[2025 ver.] Welcome to Gora Station in Hakone

Gora Station is a charming and popular train station in Hakone, Japan. It is part of the Hakone Tozan Railway, known for its scenic mountain views. Gora Station is not just a transportation hub; it is a destination filled with beauty, history, and exciting places to explore. In this blog, we will take a closer look at what makes Gora Station special and give you tips for your visit. If you would like to know the best hotels in Hakone, here is the link

Getting to Gora Station

From Hakone Yumoto station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway. The ride from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora Station takes about 40 minutes. Gora Station is the final stop on the Hakone Tozan Railway, which climbs through the mountains. The train slowly ascends, offering beautiful views of nature along the way.

A Unique Train Ride

The Hakone Tozan Railway is Japan’s oldest mountain railway. The train travels through dense forests, over bridges, and through tunnels. One of the most exciting parts is when the train switches directions at zigzag points called switchbacks. This helps the train climb the steep slopes of the mountains. Be sure to sit by the window to enjoy the stunning views.

What to See and Do Around Gora Station

There are many interesting places to visit near Gora Station. Here are some of the top attractions:

Hakone Gora Park

Just a short walk from the station, Hakone Gora Park is a beautiful spot to relax. The park has lovely gardens, fountains, and a tea house. You can also try hands-on activities like pottery and glassblowing workshops. The park is especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and in autumn when the leaves change color.

Pola Museum of Art

Another fantastic museum near Gora Station is the Pola Museum of Art. Nestled in a forest, this modern and elegant museum houses a vast collection of Western and Japanese art. You can admire works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The building itself blends beautifully with the surrounding nature, making it a peaceful and inspiring place to visit.

When I visited in late January, the museum held a special exhibition themed around colors. Visitors could see masterpieces like Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” and works by Picasso, among other impressive pieces. This exhibition was a must-see for art lovers.

How to get there

A free shuttle bus runs from Gora Station to the museum, making it easily accessible for everyone. If you are traveling by car, there is a parking lot available for just 500 yen per day.

Hakone Roopway

The Hakone Ropeway starts near Gora Station and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji. The ride is smooth and provides a unique perspective of Hakone’s natural beauty.

Onsen (Hot Springs)

Gora is famous for its hot springs. There are many traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and public baths where you can soak in the healing waters. One popular spot is Hakone Yuryo, which offers both private and public baths with stunning views.

Parking Options for Drivers

If you are visiting Gora Station by car, there are several parking options nearby

Gora Station Parking Lot: Located near the station, this parking lot is convenient but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Hakone Gora Park Parking: Just a short walk from the station, this parking area is a good option if you plan to visit the park.
Hakone Open-Air Museum Parking: If you are visiting the museum, there is a dedicated parking lot available.
Pola Museum of Art Parking: The museum offers ample parking for visitors at a rate of 500 yen per day.

Make sure to check parking fees and operating hours before your visit. Arriving early can help you secure a spot.

Cafés and Restaurants

Try traditional Japanese dishes like soba (buckwheat noodles) and katsu curry (breaded pork cutlet with curry sauce). Many cafes near the station serve tasty desserts and coffee. Don’t miss trying a sweet treat made from Hakone’s famous black eggs, which are boiled in hot spring water.

During my visit, I stopped by a cozy coffee shop called Coffee Camp. This charming café offers a relaxing atmosphere and serves freshly brewed coffee. The aroma of coffee fills the air as you enjoy your drink with light snacks. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the peaceful vibes of Hakone. in terms of here, you could not park your car, so I recommend the parking lot near here, which you can find near Gora Station.

Seasonal Highlights

Each season brings a different kind of beauty to Gora Station and its surroundings.

Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom, creating a pink wonderland.
Summer: The mountains are lush and green, perfect for hiking.
Autumn: The leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Winter: Snow sometimes covers the area, creating a peaceful, white landscape.

Conclusion

Gora Station is more than just a place to catch a train. It is a gateway to the beauty and charm of Hakone. From stunning natural landscapes and art museums to relaxing hot springs and delicious food, there is something for everyone. Whether you are visiting for a day or staying longer, Gora Station will be a memorable part of your trip to Japan.

So, the next time you plan a trip to Hakone, be sure to include Gora Station in your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!