Hakone is the perfect location to take a relaxing overnight trip during a busy Japanese vacation. The Hakone Loop has many fun and exciting places to visit; we had a great time exploring the loop during our trip to Hakone.
Here are 5 things you should do while visiting Hakone!
General Information
Best Time to Visit: March/April/May/October/November
1. Stay at a Ryokan
Staying in a ryokan for at least one night is an experience I think everyone visiting Japan should have. Hakone is the perfect place for a one-night stay in a ryokan. There are so many choices for ryokan in Hakone that you can find the ideal place to stay, whether traditional or modern.
Ryokan are traditional Japanese Inns that typically have tatami mat floors, communal baths, and half board. Meals are often traditional Japanese, known as kaiseki, and can be served in a communal dining hall or your private room.
Many ryokan in Hakone provide hot spring baths (onsen). These come in many forms; indoor or outdoor, public or private baths.
Read More: Staying at Kinnotake Tonosawa
2. Ride the ropeway to Owakudani
The ropeway will take you right over the sulfur fields to Owakudani. It’s a can’t miss experience in my opinion. Viewing the steaming volcanic valley from above is quite unique. The ropeway can close due to the volatile nature of the valley, so check for the current status before making your trip.
Once you are at Owakudani, make sure to try the black eggs. They are boiled in the sulfurous waters, giving the egg shells their black color. It is said that these eggs will extend your life by seven years; you may as well give one a try!
If you are lucky on your trip up the ropeway to Owakudani, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji!
Hours:
February – November: 9:00 to 17:00
December – January: 9:00 to 16:15
Price:
¥950 from Sounzan Station to Owakudani Station
¥1550 from Sounzan Station to Togendai Station
3. Visit Lake Ashi and Ride a Pirate Ship
Lake Ashi, also known as Hakone Lake or Lake Ashinoko, is located on the southwest of the mount Hakone caldera. The lake formed during Mount Hakone’s last eruption and has fantastic scenic views. Sightseeing tours on the lake are provided via pirate ship. These ships were built to resemble historic warships.
Lake Ashi is most known for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Hope for a clear day if you want to see Mount Fuji, as clouds can often block it.
Hours: 9:30 to 16:20, varies in the winter
Price:
¥1,200 one-way
¥2,200 round-trip
4. Visit Hakone Shrine and Take a Picture at Heiwa no Torii
Located on the shore of Lake Ashi is a Shinto shrine, Hakone Shrine. The shine has a rich history that began at the top of Mount Hakone rather than Lake Ashi. It is said that the shrine was moved to the lake shores after the nine-headed dragon of Lake Ashi was pacified.
Today you can visit the shrine and learn about its history at the treasure house. If you visit in late July/early August, you can see the firework display as part of the Ashinoko Summer Festival.
Heiwa no Torii (Gate of Peace) sits on the lake and is a popular photo location. Be prepared for a wait if you want a photo of your own under the gate.
Hours:
All Day (Shrine)
9:00 to 16:30 (Treasure House)
Price (Treasure House):
¥500 (¥400 with Hakone Free Pass)
5. Visit the Open Air Museum
The Hakone Open Air Museum is located along the Hakone Loop and is an excellent place for a 1-2 hours excursion. The primarily outdoor museum has an abundance of unique art pieces sporadically placed among its gardens.
Highlights Include:
- The Symphonic Sculpture, a tower of stained glass. You can climb up the tower for stunning views of Hakone
- The Picasso exhibit, a 300-piece exhibit containing various Picasso works.
- La Pleureuse (The Mourner), a giant stone head with foliage for hair.
- The outdoor foot bath. You can soak your feet in mineral waters after your walk through the museum.
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00
Price:
¥1,600 (¥1,400 with Hakone Free Pass)
Are you planning a trip to Hakone?
Check out my Hakone Travel Guide for more helpful information!
