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Owakudani Valley

4.4 (200)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Owakudani Valley in the Hakone region of Japan is a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs known for its otherworldly landscape. This area, whose name means "Great Boiling Valley," offers a unique glimpse into the earth's raw power, with steam clouds, bubbling pools, and a distinct sulfur scent that fills the air.

Visitors to Owakudani can take a cable car ride to get an aerial view of this steaming wonderland, witnessing the rugged terrain and the volcanic activity that defines the valley. One of the must-try experiences here is eating the famous black eggs, which are eggs boiled in the hot springs, turning their shells black and said to extend one's life by seven years.

Owakudani Valley also offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days, providing a perfect backdrop to this dramatic landscape. Despite its stark and rugged nature, Owakudani has a certain beauty, with walking trails that allow visitors to explore up close and learn about the volcanic activity that has shaped the region.

Visiting Owakudani Valley is an adventure, offering a chance to witness the power of nature and enjoy one of Japan's most unique geological sites.

Hours:

24/7

Closed:

Varies due to volcanic activity or weather

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Hakone Ropeway: ~1,500 yen for adults (one way)


Hours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:20 PM
Phone
+81 460-84-5201
Website
www.kanagawa-park.or.jp

The area

Address
62VC+3R, Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Owakudani Valley

A nice area with a scenic cable car ride and the opportunity to eat black hard boiled eggs made from the local spring water. Eating one is said to add a few years extra to your life. On a clear day, you can usually get some good views of Mt Fuji from here. This place gets packed with tourists but we never felt overwhelmed personally. We felt like a few hours was the perfect amount of time to spend here between the cable car, the eggs, enjoying the sights, and enjoying the shops.
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Cody P
Jun 20, 2025
Although we didn't get to spend time at the hot springs due to the weather not cooperating and high winds. We thought it best to head back down and not be stuck at the top. Everything was enjoyable from the train ride up/down it was totally spectacular. I have never experienced so much beautiful land scape, trees etc. God in His infinite glory shared this beauty with us. I would love to give place a go again, hopefully another time. I can't wait.
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Jay S
May 20, 2025
Went on late March on a cloudy day but we managed to get good view from the observatory deck and the ropeway. It was quite fascinating from the ropeway, although Mount Fuji was covered. Sulphur smell was rather strong but expected. On top of a mountain, there’s a museum with 100JPY admission which gave a good information about Owakudani’s history, how hot springs work, etc. worth a visit for that price! There’s also a cafe (great black curry bread!!) and souvenir shop. Of course we had to get the black eggs, personally it doesn’t taste that different but good to try.
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M J
Apr 3, 2025
This is an active volcano that is monitored. On top there are great views souvenir shops and food. The food is good, the ice cream is excellent, there are plenty of souvenirs to buy and also the back eggs. Definitely check it out and get the hakone free pass.
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Roman Peek
Jun 12, 2025
Make sure you book for the tour of the mountain to get closer to the peak and see where they cook the eggs. This is a cool little tour with a guide and lots of translation though the guide may only speak Japanese. You get a nice flute rendition at the end. Easily traversable but they are not kidding about underlying respiratory problems, two guys on our trip had to bow out as they lost their breath or couldn't stop coughing. Lots of interesting things to see up close.
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Daryl Sinclair
May 30, 2025


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