Top Things to Do in Hakone: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Fancy a nature break less than two hours from Tokyo? Hakone is the dream getaway! From its mountain scenery and proximity to Mount Fuji to cruises on Lake Ashi, hot springs and open-air museums, the region brings together everything travellers come to Japan for: tranquillity, traditions and the art of living!
🏞️ Popular Activities in Hakone and Great-value Prices
- 🌊 Lake Ashi ⛴️ – Shore access is free, cruises from £8 – Volcanic lake with views of Mount Fuji
- 🌋 Owakudani 🥚 – Access included with passes/cable car – Steaming volcanic valley and sulphurous black eggs
- 🚡 Hakone Ropeway 🏔️ – From £9.61 – Panoramic cable car over the mountains and the crater
- 🎨 Hakone Open-Air Museum 🖼️ – Prices vary by season – Open-air sculpture park + Picasso Pavilion
- ♨️ Hakone Kowakien Yunessun 💦 – From £10.09 – Fun hot spring water park with themed baths
📅 How to Visit Hakone in 1 or 2 Days?
Smaller than its neighbouring towns, with only 10,000 residents, Hakone can be explored on a day trip from Tokyo or by spending one or two nights. Ideally, to fully enjoy the onsen (the famous Japanese hot springs) and the relaxed mountain rhythm, it’s best to devote at least two days.
Here are some simple, practical itinerary ideas based on your traveller profile and your preferences:
Length of stay | Couples | Family | Friends | Solo |
1 day | Lake Ashi + cruise + Hakone Ropeway + Owakudani + onsen | Lake Ashi + pirate ship + Hakone Open-Air Museum | Lake Ashi + Owakudani + cable car + Hakone-jinja Shrine | Lake Ashi + Owakudani + cable car + onsen |
2 days | Day 1: Lake Ashi tour + Owakudani + ropeway Day 2: open-air museum + onsen in a ryokan | Day 1: pirate ship + ropeway + Owakudani Day 2: Yunessun hot spring water park + stroll around Hakone-Yumoto | Day 1: Lake Ashi + Owakudani + ropeway Day 2: hike + communal onsen | Day 1: classic loop + open-air museum Day 2: temples, cafés, writing or reading in peace and quiet |
👉 How many days should you spend in Hakone?
- In 1 day, you can easily visit Hakone and take the time to stop at the main sights.
- In two days, you’ll have time to take a breather, go to the museum and enjoy the thermal baths as well: it’s most certainly the best compromise!
🎁 Get 5% off & save up to £2 on your first Hakone Attractions & Tours booking! 👇
Hakone's Top Attractions and Tours
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🔥 Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Hakone
You’ll realise it once you’re there: Hakone is still a very small town. Even so, we’ve handpicked a few must-see sights and unmissable activities to do so you can fully enjoy your day or stay.
Lake Ashi: a postcard-perfect view of Mount Fuji
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) is undoubtedly the symbol of Hakone. Bordered by wooded mountains, it offers, on clear days, a dreamy view of Mount Fuji silhouetted on the horizon.
The best activity near Lake Ashi? Its cruises! Weather permitting, plenty of cruises are on offer around the lake for a soothing experience with dreamy scenery.
Along the lakeshore, don’t miss Hakone-jinja Shrine and its grand red torii planted in the water—one of the region’s most iconic photo spots. The shores also offer several short walks, cafés with a view, and viewpoints perfect for immortalising your stay.
📌 Tips : some boats are shaped like pirate ships, much to the delight of families and children!
Lake Ashi Cruise
4.7/5
35 Reviews
The pirate ships on Lake Ashi cruise ships come in different designs, including red and black, gold, and blue. Luckily, I got to ride the gold pirate ship, which I was most looking forward to. To reach the deck, you can take the stairs. The interior of the stairs is decorated like the ships used by nobles in 90s movies. The experience was quite unique. However, if you're too tired to walk up the stairs, there are elevators to different floors. The coastal scenery is beautiful, definitely worth the trip!PHP 677
Owakudani: the steaming valley of black eggs
Second unmissable spot in Hakone: Owakudani! It’s actually an active volcanic valley, where you’ll almost certainly see sulphurous steam rising from the ground. The scenery is rocky, sometimes shrouded in steam, with the mountains as a backdrop and, on clear days, Mount Fuji (the view is spectacular!).
You’ll notice it straight away: the smell of sulphur is hard to miss as you approach the volcano, a vivid reminder that you’re on a volcanic site that’s very much alive. Specially built observation platforms let you stroll safely while admiring the fumaroles rising from the grey rocks. With a bit of luck and on a clear day, the contrast between Owakudani’s lunar landscape and the majestic Mount Fuji in the background is simply magical!
When you're there, make sure you don't miss the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) cooked in the sulphurous hot springs. Rest assured, their black colour simply comes from the shell, which blackens on contact with the minerals, but the inside remains perfectly normal and delicious.
📌Fun fact: legend has it that eating a black egg adds seven years to your life… it’s up to you how many you take home!
