What other travelers are saying about Hakone Amazake Tea House
This was my first stop in Hakone and it's gorgeous. From here on you can walk the Tokkaido towards Moto-Hakone. The path is right behind the chaya. It's super traditional to the point that in cold days you might get some burned smoke smell on your clothes. The mochi was so hard to chew omg... And there is a free refill of tea - just press down with your cup under.
Hakone Amazake Tea House is a historic 400-year-old traditional Japanese tea house located along the Old Tokaido Road between Moto-Hakone and Hakone-Yumoto in Hakone, Japan. This charming thatched-roof establishment serves traditional amazake (sweet rice drink) and Japanese sweets to travelers exploring the Hakone region.
Hakone Amazake Tea House is typically open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. You can reach it by taking the Hakone Tozan Bus and getting off at the Amazake-chaya bus stop, or by hiking along the historic Tokaido Trail. The tea house is easily accessible from both Hakone-Yumoto Station and Moto-Hakone areas.
The tea house specializes in amazake, a traditional sweet fermented rice drink served hot or cold. They also offer Japanese sweets like mochi rice cakes, traditional tea, and light snacks. The amazake is their signature drink, made using a centuries-old recipe that provides a unique taste of authentic Japanese culture.
Yes, Hakone Amazake Tea House is definitely worth visiting for its authentic 400-year history, traditional thatched-roof architecture, and unique cultural experience. Located on the historic Old Tokaido Road, it offers travelers a glimpse into Japan's past while enjoying traditional refreshments in a scenic mountain setting perfect for photos and relaxation.
Absolutely! Hakone Amazake Tea House fits perfectly into a Hakone day trip itinerary. You can combine it with visits to Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Owakudani Valley, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The tea house serves as an ideal rest stop while hiking the Old Tokaido Trail or traveling between major Hakone attractions using the Hakone Free Pass.
Sesame mochi was really good. Very peaceful to sit outside, enjoying the nature and the breezes with hot amazake (sweet rice sake). The leaves were gradually turning yellow / red and so it was such a nice view of fleeting transition
Delicious rice fermented drink, well paired with rice cakes that comes in 3 flavours. There is a old style fire pit inside the hatched hut, with also seating outside. Right next to the old Takaido road, this place is excellent as a first stop to tour Hakone.
A Hidden Gem of History and Hospitality!
This place is truly a step back in time and an unforgettable experience. If you’re in the area, you absolutely shouldn’t miss it! A quick tip — buses on weekends don’t run until 10 AM and taxis can be hard to find, so we ended up walking 2+ km to get here. It was worth every step. Make sure to bring cash, as that’s the only payment they accept.
The hike to the tea house is challenging — historically considered one of the toughest routes during the Edo period — but reaching it feels incredibly rewarding. Sitting down to enjoy their handmade mochi and warm akazake was the perfect way to recharge.
If you’re lucky enough to meet Satochi while you’re there, you’re in for a treat. Though he speaks limited English, his kindness and hospitality shine through. He clearly pours his heart into everything he does and goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. I’d gladly return just to see him again
Very cozy to drink a warm amazake on a cold day. They also serve other sides like oden and mochi, which were alright. Convenient to get to by bus, and walkable to Motohakone via the Old Tokaido Road behind the tea house
