Just a hop step and jump away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo is the picturesque Hakone area made up generally of the Moto-Hakone, Hakone Yumoto and Gora districts. After departing Tokyo, Hakone may be the first chance for Overseas Visitors to experience some of Japan’s breathtaking natural areas. The icon of Japan, Mt Fuji is only 30 miles away and inline with Lake Ashi of Hakone, people can experience amazing views of the mountain. Not to mention the photos.
Hakone is also known as the Hot Springs Mecca of Japan. Whilst there are uncountable hot springs and geothermal areas throughout Japan, Hakone is one of the most popular locations to visit because of Mt Fuji and the easy access from Tokyo. Stay in a Ryokan and soak in your own private Hot Springs bath. Also tease your taste buds with a traditional Kaiseki style dinner. However, be prepared for the crowds.
Many of the Ryokan (Japanese Style Inn) are located in the Gora area which is approx.. 1 hour from Yumoto Hakone Station. Gora itself is a beautiful location with the Gora Park and the close by Open Air Museum. If you like flowers Gora park us a must. Spring – the most colorful time of year, when cherry blossoms flower in early April, followed by azaleas and numerous other flowers. From late June to late July, the hydrangeas take center stage, flowering in a multitude of colors all over the park.
The sightseeing that awaits in Hakone is also a method of moving around Hakone. You can take the unique Tozan Hakone Train that zig zags up the mountain. Also ride the Hakone Cable car, Hakone Ropeway to the geothermal area of Ohwakudani Valley to see rising sulphuric steam and boiling mud. Then take the Hakone Ropeway from Ohwakudani Thermal Valley to Togendai Station based on the shores of Lake Ashi all while taking in breathtaking views of Mt Fuji. A private Ship cruise on the lake itself will offer extra views of Mt Fuji, and then you can take in a little bit of spirituality but visiting the Hakone Shrine. If you are in Hakone for a couple of nights, also venture to the summit of Mt Komagatake in the ropeway, which possibly has the best views of Mt Fuji (on a fine day).
Highlights: Odawara Castle • Yumoto Hakone • Moto Hakone • Ohwakudani Geothermal Valley • Gora Park • Open Air Museum • Tozan Hakone scenic train • Hakone Ropeway • Hakone Cable car •Hakone Nature Walk • Lake Ashi • Private Ship Cruise • Komagatake Ropeway • Hakone Shrine.
Recommended length of stay: 1-2 nights