Visiting Hakone and Surrounds by Japan Rail
I had heard so much about the Hakone area, that it was a good chance to see and discover. From Tokyo, I travelled by bullet train to Odawara station; such a comfortable ride and so very fast. I then took a local bus to Ichinoyu Shinanoki, a Japanese inn where I was staying for the next three nights. With access to an extensive bus network, I was able to easily explore the area.
I was snowbound one day which was so exciting as I had only ever experienced snow falling once before many years ago.
I opted to travel one day by gondola, then cable car, and then mountain railway all in the same day, seeing some breathtaking views. Enroute, I was fortunate enough to see the peak of Mt Fuji, which is rare at this time of year to get a clear view. I must admit I was very excited.
This journey allowed me to visit many little towns along the way such as Gora, Tonosawa & Hakone-Yumoto. With so much to see and do in this beautiful area, a few days are just not enough.
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