Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

Must Do Experiences

• Pose for photos on the deck of the intricately designed pirate ships, complete with cannons and figureheads.

• Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Mount Fuji rising above the lake waters on clear, crisp days.

• Disembark at different ports to explore the historic Hakone Shrine and the serene Motohakone area.

• Enjoy a relaxing beverage from the onboard cafe while taking in the tranquil scenery of Lake Ashi.

Hidden Gems

• Head to the lower deck observation areas for a unique, unobstructed water-level perspective of the surrounding volcanic mountains.

• Visit the captain's bridge display area inside the ship to see the intricate steering wheels and nautical instruments up close.

• Time your cruise for the late afternoon to catch the golden hour reflecting off the calm waters of Lake Ashi away from the midday crowds.

What Makes it Special

• The fleet features three distinct, highly detailed pirate ships inspired by 18th-century naval vessels, making the journey as spectacular as the destination.

• It serves as a vital and scenic transport link in the Hakone loop, seamlessly integrating with the Hakone Ropeway and local bus networks.

• The route provides one of the most iconic and unobstructed vantage points for viewing Mount Fuji over a pristine volcanic lake.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to embark on the cruise is early morning between 09:30 and 10:30, when the waters are calmest and Mount Fuji is most likely to be free of clouds. Autumn from October to November offers spectacular foliage framing the lake, while winter provides the crispest and clearest views of the snow-capped mountain peak.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position yourself at the very front of the upper deck near the ship's figurehead for dramatic, wide-angle shots of the lake with Mount Fuji in the background.

• Use a polarizing filter or sunglasses over your lens to reduce the harsh glare reflecting off the lake's surface during midday cruises.

• Capture the intricate details of the ship's interior, such as the ornate steering wheels and brass fittings, which are beautifully lit and make for excellent close-up shots.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the nearby Hakone Shrine before or after your cruise, remember to bow slightly before passing through the torii gates and cleanse your hands at the purification fountain. It is customary to speak in moderate tones on public transport and cruise vessels in Japan, so keep conversations at a respectful volume while enjoying the scenic views.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Winter Diamond Fuji season from late December to early January offers a rare chance to see the sun setting perfectly behind the peak of Mount Fuji from the lake.

• The Hakone Shrine New Year Festival in early January brings vibrant traditional ceremonies and special cruise schedules to accommodate pilgrims.

• Autumn foliage illumination events in November sometimes feature special evening or twilight cruise schedules to view the lit-up shoreline.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Hold onto the handrails when moving between the indoor and outdoor decks, as the transition areas can become slippery from lake spray.

• Keep a close eye on young children when on the open-air upper decks and ensure they do not climb on the safety railings.

• Pay attention to the safety briefing and locate the life jackets stored under the cabin seats upon boarding.