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Hakone is home to the natural beauty and cultural history of Japan as well as multitudes of outdoor activities set in the heart of the Japanese mountain range. Many tourists know Hakone as a place with the amazing scenic of Mount Fuji, natural on-suit hot springs, and art museums; that youngsters and adults worldwide can enjoy. Find all that you’d like to know about Hakone such as how to get there, attractions to visit, and activities to enjoy with this travel guide.
Unveiling Hakone: A Natural Gem
Hakone is a Volcanic region of the Kanagawa prefecture of Japan. It is within close proximity to the Japanese capital city. Hakone is a town in Fuji Hakone Izu National Park and is considered to offer the best vantage point to view Mount Fuji, especially from the paradise sky view of Hakone. Characterized by natural forests extensive lakes and geothermal hot springs.
Culturally, the area has a history dating back just a few centuries. It has long been the favorite retreat of Japan’s elites and an ideal place for tourism when people wish to seek relaxation in its famous onsen or hot springs. The region houses historical sites and shrines that add a bit of depth to culture.
This makes Hakone unique: a perfect combination of nature and culture. Rejuvenate in a hot spring, hike through spectacular landscapes, or engage yourself in art and history about all the things that Hakone has to offer.
Getting There: Your Journey to Hakone
It can also be said that transport in Japan is relatively convenient because most of the routes in this country have a very good public transportation system. For most travelers, Tokyo is actually the common departure point to head for Hakone.
Probably one of the best ways to get into Hakone is via the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Tokyo. A ride of a bit over 85 minutes will find you passing some rather picturesque countryside areas. From there, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway in Odawara Station and it will carry you deeper into the Hakone region.
Another alternative option is the Shinkansen from other parts of Japan to Odawara Station, where one can conveniently take a connecting ride with local buses or trains to Hakone.
If you are more of a driving kind of person, car rental is always a great way to get into this area and explore as you please. Generally a two-hour car ride from Tokyo to Hakone depending on the traffic; it is a gorgeous drive cruising through the wonderful landscapes along the way. Don’t forget your GPS or some maps handy as some of the roads are winding and rather narrow.
Recommended Scenic Routes for the Journey
Of the roads from which to appreciate the most spectacular scenery, Hakone Scenic Drive is probably the most spectacular as it curves around the mountains and Lake Ashi. This one is especially superb at the time of cherry blossom in spring and during the short-lived color of autumn.
Higashi Hakone National Garden is another scenic course. It offers a beautiful view of Mount Fuji, in addition to the surrounding scenery in the area. It is a photographer’s heaven and any nature lover; therefore, one need not miss visiting these various viewing areas.
Must-See Attractions in Hakone
Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is an interesting place to visit, which can be known on its right as both a treat for art lovers and a haven for naturalists. It takes on the shape of an extremely fantastic museum located within the dramatic outdoor landscape, with fabulous collections of modern sculptures and artworks from brilliant Japanese and international artists.
The grounds of the museum reveal more than 100 statues spread all over the wonderful Hakone mountains. The work of great artists like Picasso is also reflected in the indoor galleries. More engaging to families will be the Picasso Pavilion, as this is specifically dedicated to works by the artist.
At the museum, there are also things out of the museum foot bath- there where you can rest your foot while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. These marriages of art and nature create an atmosphere.
Lake Ashi
One of the lakes is Lake Ashi which offers a superb view of the surrounding mountains and Mount Fuji. The lake was formed after being part of a caldera formed by Mount Hakone’s volcano. Such waters are very crystal-clear, and the scenery will captivate most people.
There are other things with which one can have fun in Lake Ashi; however, the scenic boat cruises make the land look simply breathtaking, and these stand atop it all. The pirate ship cruises end up often being a favorite; you can ride on the different leisure ships while enjoying a unique and fun experience coupled with superb views of the lands.
Beautiful walking paths and picnic areas run along the shores. Relax here and get soaked up in the natural beauty of the place. Do not miss to see the Hakone Checkpoint, a relic of a historic checkpoint forbidding travelers of the Edo period from passing through. The scenery of Lake Ashi is most dramatically viewed from the checkpoint.
Hakone Shrine
A beautiful Shinto shrine, Hakone Shrine actually stands on the shores of Lake Ashi and exudes a quiet spirit. Famous here for the striking red torii gate majestically upright in water and captures many pictures with the view of the surroundings.
It was established as far back as the 8th century, and it has been a sacred worship shrine for anyone who believed that eruptions would run riot in the region. The shrine is serene and peaceful. The surrounding forest’s serene atmosphere makes it the perfect location for a forest walk.
Visitors can participate in the traditional rituals, offering and acquiring omamori, and protective talismans. The cultural meaning carried within natural beauty makes Hakone Shrine a must-visit on your tour.
Owakudani Valley
Owakudani Valley, known as the “Great Boiling Valley,” is highly volcanic. This is a place unique in the matter of experiencing geothermal activity up close. The most famous tourists’ attractions of Owakudani are sulfur hot springs and steam vents; what an atmosphere.
One of the attractions here is the black eggs (kuro tamago), boiled in the natural hot springs. According to a legend, any person who eats one of these eggs will add seven years to his or her life. These bizarre snacks can be bought at local stalls, while gorging on the picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.
