Hakone, Japan - Travel Guide
By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-08
Hakone is a mountainous resort town famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, and stunning views of Mount Fuji. It's an ideal destination for a peaceful escape from the city, offering a blend of culture, nature, and relaxation.
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Top things to do in Hakone
The must-see places in Hakone include Lake Ashi, Hakone-jinja Heiwa-no-Torii, Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
- Lake Ashi · Hakone
A cruise on the lake with pirate ships offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and the floating torii gate.
- Hakone-jinja Heiwa-no-Torii · Motohakone
An iconic red torii gate standing in Lake Ashi, a popular photo spot with Mount Fuji views.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum · Chokoku-no-Mori
A unique museum showcasing modern art and sculpture in a beautiful natural setting, with interactive installations for children.
- Hakone Ropeway · Hakone
A ride on the ropeway offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake, Mount Fuji, and the volcanic Owakudani valley.
- Owakudani Valley · Owakudani
An active volcanic valley with hot springs, fumaroles, and black eggs cooked in volcanic steam.
- 箱根やすらぎの森
- Hakone Ekiden museum
- Okada Museum of Art
- Hakone Shrine · Motohakone
A beautiful Shinto shrine located on the shore of Lake Ashi, with an impressive red torii gate in the water.
- Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History
- 箱根園水族館
- 丸岳
- Yamanaka Fort Ruins
- 人間国宝美術館
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-see places in Hakone?
Lake Ashi, Hakone-jinja Heiwa-no-Torii, Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani Valley, 箱根やすらぎの森
When is the best time to visit Hakone?
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
How do I plan an itinerary for Hakone?
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.
