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The things to do in Hakone, Japan, offer an unforgettable journey through nature, history, and art. Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is famous for its natural hot springs, peaceful lakes, and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visitors can explore traditional shrines, immerse themselves in open-air museums, and ride scenic ropeways. The things to see in Hakone balance ancient cultural history with modern attractions. This comprehensive guide explores ten essential experiences that showcase Hakone’s volcanic landscapes, therapeutic hot springs, and cultural heritage.
8 Best Things To Do In Hakone, Japan
This list of things to do in Hakone, Japan, presents a captivating experience that blends ancient traditions, artistic exhibitions, and remarkable natural beauty for every traveller.
1. Hakone Open-Air Museum
Photo: Suicasmo / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the unique things to see in Hakone by visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This innovative museum fuses modern sculpture with the region’s dramatic landscape. Established in 1969, it exhibits over 100 artworks, including creations by Henry Moore and Taro Okamoto, spread across 70,000 square metres. The Picasso Pavilion houses 300 works by Picasso, and the Symphonic Sculpture’s stained glass tower provides expansive views through an array of colourful prisms.
Location: 1121 Ninotaira, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0493, Japan.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ¥1,600 / ₹880
2. Hakone Ropeway
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the most exhilarating things to see in Hakone with the Hakone Ropeway. This 4km aerial journey links Sounzan to Togendai via Owakudani, offering impressive views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. The gondolas glide above active sulphur vents, giving visitors a unique bird’s-eye view of the region’s geothermal activity. The 30-minute ride traverses the famous Great Boiling Valley, where rising steam from fumaroles creates a fascinating natural display for all enthusiasts.
Location: Sounzan Station to Togendai Station
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Seasonal variations)
Cost: ¥1,500 / ₹825
3. Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise
Embark on one of the exciting things to see in Hakone by taking a Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise. These replica 17th-century European vessels navigate the 7km expanse of a volcanic caldera lake. The 40-minute journey offers exceptional views of Mount Fuji from multiple decks, especially during periods of cherry blossoms in spring or colourful autumn foliage. Evening cruises, enhanced by illuminated ships during summer festivals, provide a magical and memorable nautical experience.
Location: Togendai Port to Hakone-machi Port
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Hourly departures)
Cost: ¥1,000 / ₹550
4. Owakudani Volcanic Valley
Photo: Suicasmo / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the intriguing things to explore in Hakone by exploring the Owakudani Volcanic Valley. Mount Hakone’s eruption 3,000 years ago formed this geothermal zone. Visitors can hike along trails infused with the scent of sulphur, passing steaming vents and sampling kuro-tamago – eggs boiled in mineral-rich waters that darken their shells. An observation deck provides views of Mount Fuji when conditions allow, making this site a remarkable encounter with nature’s power.
Location: Along the Hakone Ropeway route
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: Eggs ¥500 / ₹275
5. Hakone Shrine
Photo: Christophe95 / Wikimedia Commons
Hakone Shrine was established in 757 AD. This Shinto shrine features an iconic red torii gate that appears to float on Lake Ashi when the weather is calm. A stone stairway lined with traditional lanterns leads to the main hall, nestled in a cedar forest. In autumn, the approach becomes a stunning tunnel framed by golden ginkgo leaves, offering a cultural journey.
Location: 80-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Timings: 24*7
Cost: N/A; ¥500 / ₹275 for amulets
6. Pola Museum Of Art
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Discover one of the exceptional things to explore in Hakone, the Pola Museum of Art. This underground gallery displays one of Japan’s premier Western art collections, featuring works such as Monet’s “Water Lilies” and Renoir’s “Bathers.” Natural light streams through glass ceilings onto approximately 10,000 artworks housed in climate-controlled rooms. Outside, a beech forest provides sculpture trails accompanied by seasonal wildflowers, making this museum a comprehensive artistic experience that inspires every visitor.
Location: 〒250-0631 Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Sengokuhara, 小塚山１２８５
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost: ¥1,800 / ₹990
7. Hakone Glass Forest
Photo: Flow in edgewise / Wikimedia Commons
Hakone Glass Forest presents more than 100 Renaissance-era Venetian glass pieces set within European-style gardens. Daily glass blowing demonstrations illustrate traditional manufacturing techniques, while the Crystal Gallery’s chandelier room generates striking rainbow reflections. Additionally, the on-site café serves delightful desserts on authentic Murano glassware, ensuring visitors enjoy a unique blend of art and culinary charm that leaves lasting impressions.
Location: 940-48 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Cost: ¥1,500 / ₹825
8. Hakone Tozan Railway
Photo: JoachimKohlerBremen / Wikimedia Commons
Experience one of the classic things to see in Hakone by riding the Hakone Tozan Railway. As Japan’s oldest mountain railway, established in 1919, it ascends 540 metres over 15 kilometres on distinctive switchback tracks. This 40-minute journey passes hydrangea tunnels, flourishing in June and July, while autumn converts the route into a captivating view of maple and ginkgo hues, offering passengers a dynamic view of seasonal changes along the mountain path.
Location: Hakone-Yumoto to Gora
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Cost: ¥400 – 870 / ₹220 – 480
These things to do in Hakone, Japan, invite you to experience a perfect blend of historical sites, remarkable artworks, and natural wonders in one of Japan’s most compelling regions. Whether you’re cruising on Lake Ashi, exploring volcanic landscapes, or unwinding in an onsen, every moment offers a unique answer to what to do in Hakone. Plan a trip with TripXL for an unforgettable adventure.
