The List Of 20 Best Things To Do In Hakone, Japan

1. Soak In Traditional Onsen Hot Springs

Hakone's volcanic landscape blessed the region with numerous natural hot springs. The most renowned is Tenzen Onsen, featuring outdoor baths surrounded by maple trees and bamboo groves.

These therapeutic waters, rich in minerals, have been soothing travelers for centuries. Visitors can choose from public baths or private ryokan experiences, with some facilities offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji or any other natural views while you soak.

White hot springs or any different no matter what traveler chooses these traditional springs provide perfect relaxation to their body.

2. Ride The Hakone Tozan Railway

This switchback railway, Japan's oldest mountain railway winds through dense forests and steep valleys. The train climbs steep gradients and features charming wooden carriages that enhance the nostalgic experience.

Similarly, during June and July, thousands of hydrangeas bloom along the tracks, creating a stunning purple and blue corridor.

The journey from Hakone-Yumota to Gora takes about 40 minutes, offering breathtaking seasonal views, especially during autumn when the mountainsides burst into vibrant fall colors.

3. Visit The Open-Air Museum

Whether you are an art lover or just a normal person who appreciates art; the Hakone Open-Air Museum stands as an essential destination for every visitor. This unique museum seamlessly blends art with nature across its sprawling grounds.

Over 100 sculptures from renowned artists like Henry Moore and Rodin Dot added charm to the landscape. Plus, visitors can find the Picasso Pavilion houses with its extensive collection of artworks on display while at the same time, people can enjoy a hot spring foot bath service at the museum.

All the interactive installations inside this museum make this attraction particularly engaging for both art enthusiasts and families.

4. Experience The Hakone Ropeway

Apart from being a perfect mode of transportation, the Hakone Ropeway amuses visitors with scenic views of the volcanic landscape while it jumps between Lake Ashi and Sounzan Station.

As you go up, you will pass over Owakudani Valley, where you can witness the steam from sulfur vents and also observe the hot springs bubble. The aerial journey provides magnificent views of Mount Fuji on clear days, which serves as a major attraction for most tourists.

Interestingly, the ropeway holds a 50-year heritage while Guinness World Records awarded it recognition as the ropeway with the most annual paid passengers, hence, don't skip the chance to take this largest ropeway in Hakone.

5. Enjoy The Creativeness In Pola Museum Of Art

Nestled within a beech forest, the Pola Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of Western and Japanese art, including works by Monet and Renoir.

The museum's architecture harmonizes with its natural surroundings, creating an impressive experience for visitors. The tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot to appreciate art while enjoying nature.

To your knowledge, the museum organizes several seasonal exhibitions that offer new insights and unique collections throughout the year, plus, the museum's cafe and restaurant provide gastronomic delight paired with stunning views of the Hakone mountains.

6. Unleash The Beauty Of Hakone Botanical Garden Of Wetlands

Hakone Botanical Garden is another perfect answer to what to see in Hakone. This dazzling garden preserves and displays Japan's native wetlands plants. Every walking path and boardwalk inside this garden allows visitors to observe various ecosystems, from marshlands to forests.

The garden is particularly beautiful during the iris season and autumn when the grasses change color. Furthermore, the garden will be picture-perfect during June when its Nikko Kisuge (daylily) is in full bloom.

However, never plan your visit in the winter months, as it will be closed in winter.

7. Cross Lake Ashi On A Pirate Ship

The vibrant pirate ship not only captures the imagination of children but also provides adults with comfy seating to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains.

As you glide across the tranquil waters, you can admire iconic sights like the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine, which enhances your experience with a touch of history and spirituality.

Visitors can catch the pirate ship at three ports along Lake Ashi- Hakonemachi-ko, Motohakone-ko, or Togendai-ko. Hence, catch the ship according to your nearby port and enjoy your cruise moment connecting with various attractions.

8. Click Perfect Photos In The Hakone Shrine

Less than 100km from Tokyo, Hakone Shrine is another addition to the things to do in Hakone Japan. People love visiting this Shinto shrine which rests on the shore of Lake Ashi while admiring its signature "Torii of Peace" as a luminous red gateway that hovers above lake water.

This dazzling place offers a tranquil environment for visitors seeking spiritual connection and serves as a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts aiming to capture a glance of Japan's natural beauty.

As you explore, you can climb the steps through a pleasant cedar forest to reach the main hall, where historical significance unites with outstanding views. It will be best if travelers plan to visit Hakone Shrine on an early and happy morning, as they will get to click the best photos.

9. Visit Owakudani Valley

Owakudani Valley is another must-visit destination for travelers due to its stunning volcanic landscape and unique experiences.

Visitors can take the Hakone Ropeway to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding mountains while observing active sulfur vents and hot springs that create a surreal atmosphere.

A highlight of the visit is tasting the famous Kuro-Tamago, or black eggs, which are boiled in the valley's hot springs and are said to extend your life by seven years.

10. Stroll The Old Tokaido Road

Old Tokaido Road reveals historical insights into Japan's rich history, especially from the Edo period when this route connected Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

This historic pathway extends 11 kilometers from Moto-Hakone to Hakone-Yumoto while keeping its primary stone pavement as well as surrounding it with majestic cedar trees to provide a peaceful walking experience.

As you walk, you can stop at the "Amazake Chaya"- a traditional teahouse that has maintained its service to travelers since the time of the Edo era, where individuals can enjoy a cup of amazake, a sweet rice drink.

