Japan Hakone Travel Guide, Tailor-made Japan Tour Packages
Hakone
Hakone is a town in Ashigarashimo District in Kanagawa Prefecture, is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, less than one hundred kilometers from Tokyo. It is the location of a noted Shinto shrine, the Hakone Gongen, which is mentioned in Heian period literature. The distinct reputation is the hot springs, and natural beauty and the view across Lake Ashinoko of nearby Mount Fuji. One of the most popular destinations among Japanese and international tourists looking for a break from Tokyo.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open Air Museum successfully attempts to create a harmonic balance of nature and art by exhibiting various sculptures on its spacious grounds in combination with beautiful views of the surrounding valley and mountains.
Lake Ashi Cruise
Lake Ashi in Hakone has a circumference of 40 km and was formed from a damming of a river. Popular as a spot to view Mt. Fuji, it is a famous tourist spot for Hakone.
Hakone Ropeway
Along the journey, passengers can enjoy views of the active, sulfuric hot spring sources of the Owakudani Valley between Sounzan and Owakudani and of Lake Ashinoko and Mount Fuji between Owakudani and Togendai if visibility allows.
Owakudani
Owakudani is the area around a crater created during the last eruption of Mount Hakone some 3000 years ago. Additionally, Owakudani has good views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine stands at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashinoko. The shrine buildings are hidden in the dense forest, but are well advertised by its huge torii gates, one standing prominently in the lake and two others over the main street of Moto-Hakone.
Hakone Tozan Railway
A ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, Japan's oldest mountain railway, is a treat for more than just railway fans.
Venetian Glass Museum
The Hakone Glass no Mori features Italian styled buildings housing a museum and shops.
Pola Museum of Art
The museum was built amid a forest of 300 year old beech trees, and although constructed of concrete and glass, it is designed so as not to disrupt the natural environment that surrounds it.
Ancient Cedar Avenue
Cedar Avenue of Hakone Old Tokaido Road is one of the great historic site of Tokaido Road. It was built in 1619 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. These Cedar are also planted by Tokugawa Ieyasu. He planted to provide the shade to the travelers. There are 420 cedar trees still remains.
Gora Park
Gora Park is a western style landscape park located on the steep slope above Gora Station. It is a relaxing place to unwind and enjoy the scenery and views of Hakone.