Owakudani can be reached by the Hakone Ropeway and has the scenery of Mount Fuji and other mountains along the way on a Cable car. Riding on ropes is by itself a wonderful thing to do especially when doing so offers such a view that anyone would marvel at.
Cultural Experiences and Local Cuisine
Hakone is not complete unless a visitor is exposed to these cultural experiences and the local foods to be tasted.
Local Dishes to Try
Among all the delicious yummy foods, Hakone brings back memories of farming and seafood in this area. One of the dishes to try there is Hōtō, which seems like a nourishing noodle soup consisting of flat udon noodles mixed with seasonal vegetables and miso broth; a good comfort food after visiting places for an entire day.
Another local dish cooked in this area is the black eggs boiled in the hot springs of Owakudani. The eggs are originally tasted and sold as souvenirs there. Take a moment to sample them when you have the opportunity.
If you are a fan of grilled fish, then you shouldn’t leave Hakone without trying Iwana, which is a local. Mountain trout are often grilled and seasoned with just a little salt, and they are ready.
Festivals and Events
There are a number of festivals happening in Hakone during the year, pertaining to its cultural importance as well as the beauty of nature. The most famous event is the Daimonji Fire Festival which unfolds every year in early August, so marvelous pyrotechnics and fireworks plus a variety of traditional performances and local food are prepared.
Spring is celebrated with the Hakone Cherry Blossom Festival, which marks the flowering glory of cherry blossoms in thousands of other countries. It would be as if the flowering blossoms and Mount Fuji scenery make this a perfect magical setting to visit.
Outdoor Adventures in Hakone
Hakone town offers a large variety of outdoor activities that you can explore to feel the beauty of the surroundings of Hakone.
Hiking Trails
Hakone is abundant in trails of all levels. Old Tokaido Road is a historical trail that traces the ways the old-time travelers had to travel in the Edo period. This well-kept trail is a good venue for learning about the region’s history as well as its natural beauty.
The other relatively famous trail is the Hakone Skyline. The trail also gives great views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains. The trail is for anyone who wishes to have a medium hike and great scenic views.
Onsen (Hot Springs) Experiences
Another famous onsen resort town is Hakone. It has a lot of areas where you can relax. After traversing and trekking around the scenic district, you can unwind at one of the various hot springs scattered all over the area. Most ryokans have available private onsen facilities with mineral-rich minerals while providing you with an unobstructed view of the mountain landscape.
And then there is the rotenburo, an open-air hot spring. Here, you can be able to enjoy the presence of nature while taking pleasure in its warmth. One experience is unbeatable-taking a wonderful bath in an onsen amidst the stunning scenery of Hakone.
Scenic Boat Tours
Boating on Lake Ashi is one experience you cannot afford to miss in Hakone. Across the lake, several boat cruises exist, but the great mountain views and the torii gate of Hakone Shrine make it unique. The most popular pirate ship cruise gives the trip a type of entertaining twist.
You can choose the short or a more extensive tour, which lets you have a view of the lake as you wish. You may be choosing any tour, but there will be tranquility with the beauty of Lake Ashi that creates some amazing moments.
Check Out: Esan: Your Ultimate Volcano Mountain Travel Guide.
Accommodation Options in Hakone
Finding accommodation in Hakone is not such a problem as all types of accommodations can be availed according to budget and preference.
Hotels and Ryokan
To have a cozy stay, there are a lot of hotels and ryokans where one can book a room. Hakone Pax Yoshino provides modern facilities and is one of the tourist favorite scenes; on-site diners can be availed at the local restaurant, and others are easily accessible.
If you are one for something more conventional, then a ryokan is a necessity. Sleeping in Ryokans lets you sleep in rooms with tatami mats, dine on kaiseki meals, and have a bath in an onsen while seeing the mountains around. Yoshimatsu is considered one of the best ryokans when it comes to service and view.
Camping Facilities
Another alternative best suited for nature lovers is camping. There are several campgrounds along Hakone where you can pitch your tents or even park your RV as you spend time amidst nature. The camping sites have amenities, such as bathrooms and cooking areas, to keep your stay relaxed.
Conclusion
Hakone is a destination that best represents the perfect ambiance of flashing natural beauty with activities of culture and adventure outdoors. Whether walking on its trails for an experienced trekker savoring local food, or joining the lively festival fun, every moment spent here in this distinct volcanic region has something to take back home. Whether you are a longtime fan of Hakone, an old-timer or you’re planning to discover Hakone for the first time, let me assure you, that Hakone has some experiences with awesome views in store for those like you.
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FAQs
What is the best time to visit Hakone?
For cherry blossoms, spring from March to May would be perfect. Autumn from September up to November is known to be broadening the fall colors. Enjoy the outdoors during summer, and in winter, you have a choice to enjoy the hot springs or even indulge in winter sports.
Are there any safety concerns when hiking in Hakone?
The general safety of Hakone hiking is very good except there’s one thing that causes a significant amount of worry, and that’s weather changes. Check the forecast, wear appropriate equipment, bring enough water, and learn trails; if you are a first-time climber you can join a guided hike.
Can I find hot springs in Hakone?
Indeed, Hakone is famous for its facilities of onsen (hot springs) where you can relax and forget anything else. There are quite several places with their hot springs in Ryokans and hotels that occupy this area. Here, you can renew yourselves easily after a busy day of touring.
