Hakone, which is part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is a mountainous town in Kanagawa and a popular spot for those in Tokyo to visit for a day trip. It is well known for its breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, hot springs, and its ship tours of the famous Lake Ashi. If you’ll be spending time in Tokyo, no doubt Hakone is on your list as a day trip, or perhaps you’re planning to stay there for a couple of days. Here are 98 things to do in this gorgeous area for a fun-filled and pleasant trip!
For more things to do in other areas, check this list out!
Would you like to stay in Hakone? Check out all the hotels in the area here!
You can’t visit Hakone without seeing the stunning Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi! In one day, you can travel to Hakone from Tokyo and take the Komagatake Ropeway to see some stunning views, cruise Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, and ride up to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji to catch some picture-perfect views.
This tour is always guaranteed to depart in July and August, but other seasons are better for clear views. Check out the tour below for a perfect day out in Hakone!
Booking details: Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tour with Lake Ashi Cruise Daily Departure
This awesome day out includes a visit to Odawara Castle where you’ll enjoy an amazing all-you-can-eat crab lunch, cruise Lake Ashi, and even see the longest suspension bridge in Japan, the Mishima Sky Walk. This fantastic activity departs from Shinjuku, Tokyo and includes free wifi on the bus and a fun lottery activity where you can win prizes.
Be sure to wear warm clothing during the colder months as well as comfortable shoes. Join this great tour for a fun day trip with a crab feast and must-do activities!
Booking details: All-you-can-eat Crab Lunch & Mishima Sky Walk Bus Tour
Take a special romance train to Hakone from Shinjuku, ride a cable car and a ropeway to see amazing volcanic views, and visit interesting museums on this fun-filled day out! There’s also a chance to ride the iconic pirate ship to see some great views of Mt. Fuji on clear days, and you can visit Hakone Shrine, which features the god of business, health, and marriage. Book now for a thrilling day out in Hakone exploring its marvelous views and interesting history.
Booking details: Take a one-day trip to Hakone from Tokyo with a guide
If you’d prefer to explore Hakone at your own pace with your own itinerary, then you can’t go without booking this travel pass. This ticket includes a one-way train ticket to Hakone from Shinjuku, admission to Kohan-no-yu hot springs, and discounts to over fifty different facilities including museums and attractions. The ticket also includes a delicious lunch in Nanakamado. For unlimited rides on lots of Hakone’s local transportation and a free lunch, book this ticket!
Booking details: Explore the best of Hakone with a one day package pass
Visit Odawara Castle and cruise Lake Ashi during the springtime, where thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom and create gorgeous natural sights. After a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, you can also try picking fresh strawberries! This activity is ideal for those who want to take great photographs and are also up for some adventure. Book in spring for an unforgettable day in Hakone.
Booking details: Enjoy Sakura, Hakone Cruise & Strawberry Picking from Tokyo
For ultimate relaxation, why not book a luxurious stay in one of Hakone’s beauty resorts? Relax in a hot spring, get a treatment at the spa, and get some hair care by a professional hairdresser. This package includes a stay in your very own cottage with facilities such as wifi, a TV, and free amenities. This activity is ideal for women traveling alone or in groups who would like to be pampered during their stay in Hakone. Check out the link below for full details.
Booking details: Relax in an exclusive beauty resort in Hakone!
While in Hakone, why not spend the night in a gorgeous hot spring inn? Wear a yukata robe and stroll the Japanese garden, take a dip in the bubbling hot spring, taste local dishes, and breathe the fresh mountain air. You can get there from Tokyo by riding the Romance train and enjoy a truly authentic and luxurious Japanese experience.
There are different options and packages to suit your timeframe and budget; you can choose just a meal and a session in the hot spring or select the full package. Click below for more information and have a night in one of Japan’s most beautiful spots.
For a similar experience where you stay in a ryokan and get your own facilities such as a private hot spring and outdoor pool, local delicacies, and spectacular views of the mountains and river, check out this activity where you can stay in a ryokan room in Hakone.
Booking details: Day trip to Hakone in a romantic hot spring inn, from Tokyo!
Unlike some previous tours mentioned, this activity is for private groups only. No matter the season, you can enjoy Hakone in different ways. In winter, you can see spectacular snowy mountain views and crisp, clear skies and views of Mt. Fuji. In spring, the area blooms with beautiful cherry blossoms.
