A preserved Edo-period checkpoint on the old Tōkaidō highway, where travelers were inspected on the way to Edo. The site features reconstructed gates and informative displays about Hakone’s role in travel.

Old Tōkaidō Road segment in Hakone

A historic stretch with stone steps and scenic views, offering a reflective walk along a route used by travelers centuries ago.

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Museums

Hakone’s museums blend outdoor sculpture, art, and design with forested landscapes for a unique collection of experiences.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

A vast sculpture park set among gardens with works by modern masters and a distinctive Picasso Pavilion.

Pola Museum of Art

A striking museum showcasing European and Japanese masterpieces in a serene forested setting.

Hakone Glass Forest Museum

A glass art museum featuring immersive installations and colorful displays within a glass-lit forest setting.

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Religious Monuments

Sacred sites nestled in Hakone’s lush landscapes offer a tranquil glimpse into Shinto and spiritual traditions.

Hakone Shrine

A revered Shinto shrine known for its torii gates near Lake Ashi, surrounded by towering cedar trees.

Motohakone Shrine

A lakeside shrine in the Motohakone area with elegant grounds and scenic water views.

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National & Theme Parks

Hakone sits within a famous national park landscape and offers theme-park style relaxation in hot-spring settings.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

A sprawling national park that encompasses volcanic scenery, forests, and lake views around Hakone and Mount Fuji.

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

A family-friendly hot springs theme park with water attractions and relaxation baths in a park-like setting.

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Neighborhoods

Hakone’s towns each have a distinct character, from hot-spring hubs to hillside art quarters.

Hakone-Yumoto

The main gateway town with shops, ryokan inns, and easy access to onsens and train lines.

Gora

A hillside district known for art, gardens, and the Hakone Tozan cable car nearby.

Sengokuhara

Expansive grasslands and forested trails famous for seasonal scenery and easy hikes.

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Free Things to Do

Enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty and historic scenery without an entry fee.

Walk along the Lake Ashi shoreline

Take in views of Mount Fuji on clear days and stroll the tranquil lakefront paths.

Stroll the Old Tōkaidō Road in Hakone

Saunter along a historic route with scenic spots and traditional stone markers.

Hiking in Sengokuhara and surrounding trails

Explore forest paths and open landscapes that offer peaceful nature moments.

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Gastronomy

Hakone’s cuisine highlights rustic flavors born from local farms and natural hot springs.

Kuro-tamago (black eggs) from Owakudani

A famous local snack where eggs are boiled in hot spring water for a distinctive taste.

Hakone soba

Noodles served with a light, buckwheat-forward flavor often enjoyed with mountain views.

Yuba (tofu skin) dishes

Delicate tofu skin preparations common in regional eateries and traditional meals.

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Nightlife

Evening moments in Hakone blend serene onsen town vibes with quiet night views.

Evening onsen at a traditional ryokan

Relax in a hot spring bath after dinner for a restorative night experience.

Night views over Lake Ashi from Motohakone

Gasilight reflections on the water create a peaceful, romantic atmosphere.

Quiet lakeside café or tavern

Unwind with a warm drink or local snack while listening to gentle water sounds.

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Entertainment

Creative and family-friendly spaces deliver visual art, design, and playful experiences.

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

A playful water park and spa area with themed zones for family fun.

Hakone Venetian Glass Museum

A glass-art museum set in a sculpture garden with dazzling glassworks.

Lalique Museum Hakone

A gallery-style space showcasing crystal sculptures in a refined setting.

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Sports

Active travelers can enjoy outdoor pursuits framed by Hakone’s volcanic scenery.

Hiking the Sengokuhara and surrounding trails

Varied routes through pine forests and highland plains with occasional viewpoints.

Kayaking on Lake Ashi

Paddle on calm waters and take in mountains and shoreline scenery.

Ropeway and cable-car rides as scenic outdoor activity

Elevate above forests and valleys for expansive photo-worthy views.

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Off the Track

Venture beyond the obvious with hands-on crafts and locally guided experiences.

Glass-making or craft workshop in Hakone Glass Forest

Create and admire glass-art pieces in a hands-on studio setting.

Traditional tea ceremony at a local teahouse

Experience a quiet, ceremonial moment with seasonal sweets and tea.

Local pottery or craft studio session

Learn a regional craft and take home a handmade keepsake.