2024 Hakone Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

🚡 Hakone Tozan Cablecar

#cablecars #100WaysOfTravel Sounzan Mountain is 761 meters high and you can take their Tozan cablecar to Owakudai station. Try to explore the Hakone Freepass which is a day pass for you to take the transportation in Hakone for as many times as you wish in a one/two days pass. Sometimes during peak period, you may take the anti-clockwise direction to overcome the crowd. Take a copy of their map and you will know how to plan your route accordingly. I recommend staying one night in Hakone too. #japan #hakone #traveltips #liveyourdreams #takethattrip

Lake Ashi - Enjoy the Stunning View of Mount Fuji from the Lake

Lake Ashi is located on the western side of Hakone Town, covering an area of approximately 690 hectares with a depth of 723 meters. It was formed by volcanic activity. The scenery here changes with the seasons, especially the autumn foliage and winter snow, which are particularly enchanting. Traveling from Tokyo to Hakone is very convenient, as you can take the Odakyu Romancecar directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station. Once in Hakone, you can use the Hakone Free Pass, which includes all local transportation and is very cost-effective. Must-Visit Attractions Hakone Shrine: Established in 757, this shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gate and lakeside scenery. Visitors can pray for good relationships and happiness here. Owakudani: This is an active volcanic valley with impressive steam vents and a strong sulfur smell. Don't forget to try the local black eggs, which are said to prolong life. Pirate Sightseeing Cruise: Take this unique boat to tour Lake Ashi and enjoy the lakeshore scenery and distant views of Mount Fuji. Food Recommendations Akakura: This restaurant is famous for its steamed set meals, using fresh local ingredients for an authentic taste. Salon de the Rosage: Located by Lake Ashi, this café offers delicious desserts and tea, making it a great place to relax.

Hakone Lake Ashi Fireworks Festival

Hakone Lake Ashi is a popular destination for many Hong Kong residents. The most famous attractions include the reflection of Mount Fuji, the Hakone Pirate Ship, and the Torii gate of Hakone Shrine on the lake. If you happen to visit at the right time, you must not miss the Lake Ashi Fireworks Festival. The Lake Ashi Fireworks Festival is held twice a year, in summer and winter. This time, we visited in early February, coinciding with the winter fireworks festival. It was our first time watching the fireworks over the lake, with the pitch-black background only illuminated by the faint lights of the pirate ship on the lake and the small silhouette of Hakone Shrine on the shore. Although these two light sources were very small, they perfectly highlighted the unique features of Hakone, making the fireworks festival a delightful and visually pleasing experience.

Hakone - A Relaxing and Comfortable Journey

Traveling west from Kamakura on the JR line, it takes about an hour to reach Odawara Station. Odawara Station is also the gateway to the famous hot spring destination - Hakone. Odawara Castle itself is also of historical value, but unfortunately, due to time constraints, we couldn't visit it. Those who have been to Japan know that transportation costs are very high, so travelers should make good use of various transportation passes to save on travel expenses. Starting today, we will use the Fuji Hakone Pass from Odakyu, allowing us to travel from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchi without any hassle! ~ Hakone-Yumoto ~ We set off early yesterday morning, and today the most important thing is to rest well. So, the first day's itinerary is to visit Hakone-Yumoto for a hot spring bath. Hakone-Yumoto has a history of over 1200 years, and the hot spring street is quite well-developed. Among them, there are many 'day-use' hot spring facilities, which means you can enjoy a hot spring bath for one to two hours without staying overnight, making it very convenient for passersby. The hot springs can relieve nerve pain and muscle soreness and also have skin-beautifying effects, making them a favorite for people of all ages. ~ Hakone Shrine Heiwa no Torii ~ After enjoying the healing hot spring, we had a simple meal of udon made with hot spring water in the hot spring street and continued our journey. We took the Hakone Tozan Bus, which is also included in the pass, from Hakone-Yumoto to Motohakone Port. A 10-minute walk from Motohakone Port leads to the Heiwa no Torii of Hakone Shrine, located in the middle of the sea. Shrines in Japan often have torii gates, and after visiting the unique Zeniarai Benten Shrine yesterday, today we visited the special sea torii. The red torii against the blue sea is perfect for photos! ~ Hakone Pirate Ship ~ Next, we returned to Motohakone Port to board the Hakone Pirate Ship, also included in the pass, to enjoy the views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. The pirate ship's design is very unique, with several different styles, not all the same! Shortly after setting sail, we saw the small Heiwa no Torii and the towering Mount Fuji behind it. On the second day, Mount Fuji continued to accompany us, but today we were closer and could see it more clearly! The one-hour boat ride quickly brought us to Togendai Port, where we transferred to the Hakone Ropeway to our next destination, Owakudani. ~ Owakudani ~ Before the ropeway reached Owakudani Station, a strong smell of sulfur hit our noses. Owakudani is a volcanic valley filled with sulfur springs and hot springs. From the observation deck, you can see sulfur vents and gushing springs, which are very impressive. The specialty of Owakudani is eggs boiled in sulfur spring water, which turn black due to the sulfur, making them very unique. However, due to the strong sulfur smell, we only stayed briefly before continuing our journey, taking the ropeway and the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, also included in the pass, to our hotel in Gora. Since Hakone is a rural area and not a city, shops and transportation do not operate late, so it's safer to return to the hotel before dark.