With this activity, you can experience famous hot springs, ride a ship on Lake Ashi, and even taste black eggs that have been boiled in the mountain hot spring, surely a unique experience! Try local dishes, visit some museums if you like, and visit one of the oldest shrines in the area. There are many more activities available on this exciting day out, so click the link below for more details.
Booking details: Go on a one day trip to Hakone!
Due to its stunning views, gentle hills, and fresh air, Hakone is a fantastic place to go mountain biking! Meet up with local people and select one of their mountain biking courses of varying difficulty levels for an exhilarating day out of exploration, exercise, and good fun!
Booking details: Go Mountain Biking in Hakone!
Choan-ji Temple is a really pretty place with gravestones, statues, and scenic spots to enjoy summer flowers and autumn leaves. Don’t miss this gorgeous traditional temple during your visit to Hakone.
Japan has a large number of gorgeous castles, many with long and sometimes bloody histories. Odawara Castle was originally built in the 15th century and taken over by the Hojo Clan. They were defeated in 1590 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Japan was reunited.
This beautiful white castle is well worth a visit and offers nice views in different seasons. Cherry blossoms surround it in spring and you can see autumn leaves in October and November.
Website *Automatic translation available
Access
７月20日（木）晴れ時々曇り。
緑陰ギャラリーでは、20世紀を代表する作家のコレクションや新収蔵の彫刻作品を展示しています。#彫刻の森美術館 #Hakone pic.twitter.com/FJLk3mpF3P— 彫刻の森美術館 (@hakone_museum) July 20, 2017
The first open-air museum in Japan, this impressive place has over 120 beautiful sculptures from around the world and a large garden that changes with the seasons. It’s a really lovely place to appreciate art and admire the surrounding nature. Children are welcome at this museum and can play in the garden among the artworks. There is also a footbath here where you can relax after walking.
Hakone Open-Air Museum website
Access
Wow what a view right? #hakone #gora #japanese #Japan #pictureoftheday #view #park #garden http://t.co/rnUSehVZkT pic.twitter.com/PSzFPl5lSM
— Vegard Heyerdahl (@Vegardheyerdahl) July 14, 2015
This lovely park is just a 10-minute walk from Gora Station and has a scenic fountain, well-kept flowers, and a stunning rose garden. It is 550 yen for entry, or free if you have a Hakone Free Pass. If you’re visiting Hakone in the spring or summer, be sure to check out the park during this peak time and take some gorgeous photographs.
Hakone Gora Park website
Access
Those interested in Japanese culture and architecture can’t miss the Motomiya Shrine, although it is quite unusual because it doesn’t have a bell or a saisen box like shrines usually do. The large torii gate emerges from Lake Ashi, a gorgeous thing to witness. Walking shoots are recommended because there is a rough gravel road and a lot of steps. Alternatively, you can get the ropeway.
Motomiya Shrine website *Japanese only
Access
Hakone is one of the best places in Japan for relaxing hot springs, locally called “onsen.” You can visit one of the many hot spring resorts in the area and relax the Japanese way – by sinking in a soothing bath! Many hot springs are said to have health benefits from soothing muscle pain to skincare, so be sure to experience this while you are in Japan.
See Hakone from the sky on the famous Hakone ropeway. It leaves in one-minute intervals and from the ride, you can see Lake Ashi, the volcanic scenery of Owakudani Valley, and even Mt. Fuji on a clear day. This exciting ride is a must-see for those going to Hakone for its stunning natural scenery.
The Hakone Tozan Train is the only mountain railway in Japan and offers gorgeous scenic route. It’s around a 40-minute journey that starts in Hakone-Yumato Station and ends at Gora Station.
June is a good time to visit because the hydrangeas are in full bloom, and the snowy wonderland of winter is like something from a storybook. This fantastic train ride is unmissable.
Another great museum in Hakone is the one of Venetial Glass, where you can see many beautiful displays and information about their craftsmen. This unique gallery will create some great memories for art enthusiasts.
