What other travelers are saying about Hakone Shrine
Hakone-jinja, located on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone, is one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines. Surrounded by towering cedar trees and misty mountains, the shrine exudes a sense of peace and spirituality that blends beautifully with its natural surroundings. Its most famous feature is the bright red torii gate that stands partly submerged in the lake, creating a striking and photogenic scene that has become a symbol of Hakone.
For photographers, Hakone-jinja offers multiple perspectives. The lakeside torii is best captured at sunrise or sunset, when the soft light enhances the colors and reflections on the water. The approach to the shrine, lined with ancient cedar trees and stone lanterns, provides atmospheric compositions that highlight both nature and tradition. Seasonal changes also bring unique opportunities—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery leaves in autumn, and occasional snow in winter.
Beyond photography, the shrine is a place of worship and cultural importance, attracting visitors who come to pray for good fortune, safe journeys, and harmony. The serene environment invites slow exploration, making it a rewarding stop for both spiritual reflection and creative inspiration.
Hakone-jinja is more than just a shrine—it is a meeting point of history, culture, and natural beauty. For travelers and photographers, it captures the essence of Hakone and remains a must-visit landmark in Japan.
It is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Kanagawa Prefecture. The torii gate by the lake is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots for a photo. But be prepared for a long queue, especially on weekends when it gets extremely crowded. The Hakone Shrine itself is huge, with many areas to explore. I recommend setting aside at least half a day to fully enjoy the experience and not miss anything.
Very busy shrine but in a beautiful area. There are a few trails and small areas off to the side where you can't find some peaceful moments of reflection. The amulet and goshuin areas were very busy but at least efficient. They have a good sized bathroom facility that unfortunately was in pretty rough shape during our visit. While the grounds are beautiful many of the buildings are undergoing some repairs and scaffolding abounds. Overall if you are in Hakone you will visit it is sort of the point but I hope it's not the only shrine you see in Japan.
An absolutely beautiful and serene shrine. I loved how the tall trees towered over our heads and the way the green of the forest mixed with the redish orange colors of the shrine. The architecture was simply stunning. And of course the torii gate on the lake is the main celebrity here. Just know that there’s a crazy long line to get a picture with it at all times, some saying it was an hour of waiting. We didn’t wait, we decided to admire the main part of the shrine instead. Don’t forget to get some water from the shrine spring, it’s said to bring good luck.
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.