Owakudani
4.6/5
321 Reviews
Don't leave Hakone without visiting Owakudani
Walk through the smoky sulfur valley and try the famous Black Eggs, boiled in natural volcanic waters. Legend has it that eating one egg adds 7 years to your life so I definitely had to grab some.The Hakone Ropeway: the panoramic cable car
From the moment you arrive, the very first thing you’ll almost certainly want to do is hop aboard these charming traditional little cable cars! The Hakone Ropeway links several key spots in the region, including Lake Ashi, Owakudani and Sounzan. The cabins soar over forests, valleys and volcanic areas to offer one of Hakone’s most beautiful panoramas.
The full ride takes around 30 minutes and lets you soar above the mountain landscapes surrounding Hakone. The modern, all-glass cabins offer 360° views of the surrounding nature. A breathtaking view!
As you gradually ascend towards Owakudani, you’ll see fumaroles appear in the distance. And finally, on clear days, you’ll very likely catch sight of Mount Fuji, the surrounding mountains, and the changing colours of the seasons: delicate spring greens, flamboyant autumn hues, and sometimes a blanket of snow in winter. The journey is an integral part of the Hakone experience—both a way to get around and an activity in its own right!
Hakone Ropeway
4.7/5
32 Reviews
The queue for the cable car moved relatively quickly, with each car holding about 10 people. Each car has 360-degree windows, offering beautiful views from every seat. We were lucky that day; the weather was great, and we could see Mount Fuji from the right side of the cable car. During the ride, there were guided tours in Japanese and English to explain the origins and special stories of the different mountains.PHP 796
The Hakone Open-Air Museum: art and the mountain
The Hakone Open-Air Museum (musée en plein air de Hakone) is often a delightful surprise for travellers. Relatively little-known, this one-of-a-kind museum will transport you out of time. Set in a large, rolling park, it showcases monumental outdoor sculptures that blend seamlessly into the landscape. You’ll also find indoor galleries, including a pavilion dedicated to Picasso (more than 300 pieces are on display!).
The way the artworks blend into the natural landscape creates a unique, soothing atmosphere. You wander between giant sculptures, artistic fountains and contemporary installations, all set against the backdrop of Hakone’s mountains. Some pieces invite interaction; others encourage contemplation. You’ll indeed see plenty of locals who sometimes come to meditate on site beside these masterpieces.
This visit is delightful in every season, whether you’re with family, travelling solo or as a couple. At the end of the route, you can enjoy a hot spring foot bath with mountain views. An ideal moment to unwind before getting back on the road.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
4.8/5
108 Reviews
A must-see museum in Hakone, boasting a rich collection of sculptures and the Picasso Museum. It's a truly pleasant place to stroll when the weather is nice, and suitable for families with children as well.PHP 716
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun: traditional and unique onsens
Fancy trying onsen without having to follow all the strict rules of traditional baths? Hakone Kowakien Yunessun is a hot-spring water park that blends a spa atmosphere with playful fun! You’ll find outdoor pools with mountain views, plus aromatised baths (wine, coffee, green tea…), water slides, and a covered indoor area.
It's the perfect spot for a relaxing day with family or friends, especially if you're travelling with people who are uneasy about the nudity in classic onsen. The complex also includes a more traditional section, separated by gender, so you can enjoy a more authentic Japanese experience.
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun
4.6/5
16 Reviews
Nice place, I liked open bathPHP 517
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Our Top Picks for Hakone Hotels
5 star
Great603 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.6km from city centre
The hotel is located near Gora Station, and they offer a shuttle service. We were on a self-driving trip, and navigating there required a bit of careful attention, but there's parking available right outside the hotel. I give very high marks for the hotel's ambiance, the staff's service attitude, and the comfort of the rooms. The room was spacious, and the single beds were also very wide. The toilet and bathroom were separate, and there was a private onsen on the balcony. We ordered breakfast at the hotel, which was a Japanese-Western selection, pretty similar to what you'd find at a typical Western buffet.FromPHP 22,174
Great898 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.7km from city centre
Our stay at Hakone Ten-yu was absolutely wonderful and definitely the most memorable part of our Japan trip. The hotel boasts a beautiful setting with stunning views of the Hakone mountains, making the entire stay incredibly relaxing.
The highlight for us was the hotel's onsen, especially ”Uki-Gumo no Yu.” The open-air infinity bath offered breathtaking views. Soaking in the hot springs while watching the sunrise in the morning truly made us feel embraced by nature. The room was also very comfortable, with a charming Japanese aesthetic. The staff were friendly and attentive, providing warm and exceptional hospitality.
Dinner was exquisite, and the entire dining experience felt very special. Staying here as a family, enjoying the onsen, wearing yukata, and savoring delicious food made for a truly comfortable Hakone getaway.
If you're planning a trip to Hakone, I highly recommend Ten-yu! The scenery, hot springs, service, and overall atmosphere are all fantastic. It's definitely worth another visit. ♨️✨FromPHP 22,665
Great43 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|2.3km from city centre
Hotels in Hakone are generally expensive, but Kai Hakone offers a pretty good value for money.
Room: We booked a standard room. It was newly renovated, clean, bright, and well-designed with a great view. Very comfortable stay.
Onsen: The public bath isn't large, with one open-air bath for men and one for women, both overlooking the valley. It's small but charming. The baths switch locations between morning and evening. The lemon water is delicious.
