What other travelers are saying about Hakone Shrine
I’m giving it a 4… It could have been absolutely spectacular because the place is a true gift of nature, with an amazing view 😍.
But unfortunately, it’s not prepared at all for having a picnic. We brought everything to have dinner while enjoying the scenery, and we ended up eating inside the car 🚙, uncomfortably 😖😖.
In the end, it completely ruined our plan to enjoy the lake and the mountains 🏔️.
There are people fishing, which I think is great, but there’s nowhere to actually sit and appreciate the beauty of the place — the gorgeous mountains, the lovely lake, the pirate ship 🏴☠️…
This area has so much potential. It could be an amazing experience, but right now it really falls short.
While there is no specific dress code in Japan, it is recommended that visitors dress modestly and respectfully when visiting any religious site.
Photography is allowed inside the shrine if you respect other visitors and do not disrupt ceremonies or rituals.
Several souvenir shops and restaurants are near the shrine's entrance. Traditional Japanese snacks and street food vendors are also along the pathway leading up to the shrine.
On a clear day, you can catch glimpses of Mount Fuji from certain spots within the shrine or along Lake Ashi. However, there are no guarantees, as visibility depends on weather conditions.
Several annual events and festivals are held at Hakone Shrine, including New Year celebrations and traditional ceremonies for different seasons.
Really picturesque. A great place for a romantic shot for you and your loved one.
If you want a different angle of the shrine, you can rent boats on the shore and paddle over. Fun memory to boot.
Get there super early if you want to avoid the lineup. Once and a lifetime type of photoshoot though make it count.
Visiting Hakone Shrine on a weekday made the entire experience feel calm and unhurried. There was no wait to enter, and the walk through the tall cedar trees immediately set a peaceful tone. The path leading up to the shrine is beautifully maintained, and the atmosphere feels respectful without being overly crowded or commercial. Even with a few visitors around, there was plenty of space to pause, take in the surroundings, and appreciate the history of the site. The shrine buildings themselves are elegant and understated, blending naturally into the forest setting. I didn’t need to buy tickets in advance, and everything felt straightforward and accessible.
What stood out most was how grounding the entire visit felt. The combination of nature, tradition, and quiet moments made it easy to slow down and reflect. It’s a great stop for anyone wanting to experience the spiritual side of Hakone without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The area around the shrine is also easy to explore, with clear paths and scenic viewpoints that add to the experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or with others, it’s a place that invites you to take your time and enjoy the stillness.
📍 Hakone Shrine 箱根神社
@ Hakone, Japan 🇯🇵
Visited on 20 November 2025.
Hakone Shrine is a peaceful, spiritual place surrounded by tall cedar trees and a refreshing forest atmosphere. The bright red shrine buildings and stone steps create a sacred, beautiful setting. It’s also known as a popular power spot, where many visitors come to pray for good fortune and blessings.
The walk through the quiet forest felt calming, and the shrine was well-maintained and welcoming. Together with the nearby Heiwa-no-Torii, it’s one of Hakone’s must-visit spots.
A serene and meaningful shrine — beautiful forest path, sacred atmosphere, and a famous power spot in Hakone. ⛩️🌿✨
Little bit of a climb up the steps, but we'll worth it. There are a few shrines throughout the area, but this is the largest of the bunch. You can go up and make your offerings. Set in the forest, very beautiful. The cedar trees are humongous, just amazing. The parking lot is not that far away. There is also a small path you can follow instead of the steps. It's just so peaceful and scenic, a must stop.
