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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Hakone.
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and serene lakes of Japan’s countryside, Hakone is a tranquil getaway – a world away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
From dipping your toes into the hot springs to taking in the stunning views from the ropeway, Hakone has a rich blend of experiences waiting to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hakone:
1. Hakone Open-Air Museum
A vast outdoor museum in Hakone dedicated to showcasing contemporary sculptures and art installations.
What to see or do: Marvel at over 100 outdoor sculptures and installations spread across the vast green landscape.
Get up close and personal with unique works by renowned artists including Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, and Niki de Saint Phalle.
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you stroll through the various themed gardens.
Don’t miss: The outdoor Picasso Pavilion, which is home to a collection of over 300 works by the master himself. The Symphonic Sculpture, a giant 18m-tall structure that doubles up as a performance space.
Also, be sure to take a dip in the hot springs foot bath for a relaxing experience.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the autumn season for stunning foliage views of the museum.
2. Lake Ashinoko
Lake Ashinoko is a scenic body of water located in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is surrounded by mountains and is one of the area’s most popular attractions.
What to see or do: – Enjoy a scenic boat ride around the lake, which offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Don’t miss: – The Hakone Pirate Ship, a replica of a 17th-century pirate ship that offers unique views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during the week.
3. Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the beautiful forested grounds of the shrine and enjoy stunning views of Lake Ashi.
They can also explore the main hall of the shrine and see the offerings that have been made to the deities.
Don’t miss: The iconic ‘floating’ torii gate is a must-see attraction at Hakone Shrine. It appears to be rising from the lake and creates an impressive photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: – Try to visit Hakone Shrine early in the day before it gets too crowded.
4. Owakudani Valley
Owakudani Valley is a volcanic valley located in Hakone, Japan. The valley was formed through repeated volcanic activity over thousands of years.
What to see or do: The valley offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and volcanic activity, with steam vents and hot springs visible throughout the area.
Visitors can take a cable car from the nearby town of Sounzan to reach the valley and explore the hiking trails that wind through the area.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Owakudani Valley is the chance to try “kuro-tamago,” or black eggs, which are boiled in the valley’s hot springs and said to add years to one’s life.
The eggs turn black due to the sulfuric content of the hot springs.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the hiking trails can be steep and rocky.
5. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan located on Honshu Island, standing at 3,776 meters.
Hakone is a beautiful town situated in the foothills of Mount Fuji in Japan, known for its hot springs, stunning natural scenery, and museums.
What to see or do: You can climb Mount Fuji, which is open to climbers during July to early September. The trek to the summit is a challenge, but it rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
You can enjoy the natural beauty of Hakone by taking a scenic drive and ride on the ropeway to see Owakudani, sulfur vents, and hot springs.
Take a dip in the hot-spring baths found in the many resorts near Mount Fuji.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the sunrise over Mount Fuji – an experience that will take your breath away. Take in the majestic view as the sun illuminates the mountain and surrounds it with a golden aura.
Insider travel tips: For climbing Mount Fuji, it’s best to start early to avoid the crowds and secure a good spot for the sunrise view.
It’s recommended to stay in one of the mountain huts to rest and acclimatize before the final ascent. For Hakone, a Hakone Free Pass, which includes transport and entry to major attractions, is an excellent and budget-friendly option.
6. Hakone Ropeway
Hakone Ropeway is a cable car and the best way to experience the stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the cable car and enjoy the panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the surrounding mountains.
The cable car runs for 4 kilometers and has a total of four stations.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the view of Mount Fuji on a clear day – it’s truly awe-inspiring. Also, take note of the distinct torii gates of Hakone Shrine as you approach Togendai Station.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the views.
7. Hakone Pirate Ship
Hakone Pirate Ship is a unique mode of transportation that takes visitors on a scenic cruise around Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan.
What to see or do: The ship offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Torii gate of Hakone Shrine. Visitors can also enjoy the onboard entertainment, including live performances and pirate-themed activities.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the stunning scenery from the top deck of the ship. The view of Mount Fuji in the distance is particularly spectacular on a clear day.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines and secure a good spot on the ship. The pirate ship can be crowded during peak tourist season, so plan accordingly.
Additionally, consider combining the pirate ship experience with a visit to nearby attractions, such as the Hakone Ropeway or the Hakone Open-Air Museum for a full day of unique and unforgettable experiences.
8. Gora Park
Gora Park is a beautiful French-style garden located in the heart of Hakone. It covers an area of 100,000 square meters and is known for its stunning foliage and scenic views.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the picturesque garden and admire the colorful flowers and trees.
Visit the rose garden, which boasts over 1,000 different species of roses, or the tropical greenhouse, which is home to a variety of exotic plants.
Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, or the mini-train that runs through the garden.
Don’t miss: The beautiful French-style fountain in the center of the garden, which provides a stunning backdrop for photos. Also, be sure to visit the museum located on the grounds, which features exhibits about the history of the park.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the autumn months (late September to early December) to see the stunning fall foliage. Bring comfortable shoes, as the park is quite large and requires a fair amount of walking.
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the sprawling lawns or near the fountain.
9. Hakone Checkpoint Museum
A museum located on the site of a former shogunate checkpoint from the Edo Period.
What to see or do: View historical artifacts, including weapons and armor, and learn about the history of the checkpoint. Observe a traditional samurai armor display and enjoy a view of Mount Fuji from the observation deck.
Don’t miss: The recreated checkpoint office and guardhouse. This gives visitors an insight into what life was like for those stationed at the checkpoint during the Edo Period.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least an hour at the museum to see everything. Consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass to save money on admission and transportation to the museum.
10. Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
The Hakone Venetian Glass Museum is a unique museum that houses a vast collection of exquisite glassworks from Venice, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy marveling at the intricate and beautiful glass sculptures and art pieces displayed throughout the museum. The collection includes contemporary pieces by famous artists, intricate chandeliers, and even vintage glassworks from the 15th century.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the stunning garden illuminated by Venetian glass chandeliers after sunset. It creates an awe-inspiring and romantic ambience perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions scheduled during their visit.
And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, the museum shop offers an excellent selection of Venetian glass art pieces, handcrafted by artists in Italy.
11. Pola Museum of Art
The Pola Museum of Art is an impressive collection of Western and Japanese art located in Hakone, Japan. The museum boasts a range of artwork from famous artists, including Monet, Renoir, and Picasso.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings while exploring the museum’s extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and pottery. The exhibitions are constantly changing, so there is always something new to see.
Don’t miss: Highlights of the museum include Monet’s famous Water Lilies series as well as works from Japanese artists like Yokoyama Taikan and Ogata Korin.
The outdoor sculpture garden is a must-see, filled with stunning contemporary pieces.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least half a day at the museum to fully appreciate the art and the beautiful location.
Try to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, and make sure to grab lunch at the museum’s restaurant for a unique dining experience with a spectacular view.
12. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun
An attraction in Hakone, Japan that consists of both traditional hot springs and a unique water park.
What to see or do: Take a dip in a variety of baths, including wine, coffee, green tea, and sake baths. There are also traditional hot springs to enjoy.
In the water park, visitors can slide down various waterslides and try out the unique “Doctor Fish” pedicure.
Don’t miss: The outdoor area, featuring a gorgeous view of the surrounding mountains and a large pool. Also, the “ramen bath” where you can relax in a large bowl of faux ramen soup.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring a bathing suit and towel. Visitors with tattoos may not be allowed in all areas of the park, due to traditional Japanese attitudes towards tattoos.
Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
13. Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway is a cableway that takes you up to the summit of Mount Komagatake, the highest peak in Hakone.
What to see or do: The ropeway offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, Lake Ashi, and Mt. Fuji.
Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy a hike around the crater and visit the Hakone Shrine, which is dedicated to the god of mountains.
Don’t miss: The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway is also known for its “Hakone Kuro-Tamago,” or black eggs, which are hard-boiled eggs cooked in the sulfuric hot springs found around the summit.
Legend has it that eating these eggs can add seven years to your life.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the week, as weekends and holidays can be crowded.
Also, consider taking the ropeway in the morning, as the clouds and fog tend to clear up later in the day.
Finally, don’t forget to bring a jacket, as temperatures can drop significantly at the summit.
14. Hakone Stone‐Paved Road
What to see or do: Enjoy a picturesque stroll along the quaint road, surrounded by lush greenery and views of Mt. Fuji.
Learn about the road’s history as a vital trade route during the Edo period.
Don’t miss: The unique stepping stones carved with geometric shapes that decorate the road.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the road can be uneven. Visit during the fall for stunning autumn foliage or in the spring for cherry blossom season.
Take a break at one of the charming tea houses along the road.
15. Hakone Museum of Photography
A museum specializing in photography located in the scenic town of Hakone.
What to see or do: View an impressive collection of photographs taken by prominent Japanese photographers, as well as international artists. The museum showcases a range of styles, including landscape, portrait, and abstract photography.
Guests can also attend special exhibitions and workshops.
Don’t miss: The museum’s idyllic location in the mountains, which boasts stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding countryside.
Also, check out the museum store, which sells photography books, prints, and other specialty items.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and consider purchasing a combination ticket that includes admission to other museums and attractions in the area.
The museum is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in the spring when the surrounding trees are in bloom.