Other Activities: There's a tea house in the common area with a beautiful view. They offer complimentary tea and snacks in the afternoon, and local shochu in the evening (though it wasn't great). You can also book a local yosegi woodworking activity. The lobby also provides free tea and water all day.
Food: Breakfast and dinner are provided. Post-pandemic, the quality of dining at Kai is not comparable to pre-pandemic times, especially breakfast. Overall, the food is decent with some thoughtful touches, and their desserts are particularly good. I'd recommend staying for 1-2 nights. Currently, the restaurant only offers two dinner menus plus a vegetarian option, and for breakfast, one Chinese and one Western set. So, for our 3-night stay, the dining experience on the third day felt a bit underwhelming.
Location: It's located halfway up a mountain, so you'll mostly rely on taxis for getting around. It's about 1500 yen from Hakone-Yumoto Station.Great245 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|4.55km from city centre
Let's get the most important thing out of the way first: Fujiya Hotel offers both Western and Japanese Kikuka-so dinner options. DO NOT choose the Western dinner. It will ruin any positive experience you have at Fujiya. I saw reviews saying it wasn't good, but I thought, 'It's been open for so many years, surely it can't be *that* bad, maybe just mediocre.' I was terribly, terribly wrong. It was the worst Western meal I've ever had in Japan. Luckily, I booked the cheaper JPY 12,000 set menu. The appetizer, a seafood terrine, made me want to vomit immediately – it had a strong ammonia smell. The next course was another terrine, this time meat, completely bland, and the vinegar inside was rancid. The soup was carrot soup, which had an off-putting body odor smell when served, though it tasted okay. The three pieces of bread were cold, the baguette wasn't toasted, lacked any wheat aroma, and was tough. Only the butter was decent. For the main course, I chose duck. Again, completely unseasoned. There were no salt or pepper shakers on the table. I forced down one piece, but it was so bland I couldn't eat the other. The dessert, Mont Blanc and ice cream, was excessively sweet – a lethal dose of sugar that masked all other flavors. Just a small bite sent my blood sugar soaring. The ice cream was still rock-solid. Truly an eye-opener. I barely touched any of it; nothing was edible, and each dish was uniquely awful. The Western restaurant has two dining areas – a main restaurant and the small one I was in – sharing the same menu and kitchen. Avoid it at all costs. They don't even serve lunch. The chefs here aren't fit to tie the shoelaces of the chefs at the more affordable Hotel Nikko Kanaya in Chuzenji. That place, for only a little over a thousand yen, offered a fantastic half-board experience – fresh, delicious, and unforgettable. The Fujiya Western restaurant chefs must have lost their sense of taste and smell to spend so much time preparing such an inedible and foul-smelling meal. Absolutely nothing redeeming about it. For breakfast, I chose Kikuka-so, which was a simple and delicious meal. I ate everything. The seasoning at Kikuka-so was spot-on. The complimentary tea and coffee bar for guests was pretty average, nothing special, similar to cheaper hotels. Regarding the rooms, Fujiya Hotel consists of three buildings. The cheaper Forest Lodge looks like staff quarters. The Western Building, with its white and Western-style design, is very elegant. Of course, the most iconic building is the yellow, Western-style 'Hanagoten,' which is quite luxurious. There are high, medium, and low-end rooms to suit all budgets, and the quality matches the price. I stayed in Room 17 in the Western Building, and I was extremely satisfied. The room had high ceilings, was spacious, free of any odors, and had large, numerous windows with beautiful views. The only minor drawback was that the bathtub was only for soaking; there was no high fixture for a shower. It's very well-maintained. Overall, I didn't want to leave. The service was warm and attentive. Next time, I'd like to stay in a room in the Hanagoten. For transportation, there's a bus stop right outside, and a convenience store next to Kikuka-so. Overall, it's worth a stay.FromPHP 15,671
Great107 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|6.62km from city centre
The room facilities are complete, spacious, bright, and comfortable, with beautiful views outside the window. Waking up every morning to a stunning mountain view feels so refreshing. The breakfast selection is also plentiful and suits our taste perfectly. Sometimes, if we wake up early, we can even go for a hike outside the hotel, which is great! After a thirty-minute walk, we come back just in time for a delicious breakfast. In the evening, we can enjoy a hot spring bath ♨️ and then have a cup of local tea, which is very pleasant. The lobby restaurant also features different piano performances every day.FromPHP 22,391
Amazing80 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.43km from city centre
This time, I brought my parents for a vacation, and after looking at many hotels, we finally settled on Suishoen. It was absolutely the right choice! The room was very new and spacious, with a private onsen inside. A stream flowed just outside the balcony, and we enjoyed soaking in the hot spring while listening to the sound of the flowing water. The mini-bar offered a great variety of new drinks and snacks. My parents soaked in the onsen twice a day, and their skin improved noticeably.
