HAKONE
Hakone is a easily accessible resort area from Tokyo, known for its abundant nature and hot springs. The beautiful scenery throughout the seasons and historic landmarks captivate visitors, providing a soothing retreat.
❺ Hakone-Shrine
❶ Taikanyama-View spot
Hakone's Daikan-yama is a prime spot to overlook Mount Fuji. On clear days, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Fuji. Additionally, you can take photos on the swing set up beside it, and especially during dusk, the silhouette of Mount Fuji is dyed in the beautiful sunset. The way the setting sun is reflected on the mountains creates a picturesque and fantastical scenery.
❷ Hakone-Sekisyo
The Hakone Checkpoint, a significant point along the Tōkaidō Road during the Edo period, is a fascinating destination for history buffs. The meticulously recreated buildings and numerous historical artifacts offer a glimpse into the past. Imagine the bustling activity of the Edo period as you explore the checkpoint and learn about its history and culture. The surrounding area features historical buildings and well-maintained walking paths.
❸ Ancient cider avenue
The cedar avenue lining the Hakone Old Tōkaidō Road is a beautiful landscape where history and nature intertwine. The towering cedar trees create a lush, tranquil space, offering a peaceful escape from the city's noise. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, absorbing the history and the serenity of nature.
❹ Yosegi-wood craft shop
Hakone Yosegi Zaiku is a traditional craft that combines wooden pieces of different colors and shapes to create geometric patterns. Dating back to the Edo period, it is used for everyday items such as small boxes, stationery cases, and coasters. Each piece shows subtle differences thanks to the craftsmen’s delicate work, making it both a practical item and a beautiful example of Japanese decorative art, admired in Japan and abroad.
❺ Hakone-Shrine
Hakone Shrine, situated on the shores of Lake Ashi, is a historically significant shrine known for its sacred atmosphere. The beautiful shrine buildings, harmoniously integrated with the surrounding nature, and the iconic vermillion torii gate seemingly floating on the lake's surface, captivate visitors. The reflection of the torii gate and Mount Fuji in the lake creates a breathtaking view. It is also a popular power spot, attracting many worshippers. From the shrine grounds, you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Ashi and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
❻ Ashi-Lake
Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan, is a serene body of water surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of Mount Fuji. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Ashi is by enjoying a pirate ship cruise on its tranquil waters. As you glide across the lake, you can admire the picturesque landscape, including the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine and the majestic mountains in the distance. Enjoy a leisurely 30-minute cruise and soak in the scenery.
❼ Lake Golf Driving Range
Hakone-en Golf Practice Range offers opportunities for golfers of all levels to practice while enjoying views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding Hakone mountains. Rental clubs and balls are available, so visitors can play without bringing their own equipment. Conveniently located for sightseeing, it’s a popular spot for beginners and travelers looking to enjoy golf in a relaxed, scenic setting.
❽ Amazake-Cafe
Hakone’s Amazake Chaya is a historic tea house that preserves the culture of the Edo period, with a history of around 300 years. Traditionally, it served as a rest stop for travelers along the old roads, offering its famous sweet sake (amazake) and rice dumplings. Visitors can relax in the charming wooden building and serene garden while enjoying a warm drink, taking in the natural beauty and atmosphere of Hakone. It’s an ideal spot for a break during sightseeing and a rare place to experience the Edo-period ambiance today.
❾ Tamadare-Water fall
Tamadare Falls and Hiryu Falls are stunning natural waterfalls in Hakone, formed atop lava flows created by volcanic activity from the Owakudani region around 30,000 years ago. The powerful cascading water generates abundant negative ions, providing visitors with a refreshing and invigorating experience. During the Edo period, these waterfalls were also popular spots for pilgrims and ascetic monks. In the plunge pools, koi can often be seen swimming, adding to the scenic charm. The falls showcase a unique combination of volcanic geology and historical significance, making them a must-visit destination in Hakone.
