Hakone is known for its scenic beauty, hot springs (onsen), natural environment, and view of Mount Fuji. It's also famous for its historical significance with sites like the Hakone Shrine and the old Tokaido Road, as well as cultural attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum and various art galleries.
The best time to visit Hakone depends on what you want to experience. For pleasant weather and cherry blossoms, spring (March to May) is ideal. Summer (June to August) is great for lush greenery, but can be humid and rainy. Autumn (September to November) offers stunning fall foliage, while winter (December to February) provides opportunities for enjoying the onsen and, on clear days, views of snow-capped Mount Fuji.
Top attractions include Hakone Shrine, Lake Ashi, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Owakudani Valley, Hakone Ropeway, the Hakone Tozan Railway, and the POLA Museum of Art. Outdoor and hot spring enthusiasts often enjoy the many ryokan (traditional inns) and onsen in the area.
You can reach Hakone from Tokyo by train, the most common way being the Odakyu Limited Express 'Romancecar' from Shinjuku Station. Alternatively, you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Odawara Station and transfer to a local train or bus to continue to Hakone. Direct highway buses are also available from different points in Tokyo.
Yes, the Hakone Free Pass by Odakyu Railways offers unlimited use of Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cableways, and ropeways within the Hakone region for a set period (typically two or three days) and also provides discounts on certain attractions. It can be purchased at major train stations including Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji can be seen from various points in Hakone, such as the Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi, and some high elevation spots. However, cloud cover can sometimes obscure the view, so it's not guaranteed.
Regional specialties include Kuro-tamago (eggs boiled in sulfuric hot spring waters which turn black and are said to prolong life), Hakone tofu (known for its silky texture), and Owakudani's volcanic cooked foods like eggs and sweet corn. Freshwater fish from Lake Ashi, such as trout, is also popular.
Packing for Hakone should include comfortable walking shoes for exploring, layers of clothing due to temperature changes, especially if you plan to visit the mountains. Don't forget a swimsuit for the onsens, and an extra towel can be handy. In rainy season, an umbrella or raincoat is advisable, and in winter, warm clothing and potentially snow gear if you intend to visit snow-covered areas.
To fully enjoy the main sights and experiences in Hakone, it is recommended to spend at least 1 to 2 days. Those looking to relax in the onsen or explore more extensively might consider staying longer.
While some areas and attractions in Hakone are wheelchair accessible, others may not be due to their natural terrain and the prevalence of steps. Major transportation, like the Hakone Tozan train and Ropeway, are accessible. It's recommended to check with specific venues and transport services in advance for their level of accessibility.
