Hakone Shrine (Hakone) FAQs In 2024

What is Hakone Shrine?

Hakone Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the town of Hakone, near Lake Ashi, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a place of worship, a significant cultural landmark, and a popular tourist destination known for its serene atmosphere and scenic beauty.

Hakone Shrine holds significant historical and spiritual importance in Japan. It has been a site of Shinto worship since at least the Nara period (710-794) and is believed to provide visitors with spiritual blessings, such as safety for travelers, success, and prosperity. The shrine is also known for its iconic torii gate that stands in Lake Ashi.

The best time to visit Hakone Shrine is generally in the spring (March-May) when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in bloom, or in the fall (September-November) when autumn colors provide a stunning backdrop. However, summer and winter also offer unique experiences with lush greenery and the possibility of seeing Mt. Fuji in winter.

Hakone Shrine can be accessed by various modes of transport. You can take a train to Hakone-Yumoto Station and then switch to a bus towards Lake Ashi. The nearest bus stop is Moto-Hakone where you can walk to the shrine. Alternatively, you can drive to the shrine, or take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi that stops at Hakone-machi from where the shrine is within walking distance.

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the grounds of Hakone Shrine. Visitors can walk around the shrine grounds and visit the main buildings for free. However, certain special areas or events may require an admission fee.

When visiting Hakone Shrine, it is best to wear comfortable, modest clothing out of respect for the sacred site. Since there may be a fair amount of walking involved, including steps, comfortable footwear is recommended. Depending on the time of year, dressing in layers is advised due to the changing weather.

Yes, as with any place of worship, it's important to be respectful at Hakone Shrine. Bow slightly when passing through the torii gates, cleanse your hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain) before praying, and be quiet and considerate of worshippers and the natural surroundings. Photography is allowed but should be done discreetly, especially if ceremonies are taking place.

Visitors to Hakone Shrine can partake in typical Shinto activities such as purchasing omamori (protective charms), writing wishes on ema (small wooden plaques), and taking part in seasonal festivals if visiting at the right time. It's a unique way to engage with Japanese culture and tradition.

The area around Hakone Shrine offers a variety of attractions such as taking a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum, soaking in an onsen (hot spring), exploring the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views, or hiking in the surrounding mountains.

While certain areas of the shrine grounds may be accessible, Hakone Shrine is located on a hill and involves stairs and potentially uneven paths. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate some parts of the shrine complex.

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