TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hakone Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Motohakone, Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is a stately shrine that stands with the Hakone Mountains and Lake Ashi in the background. It has long been worshipped as a shrine for mountain worship and protection of traffic, and since the Kamakura period it has been revered by military commanders and travelers. The vermilion-lacquered shrine building and the large torii gate facing Lake Ashi (the lakeside torii gate, also known as the "Peace Torii") are iconic, and the shrine is popular for its seasonally changing scenery and photogenic views.
Its charm lies in its tranquil atmosphere where nature and history coexist in harmony. The cedar trees lining the approach, the ancient trees, the sacred tree, and the Hakone mountain ranges visible across the lake make it a highly satisfying spot for strolling, photography, and worship. Another appealing feature is that it can be easily combined with sightseeing routes throughout Hakone (Lake Ashi sightseeing boat, Hakone Checkpoint, Hakone Open-Air Museum, hot springs), making it easy to incorporate into day trips or overnight itineraries.
Highlights
- The large lakeside torii gate (the vermilion torii gate along Lake Ashi) - the scenery reflected on the lake surface is beautiful, and it is a famous spot for photographing morning mist and sunsets.
- Main Hall and Worship Hall - The vermilion painted shrine building has a solemn atmosphere. Visitors must observe the proper etiquette for worship (washing their hands, bowing twice, clapping twice, bowing once).
- The cedar trees and sacred trees along the approach to the shrine - a walking path where you can enjoy the tranquil forest atmosphere. Perfect for taking photos and forest bathing.
- Visit Kuzuryu Shrine (Shingu/Hongu) — Located on Lake Ashi, Kuzuryu Shrine is known for its promises of matchmaking and good fortune. The main shrine can be reached by sightseeing boat or on foot.
- Hakone Checkpoint Site and Museum — A historic site that conveys the checkpoint culture of the Edo period (within walking distance/Motohakone area).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest gateways: Odawara / Hakone-Yumoto — Odawara is a Shinkansen stop, and Hakone-Yumoto is the gateway to the Hakone Tozan Railway.
- Public transportation (general routes)
- Odawara Station → Hakone-Yumoto (approximately 15 minutes on the Hakone Tozan Railway) → Take the Hakone Tozan Bus to "Motohakone" or "Hakone-machi (Motohakone Port)" (approximately 25-40 minutes, travel time varies depending on the route).
- There is also a direct bus from Hakone-Yumoto to Moto-Hakone, which takes around 35 minutes (this may vary depending on the route and traffic congestion).
- Use the Lake Ashi Pleasure Boat (Hakone Pirate Ship): Access to Motohakone Port is possible from Hakonemachi Port or Togendai. Traveling by pleasure boat is a popular tourist route.
- car
- Accessible via the Tomei Expressway and Odawara-Atsugi Road. Paid parking is available around Motohakone (spaces are limited, so it is recommended to arrive early during peak season).
- Note: During winter and peak seasons, road congestion and parking lots are likely to be full. Bus and boat schedules change depending on the season, so we recommend checking in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 30-45 minutes — A short visit that includes worship at the shrine and taking photos by the lake.
- Leisurely stroll: 1-2 hours - This includes a stroll around the temple grounds after praying, a stroll along Lake Ashi, and sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as the Hakone Checkpoint).
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day - Take a sightseeing boat to visit Kuzuryu Shrine, Hakone Checkpoint, nearby art museums, hot springs, etc.
Nearby spots
- Hakone Checkpoint Museum and Hakone Checkpoint Site (Moto-Hakone) - A restoration of the checkpoint from the Edo period and exhibits related materials.
- Lake Ashi Pleasure Boat (Hakone Pirate Ship) — Views from the lake and transportation.
- Kuzuryu Shrine (Shingu/Hongu) — A shrine known for its love-making beliefs. There is a route across the lake to visit.
- Onshi Hakone Park (former Hakone Imperial Villa site) - A park where you can enjoy the view of Lake Ashi and Hakone.
- The art galleries, museums (such as Narukawa Art Museum) and hot spring inns around Hakone Shrine are popular tourist spots in Hakone.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Busy periods: Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season (around November), consecutive holidays, weekends, and public holidays are extremely busy. In particular, the photo spots for the Great Torii Gate can be crowded even in the early morning and evening.
- Worship etiquette: Purify yourself at the water basin and follow the two bows, two claps, and one bow procedure at the worship hall. Act quietly within the grounds and dispose of trash in the designated area. Photography is generally permitted, but there are areas during rituals and inside the buildings where photography is prohibited, so please follow the posted notices.
- Safety and Clothing: The approach to the temple grounds has stone steps and slopes, and some areas can be slippery on rainy days. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The lakeside can get chilly on windy days and in the mornings and evenings, so dress warmly.
- Barrier-free: There are some steps and stairs in some areas, making it difficult to move around completely with a wheelchair or stroller. Please check the route in advance.
- Transportation and Parking: Parking spaces are limited and fill up quickly during peak seasons. Please consider using public transportation or sightseeing boats.
