Lake Ashi Pirate Ship: Fares, Routes and How to Avoid the Crowds
By the BeatTheCrowd team · Updated 21 October 2026 · 3 min read
Quick answer
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise pirate ships cross Lake Ashi between Tōgendai, Hakone-machi and Moto-Hakone in about 25-40 minutes. A one-way trip from Tōgendai to Moto-Hakone costs about ¥1,200, and it's included in the Hakone Free Pass (from about ¥7,100 from Shinjuku). Boats are busiest from 11 am to 2 pm, when the ropeway crowds arrive at Tōgendai. Ride early or late, or reverse the Hakone loop.
At a glance
- One way (Tōgendai-Moto-Hakone)
- About ¥1,200 adults, half for children
- Hakone Free Pass
- Included (about ¥7,100 for 2 days from Shinjuku)
- Special Room
Ride timeAbout 25-40 minutes Busiest11 am to 2 pm, weekends Best timeFirst boats, or late afternoon SeasonYear-round, with shorter hours in winter PortsTōgendai, Hakone-machi, Moto-Hakone How busy is the Lake Ashi cruise?
Three galleon-style ships, Royal II, Victory and Queen Ashinoko, sail Lake Ashi, a crater lake formed around 3,000 years ago. They're part of the standard Hakone loop, so they're crowded when the ropeway delivers its passengers at Tōgendai, from late morning. On holidays, you may wait for the next boat.
Fares and the Hakone Free Pass
Is the Free Pass worth it?
Yes, if you're doing the loop: the boat, ropeway, cable car and Tozan train alone cost more than the pass. Add the Romancecar express separately if you want a reserved seat from Shinjuku.
Routes and which direction to ride
Reverse the loop
Start with the bus to Moto-Hakone in the morning, see Hakone Shrine early, then take the boat to Tōgendai and the ropeway up to Ōwakudani, against the main flow. Hakone Shrine guide.
For Fuji views on the way to Moto-Hakone, stand at the front or on the right-hand side. The Hakone Shrine torii is visible as you approach Moto-Hakone.
Best (and worst) times to go
- First boats for space and clear Fuji views.
- Late afternoon for calmer decks and evening light.
- Worst: 11 am to 2 pm at weekends and holidays.
Plans by visitor type
First-timers
Do the reverse loop with the Hakone Free Pass, ending at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Open-Air Museum guide.
Families
Kids love the pirate ships. Get there early for a spot on the open deck.
Limited mobility
Boats have ramps at the piers, and indoor seating.
Mistakes to avoid
- Following the standard loop at peak time.
- Missing the last boat in winter.
- Buying single tickets when the Free Pass covers the boat.
- Assuming the Free Pass covers the Special Room.
FAQs
How much is the Lake Ashi pirate ship?
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About ¥1,200 one way from Tōgendai to Moto-Hakone. It's included in the Hakone Free Pass.
How long is the Lake Ashi cruise?
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About 25-40 minutes, depending on the route.
Is the Hakone Free Pass worth it?
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Yes, if you're doing the full Hakone loop.
Which direction should I ride the Lake Ashi pirate ship?
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Moto-Hakone to Tōgendai (reverse loop) avoids the crowds.
Can you see Mount Fuji from Lake Ashi?
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Yes, on clear days, especially in the morning and in winter.
What is the best time to ride?
Heading to Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise?
See how busy it is right now and the quietest hours for your date, then walk in when the line is short.
Check live crowds →Sources
How we research: every guide is written by the BeatTheCrowd team from official sources and recent traveller reports, cross-checked against each other, and dated so you know how fresh it is. Last checked 21 October 2026. Prices and rules change, so always confirm on the official site before you book.
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