Table of Contents:
Day 1: A Blend of Hakone’s Nature and Tradition
Day 2: Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

Hakone is about 50 miles west of Tokyo near Mr. Fuji. We took the Odakyu Romance Car (train), a 90-minute ride from Shinjuku to Hakone Yumoto station. Hakone has a lot to offer from Mr. Fuji to lakes; it is hard to pack everything in two days. This is a selection of our favorite places in Hakone. I hope you enjoy these places as well!

Day 1: A Blend of Hakone’s Nature and Tradition

Morning: We started our day with a tranquil visit to the Hakone Shrine, located in the lush forests of Hakone. This ancient shrine, dating back to the 8th century, is not only a historical site but also a place of scenic beauty. The iconic red torii gate, which stands at the edge of Lake Ashi, provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Midday: Lake Ashi Cruise – After exploring the shrine, we hopped on a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi. The view of Mt. Fuji from the ship was breathtaking. The boat ride took about one hour, making a couple of stops. It was a perfect way to appreciate Hakone’s natural beauty. The lake’s calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a serene and almost surreal experience.

Afternoon: Owakudani Valley – Post-lunch, we visited the Owakudani Valley, famous for its volcanic activity and sulfuric springs. We could see the steaming vents and bubbling water closely. We recommend you try hard-boiled eggs cooked in hot steamy water, which is believed to extend one’s life by seven years. It’s a quite experience in the natural hot springs,

Evening: Hakone Open-Air Museum – We concluded our day with a visit to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. It was a 12-minute taxi ride from Owakudani Valley. We recommend take a taxi instead of more than one hour train ride. This outdoor museum blends art with nature, featuring sculptures and artworks set against the backdrop of Hakone’s natural landscapes. The museum also has a Picasso exhibit, showcasing some of his lesser-known works.

Day 2: Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

Morning: Hakone Hot Springs Foot Bath – We began our second day with a relaxing dip in the Hakone Hot Springs on the way to the train station. These traditional Japanese onsen baths offer a variety of indoor and outdoor baths, providing a rejuvenating experience surrounded by nature.

Midday: Hakone Tozan Railway – Post-relaxation, we took a ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, Japan’s oldest mountain railway. We were there during the rainy season in June and had a great time with stunning views of the lush valleys and blooming hydrangeas. This train ride is an experience in itself, with switchbacks, tight turns, and varying altitudes. It is a popular line for train enthusiasts.

Afternoon: Hakone Gora Park – We spend the afternoon at Hakone Gora Park, a French-style landscape garden located at Gora station’s top. The park is known for its seasonal flowers, greenhouses, and the Craft House where visitors can try their hand at glassblowing and pottery. We felt we were in the botanical garden surrounded by different kinds of flowers and plants.

Evening: Stroll in Hakone Yumoto – End your trip with a leisurely evening stroll in Hakone Yumoto, the gateway to the Hakone region. This area is famous for its traditional shops, onsens, and local eateries. Enjoy browsing through local crafts, sampling Hakone’s culinary delights, and soaking up the ambient charm of this historic town.

Each of these itinerary items offers a unique glimpse into Hakone’s rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxing experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Japan.