when it rains?”
Quick Facts
- Good news: Many indoor and covered activities
- Challenges: Ropeway may close, Mt. Fuji views unlikely
- Best rainy activities: Onsen, museums, ryokan
Indoor Activities
Onsen
Rainy days are perfect for hot spring bathing. Indoor baths stay comfortable. Many ryokan and day-use facilities available.
Museums
Open-Air Museum – Has indoor Picasso Pavilion. Pola Museum of Art – Excellent impressionist collection. Venetian Glass Museum – Murano glass in garden setting.
Yunessun
Water park-style onsen with indoor pools. Swimsuit zone and nude zone. Fun for families on rainy days.
Transportation Notes
Ropeway: May close in strong wind or heavy rain. Check status. Pirate ship: Usually operates in light rain. Buses: Run in all weather.
Tips
- Embrace it: Onsen in the rain is actually wonderful.
- Ryokan: Rainy days are perfect for lounging in a ryokan.
Getting There
Arriving in Hakone
Recommended (Mid-range): Take the Odakyu “Romancecar” Limited Express from Shinjuku Station directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station in approximately 75–85 minutes. This reserved-seat train provides a comfortable, dry journey without the need for transfers. Budget: Take the standard Odakyu Line 🔵 Express from Shinjuku to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line (approximately 90–110 minutes).
From Airports: Direct highway buses serve Haneda Airport (T1, T2, T3) and Narita Airport (T1, T2, T3), connecting to Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara Station. This is an excellent option to avoid hauling luggage through wet train stations. Travel time is approximately 140 minutes from Haneda and 180 minutes from Narita.
From Tokyo Station: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (Blue/White) to Odawara Station in approximately 35 minutes. From Odawara, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line or local buses to reach the hot spring resort areas.
Getting Around in the Rain
The Hakone Freepass is the most convenient tool for a rainy day itinerary. It covers the Hakone Tozan Train, Cable Car, Ropeway, Sightseeing Cruise, and Hakone Tozan Bus. The Tozan Train is particularly atmospheric in the rain, winding through the mountains while keeping passengers dry. However, please note that the Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise may suspend operations during strong winds or heavy storms; always check the official operation status before heading out. IC cards (Suica, PASMO) are accepted on most local transport if you prefer not to buy a pass.
Sources
- Tourism board: Hakone Navi
Last updated: 2026-02-03