Planning a 2-day Hakone trip from Tokyo what shouldn’t we miss?

Hey everyone,

My girlfriend and I are planning a 2-day Hakone trip later this month. We live in Tokyo, so we’re heading there by train (around 2 hours, if I remember right).

I’ve been to Hakone before with friends but only for 1–2 days, so I don’t think I explored it fully. Last time I went we did すすき草原, the ropeway, ate the black boiled eggs at Owakudani, and visited Hakone Shrine, and that was pretty much it. When I went before, the pampas grass field was already burned, so I was also wondering if すすき草原 is open and looking good this time of year.

I remember the buses being expensive and sometimes even more crowded than Tokyo, so I wanted to ask for advice. Any recommendations for a 2-day itinerary, couple-friendly spots, tips for getting around more smoothly, or whether the Hakone Free Pass is worth it?

Thanks!