Trip Favorite

Hakone sits in the mountains of Kanagawa Prefecture within the Fuji‑Hakone‑Izu National Park and is one of Japan’s most accessible resort areas from Tokyo. Known for its hot springs, scenic Lake Ashi, and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone attracts both domestic and international visitors seeking relaxation, nature, and culture. (en.wikipedia.org)

History

Hakone's history is closely tied to its position on the Tōkaidō, the historic route connecting Kyoto and Edo; it long served as a waystation where travelers rested and pilgrims visited local shrines. The area’s volcanic activity shaped its landscape and onsen culture, and sites like Hakone Shrine and preserved stretches of the old road reflect centuries of religious and transportation importance. (en.wikipedia.org)

Current status

Today Hakone's economy is dominated by tourism—ryokan inns, public and private onsen, museums, and scenic transport links form an integrated visitor experience. Modern access is convenient via Odawara and the Hakone Tozan lines, ropeways, and sightseeing cruises, making Hakone a popular short-stay destination from Tokyo. (en.wikipedia.org)

Local culture

Local culture blends Shinto and Buddhist traditions with hospitality customs centered on ryokan and onsen etiquette; seasonal events like cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are important markers of the visitor calendar. Traditional crafts such as Hakone yosegi (intricate wood mosaic marquetry) are celebrated in shops and museums around town. (en.wikipedia.org)

Food

Hakone’s cuisine highlights local mountain and lake ingredients—fresh river and lake fish, seasonal vegetables, and kaiseki (multi-course) meals served at ryokan are common. Many eateries and inns also feature regional specialties and set menus designed to complement onsen stays. (en.wikipedia.org)

Attractions

Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) is a picturesque crater lake formed by earlier volcanic activity; visitors take sightseeing cruises—often stylized as pirate ships—and enjoy shoreline shrines, lakeside walks, and clear views of Mount Fuji on good days. The lake is central to Hakone’s scenic identity and connects with other transport routes around the area. (en.wikipedia.org)

Hakone Shrine sits on the shore of Lake Ashi under cedar trees and is a spiritual focal point with a torii gate near the water; the shrine’s long history and atmospheric setting make it a must‑see for cultural visitors. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit the shrine year‑round for its historic ties and tranquil surroundings. (en.wikipedia.org)

Ōwakudani is a volcanic valley created by Mount Hakone’s activity, known for steam vents, sulfurous landscapes, and the black eggs boiled in hot springs that are said to add years to your life. The ropeway that passes over Ōwakudani offers dramatic aerial views and a close look at the geothermal features. (en.wikipedia.org)

Hakone Open‑Air Museum pairs sculpture and landscape across a spacious outdoor park with indoor galleries (notably the Picasso Pavilion), making art a relaxed, family‑friendly part of a Hakone itinerary. Its blend of modern and classic sculpture set against mountain scenery is a signature cultural draw. (en.wikipedia.org)

Hakone’s transport experiences—the Hakone Tozan Railway, cable car, ropeway, and the Lake Ashi cruises—are attractions in their own right, offering changing vistas as you travel between hot springs, museums, and hiking trails. These linked modes make exploration easy and scenic, turning transfers into memorable parts of the trip. (en.wikipedia.org)