You can reach Lake Ashinoko by taking a train to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then transferring to a bus or the Hakone Tozan Railway. Another scenic option is the Hakone Ropeway, which provides aerial views of the area.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including sightseeing cruises, renting pedal boats, fishing, hiking trails around the lake, and visiting nearby attractions like the Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Yes, on clear days, you can see stunning views of Mount Fuji from various points around Lake Ashinoko. Some of the best vantage points are from sightseeing boats on the lake and along the shores.
Yes, the area is rich in history. The Hakone Shrine, with its iconic red torii gate in the lake, and the Hakone Sekisho (Checkpoint), a restored Edo-era post station, are notable sites near Lake Ashinoko.
Yes, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, or "onsen." There are several hot spring resorts and public baths near Lake Ashinoko where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural mineral waters.
Lake Ashi in Hakone is a scenic crater lake surrounded by mountains, often seen with Mount Fuji in the background. The area offers boat cruises, lakeside trails, and hot springs. A peaceful destination ideal for day trips or weekend escapes from Tokyo.
We came to Lake Ashi and took the cruise on what looked like a pirate ship. This ship has a lift that made it easy to reach the open deck. It was spring and the wind made it feel very cold on the ship. The lake is pleasant and we could see the Tori of Peace from the deck.
Lake Ashi was a highlight of our Hakone trip – absolutely stunning with panoramic views of Mt Fuji on a clear day. Getting there was surprisingly smooth: we boarded the Hakone Ropeway from Sōunzan, transferred at Ōwakudani, and then continued down to Tōgendai, right on the lake’s edge. Just note: the cable car section officially starts at Gōra, so plan your route accordingly.
We opted for the first-class cabin on the Hakone Pirate Ship, which was well worth it – more space, better views, and you can enjoy the lake without the crowd. A great tip for those wanting a photo at the famous Heiwa no Torii gate (which often has long queues): hire a paddle boat instead! You’ll get beautiful, uninterrupted shots from the water, and it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the lake without the hustle.
Highly recommend spending a half day here – bring snacks, a camera, and soak in the natural beauty!
