Hakone Group Tours
Hakone
Ōwakudani Valley
Hakone
Hakone Shrine
Travel Guide
Hakone Tips & Facts
Region
Kanto
Population
about 11.000
Dialects
Tokyo dialect
Climate
Humid subtropical
Prefecture
Kanagawa
Hakone Travel Info
Hakone’s history is deeply tied to Japan’s samurai era. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it served as a key checkpoint on the Tōkaidō road, the main route connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. Travelers, merchants, and feudal lords (daimyō) had to pass through Hakone Sekisho, a heavily guarded post ensuring order in the shogunate’s domain. Today, this historical site is beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Beyond its strategic role, Hakone has long been a sanctuary for onsen culture. The town’s natural hot springs, enriched by volcanic activity, have drawn visitors for centuries seeking healing and relaxation. Even Japanese artists and poets found inspiration here, capturing its scenic beauty in ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Fast forward to modern times, Hakone continues to blend tradition and contemporary art, with cultural landmarks like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing sculptures amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Best Places to Visit in Hakone
Hakone Open-Air Museum
A paradise for art lovers, this museum seamlessly blends nature and creativity. Walk through lush gardens dotted with over 120 sculptures from Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso, and Taro Okamoto. The indoor Picasso Pavilion features an extensive collection of his paintings, ceramics, and sketches. Visitors can also soak their feet in the open-air foot bath, filled with warm onsen water while admiring the mountain views.
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
This serene crater lake, formed by a volcanic eruption over 3,000 years ago, is one of Hakone’s most iconic sights. Hop on a pirate-themed cruise, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji, dense cedar forests, and traditional Japanese villages along the shore. The lake’s calm waters reflect the famous red torii gate of the Hakone Shrine, creating a mesmerizing scene that changes with the seasons.
Hakone Shrine
Tucked within a dense forest at the foot of Mount Hakone, Hakone Shrine has been a spiritual sanctuary for centuries. It was once a place where samurai and travelers prayed for protection before continuing their journeys. The striking torii gate, known as the "Torii of Peace", stands partially submerged in Lake Ashi, offering a breathtaking photo spot. Walking through the misty, cedar-lined pathway leading to the shrine feels like stepping back in time.
Ōwakudani Valley
A trip to Hakone wouldn’t be complete without visiting this active volcanic zone, which was formed by Mount Hakone’s last eruption 3,000 years ago. Steam vents release sulfuric clouds, giving the landscape an eerie, otherworldly feel. One of the must-try experiences here is tasting kuro-tamago (black eggs), which are boiled in the area’s natural hot springs. Legend has it that eating one adds seven years to your life! The valley also offers scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of Mount Fuji.
