Small StepsThe weather in Hakone can be unpredictable and it’s not unheard of to experience foggy and rainy days in the mountainous city. Though your views of Mt. Fuji may be obstructed, there is still plenty to see and do in the area. In this article, I’ve outlined the best Hakone rainy day activities for you to enjoy.
Relax at an Onsen
There are so many onsen to choose from in Hakone. I stayed at the Harriway Hotel which had an onsen included. It was a nice budget hotel, but I wouldn’t recommend it because the location was out of the way from many attractions. It also doesn’t have a shower in the room, so you must use the public showers. However, the staff were extremely kind and the premises was wonderfully clean with a classic Japanese interior.
If I were to go back, I think I would try to book a hotel with a private onsen and more central to the city centre. Unfortunately, I don’t have any personal onsen recommendations because I only used the one at my hotel. But there are so many resources online that can point you in the right direction.
NOTE: If you have tattoos you may not be allowed to enter certain onsen, please read the rules for any onsen you are planning to visit ahead of time so you aren’t turned away.
Experience Nostalgia on the Tozan Switchback Train
*Included in the Hakone Free Pass*
The Tozan Switchback train runs along a steep mountain railway from Hakone Yumoto Station to Gora Station. Trains run every 15 to 20 minutes and the ride is included in the Hakone Free Pass. The retro style train travels up (or down) a steep mountain track overlooking beautiful views and riding through a historic bridge. The train was inspired by Swiss engineering and has formed a railway partnership with the famous Rhaetian Railway of Switzerland. During the peak summer season you can view beautiful hydrangeas along the route.
Why is it called a switchback train? The name comes from the switchback stops. During the ride the driver and conductor switch seats since the train follows a zig-zag route.
Hakone Craft House
Located on the grounds of Hakone Gora Park, crafty tourists and collectors of unique handicrafts will enjoy a visit to the Craft House. The Craft House runs multiple workshops including: Glass blowing, ceramics, glass beads, and sandblasting. Not feeling as crafty? Take some time to relax during a tea ceremony or enjoy a walk through Gora Park’s rose garden. Be sure to stop by the gift shop for a variety of hand made items, including craft supplies and jewelry, as well as plates and art made by young artisans.
Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
The Hakone Glass Museum is a small museum featuring a variety of glass works and art. The grounds showcase beautiful gardens and glass flowers with Italian styled buildings housing a museum and shops. The museum holds over 100 pieces of Venetian glassware.
NOTE: I would not go out of your way to visit this museum. But if you happen to be in the area or love glass work then I think you should absolutely visit. It seems to be a hit or a miss amongst tourists, but I think it’s a very unique museum and I really liked it. The grounds themselves are very beautiful.
POLA Museum of Art
*Discounted rate with the Hakone Free Pass*
The POLA Museum of Art is nestled in the forest with a small walking trail. The building itself is a work of art that harmonizes with its lush surroundings. The gallery showcases a variety of impressionist pieces and temporary exhibitions. It is not a huge museum, but you could take your time and spend a couple hours there. A great place to visit on a rainy day. View their current collections to see what they are showcasing now.
Aesthetic & Delicious Food
Located a few minutes away by foot from the Glass Museum, I really enjoyed the taste and aesthetic of the food at Cafe Riposo. I highly recommend a visit if you’re in the area.
Go Souvenir Hunting
Hakone is famous for its wooden souvenirs hand crafted with colorful designs and unique patterns, called Yosegi Zaiku. They are scattered throughout stores in the region so you don’t have to look hard to find some. You can find all kinds of items including dishware, storage containers, vases, and picture frames. Near and in the stations you’ll also find local foods and snacks to fill up on while you walk the city.
Looking for more Japanese content? Check out all of my Japan articles here.