On the first day, we chose the Kaiseki dinner, and every dish was impeccable. On the second day, we went for Teppanyaki, and my mom raved about it; it truly lived up to Michelin standards. There's a Lawson convenience store right outside the hotel, and a 7-Eleven about 500 meters away. We bought the Hakone Free Pass, and the hotel even dropped us off at the train station. We took the mountain train, the ropeway, and the pirate ship – we experienced it all! This Hakone trip was very satisfying!FromPHP 39,877
Business travel
Great859 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.19km from city centre
The Hakone Fujiya Hotel is really conveniently located. You get off at Hakone Tozan Line's OH51 terminal, walk straight, turn left, take the direct elevator down, walk forward past the red railing bridge, turn right, and a little further on your left, there's an elevator leading up to the main entrance, which is also the parking lot.
The cold water from the tap in the room is drinkable. The hot springs are on the second floor, and the recliners in the lounge are very comfortable. They offer hot and cold tea, and you can buy milk and yogurt from vending machines if you have some small change. Breakfast on the first floor at 7 AM is super crowded.
Dinner at the hotel took over an hour. Dining at 8 PM on the second day was too late.
The original flavor dango from a street vendor near the entrance was very soft and reminded me of rice cakes grilled on a gas stove when I was a child. The rusks here are quite tasty, and there's also a visually appealing ice cream shop, but you have to eat your purchase inside the store. It was very crowded, so I didn't buy anything.
It rained for both nights we stayed, luckily we had a private car tour. Our first stop was the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which opens at 9 AM; it's more enjoyable to wander around when there are fewer people. We bought tickets for the pirate ship for 2500 yen, and with fewer people, we were prioritized for boarding – a smart move on a rainy day.FromPHP 11,446
Great182 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.39km from city centre
Yama No Chaya has its own beauty and serenity. I personally don’t find it hard to locate - 2 bus stops away from Hakone Yumoto station + a 5 minutes walk are worth the stay. (Bus service stopped for one of the days due to bad weather and we walked for 20 minutes to Hakone Yumoto Station - all good)
The team is very hospitable - they also have some English and Chinese speaking staff otherwise simple English is not an issue to communicate. Our butler - Sandip always carry a smile with him, and he ensured we are very well taken care of. Every morning, the team will prepare heat pack and umbrellas for us (it was raining and snowing). In the evening, they made tea and prepared snacks (vary from mochi to sushi) for us upon our returned.
The room we booked is Yamano Ichigo (main wing) - just nice for 2. The viewing platform was where we relaxed every evening and we soaked our tiredness away in our very own private onsen at the basement. Despite of having our own private onsen, I still went to visit 3 other public onsen within the Ryokan - you will not be disappointed.
Our room came with daily breakfast and we added on dinner for 1 night. I must say the chef and culinary team put in their passion and effort to prepare all the dishes. It’s not common for a visitor like me to taste Kaisekai cuisine which I enjoyed very much. You need to take time and an empty stomach to full experience it :) However, my partner and I weren’t used to heavy breakfast and our butler noticed it - we get to change to western style for the rest of the stay which was equally delicious. We are thankful that we minimised food wastage.
Overall, we felt pampered during our stay at Yama no Chaya :) I will return again in the future when I visit Hakone.FromPHP 35,681
Very Good252 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.19km from city centre
A perfect hotel! It's conveniently located, and you can take a paid shuttle bus (as shown in Picture 6) from Hakone-Yumoto Station to get there. The environment is beautiful, with a garden, waterfall, and shrine behind the hotel. It's clean and tidy; you take off your shoes as soon as you enter and don't need to wear any shoes throughout the hotel, not even slippers – incredibly convenient! Breakfast and dinner are buffet-style with excellent, authentic Japanese food. The only minor drawback is that the hotel rooms don't provide drinking water, so you have to buy your own.FromPHP 10,775
Great501 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|9.95km from city centre
OMG, there were bugs everywhere in our room, and for the price we paid, it was extremely disappointing.
The buffet offered a wide variety of food options, which was a positive, but the sheer number of guests made the experience feel crowded, noisy, and far less premium than we expected from a hotel in this price range.
Another frustrating issue involved some items my family accidentally left behind. My brother left an Apple charger adapter, and my father left a dental kit in the room. After checking out, we asked our next hotel to call and notify the property. We then spent around 30 minutes traveling back to retrieve the items, only to be told by the front desk that nothing had been found. What was even more disappointing was being told that it was ”not possible” for us to have left the items there because they would have been found if they had been left behind.
Rather than helping investigate the situation, the staff seemed more interested in dismissing our concerns. Whether the items were misplaced, overlooked during housekeeping, or genuinely not found, being told that our account of events was impossible was both frustrating and unprofessional.
Overall, this stay fell well below our expectations, especially considering the price point. Unfortunately, the issues with room cleanliness, the crowded atmosphere, and the handling of our lost-property inquiry left us with a very negative impression.FromPHP 15,813
Very Good206 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1km from city centre
It's about a 15-minute walk from the train station to the hotel. You cross the main street and then turn onto a street by the stream, where you'll see several hotels lined up along the bank. The hotel's policies, however, seem designed to be inconvenient. Check-in is at 3 PM, and check-out is at 10 AM. The hot spring appears to only be open for three or four hours in the evening. Breakfast is from 7 AM to 9 AM, with the last entry at 8:30 AM, and luggage storage is only available until 2 PM at the latest... Is this really designed for a vacation? The facilities are visibly older, but like most Japanese hotels, they are well-maintained and clean. The massage chairs in the common area, though, were a huge plus! Listening to white noise all night in Hakone during the rain was still quite relaxing. If you walk another five minutes uphill from the hotel, there are two soba restaurants and an outdoor sukiyaki place that are definitely worth checking out!FromPHP 16,049
Great232 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.67km from city centre
Our trip to Hakone was incredibly lucky, with beautiful clear weather, and staying at the Yoshike Ryokan exceeded our expectations, leaving us very satisfied.
