Hakone Tozan Railway: Hydrangea Train and Steep Mountain Routes

A Romantic Railway Climbing Steep Grades

Hakone Tozan Railway is a mountain railway between Odawara and Gora, climbing 80‰ (permille) grades with switchbacks. This switchback method is unusual among Japanese railways, popular with rail enthusiasts.

Famous Hydrangea Spot

During the June-July rainy season, about 10,000 hydrangea plants bloom along the tracks, increasing popularity as the "Hydrangea Train." The beautiful contrast of window-framing hydrangeas and valley scenery creates romantic travel imagery.

Hakone Tourism Hub

Hakone Tozan Railway is the backbone transport for Hakone tourism, with transfers at Gora to Hakone Ropeway for access to Owakudani and Lake Ashi. Hot spring resorts including Miyanoshita and Kowakidani are along the line for bathing circuit trips.