Hakone

Idyllic view of a Torii gate on Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan against a backdrop of lush mountains.
yutaka yamamoto, Pexels

Hakone, a captivating destination within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, offers a serene escape from city life with its abundant natural hot springs and breathtaking views. Visitors are drawn to its iconic scenery, including the majestic Mount Fuji visible across Lake Ashi, and the unique volcanic landscape of Owakudani. The area is also rich in cultural experiences, featuring historic shrines, a network of art museums, and picturesque transportation routes like the Hakone Ropeway.

Hakone is not primarily a destination for bustling social scenes or backpacker gatherings. Instead, its appeal lies in more tranquil and individual experiences, such as unwinding in traditional onsen and exploring natural or cultural sites. While there are shared experiences like scenic cruises and tours, dedicated areas for extensive socializing with other tourists or backpackers are not a prominent feature.

Top 5 Things to do in Hakone

Activities in Hakone primarily revolve around experiencing its natural landscapes, unique transportation routes, and cultural sites.

1. Hakone Ropeway & Owakudani Valley

Experience an aerial journey over volcanic terrain on the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views. At Owakudani, the 'Great Boiling Valley,' witness active sulfur vents and hot springs, where you can try the local specialty, black eggs, which are said to prolong life. The ropeway provides breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi on clear days.

Cost: Included with the Hakone Freepass. For individual tickets, a one-way trip costs approximately 1,500 yen (increasing to 2,000 yen from October 2025), and a round trip is around 2,500 yen (increasing to 3,000 yen from October 2025).

Transport: The Hakone Ropeway connects Sounzan Station (accessible via Hakone Tozan Railway and Cable Car from Hakone-Yumoto Station) with Togendai Station on Lake Ashi. Gondolas depart approximately every minute. The full journey takes around 30 minutes.

2. Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise

Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi, often on a distinctive 'pirate ship,' to admire the picturesque shoreline and iconic views of Mount Fuji with the Hakone Shrine's 'Torii Gate of Peace' emerging from the water. It serves as both a relaxing activity and a mode of transport between key Hakone areas.

Cost: Included with the Hakone Freepass.

Transport: Cruises depart from piers such as Togendai, Moto-Hakone, and Hakone-machi. Togendai Port is directly connected to the Hakone Ropeway, making it a seamless transfer.

3. Hakone Open-Air Museum

Explore Japan's first open-air art museum, where a vast collection of modern and contemporary sculptures is exhibited across expansive outdoor gardens. The museum harmonizes art with nature, offering stunning backdrops of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It also features indoor galleries, including a notable Picasso Exhibition Hall, and child-friendly art installations.

Cost: Admission is 2,000 yen for adults. A discounted rate of 1,900 yen is available with the Hakone Freepass, and online tickets can be purchased for 1,800 yen.

Transport: The museum is a short walk from Chokoku-no-Mori Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway. From Hakone-Yumoto, it is approximately a 30-minute train ride. This route is covered by the Hakone Freepass.

4. Onsen (Hot Spring) Experience

Indulge in Hakone's renowned natural hot springs, a quintessential Japanese experience for relaxation and healing. Many traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) offer communal baths and private onsen, providing a tranquil setting amidst nature. Hakone boasts various types of mineral-rich waters, each believed to have different therapeutic properties.

Cost: Day-use public onsen facilities typically charge between 500 to 2,000 yen for admission. For example, Tenzan Onsen costs around 1,450 yen, and Hakone Kamon starts from 1,980 yen. Staying at a ryokan with a private onsen will incur higher accommodation costs, which vary widely depending on the luxury level and inclusions.

Transport: Many public onsen and ryokan are located around Hakone-Yumoto, Gora, and other areas, accessible by the Hakone Tozan Bus or Hakone Tozan Railway. Some ryokans offer shuttle services from nearby stations.

5. Hakone Shrine & Peace Torii

Visit the historic Hakone Shrine, nestled in a dense forest at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashi. This sacred site, with over 1260 years of history, is revered for good luck and safe travel. Its most iconic feature is the 'Torii Gate of Peace' (Heiwa-no-Torii) standing majestically in Lake Ashi, offering a memorable photo opportunity.

Cost: There is no entry fee for Hakone Shrine.

Transport: The shrine is a 5-10 minute walk from the Moto-Hakone boat pier, which is a 35-minute bus ride from Hakone-Yumoto Station. This bus route is covered by the Hakone Freepass.

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