Hakone Skyline (Kanagawa)
This one is a short one, but deserving of a mention regardless. The Hakone Skyline is a short but thrilling ride. It's only a 5km stretch, but it offers a scenic and, at times, often challenging route with some spectacular views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and beyond.
While it may not be the longest route, it’s packed with enough twists, elevation changes, and panoramic views to make it a memorable experience. Let’s dive into what makes this route so special.
The Route
So, you may be thinking, “what’s the deal with the Hakone Skyline, how can a 5km stretch be so great?”
Well, it’s a toll road—a smooth, well-maintained route that runs along the western edge of Lake Ashi. It links up with the Ashinoko Skyline to the south, which you can continue onto, extending the experience and allowing you to cruise into an enjoyable loop through the Hakone mountains.
Another point about the route is that it’s pretty elevated; stretching along the Ridgeline which exposes some of the brilliant landscape surrounding it.
In the west, you’ve got Mount Fuji looming over the horizon, while to the east, Lake Ashi shimmers below. Though this road is relatively short, riders can stretch the adventure by connecting it with other Hakone routes, like the Hakone Turnpike and the Ashinoko Skyline. Make sure you stop off at Biker’s Paradise Cafe to eat some excellent Japanese curry and enjoy barista made coffee. Just be prepared to take it slow at times—this road is meant to be savored.
Access Points:
Start from Moto-Hakone and head west to reach the Hakone Skyline, or come up from Hakone Pass if you’re linking it with the Ashinoko Skyline.
Highlights & What to Expect
The Hakone Skyline may not be as long as other routes, but it offers plenty of reasons to make the trip.
- Proximity to Tokyo:
If you’re staying in Tokyo and fancy hiring a bike for the day, the Hakone Skyline is only a 2-hour ride away. Hit up our friends at Rental819 Ikebukuro, a foreigner friendly hire shop that offers great bikes at decent prices.
- View of the Iconic Mount Fuji:
On clear days, you’ll be treated to incredible views of Japan’s most famous peak. The road’s elevation provides a high view of the surrounding Hakone landscape, creating an unforgettable backdrop of the ride that is like a painting.
- Curves and Twisties:
The road itself has a great mix of riding. You’ll encounter gradual climbs, tight bends, and straight sections where you can open up the throttle. Technicality is low to moderate, but enjoyable nonetheless. - To Enjoy Year-Around:
Hakone is stunning year-round, and the Skyline reflects this. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn transforms the mountains into a canvas of red and gold. Summer is the best time for clear views, though the occasional fog adds a mysterious aesthetic.
Key Points
The Hakone Skyline offers a bit of everything that makes a motorcycling route memorable. From panoramic views to tight curves, this road showcases the beauty and thrill of the Hakone region.
Despite its short length, the Hakone Skyline offers picturesque views and enjoyable curves that make it feel much longer than it actually is. You’ll feel rewarded from the high-altitude ride without having to spend hours on the road.
Similar to the other Skylines, since it’s a toll road, traffic is typically lighter than on nearby free routes, which means you’ll have more freedom to enjoy the experience. There are also observation points where you can pull over, stretch, and snap some photos of Mount Fuji or Lake Ashi. Without doubt you’ll come across other groups of riders enjoying the route together which adds to the overall experience.
Given it is pretty short, it’s a perfect route to use to link up other routes. The Hakone Skyline connects easily with other famous motorcycling roads in the area, such as the Ashinoko Skyline and Hakone Turnpike. It’s ideal for those looking to build a full day of riding around the Hakone area. And you can stop off at the Biker’s Paradise Cafe to spend some time hanging out with some fellow riders, while enjoying a refreshment.
Finally, this route strikes a nice balance for beginners and advanced riders alike.
Food Stops
Because the Hakone Skyline is short, you won’t find any eateries directly on the route, but there are excellent options nearby (other than Biker’s Paradise Cafe which we highly recommend).
- Lake Ashi:
There are several spots around Lake Ashi where you can get a good feed in. Narusawa Tea House offers Japanese set meals with beautiful lake views, while Bakery & Table Hakone serves casual food by the lake. - Moto-Hakone:
Just off the route, this town offers a range of options. Amazake Chaya, a traditional tea house, is perfect for a quick snack or tea, while the nearby Hakone Sekisho Shitamachi Tabe Monogatari has delicious options for a more substantial meal. - Gora Area:
Head a little further east to Gora for an array of cafes, restaurants, and even some fantastic ramen shops. Gyoza Center Hakone is known for its delicious dumplings and is a great stop if you want something hearty.