The most impressive feature of the ryokan is its vast, strolling garden. Spanning a large area, the garden is exquisitely designed with ponds, small bridges, lush trees, and moss. Strolling through the courtyard at leisure, with the sound of flowing water and abundant greenery, every step reveals a new beautiful view. The atmosphere is truly captivating, and you could easily spend a long time just exploring the garden. The view of the garden from our room was also delightful.
I must give a special shout-out to a staff member with a ********* accent. Her service was gentle and incredibly patient. She was meticulous and thoughtful in her communication, diligently answering all our questions, and her demeanor was humble and courteous, adding a lot of warmth to our trip. Overall, the staff at the ryokan are of a very high standard, treating guests with kindness and grace.
Many online reviews mentioned that the facilities are old, but we honestly didn't feel that way during our stay. Our room was clean and comfortable, and the entire ryokan environment was very quiet, far from the hustle and bustle, making it perfect for relaxation.
We didn't opt for the kaiseki meal at the ryokan this time, so we can't comment on it.
This old ryokan perfectly captures the serene ambiance of traditional Japan. After soaking in the hot springs and strolling through the garden, both body and mind felt completely soothed. If I ever come back to Hakone, I would gladly choose to stay here again. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys peaceful gardens.FromPHP 21,493
Family friendly
Amazing396 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|9.21km from city centre
It has the classic, prestigious feel of an established hotel. Excellent service and stunning views—just walk downstairs and you're right by the lake, which is perfect for a stroll. The cleanliness was top-notch, and it must be even more gorgeous on a sunny day. Highly recommended for those on a road trip.FromPHP 13,053
Great166 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.51km from city centre
Took my elderly parents here for a one night stay. We took the shuttle bus from the train station for 200 yen a person, but if I were to go again, I would opt for a taxi instead as the busses are small and can be hard to bring multiple pieces of luggage on.
I thought both dinner and breakfast would be at the buffet, but the check-in receptionist said dinner was a traditional Japanese kaiseki meal. As my parents can be picky eaters with foods they are unfamiliar with, I asked to switch to the buffet so they can eat whatever they want.
The room was large and had an a private open-air onsen bathtub. The shower next to the bath is a bit finicky as the water is on a timer. You have to press the lever every few seconds to get the shower running again. That day was chilly, so showering was a bit cold, but the onsen more than made up for that.
We did not visit the public bath or the public onsen, so cannot comment on those.
Yukatas are provided inside the closet in your room. Some guests chose to wear them everywhere inside the hotel, some did not. It is down to your personal preference.
The dinner buffet was quite nice, with lots of Japanese and Western food and drink options, including alcohol. While we were out at dinner, the staff came into our room and laid out a futon on the floor in additional to the 2 twin sized beds.
The breakfast buffet had somewhat fewer options, but it was still good.FromPHP 13,894
Very Good220 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|9.21km from city centre
We stayed here for one night as a group of three and had a wonderful experience. The hotel is a bit old-fashioned, but it was clean, well maintained, and had a charming, traditional atmosphere.
We booked a Japanese-style room with futons. The room was spacious and divided into two separate areas, giving us plenty of room to relax. We had a beautiful view of Mt. Fuji from our room, and the hotel’s Japanese garden also offered great views of the mountain. Setting up the futons ourselves was easy, and the room was equipped with yukatas, towels, and slippers for visiting the onsen.
The staff were friendly, spoke good English, and made us feel very welcome throughout our stay.
Both the onsen and the dinner buffet were included in the room rate, which made the stay feel like excellent value. We enjoyed the buffet before heading to the onsen. There was an impressive selection of dishes—almost too many to choose from! Most of the food was Japanese, and while not every dish stood out, everything we tried was good. Alcoholic drinks were available for an additional charge and were not included with dinner.
The onsen was definitely the highlight of our stay. There are separate bathing areas for men and women, and the rules were clearly explained, making it easy to use even as first-time visitors. The facilities were clean and included both indoor and outdoor baths. From the outdoor bath on the men’s side, we had a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji. We had read reviews saying the mountain was only visible from the women’s side, but that wasn’t our experience. Relaxing in the hot spring while looking at Mt. Fuji was unforgettable. The changing and washing areas were clean, and the opening hours were generous. Tattoos are not permitted in the onsen, so it’s best to bring your own tattoo cover stickers if you need them. They are also available for purchase at the front desk, although we found them to be a little expensive.
The hotel is located quite far from central Hakone, so it’s worth allowing plenty of travel time. However, it’s easy to reach by bus, and it’s also located right next to the Hakone Ropeway station, making it very convenient for visiting the area’s main attractions. We didn’t use the hotel’s shuttle service because the walk from the nearby bus stop was only a couple of minutes. One thing to keep in mind is that there aren’t any convenience stores or other shops within walking distance, so it’s a good idea to buy anything you might need before arriving.
