Hakone Day Trip: Escape City Enjoy Nature Hakone Day Trip

Hakone, nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, offers a serene escape from the bustling city life of Tokyo, providing a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxation. This picturesque mountain town is renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, traditional Japanese inns (ryokans), and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.

Why Take a Day Trip to Hakone?

Hakone is an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway due to its proximity to Tokyo. The town is famous for its glorious views of Mount Fuji over Lake Ashi, its natural hot springs (onsen), Hakone Shinto Shrine, and the sulfur springs of Owakudani Valley.

Getting to Hakone

The most convenient way to get to Hakone from Tokyo is by taking the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku Station. This train journey takes approximately 80 minutes and brings you directly to Hakone-Yumoto Station, the entrance to Hakone.

For those planning to use public transportation extensively, the Hakone Freepass is highly recommended. This pass allows for a round trip from a station on the Odakyu Line and unlimited travel on all Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, ropeways, cable cars, and ships in the Hakone area for two or three consecutive days. The pass can be purchased digitally on your smartphone, making it easy to manage without the risk of losing a physical ticket.

Must-Visit Attractions

Hakone Open-Air Museum

This unique museum combines stunning natural scenery with impressive works of art. The Hakone Open-Air Museum features sculptures and works from artists like Picasso and Henry Moore, set against the backdrop of Hakone's beautiful mountains. Admission is 1600 yen per person, or 1400 yen if you have the Hakone Freepass. To get there, take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumato station to Chokoku No Mori Station.

Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine

Lake Ashi is a major draw, offering breathtaking scenery with a red torii gate floating on the water and the majestic Mount Fuji in the background on clear days. The Hakone Shrine, located near the lake, is an oasis of calm and serenity. Visitors can take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, which is fully covered by the Hakone Freepass.

Owakudani

Owakudani is a volcanically active area formed over 3000 years ago when Mount Hakone erupted. Here, you can see smoking vents and boiling pools, and it's also a great spot to view Mount Fuji when visibility is clear. Owakudani is famous for its black eggs, cooked in the naturally hot water, which are said to prolong life by seven years according to local legend.

Experiencing Traditional Japanese Culture

Japanese Onsen (Hot Springs)

Hakone is famous for its Japanese onsen, heated by Mount Hakone, an active volcano. Visitors can experience traditional onsen by staying at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or visiting public bathhouses. For those who prefer to wear swimsuits, Yunessun Hot Springs offers a day pass option.

Ryokans

Staying in a ryokan is a great way to experience traditional Japanese lifestyle. Many ryokans in Hakone offer private onsen and luxurious spa retreats, providing a perfect way to decompress and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Hakone offers several hiking trails, including the historic Tokaido Road, which linked Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period. This trail is not too difficult and provides a scenic walk through the mountains. There are also several waterfalls and other trails to explore, depending on the desired difficulty and sights.

Navigating Hakone

Hakone has multiple modes of public transportation, including buses, railways, boats, ropeways, and cable cars. The Hakone Freepass makes navigating these modes of transportation easy and cost-effective. For those who prefer not to use the pass, each mode of transportation can be accessed individually, but the pass is highly recommended for convenience.

Best Time to Visit

While spring and autumn are popular times to visit Hakone due to the cherry blossoms and fall foliage, the town is beautiful throughout the year. Visiting in winter can be particularly enjoyable with fewer crowds and snow on the mountain peaks. Summer offers milder temperatures in the mountains, making it a great escape from the city heat.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Transportation: Use the Hakone Freepass for unlimited travel on public transportation in Hakone.
• Accommodation: Consider staying overnight in a ryokan to fully experience Hakone's culture and relaxation.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast to ensure clear views of Mount Fuji.
• Crowds: Avoid visiting during peak holiday seasons for a more serene experience.

By following these tips and visiting these must-see attractions, you can ensure a memorable and relaxing day trip to Hakone, escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and immersing yourself in Japan's natural beauty and rich culture.