Travel Plans to Hakone
Hakone is a breathtaking destination in Japan known for its stunning views, hot springs, and art museums. Planning a trip to this enchanting area can be overwhelming, especially when trying to figure out the best routes
to get around. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to travel from the Glass Forest Museum to the scenic hot spring, Ryuguu Palace Main Building, using affordable public transportation options like buses and trains.
Getting Started at the Glass Forest Museum
The Glass Forest Museum, or Hakone Glass no Mori, is a delightful place to explore. With its beautiful glass art installations and serene gardens, it’s the perfect start to your Hakone adventure. Once you’re ready to leave, you’ll need to find the best way to reach your next destination, the Ryuguu Palace Main Building.
Step 1: From Glass Forest Museum to Gora Station
To begin your journey, head to the nearest bus stop from the Glass Forest Museum. Look for the “Hakone Tozan Bus” which has routes connecting you to key points in Hakone. The bus stop you want is called “Hakone Glass no Mori Mae.” From here, you can take the bus towards Gora Station. The bus ride typically takes about 15 minutes, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive at Gora Station, you can easily transfer to the next leg of your journey.
Step 2: From Gora Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station
At Gora Station, you will need to take the Hakone Tozan Railway. The train ride from Gora to Hakone-Yumoto Station is quite scenic and should take around 30 minutes. This train is known for its picturesque views as it climbs the mountains, so have your camera ready! Make sure to check the train schedule ahead of time, as trains may not run as frequently during the off-peak winter months. Once you arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station, you’ll be a short distance from your next stop.
Step 3: From Hakone-Yumoto Station to Ryuguu Palace Main Building
After disembarking at Hakone-Yumoto Station, you will have to take a bus to reach Ryuguu Palace Main Building. Look for the “Hakone Tozan Bus” once again, and board the bus that heads towards “Togendai.” Confirm with the bus driver or at the information counter that the bus stops at Ryuguu Palace. The bus ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes, allowing you to relax and soak in the beautiful scenery. Keep an eye out for the sign indicating your stop, as it may not be announced in English.
Affordable Travel Tips
1. Purchase a Hakone Free Pass: If you’re planning to explore more of Hakone, consider purchasing a Hakone Free Pass. This pass covers the round-trip transportation from Tokyo and unlimited rides on many trains, buses, and boats in the area. It can save you money, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. 2. Check Schedules Ahead of Time: Public transportation in Hakone can have limited schedules, particularly during off-peak seasons. Make sure to check the latest timetables for trains and buses so you can plan your day accordingly. 3. Travel Light: If possible, try to travel with minimal luggage. This will make it easier to navigate buses and trains, especially during busy hours.
Conclusion
Traveling from the Glass Forest Museum to Ryuguu Palace Main Building in Hakone can be an enjoyable experience with the right planning. By taking advantage of the local bus and train systems, you can explore the stunning landscapes and unique attractions that Hakone has to offer without breaking the bank. Enjoy your trip and don’t forget to relax in the rejuvenating hot springs at Ryuguu Palace! Safe travels!