Overall, we were extremely happy with our stay. Compared to many other hotels in the Hakone area, this one was noticeably more affordable, and we felt it offered excellent value for money considering everything that was included. If you’re looking for a traditional onsen experience with incredible views of Mt. Fuji, this hotel is an excellent choice.FromPHP 12,108
Very Good302 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.6km from city centre
At first, the resort seemed a bit dated, but after staying here, I had a wonderful experience. The outdoor hot spring was absolutely amazing and was the highlight of my stay. It was the perfect place to relax and unwind.
I would especially like to thank Mr. Hyunmo Yoo, the Korean staff member who helped us during check-in. He explained everything in great detail, including how to use the facilities and other helpful information, which made us feel comfortable from the very beginning. His kindness and professionalism were truly appreciated.
Thanks to the excellent service and the wonderful outdoor hot spring, I would definitely love to come back again. Highly recommended!FromPHP 9,442
Amazing501 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|8.33km from city centre
Staying at Odakyu Hotel de Yama was the most wonderful experience of our trip to Tokyo and Hakone. This century-old hotel, built by the lake, boasts beautiful surroundings. It has its own pier, which is great for photos. From the hotel room, we could gaze out at Lake Ashi, occasionally spotting pirate ships sailing by and slowly disappearing into the distance. It was a serene and lovely feeling.
Breakfast offered both Western and Japanese options. For dinner, we upgraded from sukiyaki to Japanese kaiseki, which I thought was quite good, though my son seemed more envious of the sukiyaki at the next table. The hotel provides a shuttle bus to Moto-Hakone Port, and the schedule and vehicle type are shown in the picture. However, I chose to walk from Moto-Hakone Port to the hotel, which took about fifteen minutes, and I stopped to see the lakeside torii gate and the small Hakone Shrine along the way.
I was very satisfied with the hotel's service. After booking, I had some questions about transportation and dining, so I emailed the hotel through Ctrip, and they responded quickly. Check-in was smooth.FromPHP 10,406
Great380 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.62km from city centre
The hotel pretty much remains the same as it was six years ago when I first stayed – very simple and straightforward. The staff are friendly and provide good service. On the second floor, there's a lobby where you can help yourself to drinks, alcohol, and snacks, which is very convenient. Both breakfast and dinner are buffet-style and very plentiful, making it a great option for those who aren't keen on Japanese food or have allergies.
The location is convenient for sightseeing and transportation, being close to Gora Station and The Hakone Open-Air Museum.
However, I don't quite understand why guests are made to park in the outdoor parking lot 150 meters away when there's a vacant indoor parking lot right at the hotel entrance. Also, our room was next to the housekeeping staff's workspace, and the noise from the pipes in the early morning was quite disruptive.FromPHP 5,019
Breakfast
Great299 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|8.68km from city centre
The hotel has a lot of history, though the facilities are average and breakfast is nothing special. However, the room was spacious. The views and location are excellent, right next to the pirate ship pier. Overall, it's convenient for getting around and sightseeing.FromPHP 13,374
Great102 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|10.6km from city centre
Hi everyone,
It was very beautiful place to stay, very peaceful, clean and comfortable. Large room, beautiful view and onsen was very good.
To those not travelling by car, you need to get a bus Hakone freepass to get around. You can purchase it online, this is a big help.
One of the biggest problem was when we arrived the bus station at bus stop no. 252 ( Sengoku-kogen), we called the hotel to arrange to be pick up from the bus station no. 252, we have terrible language problems. They don't understand where was bus stop 252. They don't recognise there is a coffee shop, Lawson and little police station. Finally we have to pull our luggageas all the way to the hotel. Majority of the road was uphill and very little lighting ... Near bus stop number 252, you can see Lawson, a coffee shop and little police station.
On the second day, the shuttle bus service took us out to the musuem. We walked back from the museums, it took about 90mins to walk back to the hotel. We were told the bus ticket have to purchase at the counter Tokendai. We were stucked in the hotel for two days, because we really don't know where to apply which bus tickets.
On the third day, the hotel shuttle took us to another musuem, we were very thankful a lady from a musuem inform us we can get the ticket Hakone free pass online.
On the fourth day, we just realised Tokendai ( cruise) very close to the hotel. Luckily we managed to get around for the last day of our stay.
Overall we enjoyed the stay. The receptionists were very polite and tried to help. We have communication breakdown, they were continually apologises.
Big thank you for the trip.com to solve the problem.FromPHP 10,217
Great106 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|6.44km from city centre
Here are a couple of minor points about this hotel:
- When I booked, I couldn't select more days because it was fully booked (understandable for such a great hotel).
- The hot tub in the room is enclosed by frosted glass, so you can't see the view of the wooded hills (only if you stand up and look over – and there's definitely something worth seeing!).
The location is excellent. It's easiest to get there from the cable car station (then it's a straight walk), but you can also come by bus (uphill, which isn't easy with luggage).
The hotel is situated in a very picturesque and quiet spot. The architecture is modern and incredibly photogenic. The common areas are beautiful and comfortable: a game room with board games, a fireplace, bookshelves filled with art books, and super comfortable armchairs. There are always drinks and sweets in the lobby.
