The Odakyu Romancecar is a premium limited express train offering direct, reserved-seat service from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to resort areas like Hakone. It is famous for its panoramic windows and high-speed access.

Following the March 2026 timetable revision, the "Super Hakone No. 5" (departing Shinjuku at 9:00 AM on weekends) has reclaimed the title of the fastest service, reaching Odawara in just 59 minutes. This makes the journey to Hakone faster and more exciting than ever before.

Trains run 1–3 times per hour from morning until late evening. Since all seats are reserved, you are guaranteed a comfortable spot even during busy tourist seasons.

Since October 2025, Odakyu has implemented a dual-pricing system that rewards digital users. Buying "Ticketless" (Digital) is ¥50 cheaper than buying paper tickets at the station.

You can purchase Romancecar limited express tickets at ticket machines located outside the ticket gates of Odakyu Line stations, including Shinjuku Station, as well as at dedicated machines on the Romancecar boarding platforms. Since October 2025, digital tickets (Ticketless) are ¥50 cheaper than paper tickets purchased at the station.

Latest ticket machines now feature a seat map function, allowing you to select your preferred seat directly. It’s best to reserve tickets beforehand if you have decided on your boarding date and time.

There are two main ways to reserve and purchase tickets online. Both accept credit cards. If you have a smartphone, you can board without needing a printed ticket.

Book with Klook
Highly recommended for international travelers. You can pay in your home currency and use a QR code to board, bypassing any language barriers.

Book via e-Romancecar
No registration required—reserve and pay for tickets right away. Digital booking automatically applies the ¥50 discount on the express surcharge.

All Romancecar models feature a four-seat-per-row layout, with seats labeled A through D. The views differ depending on which side you sit on, so choosing your seat wisely can enhance your journey.
・From seats A and B, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of rural landscapes and the hot spring townscape around Hakone-Yumoto Station.
・Seats C and D offer vistas of Mt. Fuji and the Tanzawa mountain range.

Boarding at Shinjuku Station is easier than ever thanks to the latest technology introduced in March 2026.

As of March 25, 2026, all Odakyu stations support contactless (Touch) payments with credit cards like Visa and Mastercard.

・For the Base Fare: Simply tap your credit card or smartphone at the gate.

・For the Limited Express Ticket: You still need a separate digital or paper Romancecar ticket. Digital tickets can be shown to staff on-board.

Romancecars typically depart from Platforms 2 and 3 on the 1st floor (Ground Level) of Shinjuku Station.

There is no longer a trolley service on-board most trains. It is recommended to buy your "Ekiben" (Station Bento) and drinks at the shops near the gates before you board.

Once at the platform, look at the boarding location for each train, such as "MSE", written on the floor near the platform. Try to search for the train and train number that matches your special express ticket. Wait in line at the designated boarding location until the Romancecar arrives.

Once the Romancecar arrives, be sure to check the train name. People often mistake trains that depart before or after their train, so be careful.

Once you get on, look for the seat bearing the seat number on the special express ticket and take a seat. Now, you can enjoy your trip in comfort.

Now, let's take a look at the features of the various Romancecar models currently in operation.

There are four types of Romancecar trains running today, ranging from the EXE (model 30000), which debuted in 1996, to the GSE (model 70000), introduced in 2018. Each model has its own unique exterior and interior design, adding to the charm and appeal of the Romancecar experience.

This latest vehicle uses a large pane of glass as its front window and has 1-meter-high continuous windows on its sides. This train allows you to enjoy a dynamic view.

This train has spacious seats with a table and outlet. It was designed to reduce vehicle vibration, making the trip easier. It also has limited content, such as the map of the current area, a live stream of the viewing camera, and original videos. The train is equipped with Wi-Fi.

The Romancecar that goes through the Tokyo Metro Subway Chiyoda Line sports a calm interior equipped with LED lighting and wine-red carpet.

The train's comfortable seats come with stylish tables. It also has umbrella holders which keep the area around the seats clean and comfortable.

The train's interior is an elegant space featuring a natural design with beige seats and indirect lighting. The comfortable seats are equipped with hooks and umbrella holders. They also have dedicated storage space for suitcases.

This Romancecar is popular for sightseeing and as a commuter express. This model has the largest number of seats and is used by many commuting workers and students. It has a comfortable interior featuring stately spacious seats.

For the ultimate convenience and value, check out Klook Stay+. This service allows you to bundle your Hakone hotel stay with round-trip Romancecar tickets or a Hakone Free Pass in one easy package.

By bundling your accommodation and transport, you can often unlock exclusive discounts that aren't available when booking separately. It’s the perfect way to secure your dream Ryokan while ensuring your transportation is sorted.

What sets the Romancecar apart from other trains is its viewing seats. Aside from this, it has a lot of features not seen in cars, buses, and other trains.

The Romancecar is best known for its scenic viewing seats, which offer panoramic views through large windows. The front-row seats are especially popular, giving passengers a driver’s-eye view of the tracks stretching out ahead.


What makes them even more appealing is that they cost the same as regular seats. However, availability is limited, so be sure to reserve in advance. Note that only the GSE (70000 series) trains are equipped with these special viewing seats.

Experience an adventure unique to the Odakyu Romancecar and have a wonderful trip to Hakone. Once you arrive, don't forget the Hakone Free Pass (¥7,100 for 2 days) for unlimited travel on local transportation.