Hakone Venetian Glass Museum website
Access
Why stay in a regular hotel when you can stay in a traditional inn called a “ryokan?” Ryokans typically consist of traditional sliding doors, futon bedding, and Japanese-style furniture. Many ryokans also have public baths or hot springs for guests, and yukata robes to wear. Get a real Japanese experience by staying in one of these traditional inns in one of the most beautiful places in Japan!
Located in the peninsula of Lake Ashi is this lovely park, sometimes called Onshi-Hakone-Koen Park, with no fewer than eight excellent views. Admission is free, and there is also a small museum on site. This is a great place to go if you’d like a relaxing afternoon with great views on a sunny day.
Onshi Hakone Park website
Access
Climbing Mt. Fuji is an experience every hiker must take if they visit Japan! If you are going to be in Hakone between June and August and have a few days to spare, then you can making climbing Japan’s highest mountain an adventure on your itinerary. You can climb it in one day (though be sure to check the bus times from the 5th station first) or try the more traditional way of climbing up the night before and watching the sunrise.
This historical site is a short walk from the Lake Ashi boat point. You’ll see a garden, a shrine, and the staff are in Edo period costumes to give the area an authentic feel. Visit this lovely landmark to get a taste of old Japan and see some charming old architecture.
If it’s raining, why not pay a visit to the charming Pola Museum of Art? It has both Japanese and western paintings and sculptures and craft objects such as vases, too. There is a also a restaurant on-site. This is a great place to visit for art buffs but might not be great for small children.
Pola Museum of Art website
Access
This frightening yet awe-inspiring valley can be seen from the Hakone ropeway and call also be visited to get a closer look. The area has a short walking trail where you can see steam vents, bubbling pools, and even sulfurous fumes. You can purchase special eggs here that have been cooked in the naturally hot water and blackened by the volume of sulfur. The Japanese believe that eating one of these eggs prolongs your life by seven years!
Be sure to check before you go, as sometimes the volcanic gases make the area so dangerous that you can’t get up close. However, the view is always available from the ropeway.
Hakone website *Automatic translation available
Access
This temple is " Sounji temple" in Haokone Japan. It's not so famous , but it has good atmosphere! I recommend ! pic.twitter.com/xFeop8nmUX
— Kenta in Japan (@bizjiantai) September 22, 2015
Those enthusiastic about Japanese temples would love this charming temple. With its old-style grounds, carefully kept architecture, and nice views during the cherry blossom season, it’s a great place to stop by for a stroll.
Sounji Temple website *Japanese only
Access
This lovely garden, also called the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, is worth a visit any time of year, but especially during late spring. It’s a great place to walk around for an hour or so and see different plant collections. You also get a discount if you have the Hakone Free Pass. A brochure is available so you can find out what plants are in bloom duringthe season you visit, and some wildlife includes cherry blossoms, poppies, maples, and much more.
Hakone Shisseikaen website
Access
Walk in the footsteps of the Japanese warriors of old on this exciting trail. It is on the foothills of Mt. Fuji and with the tall cedar trees and pretty views, you’ll feel like you’re in a samurai movie. There are two paths you can take, so be sure to check beforehand so you take the correct one. This short walk is suitable for all level hikers and makes for some great photos in the fresh air.
#Japan: #Kanagawa (#Hakone-en #Aquarium/ #箱根園水族館) http://t.co/ZZqtChE4Mf pic.twitter.com/tKFI6N8zZ3
— Kristine Ohkubo ⛩ (@Kristine_2016) June 25, 2015
Perfect for a rainy day and for people travelling with children, the Hakone-en Aquarium offers exciting views of penguins, fish, seals, and turtles. You can also watch the animals being fed. Entry is 1,500 yen for adults and 750 yen for children from four years old up to junior high school age.
Hakone-en Aquarium website *Japanese only
Access
Tamadare Falls, also sometimes called Hien Falls, is a serene waterfall often described as serene and peaceful. Those enthusiastic about nature, and waterfalls in particular, would love this relaxing area.
The hugely popular Sengokuhara Grass Fields consist of a large rolling field of grass. In the autumn is it especially popular as the grasses are a beautiful golden color, turning to bright green as the spring approaches. You can walk through them easily thanks to a wide footpath (walking in the grass is not recommended). The grass fields can be reached by bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station in 30 minutes.
