Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Steam vents, quick ropeway hops and a small coloring zone engage kids, but parents must watch uneven paths and possible throat irritation from volcanic gas.
Positives:
- Frequent departures: Gondolas run every 10 minutes, so families wait less time.
- Barrier-free seating: Iwa-no-Su benches under cover offer easy snack or rest stops.
- Indoor views: Station observation deck gives shelter and clear valley views.
Challenges:
- Sulfur fumes: Kids may react to steam smells; head indoors if gas levels rise.
- Weather closures: High winds can suspend ropeway service without notice.
What is Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station?
- A ropeway station that perches above Ōwakudani’s steaming sulfur vents at 1,044 meters elevation
- An intermediate stop on the Hakone Ropeway line linking Sounzan and Togendai across the volcanic slopes of Mount Hakone
- A gondola terminal that features panoramic glass walls, a passenger concourse with visitor amenities and an on-site geology museum
What is so special about Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station for with kids?
- Ride family-friendly ropeway cabins for valley and Mt. Fuji views.
- Watch steam vents from the station’s sheltered observation deck.
- Try the legendary kuro tamago black eggs and share the “seven extra years” story.
- Let kids enjoy the coloring and geology crafts in the kids’ corner.
- Rest on Iwa-no-Su rock-shaped benches for quick snack breaks.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to ride the ropeway, explore the station, try black eggs, and rest without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station
Station observation deck:
Watch steam vents and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji from inside the station.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowd and get a spot by the railing.
Kuro tamago tasting:
Buy a pack of four black eggs for ¥500 and share the “seven extra years” story.
Tip: Let each child try one egg and explain the local legend.
Kids’ activity corner:
Enjoy coloring and simple geology crafts in the small museum area.
Tip: Bring extra crayons in case they run out at peak times.
Ropeway ride experience:
Board barrier-free gondolas for a 10-minute ride to the next station.
Tip: Sit on the valley side for the best views.
Iwa-no-Su bench rest:
Relax on cushioned, rock-shaped benches under cover for snack breaks.
Tip: Grab snacks before your visit to enjoy here.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station
- Buy tickets early: Purchase ropeway tickets online or at the first station to skip lines.
- Combine activities: Plan a return ride to Togendai, then take a Lake Ashi cruise.
Reviews of Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station
Kevin Cheng
This spot is currently low-traffic, making for a pleasant visit. The cable car line is efficient and moves continuously. Crucially, buy your tickets via machine (credit card accepted) and purchase a 2-way fare immediately, as returning to the base station by cable car is mandatory. The summit offers views of sulfur vents and a few snack options (ice cream, including an unusual black flavor). It’...
Zach Holloway
A fun ride with great views from above. At one point you go over a spot with steam exiting thr ground from volcanic activity and it makes for some great pictures. Recommend riding this if you are in the area.
Rosalie Charlotte
Lovely experience. Super interesting to go above the sulfur springs. The cable car was clean and spacious. We have been to Multiple stations, all clean and well organized. Only downside it was very busy so long waiting times.
Mika M
Smooth ride, clear skies, and a Fuji bonus We rode the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani and had a great experience. Everything ran on time, the cabins were clean, and the ride felt very safe and smooth. The views were incredible—clear skies gave us a perfect look at the surrounding mountains and even Mt. Fuji, which showed up without its usual snowcap. Still stunning. It’s a short ride but definitely...
Aman Sidhu
The Hakone Ropeway is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and volcanic landscape of Hakone. The ride itself is smooth, and as the gondola lifts off, the views quickly become spectacular. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji standing tall in the distance, and beneath you stretch the rolling green mountains and volcanic valleys. The journey is comfortable, spacious, and gives you plenty ...
When is the best time to visit Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station (Hakone, Japan)?
In winter, cabins feel cold—dress kids in layers. In summer, sulfur gas peaks midday—visit in the morning when air is clearer.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ropeway tickets (Owakudani–Togendai) | JPY 3,000 |
| Kuro tamago black eggs (pack of 4) | JPY 500 |
| Kids’ activity corner | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 4,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station
Address: 1300 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
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About Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+81 460-84-843710 BEST nearby Activities
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