Hakone, Japan.

Because there are many hot spring ryokans, if you go to Hakone, be sure to enjoy the hot springs! Traveling on Hakone 1J. Want to visit a few more places. Places 1. Hakone Shrine In the morning, you can take pictures of the Torii Gate without having to wait in line, but during the day, there may be a long queue to take pictures. You can take pictures in the morning without stretching, and in the afternoon, you may have to line up to take pictures. 2-5. Narukawa Art Museum in Hakone / The view from this museum is amazing! It's about a 3-minute walk from the Motohakone bus stop, which you can reach by taking a bus from Hakone Yumoto Station. The view from this museum is amazing. I took a bus from the main line of Hakone Station and got off at the old Hakone port bus stop, and it was about a 3-minute walk. 6-7. Kinnotake Tonosawa / At this bamboo-themed hotel, you can enjoy the view of bamboo from the open-air bath in your room. Enjoy the autumn view from the outdoor bath in your room at this autumn-themed lodge. 8. Black Eggs This is a famous food in Hakone. When they boil eggs in the hot springs of Owakudani, they become coated with iron and turn black. When you boil eggs in the boiling hot spring pond, they get salted and cool down. 9-10. Mount View Hakone You can enjoy the hot springs without staying overnight. The price ranges from 2,000 to 4,000 yen for a 45-minute bath, depending on the hot spring. You can enjoy the hot springs during the day without needing to stay. It varies depending on the bath, but it's about 2,000-4,000 yen for 45 minutes.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum

#2024wish Very unique museum that's expansive and beautiful to walk through, with special exhibit as well like the Picasso museum. Went on a weekend and the weather was beautiful. We were able to buy tickets day of, and there are coin lockers available to store backpacks. We stayed for a few hours as we looked around at a leisurely pace. I wish to go back in 2024.

Have You Tried the Famous Black Eggs?

Owakudani Black Eggs, a renowned culinary marvel, are eggs cooked in the steaming volcanic vents of Hakone's Owakudani area. Nestled amidst the rugged volcanic terrain and sulfurous fumes, these eggs undergo a unique transformation, acquiring their distinctive black shells due to a chemical reaction with the volcanic gases. The taste of Owakudani Black Eggs is reminiscent of regular eggs but with a subtle richness and earthy undertones, attributed to the volcanic minerals permeating the shells during the cooking process. Locals and visitors alike savor these delicacies not only for their unique appearance but also for the cultural significance and purported health benefits, with legend suggesting that consuming one can add seven years to your life. Visitors to Owakudani can enjoy these iconic eggs at designated stalls or shops situated near the volcanic vents. Here, they are freshly boiled in the natural geothermal steam, providing an interactive and sensory experience. Many opt to purchase these eggs in bundles, often sold in batches of five or more, symbolizing good luck and longevity. The allure of Owakudani Black Eggs extends beyond their distinct appearance and taste; they embody a cultural tradition and a connection to the volcanic landscape of Hakone. Whether indulging in their unique flavor or embracing the folklore surrounding them, these eggs offer an experience that tantalizes both the palate and the imagination for visitors exploring the captivating wonders of Owakudani.