Website *Automatic Translation Available
Access
The charming Little Prince Museum is dedicated to the character in the story The Little Prince, and is a must-visit if you happen to be the Sengokuhara area of Hakone. The museum is beautifully decorated and is in a French-style building. It has gardens, a French cafe, and several enjoyable exhibits.
Just in front of Miyanoshita Station sits for gorgeous Naraya Cafe. This unique and popular cafe offers snacks, coffee, beers, wines, and sweets. There is also a gallery on the seocnd floor with some incredible views of the mountains. The most unique part of this cafe is that you can enjoy a free foot bath at your table!
The French-style Lalique Museum houses hundreds of pieces of fine jewelry and glass art from French artist Lalique. It is a stunning museum with charming interiors and exteriors, and a great place to relax and enjoy the surrounding Hakone scenery. You can also take a break at its French-style cafe!
The beautiful Kuzuryu Shrine is said to give good luck in money, marriage, and business, so get down there if you need some blessings! It consists of two shrines, the main one, and a new one which sits in the grounds of Hakone Shrine (see above). Both are worth visiting, and sit amidst stunning Hakone scenery.
Art-lovers should’t miss a visit the Hakone Museum of Art, situated close to Sounzan Station. This museum features charming traditional Japanese gardens and a collection of Japanese ceramics from prehistoric times and up until the 1800’s. It is set in beautiful surroundings, and well-maintained!
12日（火）おはようございます。
本日の箱根の天気は曇り/雨
気温は27℃（8時15現在）
午後から天候が悪くなる予報なので、雨具は持ってきてください！
クリフチャレンジャー挑戦待っています！
お問い合わせ080-4219-2206 pic.twitter.com/lZvLISCVZw— ForestAdventureHakon (@FAHakone) August 11, 2014
This family-friendly adventure park is nestled within a forest and features adventure trails, discovery courses, and tree-top climbs! It has a free shuttle bus running to and from Hakone-Yumoto Station (2-3 minutes), and includes all necessary equipment on-site. It’s a great way to entertain the family and explore nature at the same time!
Located just by Lake Ashinoko, Hakone-en Golf Course is a vast and beautiful 18-hole course which attracts both golf pro’s and first-timers alike. You can enjoy the leisure of playing golf whilst enjoying the wonderful lake views!
A bowl of udon in broth + sashimi on rice at Mori Meshi in #Hakone. So simple, so good! #Japan #travel pic.twitter.com/j4rJSLGrUm
— Audrey Bourget (@audreybourget) April 16, 2016
If you are looking for authentic Japanese food and restaurant hospitality, check out the popular Mori-meshi, located next to Miyanoshita Station. You can enjoy udon, teppanyaki, sashimi, and a nice selection of wine and sake. Both Japanese and international visitors love this place, so check it out!
The beautiful Hiryu Falls are located close to Hatajuku and easily accessible from Hakone-Yumoto Station. This waterfall can be visited after a short hike and attracts plenty of visitors for its stunning scenes. It is said that during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), Monks used this area for their training and reflection!
Website *Automatic Translation Available
Access
Feeling great! Tenzan onsen is fantastic! Perfect chillax stop on the way to Fuji for this weekends JAF GP. pic.twitter.com/kIqAlGK8
— Andre Lotterer (@Andre_Lotterer) November 10, 2011
There are many onsen in Hakone, but Tenzan is regarded as one of the best. This very traditional bathhouse features several baths, saunas, a lounging area, and on-site eateries. It attracts visitors from all over the place and is very foreigner-friendly, so could be perfect for first-timers to an onsen!
The Hakone Detached Palace pic.twitter.com/pqCoGxLvXF
— 🎅🌲News-Now🎄☃ (@juergen_p) January 6, 2014
In the middle of Onshi Hakone Park sits the beautiful Detached Palace. This old Imperial Palace was formally a retreat for the royal family in Japan is now open to the public. You can explore the grounds and building and admire the great views from its balcony which look out of Lake Ashi.
Toy-lovers and children alike will adore this small but fascinating toy museum. Located nearby Hakone Yumoto Station, visitors can see nostalgic old toys, unique collectibles, model cars, and action figurines from the 1890’s onwards.
No…this is a black egg!
