Top Things to Do, Eat, and Buy in Hakone: A Visitor’s Guide

Top Reasons to Visit

Hakone, a popular tourist destination in Kanagawa Prefecture, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Nestled around the serene Lake Ashi, Hakone boasts stunning views of Mount Fuji, lush forests, and traditional Japanese architecture. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxation, Hakone has something to offer every traveler. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Hakone:

• Stunning natural beauty: Hakone is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the surrounding mountains and forests.
• Rich history and culture: Hakone has a long and fascinating history, and is home to numerous historical landmarks and cultural attractions, such as Hakone Shrine, Hakone 関所, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
• Abundant hot springs: Hakone is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have therapeutic properties. There are many hot spring resorts and bathhouses in Hakone, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.
• Excellent hiking and biking trails: Hakone offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. These trails provide a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
• Convenient access from Tokyo: Hakone is easily accessible from Tokyo by train or bus, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway destination.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and abundance of activities, Hakone is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Japan.

Attractions

Hakone Shrine

• Key features:
  • Iconic “Peace鳥居” standing in Lake Ashi
  • Stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi
  • Sacred Shinto shrine with a rich history

Kutoku Dragon Shrine (Nine-Headed Dragon Shrine)

• Key features:
  • Vibrant ceiling paintings depicting the nine-headed dragon deity
  • “Dragon God Water Pavilion” where visitors can purify themselves with sacred water
  • Colorful and ornate shrine dedicated to the dragon deity

Hakone Open-Air Museum

• Key features:
  • Unique outdoor museum featuring a collection of sculptures and other artworks
  • Breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains
  • Serene and inspiring setting for art appreciation

Hakone Ropeway

• Key features:
  • Scenic cable car ride to the summit of Mount Komagatake
  • Panoramic views of Lake Ashi, the Hakone caldera, and (on clear days) Mount Fuji
  • Convenient and comfortable way to ascend the mountain

Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya

• Key features:
  • Original shrine of Hakone, situated on the summit of Mount Komagatake
  • Offers a glimpse into the ancient mountain worship traditions of Japan
  • Sacred and serene atmosphere

Hakone 関所

• Key features:
  • Reconstructed Edo-period checkpoint that once guarded the Hakone Pass
  • Provides insights into the history and culture of the Tokugawa era
  • Opportunity to experience traditional Japanese architecture and customs

Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise

• Key features:
  • Leisurely boat ride on Lake Ashi, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests
  • Features various types of boats, including replica pirate ships
  • Relaxing and scenic way to explore the lake

Hakone Gora Park

• Key features:
  • Charming park with a variety of attractions, including a botanical garden, an art museum, and a ropeway
  • Known for its stunning views of the Hakone Valley
  • Offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to art enthusiasts

Delicacies

Goyoken Karame Mochi

• Freshly made mochi (rice cakes) available in a variety of flavors, including kinako (roasted soybean flour), goma (sesame), and anko (sweet red bean paste).
• Can be enjoyed at the “Goyoken Karame Mochi” shop located near Hakone Shrine.

Ashinoko Terrace Pizza

• Authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, with a variety of toppings to choose from.
• Can be enjoyed at the “La Terrazza Ashinoko” restaurant overlooking Lake Ashi.

Nanayu Dango

• A set of seven colorful dango (sweet rice dumplings) in different flavors, including plain, matcha, pumpkin, and black sesame.
• Can be grilled over a charcoal fire and served with various toppings, such as anko and mitarashi (sweet soy sauce glaze).
• Can be enjoyed at the “Hakone畔屋” cafe near Lake Ashi.

Souvenir Guide

寄木細工 (Marquetry Craft)

• Intricate wooden crafts made by fitting together small pieces of different colored wood.
• Can be found in a variety of forms, such as boxes, puzzles, and decorative objects.

Hakone 関所 Goods

• Souvenirs inspired by the Hakone 関所, including replicas of Edo-period clothing, accessories, and tools.
• Can be purchased at the Hakone 関所 gift shop.

Lake Ashi Cruise Souvenirs

• Items commemorating the Lake Ashi cruise, such as postcards, keychains, and miniature pirate ship models.
• Can be purchased at the gift shops located at the various boat terminals.

Detailed Itinerary