What to See and Do in Hakone

Why go

Owakudani is the clearest choice for volcanic scenery, while Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine make a lakeside pairing. The Hakone Open-Air Museum gives Gora a strong art stop, and a hot spring bath offers a slower finish. These are different experiences spread across the mountains, so choose a theme or a connected route rather than trying to cover every landmark.

Useful to know

• For history, combine Hakone Shrine with the checkpoint area beside Lake Ashi.
• For art and bathing, keep a museum visit and an onsen in a compatible area.
• Do not plan the day around a guaranteed Mount Fuji view.

The route, stop by stop

1. 01

   Optional · – min

   Hakone Shrine

   Hakone Shrine sits by Lake Ashi, where its lakeside Peace Torii and historic shrine grounds make a natural pairing. Visit for the setting and shrine history, with a separate Treasure Hall for objects.

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2. Walk · 89 min · Estimated

   02

   Optional · – min

   Hakone Open-Air Museum

   Sculpture fills an outdoor garden framed by Hakone's mountains, with indoor collections as a counterpoint. Give it time to walk between works; weather can affect outdoor features.

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3. Walk · 101 min · Estimated

   03

   Optional · – min

   Lake Ashi

   Lake Ashi is Hakone's caldera lake, linking shore walks, the shrine area and boat travel. Mount Fuji may appear beyond the water in clear weather, but the lake rewards a visit without that view.

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