The room was large, new, and very cozy. It was a lovely touch that they congratulated us with a card and rose petals for our honeymoon ❤️.
Everything in the room is controlled via a tablet: ordering a transfer for check-out, selecting breakfast time, etc.
Breakfast was delicious and varied with a beautiful view. Dinner came in different formats (extended, mini-version, or à la carte) – everything was very tasty!
The public onsen was empty in the evening, a wonderful experience to sit alone in an open-air hot tub with a garden view. By the way, both the rooms and the onsen have good quality toiletries.
Overall, my only regret is that I had too little time at this hotel... Photos don't do justice to how great this place is. I will definitely return if I'm ever in Hakone again.FromPHP 14,008
Great1124 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.68km from city centre
This was my third trip to Japan, and I finally got to experience a Japanese onsen with dinner and breakfast at Setsugetsuka. The room was comfortable, and while it was a bit of a walk to the main onsen since our room was further inside, the private open-air bath on our balcony offered great privacy overlooking a forest. Even though we stayed during Japan's Obon festival and it was very busy, we managed to enjoy the private onsen both at night and in the morning. On top of that, it even started to drizzle the next morning, making the private bath experience in the rain extra atmospheric. I also checked out the hotel's public onsen; the main bathhouse also had a lovely setting facing a forest, which would be great if it wasn't too crowded. As someone who's enjoyed many hot springs in Yunnan, I feel that Yunnan's onsens are just as good, if not better value for money. Still, I'd love to visit Hakone again in the winter season!FromPHP 12,363
Great104 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.35km from city centre
The biggest advantage is probably its proximity to Yumoto Station. You don't even need to go upstairs from the second floor; just walk to the end, turn left, take the elevator down, walk forward, turn left, and you're there in two minutes.
1. I planned to explore Hakone during the day and knew I'd miss dinner, so I only booked breakfast instead of the half-board option. That turned out to be a great decision. I definitely got back to Yumoto after dinner service had ended. The breakfast looked beautiful in photos, but it was hard to eat. There wasn't really anything appealing; just a bunch of miscellaneous small dishes and pickles.
2. The private onsen needs to be booked in advance, but it was just okay.
3. If you have a lot of luggage, staying in Yumoto is more convenient for check-in, and there are other restaurants open at night. If you're traveling light in Hakone, I'd probably choose Gora, book dinner at the hotel, and explore the various museums around Gora. For a day trip, you don't need to see everything; just pick one or two places you like.FromPHP 17,212
Great134 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.86km from city centre
Is a very relaxing onsen hotel with a great companion of free parking, unlimited free flow of drinks and alcohol, free supper ramen and helpful front desk staff assist when check in.. the hotel is just located near to the train station and old town.. really highly recommended and worth it.FromPHP 14,376
Gym
Amazing123 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.55km from city centre
Our stay at this luxury ryokan was simply magnificent in every aspect: the service, atmosphere, grounds, cleanliness, and the genuine care and attention to detail were all exceptional.
From the moment we arrived, we were treated with the utmost reverence and attentiveness, making us feel like honored guests and part of the ryokan family. As Russian guests, we were particularly impressed by the thoughtful arrangements made for our comfort. A Russian-speaking concierge was provided for check-in and orientation, and our waitress had made special preparations to explain the nuances and flavors of each dish in Kaiseki cuisine to us in Russian – a truly considerate touch that greatly enhanced our dining experience.
The ryokan's dedication to guest satisfaction extended beyond the expected. When we mentioned visiting a nearby museum (a mere 2-minute drive away), the hotel immediately offered us a complimentary transfer in a Mercedes S-Class. This gesture, like everything else, felt genuinely heartfelt and was provided entirely free of charge.
The onsen (hot spring baths) were superb, and our room, along with the overall tranquil and authentic atmosphere, was perfect. This experience has left a profound and lasting impression; you will forever hold a special place in my wife's and my hearts.
We would like to extend special and heartfelt thanks to AJARA and ROSA for their outstanding service and remarkable sensitivity to our cultural background and Russian language needs. Your efforts made our stay truly unique and deeply appreciated.FromPHP 48,696
Great52 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|9.88km from city centre
The service was excellent, professional, and very attentive. The in-room amenities were premium and had a luxurious feel. The towels and hot spring attire were made from high-quality material and felt wonderful. It's an excellent choice for a hot spring inn.FromPHP 19,518
Amazing66 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.2km from city centre
☀️ When i first arrived, i thought i was at the wrong place - i‘ve never booked something so nice for myself before!
🪲PROS
- chill 4 people bedrooms, with a comfy bed and a big personal shelf + locker and a fridge for the room
- clean facilities and rooms
- towel, toothpaste/toothpaste and yukata were provided as well as shampoo and showergel
- the common room was so cozy and nice, with tea and water always at the ready and a great view of the garden
- i was satisfied with both the dinner and breakfast and the price was fairly cheap (~1200¥ or a bit more, depending on your choices)
- PRIVATE ONSEN that you can book for around 50minutes at night and can use in the morning if nobody else is already using it (costs around 150¥ per use)
- there is a shuttle bus going at pretty regular times in the morning. They offer a ride to both Gora-Station or Hakone-Open-Air-Museum!
