Hakone Travel Guide – 10 Things to Do & See

Craving panoramic views of Mt. Fuji? Look no further than Hakone! This mesmerizing resort-town getaway, just a 1.5-hour train ride from Tokyo, is a haven for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer escape. My recent 3-day adventure in Hakone was packed with unforgettable experiences, and I’m excited to share them with you! Get ready to discover 10 things to do and insider tips to make your Hakone trip truly magical.

Weather and Mt. Fuji Visibility: Mornings are the best time of day to see Mt. Fuji free of clouds. Usually, clouds cover up Mt. Fuji in the afternoon and the mountain is impossible to see. Especially in the summer. During winter, when the temperature is lower, there are more chances to see Mt. Fuji. In fact, when the sun sets you can see a beautiful red cast over the mountain.

Due to its location Hakone is prone to rainy days and fog. So if you’re going to be devastated if you can’t see Mt. Fuji, please take that into account. Kawaguchiko may be a better option, or you can (1) have a floating day for your time in Tokyo and check the weather forecast after you arrive. Then choose the sunniest day in Hakone for your day trip. (2) Stay for a couple days to increase the odds of good weather. Don’t worry if you hit a bad weather day, there is still plenty to do and see in Hakone.

Hakone Free Pass

Considering at least 3 activities from this list? Then the Hakone Free Pass will be your best friend! Unlike major cities like Tokyo, navigating Hakone requires more planning. Steep, narrow, and winding roads make walking impractical and even dangerous in many areas. Buses are your primary mode of transport, but you can also embark on adventures on pirate ships, ropeways, and trains. Here’s why the Free Pass shines:

• It pays for itself. With just 3 activities on this list, the Pass saves you money compared to individual fares.
• Seamless travel. Enjoy unlimited rides on buses, pirate ships, ropeways, and trains within the covered area.

Hakone’s unique terrain makes the Free Pass a smart choice for exploring efficiently and affordably. Certain sightseeing activities and discounts are also included. Read the full benefits here.

NOTE: You’ll need to show the bus drivers the animated train with the QR code. Meaning you can’t take a screenshot of it. So you’ll need mobile data working during your time in Hakone to keep your pass animated.

Day Trip or Night Stay?

I’d recommend staying the night in Hakone. There is so much to do that trying to cram it all into one day could take away from the experience. Don’t let luggage hold you back. Yamato Transport offers a convenient service to send your luggage directly from your Tokyo hotel to your next destination. Pack a small day bag for your Hakone adventures and leave the heavy stuff behind. Imagine exploring Hakone’s scenic beauty, completely unburdened! Most hotels are happy to hold your luggage for a day if it arrives before you. Just double-check with your chosen hotel to confirm their policy.

1. Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

*Included in Hakone Free Pass*

The Hakone Sightseeing cruise is a 25-40 minute boat ride along Lake Ashi. It’s a great way to see Mt. Fuji and Hakone Shrine’s famous torii gate along the water. For the best views head out to the upper deck. The interior is beautifully designed and you can even book a special room for a “luxury” experience. I didn’t have high expectations for this cruise and I ended up enjoying it – even though I couldn’t see Mt. Fuji that day. As with everything in Hakone, you are never guaranteed a view of Fuji, but the boat ride is relaxing nonetheless thanks to the calm waters of Lake Ashi.

I used this as a method of transportation to get from the south side of Lake Ashi to the north side. If it doesn’t fit into your itinerary or it’s a low visibility day, or you don’t wish to go across Lake Ashi, then it’s not necessary to take this tour. I’d only strongly recommend it on a bright and sunny day.

MT. FUJI VISIBILITY NOTE: If it is a cloudy or foggy day you probably won’t be able to see Mt. Fuji on the cruise. Try to go on a sunny day if you’ll be in Hakone for more than one day. Otherwise, take that into consideration to manage your expectations. If it’s foggy it might be better to skip.

2. Take in the Views on Hakone Ropeway

*Included in the Hakone Free Pass*

This ropeway travels from Sounzan to Owakudani. It offers breathtaking views above the steaming vents and on a clear day you can see Mt. Fuji.

