Hakone Top Attractions
Discover Hakone’s lakeside views, forest shrines and steaming volcanic landscapes, with art, hot springs and traditional treats along the way. Slow down, enjoy the mountain scenery and leave time for the little discoveries between the famous sights.
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi brings together many of the views that make Hakone so special: wooded hills, open water and, when the weather is clear, Mount Fuji rising beyond the shoreline. A lakeside walk is a lovely way to settle into the slower rhythm of this mountain destination.
The lake owes its shape to Hakone’s volcanic past. An eruption and landslide around 3,000 years ago blocked a river valley, creating the landscape visitors enjoy today. Stories connected with Hakone Shrine add another layer of history to its shores.
Enjoy the view from Moto-Hakone, explore a stretch of waterfront or take a sightseeing cruise for a different perspective. The colourful pirate-style sightseeing ships are a familiar feature on the water. Fuji can disappear behind cloud, so enjoy the lake and surrounding hills whatever the weather. Nearby cafes make an inviting place to pause afterwards.
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine feels wonderfully sheltered beneath its tall trees. A walk through the wooded approaches leads towards red shrine buildings, while the famous lakeside torii provides one of Hakone’s most recognisable views. Leave time to enjoy both settings, rather than visiting only for the photograph.
Founded in 757, the shrine has long been associated with mountain worship and the protection of travellers. Local traditions also connect it with the story of a nine-headed dragon in Lake Ashi. Its lakeside Torii of Peace was added much later, in 1952.
Look closely at the timber details, mossy surroundings and changing light between the trees. The waterfront photo spot can attract a queue, but the shrine grounds offer plenty to appreciate along the way. Remember that this is an active place of worship, follow local guidance and give other visitors space on the steps and paths.
Owakudani & the Hakone Ropeway
Owakudani reveals the volcanic energy beneath Hakone’s peaceful mountain scenery. Steam rises across the rocky slopes, creating a dramatic contrast with the green hills elsewhere in the area. The ropeway journey offers a memorable view over this unusual landscape.
The valley formed during volcanic activity around 3,000 years ago. Its geothermal heat is part of the same natural system that makes Hakone famous for hot springs. Today, the developed viewing areas give visitors a chance to appreciate the scenery and learn more about the region’s geology.
Look out for the famous black eggs, whose shells darken when cooked in the local hot-spring water. The egg inside remains a familiar boiled egg. Enjoy the viewpoints and visitor facilities, following the posted access guidance. Ropeway operation and viewing access can change with weather or volcanic conditions, so check the current arrangements before setting off.
Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum makes art feel part of the landscape. Sculptures stand among lawns, trees and mountain views, inviting you to wander between works at your own pace. It is an enjoyable change of scene after lakeside walks and sightseeing journeys.
Opened in 1969, the museum brings modern and contemporary sculpture into a spacious outdoor setting. Shapes, materials and scale become especially engaging when you can walk around a piece and see it against the surrounding hills. Indoor galleries add another dimension to the visit.
One memorable feature is the Symphonic Sculpture, with its colourful stained-glass interior and spiral staircase. Take time to appreciate smaller works as well as the famous highlights, and notice how light and weather change their appearance. Comfortable shoes are useful for exploring the grounds. Check current exhibitions and access information before visiting, then leave room in your day to enjoy an unhurried wander.
Hakone-Yumoto
Hakone-Yumoto is a welcoming gateway to the area, with shopping streets, traditional inns and wooded slopes close to the station. Many visitors pass through on their way to other sights, but it is worth giving the town some time of its own.
Yumoto belongs to Hakone’s historic group of seven hot-spring areas. Travellers have visited these springs for centuries, and the town’s inns and bathing facilities continue that tradition. Its mix of everyday shops and visitor favourites makes it an easy place to start exploring.
Browse for traditional sweets, enjoy a bowl of soba or look for Hakone’s distinctive yosegi woodwork, made with intricate patterns of different woods. A walk towards the river provides a quieter moment between shops. If you would like a bath, choose a facility that welcomes day visitors and check its arrangements in advance. An overnight ryokan stay offers another way to enjoy Hakone’s relaxed atmosphere.
Must Try in Hakone
Try Owakudani’s famous black eggs while visiting the volcanic valley, then explore these noodles, sweets and drinks around Hakone.
Soba Noodles
Enjoy nutty buckwheat noodles chilled with dipping sauce or served in a warm broth. A comforting lunch between Hakone’s mountain and lakeside sights.
Manju Sweets
These soft buns usually hide a sweet bean filling. In Hakone, look for onsen manju, a classic hot-spring souvenir; the pictured buns show another traditional manju style.
Kamaboko
Nearby Odawara is famous for this steamed fish cake. Look for it in Hakone’s shops and meals, and enjoy its gentle flavour and pleasantly springy texture.
Amazake
A sweet traditional rice drink associated with Hakone’s old-road teahouses. Try a warming cup on a cool day; the pictured version is flavoured with yuzu.
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