Hakone is a great introduction to the Japanese countryside and especially so if you only have limited days in Japan. You can stay at a Traditional Japanese Inn, soak in the Thermal springs or Onsen pools that are located in most accommodation or in public areas and do this all while you are viewing the Icon of Japan, Mt Fuji. 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. Then you take the Haoken Cable car and Ropeway to the other side of the mountain with magnificent views of Mt Fuji will be awaiting you (weather permitting). Then you can take the Hakone Ropeway via Ohwakudani Termal Valley to Togendai Station based on the shores of Lake Ashi. A private Ship cruise on the lake itself will over extra views of Mt Fuji, and then you can take in a little bit of spirituality but visiting the Hakone Shrine. Accommodation can be in Ryokan style or Hotel style properties. If you want it to be that little bit extra, what about having a room that has a private Onsen (Hot Springs) bath in your room.
Hakone is only approx. 50 minutes from Tokyo and the town is based around Lake Ashi where you can enjoy a cruise with Mt Fuji in the background.
The other major attractions that need to be seen and experienced are the Hakone Ropeway, Komagatake Ropeway, and even the Pirate ship on Lake Ashi. All offering amazing views of Mt Fuji. See a bit of Japanese History and Culture in the likes of Hakone Shrine and Kuryuzu Shrine. These 2 locations have a deep connection with each other. You also have the Open Air Museum, and just 30 minutes away you can be at the longest Suspension bridge in Japan, the Mishimi Skywalk with an amazing Mt Fuji Background.
No matter what season you venture to Hakone, there is always something that will take your breath away. Late March/April will show you the Cherry blossoms and believe us, Gora Park is just one of the most amazing locations you can imagine. Winter offers snow backgrounds, Summer offers the fresh new and bold green colors, and who needs to mention the Autumn when the whole of Japan turns from Green to yellow, and then to orange and red. Here you can really immerse yourself in the natural environment of Japan.