The souvenir of Hakone Owakudani from my father. pic.twitter.com/ooJ5Z8kCiY— maricomagic (@maricomagic) October 20, 2013
If you visit the volcanic area of Owakudani, you should definitely try an Owakudani Black Egg. Said to add seven years to your life after eating one (according to legend!), these chicken eggs are boiled in a hot sulphur spring, which makes them a volcanic black color on the outside!
Located a few miles from Hakone and within the mountainous area, Atami Adult Museum is one of a kind and well worth a visit. The museum gives a rare insight into the wrld of Japanese sex culture, and includes displays, figurines, nude mannequins, festish information, and a giant penis ride you can climb on for 100 yen! This museum is only for people aged 18 or over, but is certainly entertaining and informative!
Chisuji Falls in Hakone, Kanagawa, Japan
Brand-new site is now open!
🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹
… https://t.co/Ixj0kwx3yu pic.twitter.com/V7FzQJaMc5— Masa Onikata (@moonlit_japan) January 2, 2016
This small but charming waterfall is located in Kowakidani and is accessible via a short hike as part of the Mount Hakone trails. It is surrounded by a variety of trees and is a great place to relax and enjoy the nature of Hakone.
Website *Automatic Translation Available
Access
Sushi Miyafuji is a popular sushi restaurant located in the Miyanoshita area of Hakone, and is a real hit with both locals and visitors alike (obvious from the line of people usually waiting!). Here you can enjoy wonderfully fresh fish caught locally, a variety of sushi and sashimi, and the restaurants signature dish aji-don (horse mackeral over rice). The place is very friendly and welcoming, and will fill you up nicely!
#MiViajeaJapon #Foodie #Gastronomia Gyoza con Kimchi en sopa y Gyoza rellena de gambas en Gyoza Center Gora-Hakone pic.twitter.com/9svdxJ9ZhS
— Teresa H (@aventuraria) July 10, 2016
From Shrimp and Garlic Gyoza to chicken wings and octopus, Gyoza Center has simply delicious food and is always busy! Located in the town of Gora, this institution has been around for years and is famed for its high quality and fair pricing.
If you want to stay in Hakone overnight, you might notice that many of the hotels in the area are pretty pricey. However, if you are looking for a decent budget place to stay, book in at Hakone Hostel 1914. This friendly, welcoming place is run by a lovely owner who speaks English, and is located in the center of Miyanoshita Town, easily accessible from main stations and sightseeing spots. You can stay in a communal room or choose one of the traditional private rooms they offer.
Let’s go to the museum / Illuminating inside story of Hakone Ekiden – The Japan Newshttps://t.co/0XowdGQ45t#箱根駅伝 #hakone #ekiden pic.twitter.com/t4CUkYDy1N
— The Japan News (@The_Japan_News) December 27, 2016
This museum will give you a thorough history of the famous marathon which takes place every year and goes through Hakone. Many young and older people take part in this popular right of passage, and at the museum you can learn about its history and cultural roots. The exhibits are well designed and the place is modern.
現在、展覧会を開催中の芳澤一夫先生が明日、１６日（火）１２：００に美術館にご来館致します。作家と触れ合え、質問などにも気軽に答えていただけます(^-^)５月は、２５日（木）と３０日(火）の正午過ぎにご来館予定になります。 pic.twitter.com/uSXnp6rGoM
— 成川美術館 (@narukawa_art) May 15, 2017
The Narukawa Art Museum specializes in beautiful traditional Japanese art, and you can also enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji here on a clear day. Aside from the art works, the venue also has a nice cafe and some relaxing gardens.
You can take a cable car or take a hike to reach the top of Mt. Myojingatake, which is known for having some of the best views of Mt. Fuji when the sky is fairly clear. If you decide to hike, it will take around four hours and I would recommend bringing a packed lunch and lots of energy. But it’s well worth the effort when you raech the top!
If you have an interest in the geology of this volcanic and mountainous area, visit the Hakone Geo Museum. This museum has interesting exhibitions detailing the history of the volcanic activity in the area, and also has the famous black eggs for you to try! It is also just 100 yen to enter the museum, so is a cheap and fun way to spend an afternoon.
This is a traditional Japanese garden complete with cute bridges, streams, a small waterfall, vasts arrays of well-maintained flowers and plants, and a serene atmosphere. On a nice day, this is the perfect place to stroll around for a couple of hours.
