🌸 Basic Information & Overview
Line Name: Hakone Tozan Line
Operator: Hakone Tozan Railway Co., Ltd. (Odakyu Group)
Route: Odawara – Gora / Distance: approx. 15.0 km
Stations: 11
Opened: 1919 (extended to Gora the same year)
Electrification: DC 1,500V (Odawara–Hakone-Yumoto) / DC 750V (Hakone-Yumoto–Gora)
Features: Japan’s only authentic mountain railway, with steep gradients, sharp curves, and three switchbacks
📜 History & Background
・Opened in 1919 as Japan’s first mountain railway, inspired by Swiss alpine railways.
・Originally used a rack-and-pinion (Abt) system before converting to a standard adhesion railway.
・Suffered severe damage from a typhoon in 2019, but fully reopened on July 23, 2020 after reconstruction.
・Today, it serves as the backbone of Hakone tourism, linking Gora with the cable car and ropeway toward Lake Ashi.
🌟 Highlights & Merits
✅ 1. Stunning Scenery and Unmatched Experience
Enjoy breathtaking mountain views—rivers, forests, cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, autumn leaves, and snowy peaks—all from your window 🌸🍁❄️🌿. The famous switchback climbs are a true railway adventure!
✅ 2. Gateway to Hakone’s Major Attractions
Hakone-Yumoto Station is the entrance to the hot spring town, while Gora connects directly to the Hakone Cable Car and Ropeway for easy access to Owakudani and Lake Ashi.
✅ 3. Excellent Access from Tokyo
Odakyu “Romancecar” trains run directly from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto. At Odawara, you can transfer to the JR Tokaido Line or the Shinkansen for wide-area connections.
✅ 4. Comfortable and Manageable Schedule
Trains operate roughly 3–4 times per hour during the day. Seasonal extra trains and themed rides (like the “Hydrangea Train”) add variety throughout the year.
⚠️ Points to Note (Demerits)
❌ 1. Limited Frequency Compared to City Lines
Expect some waiting time between trains, especially outside peak hours.
❌ 2. Prone to Weather Disruptions
Because of its mountainous terrain, heavy rain or landslides may cause delays or temporary suspensions.
❌ 3. Not Ideal for Daily Commuting
The line is built for sightseeing, not speed. It’s perfect for leisure, but less suited for regular commuters.
🧺 Living Environment (Ease of Living)
Transportation Access: ★★★☆☆ – Great for tourism, but not the fastest for daily commutes
Shopping: ★★☆☆☆ – Most shops in Hakone-Yumoto, Miyanoshita, and Gora cater to tourists
Nature & Environment: ★★★★★ – Surrounded by forests, valleys, and hot springs
Child-Raising Environment: ★★☆☆☆ – Limited schools and facilities due to mountain terrain
Safety: ★★★★★ – Calm and secure, with friendly tourism-driven communities
🏠 Real Estate Perspective (as of 2025)
💴 Average Rent (1K / Family 2LDK–):
Odawara: ¥60,000–¥75,000 / ¥100,000–¥130,000 — Convenient hub city with strong demand
Hakone-Yumoto: ¥55,000–¥70,000 / ¥80,000–¥110,000 — Popular hot spring and resort area
Miyanoshita: ¥45,000–¥60,000 / ¥70,000–¥100,000 — Quiet, scenic balance of homes and inns
Gora: ¥40,000–¥55,000 / ¥65,000–¥90,000 — Mix of villas and resort-style apartments
Rents vary depending on age, location, and resort demand.
🏘 Housing Trends & Lifestyle
・Mostly villas, second homes, and resort apartments; permanent residents tend to live closer to Odawara.
・Gora and Yumoto attract short-term stays, investors, and hospitality operators.
・Car-free living is possible near stations, though shopping and hospitals may require local buses.
🚃 Transportation Access (Quick Facts)
Connections: Odawara (JR, Shinkansen, Odakyu Line) / Hakone-Yumoto (Hot spring town center) / Gora (Cable Car & Ropeway link)
Operation: 3–4 trains per hour during the day / Travel time: approx. 40 minutes between Hakone-Yumoto and Gora
🎯 Recommended For
✅ Those seeking a peaceful second life or weekend retreat
✅ People who love nature and want to live in a scenic environment
✅ Hospitality and hotel workers based in the Hakone area
✅ Railway fans who want to experience Japan’s famous mountain switchbacks
📌 Summary
The Hakone Tozan Line is one of Japan’s most beloved and historically significant scenic railways. While not designed for commuting, it offers an unparalleled combination of nature, hot springs, and railway charm.
From Odawara’s urban convenience to Gora’s tranquil mountainside resorts, it perfectly balances tourism, relaxation, and lifestyle value. Whether you’re traveling, investing, or dreaming of a second home, this mountain railway connects you to the heart of Hakone’s beauty ✨