The Hakone Pirate Ships are sightseeing cruise ships built as replicas of pirate ships. The large and splendid ships have attracted people's attention and are quite popular. The route runs across Lake Ashi and connects three ports. It takes 70 minutes at the longest.

The "pirate ships" on Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) in Hakone are a highly successful marketing creation by the Odakyu Group, designed to turn a standard ferry crossing into a whimsical sightseeing experience. The tradition began in the 1960s when the company wanted to differentiate its boats from competitors and appeal to the growing number of families visiting the region. They decided to model their vessels after 17th and 18th-century European warships, such as the HMS Victory and the French Royal Louis, adding "pirate" flourishes like treasure chests and statues of brigands. Despite having no historical connection to actual pirates in Japan, these ships have become an iconic part of the "Hakone Round Course." They offer spectacular, 360-degree views of the volcanic caldera and, on clear days, the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji. The newest additions to the fleet, like the "Queen Ashinoko," feature luxurious interiors with wooden mosaics and specialized observation decks. The ships serve a dual purpose: they are a major tourist attraction in their own right and a practical transport link between the ports of Togendai, Motohakone, and Hakonemachi, allowing travelers to navigate the scenic lake with ease.