As sweet willie has posted, DO get the rail pass. I go back once a year, went to college in central japan, and the pass is a godsend. not only is it good for the Shinkansen (bullet trains) but also for the local Japan Railway lines. Where are you flying in to? Narita? The rail pass is also good for the Narita Express train from Narita airport into Tokyo. It's a good deal if you are there for more than a week. For example you can go anywhere at a whim, just show the pass, get on the train and go. Enjoy Hakone and be sure to stay at an Onsen! It's heaven!!