This Onsen Spot Is Perfect for Families

🌟👨👩👧👦 Immerse your family in a world of relaxation and adventure at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun—an onsen paradise designed for families seeking joyous moments and rejuvenation! 1. Scenic Outdoor Hot Springs: Picture this—soaking in a 40-meter hot spring bath, surrounded by Hakone's breathtaking mountains and the picturesque Sagami Bay on clear days. It's the ultimate relaxation spot for families amidst nature's splendor. 2. Rodeo Mountain Water Slides: Thrill-seekers unite! Experience the rush of river rapids with our exhilarating water slides, featured in popular Japanese media. Even in winter, warm water keeps you snug as you admire Hakone's panoramic views from the top. 3. BOXAPPY's Jungle Gym: Let the kids run wild! Our family-friendly pool area is a playground for everyone. With energetic activities and play areas, it's where the whole family bonds and creates lasting memories together. 4. Enchanting Cave Baths: Discover the hidden hot spring caves beneath Rodeo Mountain, where mysterious tunnels reveal stunning aquariums. It's a magical exploration for the whole family! 5. Dragon’s Waterfall: Feel the splash! Stand beneath the cascading waterfall or play in its warm pool, delighting in Hakone's natural beauty as you soak up the fun. 6. All-Weather Entertainment: Rain or shine, our large domed area offers year-round enjoyment! Swim in pools themed after the Mediterranean Sea or indulge in baths containing wine, coffee, or Japanese sake—an entertaining and unique experience for all ages.

3 Days in Hakone: Nature, Art, and Local Flavors

Hakone, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and gastronomic delights, promises an immersive and fulfilling three-day adventure. Check out our itinerary! Day 1: Nature's Embrace 🌿 Morning: Begin with a serene cruise on Lake Ashi, admiring Mount Fuji's elusive beauty. Visit Hakone Shrine by the lake, capturing its iconic red torii gate against the stunning backdrop. Afternoon: Ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani and savor black eggs cooked in volcanic steam. Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum, discovering art amidst nature's canvas. Evening: Unwind in a private onsen at Hakone Yuryo or Hotel Okada. Indulge in sumptuous kaiseki cuisine at Tenzan, relishing seasonal delights. Day 2: Cultural Immersion 🎎 Morning: Dive into history at Hakone Checkpoint, a preserved Edo-period site. Experience traditional crafts at the Venetian Glass Museum. Afternoon: Delight in Hakone-yaki soba at Sobakiri Okamoto or indulge in tempura delights at Ichinoyu Honkan. Evening: Wander through Gora Park, admiring its vibrant floral displays. Relax in a local izakaya, savoring sake and regional specialties. Day 3: Hidden Gems & Relaxation 💎 Morning: Explore Hakone's lesser-known gems—visit Hakuundo Chaen for Matcha and pottery or venture to Hiryu Falls for nature's tranquility. Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Hakone Yumoto. Relish a bowl of Hakone-style soup curry at Sankai. Evening: Bask in the quietude of a private onsen at Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu. Conclude your trip with a mesmerizing sunset view from the Daihakone Country Club's observation deck.