Kintoki Shrine is at the base of Mt. Ashigara, and although it isn’t one of the most well-known shrines in Hakone, its simplicity and local following are quite enchanting. You won’t find souvenirs shops or crowds of people here, but if you are looking for a genuinely calming shrine in which to reflect or worship, this is highly recommended.
Another lesser known spot but very much worth a visit, you can see these wonderful Buddhist statues which date back to the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), in the Motohakone area. Beside these mysterious statues is a free museum detailing information on the statues, and a nice pond to relax by.
Website *Automatic Translation available
Access
Karuta is a fun and buzzing Japanese izakaya, complete with an English menu and a welcoming atmosphere. Here you can enjoy plenty of drinks, and cuisine such as sushi, sashimi, tempura, seafood, and fried meats. This place is known for its friendly vibe so expect to make some friends here!
If you are in the mood for some reliable and delicious pizza in a nice atmosphere, Tabiya’s comes highly recommended. This restaurant is kitted out with 1950’s style decor, and has a large menu which includes fresh, well-made pizzas and other western-style dishes.
If you have a sweet tooth, head to this popular Japanese traditional sweet shops, where you can indulge in homemade mochi, rice cakes, and other traditional deserts. You can also enjoy one of the many tea flavors they have on offer.
This off the beaten track restaurant serves hugely popular fried chicken, homemade side dishes, and great drinks, at cheap prices and with a friendly and welcoming service! It even has its own karaoke set, and is one of the few places in Hakone which stays open late!
Mt. Soun is famous for its volcanic terrain and fascinating vapor springs which pour out of it. It also has black eggs served in various places which you can try, and is a great mountain for trekking and hiking if you fancy getting into the open air.
This lovely museum is run by a family who have taken wonderful pictures of Mt. Fuji in all seasons, along with pictures of the natural landscape around them. The exhibits are intimate, personal, and talented. The owners are also lovely and very passionate about their pictures. It’s an amazing little place to check out.
If you fancy Indian cuisine, Azure Moon comes highly recommended. The dishes are authentic, fresh to order, homemade, and use local ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxing, casual, and very welcoming, and it is a popular place for locals and visitors alike.
This museum has exhibits mainly focused on local crafts, handmade items, and traditional folding screens. The items are beautiful and well worth paying a visit to see. There is also a very top-quality souvenir shop, a perfect place to find unique and original craft items.
Bella Foresta is a buffet restaurant which is great for kids, families, or anybody who is very hungry! It serves up several cuisines including Japanese, Italian, and American, and the price is fair at under 2000 yen per person. There are also fabulous views of the surrounding areas to marvel at while you tuck into your eleventh plate of food!
The Hakone Daimyo March is one for the history lovers out there as they follow the old edo-era route! https://t.co/t4QdxPqnuk pic.twitter.com/2lwNuQb0ad
— Tokyo Cheapo (@TokyoCheapo) November 1, 2017
Every year in early November, this wonderful annual festival comes to town. It includes dancers, samurai warriors, a marching band, people dressed as princesses, and absolutely tonnes of fun! Get involved, the follow this march which starts near Sounji Temple and finishes at the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel.
今日のがディナーは 箱根バーガー温玉くん @Cafe•Bar WOODY ボリュームもあって美味い〜 pic.twitter.com/PXokNBhN7X
— Yoshi (@akayoshi34) August 15, 2015
Woody is a great cafe serving great pizzas, burgers, and other comfort foods in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It is located just by Chokoku-no-mori Station, and has cosy and warming wooden interiors and an English menu.
This is one of the most popular onsens in Hakone, and features outdoor hot spring baths with views overlooking the stunning Lake Ashi. It is situated next to the Prince Hakone Hotel but you can visit for a day if you like.
China House is a popular and friendly Chinese restaurant serving tempting stables such as Chinese noodles, dumplings, and hot pots. The portions are huge, the price is cheap, and there is an English menu. Good for filling your tummy!
The Hotel Green Plaza Hakone is situated at the base of Mt. Fuji and is one of the best places for viewing Fuji in all its beauty. You can visit just for the day and visit the observation points in the hotel for some amazing photo opportunities. If you are lucky, you can also witness the ‘Diamond Fuji’, where it is totally reflected in Lake Ashi.
