Ropeway, Japan's cable car

A ropeway is a cable car that carries passengers up and over mountains and valleys. In Japan it is both transport and sightseeing, as on the Hakone Ropeway.

What does a ropeway give you?

A ropeway gives you height, views and a shortcut across steep ground. The Hakone Ropeway runs from Soun Station in Gora to Togendai Station on Lake Ashi with a car change at Owakudani ¹. It is a ride you plan a day around.

How does it matter to a Malaysian traveller?

Weather decides. The Hakone Ropeway operates 9:00 to 5:00 pm from 1 February to 30 November and may be suspended in extreme weather or hazardous situations ¹. Miyajima’s ropeway and entry to Mt. Misen have restrictions and suspensions too ².

Plan one fallback for each ropeway day. Our Hakone loop in one day guide and the Hakone Freepass comparison show how.

What should you check?

• The operator’s page on the morning of your visit.
• Seasonal hours, as in how seasonal transport changes a rural itinerary.
• Rules for strollers and wheelchairs.
• A nearby plan B, such as a museum or an onsen.

For another ropeway example, read Lake Toya and Mount Usu.