A Must-Visit Destination in Japan

Hakone Shrine, located in the picturesque town of Hakone in Japan, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. With a history dating back over a thousand years, this Shinto shrine offers a unique experience that captivates visitors from all over the world. The shrine's origins can be traced back to the 8th century when it was established to honor the deity of mountains and volcanoes, known as Hakone Gongen. Throughout the centuries, it has been rebuilt several times, but its spiritual significance and serene atmosphere have remained intact. One of the main reasons to visit Hakone Shrine is its stunning location. Situated at the foot of Mount Hakone and overlooking Lake Ashi, the shrine offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape. The torii gate, standing in the lake, is an iconic symbol of the shrine and creates a picturesque scene that is perfect for photography enthusiasts. To fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Hakone Shrine, it is recommended to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the grounds. Take a leisurely stroll along the stone pathways, admire the intricate architecture of the buildings, and participate in traditional rituals such as washing your hands and mouth at the purification fountain. Getting to Hakone Shrine is relatively easy. From Tokyo, you can take the Odakyu Romancecar train to Hakone-Yumoto Station, and then transfer to a bus that will take you directly to the shrine. Alternatively, you can take a scenic boat ride across Lake Ashi and disembark at Moto-Hakone, from where it is a short walk to the shrine. In conclusion, Hakone Shrine offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. With its rich history, stunning location, and serene atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a spiritual and visually captivating experience.

🇯🇵The Ultimate 2-Day Hakone Guide Recommended by Locals! Don't Miss It! 🚄🌄

Prepare in advance by purchasing the Hakone Free Pass and Romance Car tickets at the Odakyu Line ticket counter in Shinjuku West Exit. You can also buy them online, but offline purchases come with a free Chinese/English sightseeing map. 🗺 -Day 1- ⭕ 10:30 Arrive at Hakone Yumoto Station Explore the shopping street (lots of souvenir shops, perfect for strolling) 🛍 🍜 Restaurant near the station: (Yudofu-don Chokkichi) Tofu cuisine, Opens at 11:00; it's best to queue early as they can get busy. Tofu-focused menu, try the hotpot rice set; no need to order additional dishes, as the portion is generous. 🍲 ⭕ Pass by Owakudani (Oh55) - Chisuji Falls: No need to disembark 🚠 ⭕ (Oh56, get off here) Hakone Open-Air Museum (famous glass labyrinth, Picasso exhibition) - Known as the Hakone Chokoku no Mori Bijutsukan, visible right from the station 🎨 ⭕ Board again to Hakone-Yumoto Station (Oh57) 🚞 -Day 2- ⭕ Depart from Gora Station: Take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan ⭕ Transfer directly to the Hakone Ropeway 🚠 to Owakudani ⭕ Continue to transfer to the Hakone Ropew the 【Gora】 station 🍴 B1 Lakeside Restaurant offers views of Lake Ashi and pirate ships 🚢 B2 Queue directly for the Hakone pirate ship 🌟 Information on ship times is posted on the first floor or ask the crew members. Note that for an extra 600 yen, you can opt for first-class, but it's not necessary. ⛴ Along Lake Ashi, you can see the iconic Torii gate of Hakone Shrine ⛩ on the water. The pirate ship will stop at two ports. The first is Hakone-Machi Port, where I didn't disembark; The second is Moto-Hakone Port. After getting off, head to 7-11 for snacks and make your way to the Narukawa Art Museum. ⭕ Narukawa Art Museum Two floors inside; you need to buy a ticket to enter. There's an observation deck offering the best views of the lake: Torii gate + Mt. Fuji 🏞 ⭕ Hakone Shrine After leaving the museum, use Google Maps to find "Hakone Shrine." It's about a 15-minute walk. Behind the shrine's amulet-selling booth is a path leading to th#境外遊 #箱根 #富士山 #日本温泉 #週末遊 #日本旅遊攻略

This Museum Has a Footbath Cafe

Situated in the heart of the Hakone mountains, the Okada Museum of Art not only showcases a remarkable collection of Japanese and East Asian art but also provides visitors with a tranquil garden and a footbath cafe to unwind and rejuvenate. 🚂 Getting to the Okada Museum of Art is an adventure in itself. Visitors can take a scenic train ride from Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto Station and then transfer to a bus that will take them directly to the museum. The journey offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. 🌸 Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the museum's stunning garden, meticulously designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The garden features traditional Japanese elements such as stone lanterns, winding paths, and a serene pond, creating a peaceful atmosphere that perfectly complements the art on display. ☕️ After exploring the museum's exquisite collection, visitors can indulge in a unique experience at the footbath cafe. This one-of-a-kind cafe allows guests to relax and soak their feet in warm, mineral-rich water while enjoying a cup of tea or a light snack. The footbath cafe offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, providing a truly memorable experience for visitors. 🎨 The Okada Museum of Art is renowned for its collection of Japanese and East Asian art, spanning various periods and mediums. From ancient Buddhist sculptures to delicate ceramics and intricate paintings, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the region's artistic heritage. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Ogata Kōrin, Hokusai, and Yokoyama Taikan, gaining a deeper understanding of the rich cultural traditions of Japan and East Asia.

