Hakone between Hot Spring Resorts, Lake and Volcanic Landscapes

Hakone is part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The destination combines hot spring resorts with Lake Ashinoko and a striking volcanic landscape. The lake is a crater lake of the Hakone volcano and lies at an elevation of 724 meters. It is thought to have formed around 3,100 years ago: a steam explosion on Mount Kamiyama triggered a landslide that dammed an ancient river. This gives Hakone a specific geological dimension alongside its bathing and cultural attractions.

Hot Springs and Bathing Resorts

Hakone comprises seven hot spring resorts and 17 different types of hot springs. These figures provide two distinct points of reference: the destination’s division into bathing resorts and the variety of its springs. When planning, you can consider whether hot springs should be the focus of your trip or one element alongside the lake, culture and landscape. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun is a hot spring theme park in Hakone. Check the operator’s current facilities and access details.

The history of the hot spring resorts is also part of Hakone’s story. Miyanoshita, a hot spring resort, opened during the Edo period, from 1603 to 1867. This adds a historical perspective to the subject, distinct from the present-day question of which activities you would like to prioritize during your stay.

Lake Ashinoko: Boats, Fishing and Shoreline Views

The Hakone Sightseeing Boats operate pirate ships on Lake Ashinoko, stopping at Moto-Hakone, Togendai and Hakone-machi. The red torii gate of Hakone Shrine is also visible from the water: it stands directly on the lakeshore. This lets you take in a boat ride and a striking cultural landmark as distinct experiences of the same lake landscape. Swan pedal boats can also be rented on the lake; check availability before your trip.

Lake Ashinoko also offers opportunities for fishing. Species mentioned include wakasagi smelt, trout, carp and crucian carp. If you would like to fish, check the local rules in advance: seasons and access conditions may change. This makes fishing a specific option without implying a particular season or access at every location based on the general description.

The Old Tōkaidō and Hakone’s Festivals

For those who prefer to explore on foot, a preserved stone-paved section of the old Tōkaidō runs from Hatajuku to the shore of Lake Ashinoko. The section is open for walks, though temporary restrictions may apply to individual stretches. The Cedar Avenue on the old Tōkaidō also runs along the lakeshore, with trees around 400 years old. Together, the paved path and avenue give the historic road a visible presence in the landscape.

The events calendar offers further points of interest for culture enthusiasts. Hakone’s Daimyō Procession takes place every year on November 3, Culture Day, along the old Tōkaidō. A total of 170 people parade with swinging spears. Check the latest information on the route and traffic before your trip. The Lake Water Festival is held every year on July 31: more than 3,000 lanterns float on Lake Ashinoko, accompanied by fireworks. Check the arrangements for the relevant year in advance.

Volcanic Landscapes and Getting There

Ōwakudani is a volcanic valley with active sulfur gas vents and hot springs. Its landscape differs markedly from the shoreline paths and boats on Lake Ashinoko. Hakone-Yumoto Station is considered the gateway to Hakone and is easily reached from Tokyo. A bus runs from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Lake Ashinoko; the journey to Motohakone-ko on the south shore takes about 35 minutes. Check the timetable before setting out.

This lets you organize the places and activities you visit according to your interests, rather than treating every option as a fixed itinerary.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Sengokuhara, Yumoto, Iwa, Manazuru, Kamakura, Naka District, Odawara, Zushi.

For the overview of the wider region: Kanagawa Prefecture.