11. Explore Hakone Gora Park

Since its opening in 1914, Hakone Gora Park has achieved its reputation as Japan's initial French-inspired park by presenting more than 1,000 roses in a romantic garden zone and tropical plant displays in two separate greenhouses.

Fun activities? The parks make guests participate in workshops like glass-blowing and pottery-making or they can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies at the serene tea rooms. No doubt about the park's scenic paths since everyone admires the paths in the park due to the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Due to all these pleasant reasons, visitors must include Gora Park in their Hakone itinerary because the attraction features natural beauty alongside valuable landscapes and cultural interactions.

12. Discover The Hakone Venetian Glass Museum

Located in the lush greenery of Sengokuhara, this museum is also known as Hakone Glass no Mori.

This spectacular museum represents the initial establishment in Japan dedicated to Venetian glass art, therefore, it displays historical glass works from the 15th to 19th centuries and contemporary pieces.

Tourists can explore both indoor galleries and beautiful gardens that showcase more than one hundred glass sculptures under natural illumination. Additionally, the gallery also provides the option of both cafe area and workshop facilities.

13. Capture The Beauty Of Odawara Castle

The castle was built during the 15th century to defend the powerful Hojo clan and stood vital during the Japanese feudal era. However, between 2015 and 2016 the castle went through a beautiful reconstruction.

Thereafter, visitors can explore the remarkable architecture and enjoy exhibits featuring samurai armor and artifacts.

In addition, the location of the castle is perfect; a pleasant park dotted with cherry blossoms that create photogenic beauty during the spring season.

Its convenient location, just a short walk from Odawara Station, makes it easily accessible for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Japan's history while enjoying stunning views of Sagami Bay.

14. Walk Around Pampas Grass Field

This extensive area shines brightest during fall seasons because its grass transforms into golden luminous waves which provide visitors with a dry trail through the lofty pampas grass.

The quiet wind rustling in the grass creates a peaceful environment which is perfect for finding peace and reflective moments. As you stroll, your walk grants you spectacular views of neighboring mountains including Mount Fuji on clear days.

The field also holds cultural significance, with traditional events like the Yamayaki festival celebrating the changing seasons.

15. Stay In Traditional Ryokan

Travelers should experience traditional Japanese hospitality through accommodation in traditional ryokans. These inns offer a unique glimpse of the country's rich history, featuring tatami-matted rooms, futon beds, as well as kaiseki cuisine.

Many Ryokans are equipped with onsen facilities that provide the chance for therapeutic hot spring baths that are integral to Japanese wellness practices. A serene environment and personalized service given by Ryokans added charm to individuals' visits.

16. Visit Okada Museum Of Art

This spacious museum occupies five exhibition corridors while displaying 450 pieces of Asian art with special attention to Japanese, Chinese, and Korean art collections. At the entrance, a stunning mural "Wind/Time," depicting Wind God and Thunder God greets the guests.

Visitors can also enjoy relaxing foot baths filled with natural hot spring water while admiring the artwork. A peaceful environment for leisure walks exists around the museum because its surrounding area features stunning seasonal gardens.

Additionally, the museum grounds provide traditional Japanese dining spaces to allow guests the opportunity to experience nearby Japanese dishes in a peaceful setting.

17. Explore Choanji Temple

Established in 1356, this Soto Zen Buddhist temple gained fame for its collection of over 200 Gohyaku Rakan statues which show different Buddha disciplines through unique expressions and poses across the temple grounds.

Visitors can enjoy peaceful walking trails that meander through beautifully landscaped gardens, especially stunning during the autumn foliage season when vibrant colors enhance the already picturesque setting.

In essence, Choanji Temple stands as the ideal spot for both contemplation and nature exploration without charging visitors any entrance fee, thus becoming an essential stop for Hakone's visitors.

18. Discover Little Prince Museum

A unique and emotional tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupery's beloved novella, making it a must-visit for fans and visitors for types.

The museum rests within a French-inspired setting to present exhibitions about the author's life and original illustration together with a recreation of his childhood room.

The museum gardens feature rose plantings which appeal to visitors through their resemblance to love and friendship themes found in the story.

Further, travelers can find themed food and delightful merchandise at the museum while enjoying a storybook-like experience inside a setting based on "The Little Prince" which enriches the visit to Hakone with a unique and peaceful atmosphere.

19. Try Ninja Bus Water Spider

Named after a ninja technique that evokes the image of stealthy warriors walking on water. This bus takes passengers on a scenic 30-minute ride through the beautiful landscapes surrounding Lake Ashi before dramatically plunging into the water for a 15-minute aquatic journey.

The exhilarating moment when the bus transitions from land to lake offers a rush that is unlike any typical boat or bus ride. For this thrilling experience, visitors can board the ninja bus from the Hakone-en stop or the Motohakone stop.

20. Try Local Cuisine

Conclude your trip to Hakone by enjoying their local cuisine. One of the highlights is Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that presents seasonal ingredients often served at ryokan and luxury hotels. This meal generally includes fresh seafood, vegetables, and local dining items like Yuba (tofu skin) and Wasabi.

Likewise, this place is renowned for its soba noodles, made with premium buckwheat, and Houtou, a comforting noodles dish served in a hearty miso broth with vegetables.

Lastly, people must try the famous black eggs that are boiled in hot springs, which are believed to extend life. Thus, enjoy every dish and make your trip flavorful!