Onsen bath with superb mountain view ⛰️

Nestled in the heart of Hakone, Japan, lies a place that promises to take your breath away. Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU is a luxurious hotel that offers a unique experience to its guests. ⛰️ Rooms Each room of Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU features an open-air "Onsen" bath with a superb mountain view or forest valley view. The Onsen bath is a traditional Japanese hot spring bath that is believed to have healing properties. Guests can soak in the warm water while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding nature. The rooms are spacious, elegantly designed, and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. 💆🏻♀️ Facilities Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU boasts of world-class facilities that cater to the needs of its guests. The hotel has a spa that offers a range of treatments to help guests relax and rejuvenate. There is also a fitness center, a library, and a lounge where guests can unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious Japanese cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. 🚌 Transportation Getting to Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU is easy. The hotel is located just a few minutes' walk from Kowakidani Station, which is accessible via the Hakone Tozan Railway. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service from Gora Station, which is a major transportation hub in Hakone. With its stunning guest rooms, world-class facilities, and convenient location, this hotel promises to make your stay in Hakone unforgettable.

The Mountainside Railway - Hakone Train

Have you ever been on a train that climbs a mountainside on an uphill slope? This Hakone Tozan Railway provides beautiful scenery of all seasons along the ride, which you can enjoy by simply sitting and looking out the window. It promises you the brightest colours that can be vowed. Me being excited cannot be sitting; I'm just standing behind the operator, and my jaw dropped at the sight. 😂 #fallishere #freehotelstay #コリクイ

Discover Hakone's Riddle: An Adventure Awaits! 🔓🌄

Hakone, like a little secret tucked away around Tokyo, is a travel destination not to be missed. This place is full of breathtaking views, enchanting hot springs and endless fun. First of all, let's feel the charm of nature. Just look up and be struck by the magnificent mountains and magnificent lakes. Whether you are enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons or hiking the mountain trails, the natural landscape here will bring you endless surprises. Relax and let the magic of nature heal your fatigue and re-energize you. Of course, how can you miss the hot springs in Hakone? A soak in a hot spring is the perfect way to release stress! There are a wide variety of onsen, from outdoor open-air hot springs to Zen bell baths. You can enjoy the serenity of the onsen resort while taking in the stunning scenery. Wash away your fatigue and rediscover your most comfortable state. Of course, Hakone is more than just a paradise of nature and hot springs; many cultural and artistic treasures await you here. Visit the local historical buildings and temples to feel the traces of ancient culture, or explore the exquisite art museums and let the creativity of the artists blow your mind. Whether you're an art lover or a culture seeker, Hakone will satisfy your cravings in this area. Don't hesitate any longer! Take a trip to Hakone to explore the beauty of nature, relax in luxurious hot springs and experience the richness and diversity of culture and art. Hakone awaits you, so bring your curiosity and sense of adventure and embark on this unforgettable journey together! Don't wait, leave now!

Unforgettable Hakone Trip ⭐️

I spent two days in Hakone. It was a pleasant trip 😋 Tip: The Hakone Free Pass is a must-have and a great deal. I picked it up at the counter in person, which required waiting in line. Meanwhile, at the counter, I reserved seats on the Romancecar. It is fast, comfortable, and has great scenery. For the route, I followed a guide and chose the clockwise direction with fewer people: Shinjuku ⬇️ Hakone-Yumoto ⬇️ Moto-Hakone Port (The beautiful Narukawa Art Museum is here.) ⬇️ Then I went to Owakudani to see the volcano and the famous black eggs. I took the train from Miyanoshita to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The museum has a number of amazing sculptures and a forest for you to explore.

