Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port — Attraction in Hakone

We are Canadian travellers and thankfully today we enjoyed a lovely trip seeing the great mountain fuji. Unfortunately, the pirate siteseeing trip ruined our day.

We were happily cruising within the cabinets and entered to a white surrounding where happens to be the VIP area. While explore we heard an extremely mean voice in Japanese from our back. I do understand that if we are not paid with extra fare we were not allowed to enter and we did not plan to disobey. However, with the worst attitude I have ever experienced from a Japanese staff, Ms K Kuwabara san expressed her worst gesture as a staff and was yelling at us.

I might not speak Japanese yet I do know the polite words that should have been said to customers. Nonetheless there were no manner at all while I like to communicate with her via google translate. I have explained that she should let us know with a much better attitude. This is unacceptable especially Japan is famous for such great hospitality. One rotten apple should not ruin the whole tree. If Kuwabara san do not understand the basics in customer service then may be the company should provide her with more basic training and ettitqutte to present hospitality towards tourists. Being loud and mean is not the way letting regular customers know not to open the VIP doors. Given that there was no staff standing there blocking and it looks like a normal door for free access.

Ms Kuwabara san is a disappointment. Throughout our comminication she shows no gratitude and not backing down. I am sure she understands what I mean and she only responded there is no one in charge today via google translate. For better customer experience, managment should talk to Ms Kuwabara san immediately. FYI we took the pirate ship today Dec...

It The Hakone Pirate Ship is a fun and scenic way to explore Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) while enjoying stunning views of Hakone Shrine and Mount Fuji (on clear days). Here’s what you need to know about combining the pirate ship experience with a visit to Hakone Shrine:

1. Hakone Pirate Ship Cruise The ships are designed like European-style pirate vessels, offering a unique way to travel across Lake Ashi. Routes: Togendai ⇄ Hakonemachi ⇄ Motohakone (most common route, stops near Hakone Shrine). Duration: ~30 minutes one way. Tickets: Single trip: ~1,000–2,000 yen (depending on distance). Free with Hakone Free Pass (highly recommended if exploring Hakone).

2. Visiting Hakone Shrine (Hakone Jinja) The shrine is famous for its floating torii gate on Lake Ashi, one of Hakone’s most iconic sights. How to get there from the Pirate Ship: Get off at Motohakone Port (short walk to the shrine). Or stop at Hakonemachi Port (~15 min lakeside walk to the torii gate). Best Photo Spot: Early morning or sunset for fewer crowds and beautiful reflections.

3. Recommended Itinerary Take the pirate ship from Togendai (near the Hakone Ropeway). Enjoy the scenic cruise with views of Mt. Fuji (if weather permits). Disembark at Motohakone and visit Hakone Shrine (5-min walk). Walk along the lakeside to see the floating torii gate. Return via ship or explore nearby attractions like Onshi-Hakone Park.

Tips Best Time to Go: Morning (less crowded, better views). Check Weather: Clear days offer Mt. Fuji visibility. Combined Transport: Use the Hakone Free Pass for unlimited rides on ships, trains,...

Taking a ride on the Hakone Pirate Ship was one of the most enjoyable parts of my trip to Hakone. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a "pirate ship" in Japan, but it turned out to be a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and stunning scenery.

The ships themselves are large, elaborately decorated, and themed like classic European pirate vessels — complete with sails, cannons, and even costumed crew members (depending on the season). It’s a bit touristy, yes, but in the best possible way. Families with kids will love it, and even as an adult traveler, I had a great time.

The cruise runs across Lake Ashi, connecting popular spots like Togendai, Hakone-machi, and Moto-Hakone. The lake views are absolutely beautiful, especially on a clear day when you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. We were lucky with the weather and got fantastic photos of the mountain framed by the lake and surrounding hills.

The ride itself is smooth and takes about 30 minutes one way. There’s an option to sit inside or stand on the open-air decks. I recommend going outside for the best views and photo opportunities. It can be windy, so bring a jacket! Tickets were easy to buy, and we used the Hakone Free Pass, which made it even more convenient. Staff were friendly and organized, making boarding quick and efficient.

Overall, the Hakone Pirate Ship is a fun and scenic way to travel across Lake Ashi. Whether you're with family, friends, or traveling solo, it's a unique experience that adds charm to any...