3. Owakudani – Hell Valley

*Included in the Hakone Free Pass*

View the volcanic activity up close in Owakudani, Hell Valley. The aroma of sulfur fills the air as smoke vents through the ground. While you’re there try the famous black eggs (don’t worry – they taste like normal eggs). The shells are blackened from soaking in the sulphur-rich boiling water of the valley. They’re said to extend your life by 7 years. Sounds like a good sales strategy. Give me a dozen! These eggs can be purchased from ‘Owakudani Kurotamagokan’ and ‘Gokurakuchaya’ shops. The gift shop also includes volcanic ash (to add to your baths) and other unique gifts and wooden crafts.

HEALTH DISCLAIMER: People with asthma, bronchitis, heart disease, heart pacemakers, and pregnant women are advised not enter the valley because of high volcanic activity. There are signs posted on location about this as well, so don’t take an unnecessary risk – it’s definitely not that cool.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Enjoy the Views by the River

For chocolate lovers pick up a box of Cacao no Shizuku from Hakone Yumoto Station, you will not be disappointed. A fudge-like delicacy to satisfy your sweet tooth. I ate it while relaxing near Ajisai bridge. From there take your time exploring the shops for unique souvenirs or grabbing a delicious pizza (if you’re missing the taste from home) at 808 Monsmare. Vegan options available.

7. Onshi Hakone Park

Onshi Hakone Park was originally a summer retreat for the Japanese Imperial family. The Imperial vacation palace was built on the grounds in 1886. Unfortunately, the palace was destroyed in the subsequent 1923 and 1930 earthquakes. In modern day, you will find the Lakeside Observation Building sitting directly behind the palace ruins, and is said to have the best views of Mt. Fuji Hakone has to offer.

In March 1946, Japan’s Imperial family gave the land to Kanagawa prefecture to use as a public park. The park is located right along the coast of Lake Ashi and a few minutes walk to Tokaido Road from the entrance. Filled with winding foot paths and breathtaking greenry, it’s a breath of fresh air away from the bustling onsen town. As you make your way up the hilly paths you’ll reach the observation area with a gorgeous view of Mt. Fuji.

My experience: I went early in the morning, there was a touch of fog over Mt. Fuji that started to lift as I was there. The crowds were extremely minimal.

8. Take a Walk through History down Tokaido Road

Just north of the entrance to Onshi Hakone Park is a walking path known as the Old Tokaido Road. The Old Tokaido Road is one of the most important paths in Japanese history. In the late 1500s, this road connected Japan’s previous capital, Kyoto, to the new capital Edo, now modern day Tokyo. Thus becoming the main route for scholars, travelers, and couriers alike.

Modern development has replaced most of the Tokaido Road, however, Hakone has some of the best-preserved sections. Including many historical and cultural sites that date back centuries. An exploration of any part of the Old Tokaido Road gives you the opportunity to see and feel parts of Japanese history, culture, and nature. For a full history read this article. I walked the trail for about 20 minutes until I made my way to Hakone Shrine. The trail was lined with gorgeous cedar trees and the air felt incredibly fresh. I’d highly recommend adding this to your itinerary if you get the chance.

9. Visit the Gate of Peace at Hakone Shrine

If you are looking for THE place to get a picture in Hakone, this may be the most popular. However,so be prepared to wait. Home to the famous torii gate on the shores of Lake Ashi. This shrine gate is known as the “Gate of Peace.” Walk the tree-lined cobblestone path along the lake’s coast. This gate is part of Hakone Shrine, however a visit to the shrine itself is not necessary with so many other things to do in Hakone.

NOTE: Arrive early if you’re looking for a picture of the gate without a wait. I was there in the morning and a few others arrived as I was leaving, but I can’t imagine how busy it gets as the day goes on.

10. A Variety of Options for Art Lovers

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.

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 visit. It seems to be a hit or a miss amongst tourists, but I think it’s a very unique museum.

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.

For Souvenir Hunters

Check out the Wooden Souvenirs

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.

A Special Reminder

As I always say, see what you can and don’t worry about the rest. I have been to countless tourist attractions, many being extremely highly rated. However, I can without a doubt say that so many of these are over-hyped or I’m simply not the right audience. So do what interests YOU. Forget the rest of it. Don’t let other’s “MUST SEE” “YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS” lists prevent you from enjoying your trip or fill you with regret. Remember we’re all unique and so are our vacations. So have fun, please!!

For more on this check out my post on the reality of the Amalfi Coast.