Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone Complete Guide | Tolls, Operating Hours, and Scenic Spots Explained in Detail
The “Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone,” which connects Odawara City, Hakone Town, and Yugawara Town in Kanagawa Prefecture, is a tourist toll road that conveniently links the Tokyo metropolitan area with the Izu and Hakone regions. As an exhilarating driving course that ascends from sea level to the summit of Mt. Daikanzan at 1,011 meters above sea level, it enjoys tremendous popularity among drivers and riders.
This article comprehensively explains essential information for actually visiting the Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone, from basic information to toll systems, operating hours, access methods, scenic view spots, and seasonal highlights.
About Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone
Overview and History of the Road
The Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone consists of two routes: the Hakone-Odawara Main Line (13.8 km) and the Hakone-Izu Connection Line (1.7 km), forming a general toll road with a total length of 15.752 km. As a tourist toll road running through the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, it has been loved by many drivers since its opening in 1965.
From March 1, 2018, Anest Iwata Corporation, an air compression equipment manufacturer, acquired naming rights, and the road became known as “Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone.” Prior to that, it was simply known as “Hakone Turnpike.”
Characteristics of the Road
The greatest characteristics of Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone lie in its ease of driving and beautiful scenery.
- Road Width: 9 meters, approximately 2 meters wider than ordinary roads, allowing comfortable driving
- Curve Design: Minimum curve radius of 100 meters with gentle curves for safe and comfortable driving
- No Traffic Signals: The entire route is free of traffic signals, enabling smooth driving
- Traffic Congestion Avoidance: Bypass general road congestion to access Izu and Hakone from the Tokyo metropolitan area
- Road Conditions: The road surface is always well-maintained and regularly cleaned
Due to the road design running along a ridge, you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Sagami Bay, and the Hakone mountains while driving.
Toll System and Payment Methods
Toll Fees
Toll fees for Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone vary depending on vehicle type (as of 2024).
Hakone-Odawara Main Line (Odawara Toll Station to Mt. Daikanzan)
- Kei cars and ordinary cars: ¥730
- Medium-sized vehicles: ¥880
- Large vehicles: ¥1,230
- Kei motorcycles and motorcycles: ¥610
Hakone-Izu Connection Line (Mt. Daikanzan to Izu Skyline)
- Kei cars and ordinary cars: ¥200
- Medium-sized vehicles: ¥240
- Large vehicles: ¥350
- Kei motorcycles and motorcycles: ¥170
Round-Trip Discount: When using the toll road in both directions, the return trip is discounted by approximately 20%.
Payment Methods
The following payment methods are available at toll stations:
- Cash
- Credit cards (major brands supported)
- Electronic money (transit IC cards, etc.)
- ETC cards (at some toll stations)
Confirming payment methods in advance enables smooth passage through toll stations.
Operating Hours and Access Methods
Operating Hours
Year-Round Operating Hours: 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM (Last admission at 10:00 PM)
Available from early morning to late evening, you can enjoy different scenery depending on the time of day, such as the sunrise with Mt. Fuji, sunset views, and nighttime scenery. However, operating hours may change due to weather or road conditions, so we recommend checking official information.
Access Methods
Access to Odawara Toll Station (Starting Point)
- By Car:
- Approximately 1 minute from “Odawara West IC” on the Odawara-Atsugi Expressway
- Direct connection from “Hayakawa JCT” on the Nishi-Shonan Bypass
- Approximately 40 minutes via the Odawara-Atsugi Expressway from “Atsugi IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Address: 2-22-1 Hayakawa, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0465-23-0381
Access from the Izu Direction
You can also enter Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone from Mt. Daikanzan via the Hakone-Izu Connection Line from the Izu Skyline. This becomes a very convenient route when traveling from Izu to Hakone or the Odawara area.
Scenic View Spots
Daikanzan Sky Lounge
A highlight of Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone is the “Anest Iwata Sky Lounge” located at the summit of Mt. Daikanzan at 1,011 meters above sea level.
Attractions of the Sky Lounge:
- Magnificent View of Mt. Fuji: On clear days, a majestic Mt. Fuji spreads before you
- Views of Sagami Bay: You can see Sagami Bay spread out below, and on clear days, the Izu Peninsula and Izu Oshima Island are also visible
- Hakone Mountains: You can also enjoy views of the Hakone outer rim and Lake Ashi area
- Café and Restaurant: Facilities are equipped for dining and rest while enjoying the views
- Souvenir Shop: You can purchase specialty products from Hakone and Odawara
Hakone Swing
The “Hakone Swing” installed at Mt. Daikanzan has gained popularity as an Instagram-worthy spot. A photo on the swing with Mt. Fuji in the background will become the perfect commemorative shot of your visit.
Usage Tips:
- Free to use
- Usage restrictions may apply depending on weather or congestion
- For safety, follow staff instructions
Daikanzan Street Piano
Music lovers will also appreciate the street piano installed at Mt. Daikanzan. You can freely play before the magnificent views and offer music as a gift to visitors.
Dog Run
Dog lovers will be pleased to find a dog run also available at Mt. Daikanzan. You can let your beloved dog run free during your drive, making it ideal for pet-friendly driving.
