Embark on a picturesque cruise across Lake Ashi, a crater lake located in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The lake, with its serene beauty, is well-known for offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. While on the boat, visitors can relax and take in the scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains and the lush greenery. The cruise also offers a unique perspective of the floating torii gate of Hakone Shrine, which appears to be standing directly on the water. Passengers will enjoy the gentle breeze and the tranquillity of the lake, making for a perfect opportunity to capture memorable photographs. This activity is not only a journey across the water but also a cultural experience, as you glide past some of Hakone's most iconic sights.
Nestled among towering cedar trees, the Hakone Shrine is a peaceful Shinto shrine located at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashi. Visitors often come to experience its tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. As you approach the shrine, the path is shaded by a dense canopy of ancient trees, which adds to the sense of solemnity. The main buildings are beautifully crafted with traditional Japanese architecture, featuring curved roofs and richly decorated facades. The shrine is known for bestowing good fortune, especially among seafarers and travellers. Its history stretches back over a thousand years, making it a location steeped in cultural significance. Visitors can participate in age-old Shinto rituals such as washing their hands before entering, purchasing charms and amulets, or simply taking a moment to reflect in this serene setting.
Within the precincts of the Hakone Shrine, you'll find the Treasure Museum which houses a collection of historical and cultural artifacts. The museum's exhibits offer insight into the shrine's history and its role in Japanese society. Artifacts on display range from ancient documents and samurai armor to delicate ceramics and works of art linked to the shrine's past. Interactive elements provide a deeper understanding of the religious practices and the importance of the shrine in the local community. The museum architecture itself is a delight, showcasing traditional design elements that harmonize with the surrounding nature. This visit is an enriching experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan's spiritual heritage and appreciate its timeless craftsmanship.
For enthusiasts seeking a blend of physical activity and cultural immersion, hiking to the Hakone Motomiya Shrine is an ideal activity. This auxiliary shrine, located on Mount Komagatake's peak, is part of the greater Hakone Shrine complex. The ascent requires a moderate to challenging hike through the dense forest, offering glimpses of the region's natural beauty and occasional wildlife encounters. Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views and the more quiet and less visited Motomiya Shrine. This journey provides an opportunity to reflect, meditate, and enjoy a sense of accomplishment while experiencing one of Hakone's spiritual sites. It's a significant spot for many worshippers and offers a more intimate glimpse into the Shinto beliefs and customs.
Connecting the shores of Lake Ashi to the summit of Mount Komagatake, the Komagatake Ropeway offers breathtaking aerial views of Hakone. As visitors ascend, the ropeway presents a panorama that spans from the volcanic fumes of Owakudani Valley to the sacred Mount Fuji on a clear day. The journey is an unforgettable way to witness the array of landscapes within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Upon reaching the summit station, visitors can explore the peak's attractions, including the Hakone Motomiya Shrine. The ropeway is especially popular during autumn when the leaves change color, creating a vibrant tapestry against the mountain slopes. This activity is perfect for those looking to add a dash of adventure to their spiritual pilgrimage.
Travel back in time as you stroll along the Old Tokaido Road, once a vital highway during the Edo period, connecting Tokyo with Kyoto. The ancient pathway is lined with history and surrounded by nature, making for an enriching cultural hike. The highlight is the meticulously reconstructed Hakone Checkpoint, which once controlled traffic along the route and protected the city of Edo from potential threats. Visitors can explore the gates, fencing, housing for officials, and a museum displaying historical documents and artifacts from the checkpoint's operational days. It represents a significant part of Japan's feudal history and provides an engaging glimpse into the lives of travelers and officials during the period. Walking through these historical structures offers a unique perspective on Japan's past governance and society.
For art enthusiasts and culture buffs, a visit to the Narukawa Art Museum is a must-do activity in Hakone. Situated along the shores of Lake Ashi, this museum specializes in modern Japanese painting, known as Nihonga. The museum's collection features over 4,000 works of art, including masterpieces by some of the most renowned Nihonga artists. The panoramic observatory lounge offers a stunning view of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, creating a serene backdrop for the appreciation of art. Visitors can also enjoy traditional tea at the museum's café while taking in the natural and artistic beauty. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing various aspects of Japanese culture and arts.
Owakudani Valley, translated as the 'Great Boiling Valley,' is a volcanic valley with active sulphur vents and hot springs, accessible via the Hakone Ropeway. Created over 3,000 years ago by a Mount Hakone eruption, the valley is a testament to the earth's raw power. Visitors can observe the steam plumes, purchase black eggs boiled in the hot springs (which are said to prolong life), and enjoy the dramatic landscape. From Owakudani, there are also impressive views of Mount Fuji when the weather permits. It’s not just a natural wonder but also an educational excursion that explains the volcanic activity of the Hakone region. For safety reasons, access may be restricted during periods of increased volcanic activity, so it's best to check the status before planning your visit.
A harmony of art and nature awaits at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Japan’s first open-air art museum. With a picturesque setting in the mountains of Hakone, the museum boasts a diverse collection of sculptures by world-renowned artists, creatively displayed against the backdrop of the lush landscape. Visitors can stroll through the open spaces and enjoy the interactive installations, as well as indoor galleries with rotating exhibitions. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Picasso, Henry Moore, Taro Okamoto, and many others. Not only an artistic experience, but the museum also offers a moment of relaxation with its hot spring foot bath, where you can soak your feet while surrounded by sculptures and nature. It's a feast for the senses and a refreshing cultural encounter.
A visit to Hakone isn’t complete without experiencing the traditional hospitality of Amazake Chaya, an authentic tea house dating back to the Edo Period. Located on the Old Tokaido Road, the tea house is famous for serving amazake, a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, which has been a warm treat for travellers for centuries. With a rustic and historical atmosphere, the tea house invites guests to rest and refresh just as samurai and pilgrims once did on their journeys. The menu also includes other traditional Japanese refreshments and snacks, providing a taste of the local culinary heritage. A stop here is not just a meal break—it's a cultural immersion that transports visitors to a bygone era.
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