Eat long life black Egg

In the Owakudani area near the Hakone volcano there are places where hot smoke comes out of the ground (it's not a geyser) the smell of sulfur which scorches the ground in a yellow color. View of Lake Ashinoko and Mount Fujiyama in Japan. It is amazing, don't miss the cable car ride, boating on the lake and visiting the open museum. It is said that the Japanese cook eggs in the hot springs which gives them a black color. A belief holds that eating one egg adds 7 years to life. The place also has a restaurant and sells ice cream, which is also black in color. I will buy again black egg is very yummy and also for souvenir.

Sekisho Museum Hakone

We come here by lake ashi cruise at Togendai morning, and we arrive Hakonemachi-Ko, about 10 min walk , A small museum that explains the Hakone checkpoint About the Hakone Checkpoint Explains the role of the checkpoint in logistics and the flow of people during the Edo period. There is a parking lot in front of the facility, but there is a charge , and have some souvenir shop and soba restaurant nearby entrance counter. It would be a good idea to visit when visiting the checkpoint.

Cruise at Hakone

Great area with spectacular views of Mt Fuji. We came in early Novenber and although there was cold on the ground the temperature was very comfortable to walk around and explore. The views around the lake were simply breathtaking and I highly recommend taking a “pirate” cruise across to Hakone- and take the gondola up. Big cruise and have alot free seat to choice and you can purchase drink and souvenir too.

箱根大涌谷 I Kanagawa Hakone Ōwakudani

📌 大涌谷，箱根，神奈川県 📅 2023.01.08 Sunny day in a Volcano Mountain. Guess what? The volcanic gases keeps coming up. My first time to see such scenery and It was more surprising than I thought. Remember to book a tour online on the official site ahead to get a chance to get closer to look into the volcano gases. Photo at: 大涌谷，箱根，神奈川県 📸 8 January, 2023 IG: sumi_gotravel #Japan #Yokohama #Owakudani #Kanagawa #日本旅行好きな人と繋がりたい #日本旅行 #箱根 #大涌谷 #神奈川県 #報名郵輪試坐員

Enjoy a refreshing soak in the hot springs of Hakone, Japan - Lake Ashi and Lake Kawaguchi offer stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Near Tokyo, Japan, is the town of Hakone, which can be reached by taking the JR train. Hakone is a great place to soak in hot springs ♨️, with hotels and guesthouses of all sizes offering their own hot springs. We booked a hot spring hotel package with excellent service, and could soak in the hot springs both morning and night. The pools in the morning and evening were different, and we could enjoy the view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding scenery while soaking in the hot springs. It was a true luxury. Lake Ashi is peaceful and beautiful, and Lake Kawaguchi reflects Mount Fuji. When you wake up in the morning, clouds float over the top of Mount Fuji like a fairyland.

A day in Hakone

Hakone is a beautiful mountainous region located about 2 hours away from Tokyo, accessible by Shinkansen. It's known for its natural hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Start by paying a visit to Owakudani steaming thermal volcanic vents, where you can eat black eggs, which are boiled in the sulfurous waters giving the egg shells distinctive black color. The locals believe each eaten egg adds 7 years to your life span! Take a cable car down to observe the stunning Mount Fuji. You can then hop on a pirate ship to take you across lake Ashi offering views of Hakone Shrine. From there you can move onto the famous Hakone Open Air Museum, which features modern and contemporary sculptures, including an indoor Picasso pavilion and many souvenir shops. Here you can enjoy lunch with a beautiful mountainous view. Finish your day by visiting a local onsen. The water here is sulphuric with added health benefits. You will enjoy sitting in the hot water surrounded by the beautiful scenery to finish your day.

YUNESSUN is a hot spring theme park located in the famous sight-seeing area Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. There are unique baths such as the Coffee Bath, made from real coffee beans, and the Wine Bath. Also, at the collection of Japanese style open air baths in Mori no Yu, you can take your time and enjoy the hot springs. There is an official hotel nearby as well so if you get worn-out from enjoying yourself you can quick return to your room.