Verdict
The Hakone Skyline may be short, but it’s packed with great views, some decent curves, and well-maintained roads. This is an ideal route for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, yet impactful ride, with the added benefit of being close to Tokyo. It’s perfect for solo riders or small groups looking to take in the iconic scenery of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi which you can link up with some other iconic routes nearby.
Score (out of 5)
Stylish Rank: Cool!
Scenery: 4.5
Technicality: 3.5
Road Quality 5
Challenge: 3
Accessibility and Traffic: 4
Connecting /Nearby Routes
Hakone Skyline is a short but sweet ride and lends itself well to branching off to other spectacular routes nearby. We recommend you check out:
1. Ashinoko Skyline (芦ノ湖スカイライン)
This runs parallel to the Hakone Skyline along the western side of Lake Ashi. This 10-kilometer toll road offers excellent views of the lake and, on clear days, spectacular views of Mount Fuji.
- Location: Connects directly with the Hakone Skyline near National Route 1.
- Search Terms: "Ashinoko Skyline" or 芦ノ湖スカイライン
- Route Number: Not numbered, but accessible as a toll road directly from the Hakone Skyline.
- Tip: Look out for observation points like Daikanzan and Mishima Skywalk, which provide sweeping views of the entire Hakone area and beyond
2. Izu Skyline (伊豆スカイライン)
Izu Skyline is a scenic toll road and a classic route running along the spine of the Izu Peninsula. It is well-known for its winding curves and unobstructed views of the ocean, mountains, and Mount Fuji. Stretching for around 40 kilometers (perfect!), it’s a longer road that connects seamlessly with the Hakone area, making it ideal for riders looking to extend their journey south.
- Location: The northern end starts near the town of Atami in Shizuoka Prefecture and is easily accessible from the southern end of the Hakone Skyline.
- Search Terms: "Izu Skyline" or 伊豆スカイライン
- Route Number: Not a numbered route; it’s marked as the Izu Skyline Toll Road.
- Tip: Make sure to stop at the various observation points along the way, such as Amagi Pass and Shuzenji, where you can take in sweeping views of the Izu coastline and the mountains of Hakone.
3. Hakone Turnpike (Hakone Shindo) (箱根ターンパイク)
The Hakone Turnpike is a toll road that starts in Odawara and ascends into the mountains toward Hakone. It’s well-maintained with wide lanes, making it a popular choice for motorcyclists and drivers alike.
- Location: Begins in Odawara, near National Route 271, and connects with the Hakone Skyline near Lake Ashi.
- Search Terms: "Hakone Turnpike" or 箱根ターンパイク
- Route Number: Not officially numbered, but also known as Hakone Shindo and is part of the local toll road network.
- Tip: Stop at the Mishima Skywalk, Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, which offers views of Mount Fuji, or enjoy a break at the rest area near the top, where you can grab coffee and enjoy the view.
Planning Your Own Japan Motorbike Tour?
If you're planning your own motorbike tour through Japan, renting a bike is a great option. Our friends at Rental819 are a fantastic choice for foreign riders—they offer a wide selection of well-maintained bikes at reasonable prices, with locations all across Japan. They're also known for being very foreigner-friendly, making the process easy even if your Japanese isn't perfect.
Whether you're after a quick weekend trip or a full-blown tour, Rental819 has got you covered. And if you need any tips or advice along the way, feel free to reach out! At Shogun Motorbike Adventures, we're always happy to help fellow riders experience the incredible roads and rich culture that Japan has to offer.
Experience This Route On A Shogun Motorbike Adventure:
Our Fuji Explorer Tour, with 7-day and 10-day options both running in May and October 2025 and 2026, center heavily around the Hakone Skyline as well as the Izu Peninsula - check it out and book your adventure!
As well as the Fuji Explorer Tour, in 2026 we will be running the Volcanic Voyage Tour, Mountain Strider Tour and Wilderness Expedition Tour. These are brand new tours that you can read up about and register interest for right now.