Okonomiyaki is a must-eat in Japan, and will warm your whole body! At this cosy, casual, and popular place, you can see the whole Okonomiyaki experience before your eyes, made freshly for you. It is located very near Gora Station and has an English menu.
This highly recommended tea house offers the oppotunity to have a traditional tea ceremony. This wonderful tradition will give you an insight into unique tradition and custom in Japan. You can also stroll around the lovely Japanese Garden attached to the tea house.
At Takinoya, you can sample very traditional Japanese grub such as ramen, hot pot, Japanese salads, soups, and street food. There is an English menu, and the place is welcoming to everyone. This place is famous for its home-cooking style!
If you happen to be a dollhouse enthusiast, you will love this cute museum. Newly opened in 2016, this museum features an array of fascinating dollhouses, miniatures, and antiques. The exhibits are from Japan and also from abroad, and the building is actually a renovated greenhouse.
For guaranteed amazing sushi and sashimi, visit Hakone Nakamuraya. This place is popular among both locals and visitors, and will give you a sushi experience to remember. The sushi is prepared in front of you, there is a useful English menu, and the staff are welcoming of foreigners.
This small but interesting nature museum is located by Lake Ashi and is especially nice for families and children. You can see exhibits on the local wildlife, birdlife, plants, and animals. You can also make crafts onsite, and take the home with you afterwards.
Daichi is located in the Sengokuhara area and is highly recommended. This place specialises in traditional Japanese set meals. The potions sizes are huge, the price is great, and the selection of dishes is impressive. In particular, they offer a very good selection of vegetarian meals.
Tamasudare Shrine is surrounded by natural scenery, and has a waterfall nearby. It is not the most touristy shrine, but it is a shrine which brings locals to worship. It is said to bring good fortune in marriage.
Tempura is an amazing dish in Japan, and you an try top-quality tempura at Tempura Juraku. Located in the area of Miyanoshita, the restaurant is run by a local couple, has an English menu, and uses only the freshest seafood, vegetables, and other ingredients. The price is also very fair considering the quality of the dish.
Otome Toge is a popular road which has many viewing spots. You can stop by there, take some pictures of Mt. Fuji which looks spectacular on a clear day, and visit the food outlets and souvenir shops nearby.
This traditional and popular restaurant serves sashimi, sake, and great barbequed meats. The staff speak reasonable English and the price is great. Be aware that, as in many restaurants in Hakone, is closes relatively early on most evenings, especially in the colder months.
I'm at 高福山 高福院 雪蹊寺 (第33番札所) in 高知市, 高知県 https://t.co/epF9wjQlzT pic.twitter.com/Uhhm6AHfnL
— 御門桜 (@mikadosakura) March 20, 2015
This non-touristy temple is a lovely place for a calming and relaxing time. It is said to bring good luck in life, and you will no doubt see locals coming to worship and pray for good luck here.
This highly recommended cafe is the place to come if you are looking for European and international breakfasts and lunches. It also has great coffee, cakes, pastries, and an enviable view of lakes and mountains. It is situated in Moto-Hakone.
HAKONE TENTでは9月から一緒に働けるスタッフを募集しています！
新しい世界に飛び出して見たい人、ご応募お待ちします。https://t.co/vk1oPjFRQ3 pic.twitter.com/eRyplyuoG7— Cannon Lee (@twcannonlee) August 9, 2017
The modern and casual Hakone Tent Bar is the place to come for international cuisine, friendly guests and staff, a cool vibe, and decently priced food and drinks. You can also stay here for a reasonable price, or soak in the attached onsen.
芦ノ湖畔のSalon de the ROSAGEなう。
テラス席は少し肌寒いけど、
まだまだ気持ちイイ〜♫ pic.twitter.com/iSXf35QFjr— Hideyuki (@siva1484) October 13, 2013
Salon De The Rosage features high-quality cakes, pastries, and teas. Located in Moto-Hakone, you can stay here for a while and properly relax in a classy but relaxed environment. The pastries and cakes are homemade by the awesome chef.
This onsen is less touristy than many in Hakone, which makes it quiet and very relaxing. It is a small but very traditional onsen with hot springs, a bath to soak in, and great views.
