A scenic ropeway in Hakone, a well-known hot spring and resort town southwest of Tokyo, has introduced a gondola equipped with a spatial audio system, according to its operator, Odakyu Hakone Co. The new feature allows passengers to enjoy music with Dolby Atmos surround sound during the roughly 10-minute ride, which offers views of notable sites such as the Owakudani valley, famous for its sulfur vents and geothermal activity.
The company highlighted that this is the first gondola in the world to incorporate a Dolby Atmos system, with the music selection adapted daily to match the weather conditions. Odakyu Hakone Co described the enhanced audio experience as a “new attraction” designed to enrich the visitor experience in the mountainous region.
A company official expressed hopes that the innovative ride would help create lasting memories for couples and families visiting the area. The addition aligns with efforts to attract tourists by combining the natural beauty of Hakone with modern technology.