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Hakone

Japan, Asia

Nestled near the iconic Mount Fuji, Hakone is renowned for its stunning views, hot springs (onsen), and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy scenic train rides, explore the picturesque Hakone Open-Air Museum, or take a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. The area's lush nature also makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, while the serene onsen provide the perfect relaxation spot. With seasonal beauty from cherry blossoms to vibrant autumn leaves, Hakone's charm captures the hearts of travelers year-round.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Oshima

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

12 Best Things to Do in Hakone

1. Ride the Hakone Ropeway

Soar high above Hakone's stunning landscapes and enjoy views of Mount Fuji.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum

Experience art in nature with sculptures and installations.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Relax in an Onsen

Unwind in traditional Japanese hot springs amidst beautiful scenery.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Explore Lake Ashi

Take a scenic boat ride on the picturesque lake.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Visit Hakone Shrine

Discover the iconic red torii gate by Lake Ashi.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Tour the Odawara Castle

Explore this historic castle with beautiful gardens.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

7. Visit the Pola Museum of Art

Admire a stunning collection of impressionist and modern art.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Take a scenic train ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on this historic train ride.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Visit the Hakone Checkpoint

Learn about Edo-period travel at this historical site.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

10. Explore the Owakudani Valley

Witness volcanic activity and taste black eggs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Visit the Gora Park

Relax in a beautiful landscape with traditional tea houses.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Sample Hakone's local cuisine

Indulge in regional specialties like black eggs and soba.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Yen

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Japanese

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Curry Rice

Rice served with Japanese curry sauce. (National dish)

Sushi

Vinegared rice with raw fish or vegetables.

Ramen

Noodles in broth, often with meat or vegetables.

Tempura

Battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

Okonomiyaki

V

Savory pancake with various fillings and toppings.

Phrases to learn

English

Japanese

Hello

Konnichiwa

(Koh-nee-chee-wah)

Yes/No

Hai / Iie

(Hai / Ee-eh)

Thank you

Arigatou

(Ah-ree-gah-toh)

Excuse me

Sumimasen

(Soo-mee-mah-sen)

How much?

Ikura?

(Ee-koo-rah)