This highly recommended steak house serves freshly cooked high-quality steak in front of your eyes as you sit. Based in Yumoto, this steak is not cheap, but if you want to try famous Japanese steak, it is worth the price!
Mt. Fuji i bakgrunden med sikt uppe på Kamiyama #Hakone 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/izBXw2hXCl
— Dannis L✩vgren (@Danisu82) May 30, 2017
Mt. Kamiyama can be accessed via a cable car, and is famous both for its exceptional views and its fascinating steam and vapor which is almost always present. There is a crater at the top, and a strong smell of sulphur!
This place serves very traditional and tasty soba noodle dishes and tempura, and is a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch and a filling dinner. The prices are very reasonable and many locals come here!
Amadaji Temple is located in the area of Tonosawa, and is a nice 30-minute walk from Tonosawa Station. If you want to visit a temple with few tourists and local worshippers, this is a great temple to visit. The priest will offer you green tea, and it has beautiful flowers in the spring.
Kikka-so is a traditional Japanese restaurant in a beautiful building within the majestic Fujiya Hotel. You can try a traditional set meal (kaiseki) here, and can also enjoy the on-site Japanese garden. It is situated in Miyanoshita.
Website *Automatic Translation available
Fujiya Hotel Access
If you are looking for invigorating but short hikes, you can take the train to the Ohiradai area. There are many hiking trails here to various small mountains, which take you through gorgeous forests and provides lovely views at the top!
孤独のグルメ 巡礼第一弾
箱根宮ノ下いろり家ドラマはステーキだったが鮑を注文
個人的には鮑のほうが肝ソースもあっておいしかった
テレビ効果もあって混んでるから早めに行かないと売り切れる可能性大やね果たして２弾はあるのか！？ pic.twitter.com/lk0JVYQsRA
— かみーゆ FF14@masamune (@LadyEtheldreda) October 10, 2016
Situated in a back alley of Miyanoshita, hidden gem of a restaurant is local, friendly, cosy, and serves delicious Japanese food. The homely feel of this place will make you feel like you’ve been invited over for dinner. You can try their beef, fresh seafood, and nice drink selection.
Every year in the first week of August, this fun festival comes to town! It is located on the shores of Lake Ashinoko, and features music, dancing, food, fireworks displays, games for kids, and Japanese traditional arts. Check it out!
This popular Italian restaurant is located in Gora, and is run by a very friendly owner who welcomes everybody! You can savor traditional Italian dishes such as ravioli, risotto, and pasta dishes. It’s reasonably priced and has a really good lunch set deal.
This cute and friendly museum features over 300 antique items including European antiques, old porcelain, and furniture. It also has a lovely Japanese garden which visitors can relax in.It’s definitely worth a visit if you like antiques!
This great tonkatsu restaurant is located in the town of Gora and attracts hungry locals and visitors. You can sampe its signature fried pork dishes with various side plates. You may have to queue up to get in, but that’s usually a good sign!
This great festival occurs annually in the last week of August. Situated on the shores of the Hayakawa River, you can join in the fun activities including music, dancing, geisha performances, fireworks, and plenty of great street food stalls!
Since Hakone is so popular, there are also many things you can do that include Hakone as well as other areas and activities. Check out the following for things to do in a variety of places.
If you’ve no plans for your Japan trip yet, why not combine Hakone with Mt. Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain and the inspiration of many artworks, and Kyoto, a beautiful city in Kansai famous for geisha and temples? With this trip, you start in Tokyo and take a comfortable bullet train to visit some of Japan’s prime sightseeing locations such as the 5th station of Mt. Fuji, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and Nijo Castle and Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto.
The price includes the accommodation, your lunch, an English-speaking guide, admission fees, and transportation costs, making it a huge bargain! For a hassle-free trip to see some of Japan’s best spots, book this activity today!
Booking details: Enjoy a 2-Day Tour at Mt. Fuji, Hakone and Kyoto from Tokyo!
With its close proximity to Tokyo, stunning views, and many things to do, Hakone is well worth a visit during your trip to Japan! No matter the season or your taste, you’re sure to find something to suit you and those you are travelling with. Book a fantastic activity and make your journey really special.
Would you like to stay in Hakone? Check out all the hotels in the area here!