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Otsu to Hakone

Updated: March 14, 2024 03:06 PM
Hakone

Otsu and Hakone - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Language

The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, English is also widely spoken in major tourist destinations such as Otsu and Hakone.

Currency

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You can exchange your currency at banks, post offices, and currency exchange offices.

Distance

Otsu is located about 130 kilometers (81 miles) northeast of Tokyo. Hakone is located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Tokyo.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Otsu and Hakone from Tokyo.

  • By train: The JR Tokaido Line connects Tokyo Station to Otsu Station (about 2 hours) and Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 1 hour 30 minutes).
  • By bus: There are express buses from Tokyo Station to Otsu Station (about 2 hours 30 minutes) and Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 2 hours).
  • By car: The drive from Tokyo to Otsu takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. The drive from Tokyo to Hakone takes about 2 hours.

Expenses

The cost of your trip to Otsu and Hakone will vary depending on your travel style and budget. However, here are some general estimates:

  • Accommodation: A night in a budget hotel in Otsu or Hakone will cost around JPY 5,000-10,000. A night in a mid-range hotel will cost around JPY 10,000-15,000. A night in a luxury hotel will cost around JPY 15,000-20,000 or more.
  • Food: A meal at a budget restaurant in Otsu or Hakone will cost around JPY 1,000-2,000. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around JPY 2,000-3,000. A meal at a luxury restaurant will cost around JPY 3,000-5,000 or more.
  • Transportation: A one-way train ticket from Tokyo to Otsu costs around JPY 2,500. A one-way train ticket from Tokyo to Hakone costs around JPY 2,000. A one-way bus ticket from Tokyo to Otsu costs around JPY 2,000. A one-way bus ticket from Tokyo to Hakone costs around JPY 1,500.
  • Activities: Many activities in Otsu and Hakone are free, such as hiking and visiting temples. However, there are also some paid activities, such as taking a boat ride on Lake Biwa or visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The cost of these activities will vary depending on the activity.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Otsu and Hakone is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, Otsu and Hakone can be visited year-round.

What to Eat

Otsu and Hakone are known for their delicious food. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Otsu-jiru: A type of soup made with miso, vegetables, and tofu.
  • Yuba: A type of tofu skin that is often used in salads and soups.
  • Hakone-age: A type of fried tofu that is often served with dipping sauce.
  • Onsen tamago: A type of egg that is cooked in hot spring water.

Where to Go

Otsu and Hakone are home to a number of popular tourist attractions, including:

  • Otsu:
    • Lake Biwa
    • Miidera Temple
    • Enryaku-ji Temple
  • Hakone:
    • Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • Hakone Shrine
    • Owakudani Valley

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Otsu and Hakone:

  1. What is the best way to get around Otsu and Hakone?
  2. The best way to get around Otsu and Hakone is by public transportation. There are buses and trains that connect Otsu and Hakone to Tokyo and other major cities.
  3. Is it safe to travel to Otsu and Hakone?
  4. Yes, Otsu and Hakone are safe destinations for travelers. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to protect yourself from crime.
  5. What should I pack for a trip to Otsu and Hakone?
  6. Pack light clothing for spring and fall, and warmer clothing for winter. Also, be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella, as rain is common in Otsu and Hakone.

*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.

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