Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hakone-en is a tourist and leisure facility located on the northern shore of Lake Ashi (Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture). Taking advantage of its location overlooking Lake Ashi, it is home to an aquarium, a sightseeing boat landing, the Komagatake Ropeway station, lakeside walking paths, restaurants, souvenir shops, and more. The area has developed as part of Hakone's tourism development since the Showa era, and is popular with families, couples, and those who enjoy nature walks. The area's major attractions are the seasonal scenery (fresh greenery and cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves, and the tranquil lake surface in winter) and views of Mount Fuji.
Highlights
- Hakoneen Aquarium: There are exhibits of freshwater and saltwater, local freshwater fish and deep-sea creatures, and special exhibitions. There are also events such as petting corners and events with penguins and seals.
- Lake Ashi sightseeing (pirate ship, etc.): This sightseeing boat is a symbol of Hakone, and allows you to enjoy the scenery from the lake and tour the famous lakeside sites (departure and arrival points and operating routes vary depending on the season, so please check).
- Hakone Komagatake Ropeway: From Hakone-en you can climb to the summit of Mt. Komagatake, where you can get a panoramic view of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji from the observation deck on the mountain. The view is spectacular on clear days.
- Lakeside walks and view spots: There are walking paths and photo spots along the lake where you can enjoy the scenery of each season.
- Restaurants and souvenir shops: There are shops selling local specialties and snacks, making it a convenient place to take a break or buy souvenirs.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
It is accessible by both public transportation and car. As it is a major tourist spot in Hakone, there are multiple routes and means of transportation.
- Train + BusFrom Odawara Station or Hakone-Yumoto Station, take the Hakone Tozan Bus or the bus bound for Hakone-machi to Hakone-en (travel time is approximately 40-50 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto, but may vary from Odawara depending on connections).
- Hakone Free Pass: The Hakone Free Pass is a convenient way to tour Hakone, and allows you to use the mountain train, ropeway, bus, sightseeing boat, etc. at a discount, and is also useful for traveling to Hakone Garden.
- Pirate Ship Route: You can also access the lake from nearby ports (Motohakone Port, Togendai, etc.) by taking a sightseeing boat (pirate ship) around Lake Ashi. Depending on the port of departure and arrival, you may need to walk or take a bus.
- carAccess via the Odawara-Atsugi Road or Hakone Turnpike. Hakone-en has a parking lot, but it gets crowded during peak tourist season, so it's recommended to arrive early.
*Timetables and operation status may change depending on the season and weather, so please check the official website or transportation information in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour (1-1.5 hours): Walking around the lakeside + buying snacks and souvenirs only.
- Standard (2-3 hours): Includes a visit to the aquarium, a round trip to the summit of Mt. Komagatake by ropeway, a stroll along the lakeside, and a light meal.
- Relaxed (half a day to a full day): A plan that includes a visit to the aquarium, ropeway, sightseeing boat ride, and surrounding tourist spots.
Nearby spots
- Hakone Shrine (Motohakone) and Hakone Checkpoint Ruins: Hakone's history and lakeside attractions. A few minutes to 10 minutes by car or sightseeing boat.
- Owakudani: Hakone's volcanic region is famous for its black eggs, etc. However, access may be restricted due to volcanic activity or weather conditions.
- Hakone Glass Forest Museum, Pola Museum of Art, Hakone Open-Air Museum: A group of art museums. Accessible by car or bus from Hakone-en.
- Gora area/hot spring town: A convenient area for accommodation and visiting hot springs.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Weekends, consecutive holidays, autumn foliage season, and spring sightseeing season are extremely busy. Please allow yourself plenty of time as there may be waiting times for parking lots and restaurants.
- Weather and visibility: The spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and the lake surface are greatly affected by the weather. On cloudy or rainy days, the view may not be as good as you'd expect, so if you're looking forward to a great view, it's a good idea to check the weather forecast before visiting.
- Volcanic activity at Owakudani: Depending on the volcanic activity in Hakone, traffic and facilities in the surrounding area may be temporarily restricted. Please check official information.
- Nature Conservation and Manners：When visiting lakeside areas and natural parks, please take your trash with you and be considerate of the plants and animals. Please also follow noise and smoking rules and be considerate of other tourists.
- Business hours and fees: Opening hours, closing days, and admission fees vary by facility. Please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
That's the main introduction to Hakone-en. If you need specific information on times, fees, and events, please let us know the date you would like to visit and we will look up the latest information based on official information.
