Where to Stay in Hakone
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Hakone
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Hakone-Yumoto
The bustling gateway to Hakone, offering a mix of souvenir shops, restaurants, and onsen.
Our top picks in Hakone-Yumoto
Gora
A charming mountain resort town known for its art museums and hot springs.
Our top picks in Gora
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
A picturesque caldera lake offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and iconic pirate ship cruises.
Our top picks in Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Hakone-Yumoto | Budget | The bustling gateway to Hakone, offering a mix of souvenir shops, restaurants, and onsen. | first-timersbudget |
Gora | Mid-range | A charming mountain resort town known for its art museums and hot springs. | culturecouples |
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) | Luxury | A picturesque caldera lake offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and iconic pirate ship cruises. | couplesfamilies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Hakone
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Backpackers in Hakone
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Hakone. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Hakone
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Hakone
Hakone-Yumoto
BudgetThe bustling gateway to Hakone, offering a mix of souvenir shops, restaurants, and onsen.
- +Most convenient for arrival and departure
- +Wide range of accommodation and dining choices
- +Good starting point for day trips
- -Can be very touristy and crowded
- -Less scenic and tranquil than higher elevations
Gora
Mid-rangeA charming mountain resort town known for its art museums and hot springs.
- +Excellent access to museums and galleries
- +Abundant onsen (hot springs) facilities
- +Beautiful mountain scenery
- -Can feel crowded during peak season
- -Limited dining options outside of hotels
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
LuxuryA picturesque caldera lake offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and iconic pirate ship cruises.
- +Iconic views of Mount Fuji
- +Relaxing lake activities
- +Proximity to Hakone Shrine
- -Accommodation can be pricier
- -Transportation between points of interest can be time-consuming
Daily Budget (Budget)
JPY 8000/day
Hidden Gems in Hakone
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Hatsuhana
A beloved local soba noodle restaurant known for its exquisite handmade noodles and delicate dipping broths. It's a perfect spot to savor authentic Japanese cuisine away from the crowds.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Hakone
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Hakone Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Hakone on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Hakone Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Hakone with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Hakone: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Hakone's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Hakone: Scenic Excursion
Escape Hakone for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Hakone Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Hakone's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Hakone
Backpackers in Hakone: FAQ
What is the best area in Hakone for backpackers?
Is Hakone safe for backpackers?
How much does it cost per day in Hakone for backpackers?
When is the best time for backpackers to visit Hakone?
Where are the cheapest hostels in Hakone?
Found your hotel in Hakone?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Hakone Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.