When the neon lights and relentless pace of Tokyo start to feel like a bit much, I have a secret “pause” button: Hakone.

Located just 90 minutes from the city, Hakone is the perfect blend of misty mountains, therapeutic hot springs, and world-class art. I recently took a 2-day, 1-night solo trip to recharge, and it was exactly the “healing” my soul needed.

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🚄 Getting from Tokyo to Hakone: Choosing Your Vibe

1. The Scenic Route: Odakyu Romancecar

If you want the “traveler aesthetic,” the Odakyu Romancecar is unbeatable. It runs directly from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station.

2. The High-Speed Route: Shinkansen

For those with a JR Pass or a need for speed, the Bullet Train is your best bet. I chose the route using the Hakone Tozan Railway (transferring from the Shinkansen). It turned out to be the perfect choice for me!

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🏞️ The Hakone Vibe: Nature, Art, and “Me-Time”

Breathtaking Nature & Mt. Fuji Views

The centerpiece is Lake Ashi (Ashinoko). If the weather is on your side, seeing the majestic Mt. Fuji rising beyond the lake is an unforgettable moment.

At Owakudani, a volcanic valley, the smell of sulfur and the rising white smoke against the rough mountain terrain made me feel the raw power of nature.

📍 Planning a trip to Tokyo first? Hakone is the perfect side trip from the capital. To make the most of your time in the city, read my full guide:

👉 [Tokyo Solo Travel Guide: A Perfect 5-Day Itinerary]

Solitary Bliss in a Ryokan

Since I was traveling alone, I stayed at a Ryokan with a private open-air bath. Soaking in warm water while looking up at the starry forest sky… all my accumulated fatigue just melted away.

Art & Culture in the Woods

Places like the Venetian Glass Museum and the Hakone Open-Air Museum blend art with the outdoors, making them perfect for a solitary, contemplative stroll.

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🗣️ Why Hakone is a Photographer’s Paradise

The “Torii of Peace” at Hakone Shrine is famous for a reason. I had to wait in line, but I got the shot of a lifetime. Also, riding the Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi made me feel like a fairytale character!

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Final Verdict: 10/10 Healing Points 💯

While the glitz of Tokyo was great, Hakone gave me time to focus entirely on myself. Delicious food, warm onsens, and peaceful nature—I returned fully recharged.

Have you ever traveled solo to a hot spring town? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!