Top 15 Things to Do in Hakone, Japan: A Traveler's Ultimate Guide
Aug 5, 2024
Hakone is one of Japan’s top spots, famous for its beautiful nature, cultural sites, and soothing hot springs. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Hakone has something for everyone. From stunning views to unique experiences, it’s the perfect place to unwind or find a little adventure.
This guide covers the top 15 things to do in Hakone, giving you tips and insights to make the most of your trip to this amazing area.
Hakone Shrine is one of the most significant Shinto shrines in Japan, with a history dating back over 1,200 years. Located on the shores of Lake Ashi, the shrine is famous for its large red torii gate that stands in the lake, creating a stunning and iconic image.
Hakone Shrine is deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture and is often visited by samurai and travelers seeking protection on their journeys. Today, visitors admire its serene surroundings and experience a traditional aspect of Japanese spirituality.
Location: 80-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (20-minute bus ride)
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds
Experience the enchanting beauty of Hakone with a private tour.
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Opened in 1969, the Hakone Open Air Museum is Japan's first outdoor museum, blending art with the natural environment. The museum covers over 70,000 square meters and features more than 120 sculptures by both Japanese and international artists, including the works of Henry Moore and Auguste Rodin.
One of the museum's highlights is the Picasso Pavilion, which houses over 300 pieces by the artist, ranging from paintings to ceramics. The museum is designed to encourage visitors to experience art in a natural setting, with the changing seasons adding an extra dimension to the outdoor exhibits.
Location: 1121 Ninotaira, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Chokoku-no-Mori Station (3-minute walk)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Hakone Ropeway offers one of the most scenic rides in Japan, taking visitors from Sounzan Station to Togendai Station with a stop at Owakudani. The ropeway stretches for about 4 kilometers and offers panoramic views of mt fuji, Lake Ashi, and the Owakudani Valley, known for its volcanic activity.
Owakudani, or the "Great Boiling Valley," is an active volcanic area where visitors can witness sulfur vents and hot springs. The ropeway ride is an experience that combines natural beauty with the thrill of aerial travel.
Route: Sounzan Station to Togendai Station
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Duration: 30 minutes (one-way)
Lake Ashi, formed by a volcanic eruption nearly 3,000 years ago, is one of Hakone’s most famous attractions. The lake is known for its picturesque views, especially of Mount Fuji, when the weather is clear.
You can take sightseeing cruises on the lake, which often include stops at various points of interest, such as the Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Checkpoint. The lake is not only a place for enjoying the scenery but also a historical site, as it was once a strategic location along the Tokaido Road during the Edo period.
Starting Points: Hakone-machi or Moto-Hakone
Duration: 30-60 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunset views
Explore the stunning landscapes of Mt. Fuji and Hakone on a private tour.
Hakone is one of Japan's top onsen (hot spring) destinations, with a variety of public and private baths available for visitors. The town's hot springs have been renowned for their therapeutic properties for centuries, attracting both locals and travelers.
Tenzan Onsen is one of the most famous onsen in the area, offering several outdoor baths surrounded by natural rock formations and lush greenery. Many ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) in Hakone also provide private onsen, allowing guests to enjoy a soak in the privacy of their rooms.
Popular Onsen: Tenzan Onsen, Hakone Yuryo
Private Onsen: Available at various ryokan and hotels
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a relaxing soak
Gora Park, established in 1914, is a Western-style garden located in the Gora area of Hakone. The park features a large fountain, rose gardens, and seasonal flower displays, offering visitors a peaceful place to relax.
The park also houses a traditional tea house, where visitors can experience a Japanese tea ceremony while enjoying views of the surrounding gardens. Gora Park is a testament to the fusion of Japanese and Western garden design, making it a unique spot in Hakone.
Location: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Gora Station (5-minute walk)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The Hakone Tozan Railway is Japan’s oldest mountain railway, offering a scenic journey from Odawara to Gora. The railway climbs over 400 meters through a series of switchbacks, allowing the train to navigate the steep terrain.
The journey offers spectacular views of the mountains, particularly during the autumn when the trees are ablaze with red and orange foliage. The Hakone Tozan Railway is not just a means of transportation but an experience that showcases the engineering marvels and natural beauty of the region.