Breakfast Buffet @Ten-Yu Restaurant (Japan)

Address - 1297 Ninotaira, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0407, Japan Ambiance/Facilities - Contemporary with a Nod to Vintage Japan. The hotel and restaurant offers a breathtaking panorama that is well worth splurging on even if it's to break your piggy bank for this experience. Highlights - everything Rating - A perfect score of 5 out of 5 Ten-Yu restaurant is located just right next to the hotel lobby. #japan #tripblazers #mountfuji #breakfastbuffet

LAKE ASHI (JAPAN) IS BACK!

Due to COVID, Lake Ashi was closed for some time and is now open again. This location is a must-see as it is one of the most scenic places to visit for the scenery and the onsen spa. Three thousand years ago, the vapour from an eruption of Mount Kashima's volcano created this location. The lake water originated from a spring near the lake's bottom. Please be advised that swimming is prohibited in Lake Ashi. #japan #onsen #lakeashi #tripleblazer

A relaxing spa day @箱根湯寮🇯🇵♨️🧖🏻

Hakone is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in Japan🇯🇵 Just 1.3hrs train from Tokyo city center to enjoy the high quality hot spring💆🏻They provide a free shuttle bus next to the Hakone train station to get to there. I booked the private onsen but they do public bath houses as well. 🔅Tips -Most Japanese website don’t provide Eng version, not easy to make a reservation..so I recommend call their concierge directly or ask your local hotel/hostel for a favour -Their booking slot opens in every two months in advance, mark in calendar to make the reservation -They have an express train go from Tokyo to Hakone and return directly but it is easily fully booked, I suggest to pre-purchase the train ticket online (no one told me to do that so I didn’t have any train to back Tokyo on the day I visited) (yes, it is not easy🥲) 📍Address: 4 Tonosawa, Hakone - machi, Ashigarashimo - gun, Kanagawa 250 - 0315 #onsen #tokyo #hotspring #hakone

Lost in the Glass Forest?

#tripblazers This is The Hakone Glass no Mori Venetian Museaum located in Hakone. Take the train to the Hakone Yumoto station and ride the bus Hyoseki/Hakone Glass no Mori-mae bus stop (approximately 20 mins bus ride). I would recommend to buy the Hakone Free Pass as it would be more convenient and cheaper. You can admire all the gorgeous glass works in this museum. It’s decorated like a small English town and it is very pretty!

Hakone open air museum

The museum occupies a vast area and you can spend a few hours roaming the park. It’s a great place for both adults and kids with a lot of great shot opportunities! There’s a paid parking lot and if you use it, make sure to validate the ticket at the shop on the right side of the entrance (on your way in) to pay a flat 500-yen fee for 4 hours. There are some eateries inside in case you get hungry. It’s also accessible by public transportation. You need at least 2 hours to explore the park!

Hakone ropeway for great Mount Fuji views

Getting There: there are different ways to take the ropeway, depending on where you are in the city. I drove to Sounzan station (free parking at this station) and got a round-trip ticket for Owakudani station, which I believe is the highest point. It’s also possible to get there by public transportation. What you can see: on clear days, you can have a great view of Mount Fuji, Yokohama Bridge, etc. Also the sulfur mines are interfering with all the smoke and yellow mineral coloring the mountain.

Be Immersed in the Culture of Japan

During our travels to Hakone, we paid a visit to Hakone’s famous shrine. It is well known for its striking red Torii gate set into Lake Ashi. There was a long line of people waiting to take a picture with the gate. We ventured up a steep flight of stairs to the main shrine complex. At the entrance there was a dragon water fountain for visitors to cleanse their hands before entering, a Japanese ritual when entering a shrine. The compound was impressive and the area tranquil. In there we made wishes for the new year, bought good luck charms and had a walk around. Definitely a memory to keep for a long time. One of the wishes we made at the shrine was to one day be able to revisit Japan in spring to see the wonderful Sakura. I hope that will be made true! #2023travelwish