Is there a dress code for visiting Hakone Shrine?

While there is no specific dress code in Japan, it is recommended that visitors dress modestly and respectfully when visiting any religious site.

Can we take photos inside the shrine?

Photography is allowed inside the shrine if you respect other visitors and do not disrupt ceremonies or rituals.

Are there any souvenir shops or restaurants near the shrine?

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.

Is it possible to see Mount Fuji from Hakone 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.

Are there any events or festivals held at Hakone Shrine?

Several annual events and festivals are held at Hakone Shrine, including New Year celebrations and traditional ceremonies for different seasons.

Hakone Shrine: History, Location & Tips

Traveler reviews

The area has lots of steps to the shrine to be prepared to walk. It wasn't too busy on a weekend at 10am in the summer. The shrine was well kept but quite touristy. There is a queue to take a photo of the main gate along the river. It gives people 3 mins per slot which means the queue builds up. There are toilets and a restaurant at the sight.

W K (KW)

Jun 30, 2026

Cute little shrine in Hakone, next to Lake Ashinoko. As you can imagine, there's a lot of people throughout the entire day so expect a lot of crowds. If you want to take a famous photo with the Torii gate in the water, be prepared to wait as there's a long line. I personally don't think it's that worth it, but if you're main objective is to take souvenir photos, it's well worth passing by. Note that you can take a taxi to the very top of the shrine, that way you can just walk down to the bottom rather then go up and then back down.

Paul Thevasagayam

May 23, 2026

Hakone Shrine has a calm, beautiful atmosphere that makes the visit feel special. Walking over from the bus stop by the docks was a nice way to arrive, and the path added to the experience. The torii gates are definitely popular for photos, so patience helps, but people were considerate and even helped each other take pictures, which kept things moving smoothly.

Hong Calvin

Jun 21, 2026

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.

Jonathan Phan

Jan 21, 2026

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.