Discover Hakone’s Best Hiking Trails with Breathtaking Views
Hakone is a fantastic spot for hiking if you're into nature and exploring the outdoors. It’s a quick trip from Tokyo, and once you're there, you'll find many trails that suit all kinds of hikers. Some paths are easy and take you through peaceful forests, while others give you a bit more of a workout with incredible mountain views. And if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on a clear day!
Let’s jump into some of Hakone's best trails and what makes each one special.
Top Hiking Trails to Explore in Hakone
1. Old Tokaido Road – Hakone Hachiri Trail
The Old Tokaido Road is a historical trail that was once part of the main route connecting Tokyo (then Edo) to Kyoto. This path was heavily traveled by samurai, merchants, and pilgrims during the Edo period (1603-1868). Today, the preserved sections of the road in Hakone offer a walk through history, surrounded by centuries-old cedar trees and stone pavements.
Along this trail, you’ll find the Hakone Checkpoint, an important historical site where travelers were inspected during the Edo period. The reconstructed checkpoint now serves as a museum, providing insight into the customs and regulations of the time. The trail also passes by the Amazake Chaya, a traditional tea house that has been serving travelers for over 400 years.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Hakone-machi
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather
2. Mount Kintoki
Mount Kintoki is named after the legendary folk hero Kintaro, known for his incredible strength and bravery. The mountain was once known as Ashigara-yama, but its name changed due to its connection with this mythical character. Climbing Mount Kintoki offers hikers stunning views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape. The trail is known for its wildflowers in spring and autumn foliage.
Reaching the summit of Mount Kintoki rewards hikers with a small shrine dedicated to Kintaro and a teahouse serving traditional snacks. It is a moderately challenging hike but is suitable for those who have some hiking experience. The mountain’s rich folklore adds an interesting cultural layer to the hiking experience.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Elevation: 1,212 meters (3,976 feet)
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for foliage
3. Hakone Shrine Trail
The Hakone Shrine Trail offers a serene hike through a forest of towering cedar trees. Hakone Shrine has been a spiritual center since the Nara period (710-794). The shrine was once a site for ascetic monks practicing mountain worship, which adds a deep cultural aspect to the trail. Today, it’s a popular spot for visitors seeking blessings for safe travels.
The trail starts at the Hakone Shrine grounds and loops around part of Lake Ashi. The iconic red torii gate standing in the lake has become a symbol of Hakone. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji in the background, creating a picturesque scene.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Hakone Shrine entrance
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds
4. Mount Komagatake – Hakone Ropeway Hike
Mount Komagatake provides some of the best panoramic views of the Hakone area, including Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The hike begins with a ropeway ride, offering an aerial view of the region's natural beauty. The summit of Mount Komagatake is home to the Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine, a place of worship since ancient times.
The trail from the ropeway station to the summit is relatively short but steep in some areas. The scenery changes with the seasons, featuring blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. From the top, you can see several of Hakone’s landmarks, making this hike a popular choice for both nature and photography enthusiasts.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 1-2 hours
Elevation: 1,356 meters (4,449 feet)
Ropeway Station: Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with the clearest views in winter
5. Daimonji-yama Hiking Trail
The Daimonji-yama trail is a hidden gem in Hakone, offering sweeping views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. The name “Daimonji” refers to the large character carved into the mountainside for the yearly Daimonji Festival. The trail provides a relatively gentle ascent, passing through forests and meadows.
From the summit, hikers can enjoy views of Mount Fuji on clear days. This trail is less crowded compared to others in Hakone, making it a peaceful escape into nature. It’s a great spot for a picnic with family or friends.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Near Hakone-machi
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather
6. Gora to Sounzan – Hakone’s Nature Walk
This trail offers a half-day hiking experience starting from the charming town of Gora. The path winds through thick forests, small streams, and natural hot spring areas. The trail is well-marked, making it suitable for families and those new to hiking.
As you make your way to Sounzan, you'll pass several hot spring spots, offering a chance to relax after the hike. Many hikers choose to visit an onsen after completing the trail. The path ends at Sounzan Station, where you can continue exploring Hakone via the ropeway.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2-3 hours
Starting Point: Gora Station
Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for the fall colors
7. Owakudani Nature Trail
Owakudani is known for its geothermal activity, with steaming vents and bubbling hot springs. The nature trail provides a close-up view of this volcanic area, offering a unique hiking experience. Owakudani was formed around 3,000 years ago during the last eruption of Mount Hakone, and its steaming vents still bear witness to the area’s volcanic origins.
The trail is relatively short, but the landscape is rugged and otherworldly. Along the path, you’ll find observation points to watch the sulfurous steam rising from the ground. The famous black eggs, boiled in the hot springs, are said to add seven years to one’s life if eaten.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 30-60 minutes
Starting Point: Owakudani Station
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
8. Miyanoshita Nature Trail
Miyanoshita is a charming area known for its traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and hot springs. The nature trail here provides a peaceful hike through dense forests, wooden bridges, and bubbling streams. The town of Miyanoshita has been a retreat for travelers since the Meiji period (1868-1912), adding historical significance to this hike.
The trail is short but offers a serene experience. After the hike, you can explore Miyanoshita's old streets and traditional onsen, where famous writers and artists once stayed. This combination of nature and history makes the Miyanoshita trail a unique adventure.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1-2 hours
Starting Point: Near Miyanoshita Station
Best Time to Visit: Spring for blooming flowers and autumn for foliage
9. Lake Ashi Loop Trail
Lake Ashi was formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after its last eruption. The loop trail around the lake offers a mix of forest paths and lakeside walks, perfect for a relaxed day out. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji reflecting on the lake’s surface, creating a picture-perfect scene.
The trail connects to several attractions, including Hakone Shrine, the Pirate Ship Cruise dock, and hot spring resorts. Along the way, you’ll encounter small shrines and local wildlife, adding to the natural charm. The hike is relatively flat, making it accessible for all ages.
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 2-4 hours
Starting Point: Hakone-machi or Moto-Hakone
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for the best views
Embark on a mesmerizing voyage from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone.
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