❿ Gora-Brewery
This bar offers fresh craft beers brewed locally by GORA BREWERY, allowing visitors to enjoy their aroma and flavor in a relaxed atmosphere. A range of beers is available, from regular staples to seasonal flavors, along with light snacks that pair perfectly with the drinks. The freshness and quality, unique to a brewery-run establishment, make it an ideal spot for a break during sightseeing or a relaxing evening in Hakone.
⓫ Hakone Rope-way
The Hakone Ropeway is a popular way to enjoy Hakone’s scenic spots from above. Connecting Sounzan Station to Togendai Station, it offers breathtaking views of Owakudani, Mount Soun, and the surrounding landscapes. During the ride, visitors can observe volcanic terrain, steaming hot springs, and the natural beauty of each season, with autumn foliage and winter snow providing particularly spectacular sights. Spanning approximately 4 kilometers, the aerial journey is a highlight of Hakone sightseeing. The ropeway is equipped with safe and comfortable facilities, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
⓬ Owakudani
Ōwakudani is a volcanic valley in Hakone, Japan, famous for its active sulfur vents and hot springs. You can also view the steaming vents and bubbling hot springs of Ōwakudani from above by taking a gondola ride. The distinct smell of sulfur fills the air, adding to the mystical ambiance of the area. If you're interested, you can also try the black eggs cooked in the hot springs.
⓭ Sengoku-Susuki field
The Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields are one of Hakone’s most iconic scenic spots, especially stunning in autumn when the vast grasslands turn a golden hue. Situated at an elevation of around 700 meters, the highland offers ever-changing landscapes throughout the seasons, with the autumn sunset casting a magical glow over the swaying pampas grass. Well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to stroll leisurely while enjoying the natural beauty and panoramic views. Popular with tourists and photography enthusiasts alike, the fields are a must-visit destination on any Hakone sightseeing itinerary.
⓮ Choan Temple
Founded during the Kamakura period, this historic temple is known for its unique atmosphere, with over 200 statues of its followers standing within its grounds. The serene garden, surrounded by a cemetery and trees, offers a tranquil setting where you can experience the beauty of nature throughout the year. The temple is particularly beautiful during autumn, when the entire grounds are painted in vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Surrounded by majestic nature, this tranquil setting offers a chance to experience history and faith, making it a highly recommended tourist destination.
⓯ Ashi-Lake Sky line
The Lake Ashi Skyline offers a scenic driving course that allows you to fully appreciate the majestic natural beauty of Hakone. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the Hakone mountains from your car window. It's a truly unforgettable highlight of any Hakone trip, combining a refreshing drive with stunning scenery.
⓰ Tokinosumika
Toki no Sumika is a vast complex located in Yamanashi Prefecture. One of its charms is the craft beer and illuminated fountain. At the brewery in Toki no Sumika, you can enjoy craft beers made with locally sourced ingredients. From fruity ales to bitter and rich stouts, the diverse range of beers pairs excellently with meals. At night, the enchanting illumination decorates the grounds of Toki no Sumika. The fountain show, in particular, is a spectacle. Synchronized with music, the colorful lights are projected onto the fountain, creating a sensation akin to being in a dream.
⓱ Odawara Castle
Odawara Castle, built by the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period, is a historic landmark featuring a reconstructed main keep and stone walls that convey its rich history. Inside the castle, visitors can explore exhibits and historical materials to learn about life during the Sengoku era and the castle’s strategic role. Nearby, facilities offer ninja experiences where visitors of all ages can try throwing shuriken, dress in ninja costumes, and enjoy hands-on activities. Combining history and interactive fun, it is a popular destination for families and tourists alike.
⓲ Soba Noodle
Hakone’s soba is renowned for its rich flavor, nurtured by the region’s clear mountain water and fresh air. Made from locally sourced buckwheat flour and hand-prepared by skilled artisans, the noodles are aromatic and smooth in texture. A variety of dishes are available, from hot “kake soba” to cold “zaru soba,” often served with local ingredients such as tempura or mountain vegetables.
¥1000~
10AM~5PM