Usage Conditions:
- Usage fee: Free
- Usage time: Follows the Sky Lounge’s operating hours
- Limited to vaccinated dogs
- Leash removal must be done in designated areas
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (March to May)
Cherry Blossom Season: From late March to early April, cherry blossoms planted along the road bloom. Due to the elevation differences, cherry blossoms can be enjoyed over an extended period.
Fresh Green Beauty: From late April to May, the fresh green of new leaves colors the mountains. Driving in the clear, refreshing air is particularly special.
Summer (June to August)
Hydrangeas: From June to early July is hydrangea season. Colorful hydrangeas blooming along the roadside add color to driving during the rainy season.
Cool Highland Breeze: Due to the high altitude, it remains relatively cool even in midsummer, making it ideal for a summer getaway drive.
Early Morning Cloud Sea: On summer mornings under the right conditions, you may see a sea of clouds.
Autumn (September to November)
Spectacular Autumn Foliage: From late October to mid-November, the Hakone mountains turn crimson with fall colors. Due to elevation differences, autumn foliage viewing is possible over an extended period.
Clear Air: In autumn, the air is clear, and Mt. Fuji can be seen clearly on many days. It’s the perfect season for photography.
Winter (December to February)
Snow-Covered Mt. Fuji: In winter, Mt. Fuji covered in snow is particularly beautiful. The contrast between the pure white Mt. Fuji and the blue sky is spectacular.
Winter Starry Sky: Due to the clear air, the starry sky is also beautiful at night (during operating hours).
Precautions: In winter, there is a possibility of road surface freezing and snow accumulation. You may need to equip yourself with studless tires or chains, so please check road conditions in advance.
Events and Photography Use
Automobile and Motorcycle Related Events
Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone is frequently used as a venue for test drives, promotional events, and other occasions by automobile and motorcycle manufacturers due to its ease of driving.
Photography Use
Due to its beautiful scenery and well-maintained road environment, the road is used for the following types of photography:
- Still photography of automobiles and motorcycles
- CM and music video shoots
- Film and drama location shooting
- Magazine interview photography
For commercial use, advance application and approval are required. For details, please contact Hakone Turnpike Corporation (Phone: 0465-23-0381).
Combining with Nearby Tourist Spots
Hakone Area
Using Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone provides convenient access to major Hakone tourist attractions:
- Lake Ashi: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Mt. Daikanzan
- Hakone Shrine: Popular as a power spot
- Hakone Yumoto Onsen: Many day-trip hot springs available
- Hakone Open-Air Museum: Art appreciation
- Hakone Ropeway: Access to Owakudani
Odawara Area
- Odawara Castle: A must-see for history enthusiasts
- Suzuhiro Kamaboko no Sato: Experience Odawara’s famous kamaboko
- Odawara Fishing Port: Fresh seafood gourmet cuisine
Izu Area
Connecting to the Izu Skyline from the Hakone-Izu Connection Line provides comfortable access to the Izu Peninsula:
- Atami Onsen: One of Japan’s premier hot spring resorts
- Izu Kogen: Art museums and cafes dot the area
- Ito Marine Town: Popular roadside station
Precautions and Helpful Information for Use
Safe Driving Tips
- Obey Speed Limits: Even though it’s a scenic road, drive safely observing the speed limit
- Caution on Curves: While curves are gentle, be careful not to exceed safe speeds
- Wildlife: Wild animals may appear in early morning and evening hours
- Weather Conditions: Fog can occur, so exercise special caution in poor visibility
- Motorcycle Users: Be careful riding motorcycles as there can be strong winds
Traffic Restrictions Based on Weather
Traffic restrictions or closures may occur in the following situations:
- Typhoons or heavy rain
- Fog causing poor visibility
- Road surface freezing or snow accumulation
- Strong winds
The latest road conditions are updated on the official X (formerly Twitter) account (@turn819) and Instagram (@hakoneturnpike), so we recommend checking before heading out.
Gasoline Station Information
There are no gasoline stations within Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone. Refuel in advance or use gasoline stations in Odawara City or Hakone Town.
Restroom and Rest Facilities
The Daikanzan Sky Lounge is equipped with clean restrooms. It’s an ideal rest point for long-distance driving.
Economical Usage Methods
Utilizing Round-Trip Discounts
If you use the road for a round trip on the same day, the return trip is discounted. Keep the toll ticket from the outbound trip and present it at the toll station on the return trip.
Early Morning and Evening Use
Since operating hours start at 5:30 AM, you can enjoy early morning sunrise or dawn light. Evening sunsets and Mt. Fuji silhouettes are also beautiful and popular among photography enthusiasts.
Weekday Use
While weekends and holidays can be congested, weekdays are relatively quiet, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed drive.
Summary
Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone is cherished year-round by many people as a scenic driving course easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The exhilaration of ascending from sea level to 1,011 meters above sea level, magnificent views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay, natural beauty throughout the seasons, and the well-maintained comfortable road environment allow you to fully experience the joys of driving and touring.
In addition to the drive itself, there are plenty of other pleasures to enjoy, such as resting at the Daikanzan Sky Lounge, taking commemorative photos at the Hakone Swing, and spending time with your beloved dog at the dog run. When visiting Hakone or Izu, be sure to use Anest Iwata Turnpike Hakone to enjoy a special driving experience.
For the latest operating hours, tolls, and road conditions, we recommend checking official information sources (Phone: 0465-23-0381, official SNS, etc.). Please drive safely and enjoy a wonderful drive.