Route: Odawara Station to Gora Station
Duration: 40 minutes (from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora)
Best Time to Visit: Autumn for fall foliage
Discover the enchanting beauty of Hakone on a day tour from Tokyo.
Opened in 2002, the Pola Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of Western and Japanese art, with works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne. The museum was founded by the Pola cosmetics group, and its design was carefully planned to harmonize with the surrounding forest.
The building is partially underground, reducing its impact on the landscape, while large windows offer views of the surrounding nature. The museum also features a nature trail, allowing visitors to enjoy art both inside and outside.
Location: 1285 Kozukayama, Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Gora Station (15-minute bus ride)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Hakone is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The hike up Mount Kintoki, for example, provides panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area.
Another popular trail is the Old Tokaido Road, which was once part of the main route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period. This trail is lined with historical sites, such as ancient tea houses and stone markers, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Popular Trails: Mount Kintoki, Old Tokaido Road
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and snacks
The Hakone Glass no Mori Museum, also known as the Venetian Glass Museum, showcases a stunning collection of glass art from Italy. The museum’s grounds feature a beautiful garden filled with glass sculptures that sparkle in the sunlight.
Inside, you can explore exhibitions of Venetian glassware, including intricate chandeliers and delicate vases. The museum also offers glassblowing workshops where visitors can create their own glass art, making it a hands-on experience.
Location: 940-48 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Gora Station (15-minute bus ride)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
During the Edo period, the Hakone Checkpoint was a critical inspection point along the Tokaido Road, which connected Tokyo and Kyoto. The checkpoint was used to control the movement of people and goods, and it played a significant role in maintaining the security of the shogunate.
Today, the Hakone Checkpoint has been meticulously restored, allowing visitors to revisit the historic buildings and exhibits. The site also offers a panoramic view of Lake Ashi, providing both historical insight and natural beauty.
Location: 1 Hakone, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (15-minute bus ride)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Visit Hakone Checkpoint with this tour.
Experiencing a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is a cultural highlight in Hakone. Tea houses, such as the one located in Gora Park, offer visitors the chance to participate in a tea ceremony, where matcha (green tea) is prepared and served in a manner that emphasizes harmony, respect, and tranquility.
The tea house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, making it an ideal setting to relax and enjoy the simplicity of Japanese tea culture.
Location: Gora Park, 1300 Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Gora Station (5-minute walk)
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for a tea break
Hakone Yuryo is a modern yet traditional hot spring facility that offers a variety of baths, including private onsen for couples and families. The onsen is set in a tranquil forested area, providing a serene environment for relaxation.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor baths surrounded by nature or opt for a private bath for a more personal experience. The facility also includes a restaurant serving seasonal Japanese dishes, making it a perfect place to spend a relaxing day.
Location: 4 Tonosawa, Hakone, Kanagawa
Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (3-minute shuttle bus)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
The Hakone Cable Car is an integral part of the Hakone sightseeing loop, connecting Gora Station to Sounzan Station. The cable car climbs the steep slopes of Mount Sounzan, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The ride is particularly beautiful in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. The Hakone Cable Car also provides easy access to the Hakone Ropeway, making it a convenient way to explore the area.
Route: Gora Station to Sounzan Station
Duration: 10 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Autumn for fall foliage
Staying at a ryokan is an essential part of the Hakone experience. These traditional Japanese inns offer a glimpse into Japanese culture, with features like tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, and kaiseki meals, which are multi-course dinners showcasing seasonal ingredients.
Many ryokan in Hakone also have private onsen, allowing guests to enjoy a hot spring bath in the comfort of their room. Staying at a ryokan is more than just accommodation; it’s an opportunity to experience Japanese hospitality and tradition in a unique setting.
Popular Ryokan: Hakone Ginyu, Gora Kadan
What to Expect: Tatami rooms, futon bedding, kaiseki meals
Best Time to Stay: Year-round
Hakone offers diverse experiences that blend natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxation. From the iconic views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi to the soothing hot springs and historical sites, this region provides countless opportunities for memorable moments.
Whether you’re spending just a day or a few, the activities listed here will ensure your time in Hakone is well spent, leaving you with a deep appreciation for this remarkable part of Japan.