🩸CONS
- far from the city-centre/train station
🌱 i really enjoyed my stay. I had cool roomies that became travel companions and absolutely loved the inn, the onsen, the food and the kind staff!
Definitely a recommendation if you ever decide to stay in Hakone - i would book again!FromPHP 3,478
Amazing85 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.64km from city centre
The room is clean and the facilities are excellent. You must choose the double-board package. The breakfast is amazing and the dinner is pretty normal. In addition, this hotel is quite primitive and there will be some noise when you sleep at night.FromPHP 50,142
0 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.05km from city centre
1. Spanning approximately 14 hectares and surrounded by the majestic nature of Hakone, 'HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE' will open on December 15, 2026, in Kowakudani, a place steeped in the history of the Mitsui family. Reservations will start from July 15.2. All 126 guest rooms are equipped with natural hot springs and balconies/terraces, offering a high-quality stay that harmonizes with the seasons of Hakone.3. At the thermal springs facing Mount Asama, guests can enjoy a wellness experience in harmony with nature.4. A variety of dining options, including Japanese cuisine at 'Sankei,' offer culinary experiences that make the most of local ingredients.The hotel is located in Kowakudani, where the Mitsui family once had a cluster of villas, inheriting its historical background. This will be the second hotel under the HOTEL THE MITSUI brand, following 'HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO.' 'HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO' has earned high global recognition, including a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating, three Michelin stars, and selection in the World’s Best 50 Hotels. This new hotel will also open as the Mitsui Fudosan Group's top-tier luxury property.The hotel offers a quiet and relaxing stay where guests can enjoy hot springs, food, and interaction with nature in a vast area with views of Mount Asama and surrounded by Hakone’s magnificent nature.Additionally, by partnering with Marriott International’s luxury brand, The Luxury Collection, which has members worldwide, the hotel aims to welcome many guests from both Japan and abroad.Very Good49 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.68km from city centre
This is a very nice hot spring resort hotel. Finding it at this price during the New Year period is great value. The hotel is quite close to Carved Forest Station, or you can go to Gora; there's a free shuttle bus. If you're taking public transport, you can get off at Tenyu Station. The rooms are large, with balconies, a reasonable layout, separate wet and dry areas, and heating. The hotel itself has a hot spring. If you want to dine at the hotel, you need to make a reservation in advance. There are also restaurants nearby; I arrived quite late and had some yakiniku (grilled meat) nearby.FromPHP 4,310
🌸 Best Time to Visit Hakone
Hakone can be explored all year round, but the experiences vary greatly depending on the season:
Season | Weather | Highlights |
Spring (March–May) | Mild, pleasant | Cherry blossoms, rhododendrons in Gora Park, lush landscapes |
Summer (June–August) | Hot, but less stifling than in Tokyo. | Mountain hikes, refreshing Lake Ashi, summer festivals |
Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Pleasant temperatures, vibrant colours | Spectacular autumn foliage, excellent visibility of Mount Fuji |
Winter (Dec.–Feb.) | Cold, with occasional snow at higher altitudes | Onsen in the snow, often clear skies, crystal-clear views of Mount Fuji, |
Whatever time of year you visit, remember to pack a warm extra layer: evenings can be chilly at altitude, especially near the lake or at the top of the Ropeway!
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🍱 Hakone’s Culinary Specialities
Who said a small town couldn’t have its own traditions and culinary specialities? Yes, Hakone can also be discovered through your taste buds, especially after a day spent between the lake, the mountains and the onsens!
Among the unmissable specialities, there are of course the kuro-tamago, Owakudani’s black eggs cooked in sulphur-rich hot springs. You’ll also find excellent soba, buckwheat noodles made with the local spring water, often served chilled with soy sauce or in a steaming soup.
At ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), kaiseki dinners showcase local produce such as:
- Fish from Lake Ashi (tempura or grilled),
- Tofu and yuba (soya skin),
- Vegetables from the mountains,
- Slow-cooked small dishes served in lovely ceramics.
Tamura Ginkatsu-tei
4.8/542 Reviews
📍1300-739 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
Average spend
PHP 966
Finally, for a sweet snack, let yourself be tempted by onsen manju—little buns steamed by the vapour from the hot springs and filled with red bean paste—which you can buy still warm in the streets of Hakone-Yumoto. An absolute delight!
💡 Practical Tips: Transport and Travel Passes in Hakone
Getting around Hakone is quite straightforward once you understand the idea of the tourist “loop”. From Tokyo (usually from Shinjuku Station), you arrive at Hakone-Yumoto. Then, for each activity, you’ll need to take:
- A mountain train up to Gora,
- A funicular from Gora to Sounzan,
- The Hakone Ropeway to Lake Ashi via Owakudani,
- A boat on Lake Ashi to reach another port,
- A return bus to Hakone-Yumoto or your accommodation
To make life easier, opt for the Hakone Free Pass, which bundles most of the transport for this loop and includes a return journey from Tokyo (depending on the option you choose). It’s a practical and often cost-effective choice if you’re staying for at least a full day!
Have a wonderful trip! ✨
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Hakone
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