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Hakone Japan
National park with views of Mount Fuji, Hakone travel guide.
Hakone
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Overview
Hakone (箱根) offers the perfect escape into nature’s beauty and tranquility. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this beloved destination is famous for its soothing hot springs, lush mountain scenery, and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji reflected in the calm waters of Lake Ashinoko. Whether you’re cruising the lake, soaking in an onsen, or exploring scenic trails, hakone promises a peaceful retreat where relaxation meets adventure an ideal getaway for travelers seeking Japan’s natural charm and timeless serenity.
1. Owakudani
Owakudani (大涌谷), a dramatic volcanic valley on Mount Hakone, was formed over 3,000 years ago and still steams with life today. Visitors can witness sulfurous vents, bubbling hot springs, and streams colored by volcanic minerals—all set against stunning views of Mount Fuji. Don’t miss tasting the famous black eggs, boiled in natural hot springs and said to add seven years to your life—a true Hakone legend worth experiencing.
2. Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine (箱根神社, Hakone Jinja) nestled along the shores of Lake Ashinoko at the foot of Mount Hakone, is one of Japan’s most picturesque spiritual sites. Its iconic red torii gate rising from the lake has become a symbol of Hakone’s beauty. Surrounded by towering cedar trees and tranquil forest paths, the shrine exudes peace in every season—offering visitors a serene escape filled with nature, culture, and timeless spiritual charm.
3. Lake Ashinoko
Lake Ashinoko (芦ノ湖) formed in Mount Hakone’s ancient volcanic caldera, is one of Hakone’s most iconic sights. With Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance, the lake offers unforgettable views from Moto-Hakone, the Hakone Detached Palace Garden, or a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Surrounded by peaceful nature and charming resort towns, Lake Ashinoko perfectly blends scenic beauty, serenity, and classic Japanese charm—an essential stop on any Hakone adventure.
4. Hakone Ropeway
The Hakone Ropeway (箱根ロ－プウエ) offers one of Japan’s most scenic rides, connecting Sounzan Station to Lake Ashinoko with stops at Owakudani and Ubako. In just 30 minutes, you’ll glide above steaming volcanic valleys, catch breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, and enjoy panoramic vistas of Hakone’s natural beauty. Covered by the Hakone Free Pass, this unforgettable aerial journey is a must-do experience for anyone exploring the Hakone Round Course.
5. Hakone Hot Springs
Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring destinations, celebrated for its centuries-old onsen culture. Fed by over a dozen natural springs, the region offers countless soothing baths in scenic ryokan and public bathhouses. Yumoto, Hakone’s oldest and largest hot spring town, is loved for its mineral-rich waters and relaxing inns. Many ryokan welcome day visitors too, with entry fees typically ranging from 500 to 2,000 yen.
6. Hakone Open Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum beautifully blends art and nature, featuring striking sculptures set against Hakone’s mountain and valley views. Japan’s first open-air museum, it offers both outdoor exhibits and indoor galleries, including the renowned Picasso Exhibition Hall, showcasing his paintings, ceramics, and photos. Strolling through this serene, art-filled landscape is a truly inspiring experience—perfect for travelers seeking creativity, culture, and breathtaking scenery in one unforgettable destination.
7. Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway is Japan’s oldest mountain railway and a beautiful way to explore Hakone. The real charm lies on the route from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, where small trains climb through forests, tunnels, bridges, and three switchbacks.The lower section from Odawara is mainly a standard commuter route, but the upper line offers stunning views. From Gora, many travelers continue by cable car toward Lake Ashinoko.
8. Odawara Castle
9. Hakone Glass no Mori
Hakone Glass no Mori is a charming Italian-style village with a Venetian Glass Museum showcasing 100+ glass artworks. Stroll through glittering garden sculptures, enjoy live Italian canzoni at the terrace café, and experience art and nature combined. Operated by the Ukai Group, it’s one of Hakone’s most elegant attractions.
10. Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands
The Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands in Japan features over 1,700 marsh and alpine plants within Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. Founded in 1976, it offers peaceful boardwalk paths, bilingual signs, and stunning Nikko Kisuge blooms in June. Open spring to autumn and closed in winter.
Hakone
Enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, Lake Ashinoko views, and iconic Mount Fuji scenery.
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Hakone
Enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, Lake Ashinoko views, and iconic Mount Fuji scenery.
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