Hakone is a famous spot in the Kanto region, known for its healing hot springs and stunning nature1. It’s full of attractions, from museums and temples to lakes and outdoor fun. This guide will show you the top 10 spots in Hakone, Japan, for a great trip.
Jump to:
- 1 Explore the Captivating Hakone Glass Museum
- 2 Top 10 things to do in Hakone Japan
- 3 Unravel the Treasures of Hakone’s Art Museums
- 4 Indulge in Local Cuisine and Brews
- 5 Conclusion
- 6 FAQ
- 6.1 What are the top attractions in Hakone, Japan?
- 6.2 What can I do at the Hakone Glass Museum?
- 6.3 How can I experience Lake Ashi in Hakone?
- 6.4 What can I discover at the Choanji Temple in Hakone?
- 6.5 What art museums can I visit in Hakone?
- 6.6 What culinary and craft experiences can I enjoy in Hakone?
- 7 Source Links
Key Takeaways
- Hakone is a popular year-round destination for Japanese and international visitors.1
- Hakone boasts a variety of museums, including the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Hakone Venetian Glass Museum.1
- Explore the town’s natural wonders, including the Owakudani volcanic zone and Ashinoko (Ashi Lake).1
- Discover the historic Hakone Shrine, dating back to 757 AD1
- Enjoy scenic transportation options, such as the Hakone Tozan Railway and ropeways1
Explore the Captivating Hakone Glass Museum
The Hakone Glass Museum is hidden in Hakone’s lush forests. It’s a gem that captures hearts with its stunning crystal garden2. The garden changes with the seasons, showing autumn susuki grass and winter Christmas trees. This creates a magical atmosphere.2
The museum is inspired by classic Venetian glass. It lets visitors enter a surreal, iridescent world. The crystal garden sparkles in the sun, taking guests to a dream world where art meets nature.
Enjoy Afternoon Tea with Italian Performers
The museum also offers a special afternoon tea. Guests can enjoy Italian-inspired food and drinks and be entertained by talented Italian performers2. This mix of art, culture, and fine dining makes for a memorable experience, making visitors feel like royalty.
The Hakone Glass Museum is perfect for art lovers and those seeking peace.3 It has a beautiful crystal garden, amazing glass art, and a unique afternoon tea. This museum offers a deep dive into Hakone’s art and culture.2
“The Hakone Glass Museum is a hidden gem that transports visitors to a surreal, crystalline world where art and nature collide in a mesmerizing display.”
Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, walk through the peaceful garden, or enjoy afternoon tea. The Hakone Glass Museum is a top attraction that will leave a lasting impression23.
Top 10 things to do in Hakone Japan
Cruise Across the Iconic Lake Ashi
A trip to Hakone isn’t complete without a cruise on Lake Ashi. You can pick from many boats, like the big pirate ships that hold hundreds4. This lake, considered 3,000 years old, shows off the area’s beauty. You’ll see the famous red torii gate and Mount Fuji from afar. A sunset cruise is especially magical, offering a peaceful view.4
Discover the Stunning Choanji Temple
The Choanji Temple in Hakone’s Sengokuhara area is a spot you can’t miss, especially in autumn. It’s surrounded by colourful maple trees, making it a sight to behold. You can explore the peaceful grounds and see the many rakan statues with unique looks.5
Hakone has many attractions, like Lake Ashi and the Choanji Temple, perfect for those who love nature and culture. These places let you dive into Hakone’s beauty and history456.
Unravel the Treasures of Hakone’s Art Museums
Hakone is famous for its art museums, each offering a special experience. You can visit the Pola Museum of Art, which has French Impressionist paintings, or the Lalique Museum, which has beautiful glass and jewellery by René Lalique7.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a place you shouldn’t miss. It has a sculpture park and indoor spaces. Here, you can dive into modern and contemporary art. It’s best to spend 2-3 hours seeing everything and enjoying the beautiful natural world.
- The Narukawa Art Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Adults pay 1,300 yen, high school and college students 900 yen, and junior high and elementary school students 600 yen. You can get a discount with the Hakone Free Pass9.
- The Sekisho Karakuri Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It shows off mechanical displays.9
- The Lalique Museum Hakone is in the Sengokuhara area. It features the glass art of René Lalique, known for his nature-inspired designs9.
Hakone’s art museums are a great way to dive into art and culture. They offer a rich experience for art lovers and those seeking a cultural journey7.
“Hakone’s art museums are a feast for the senses, transporting visitors to a world of beauty, creativity, and wonder.” – John Doe, Travel Enthusiast
Indulge in Local Cuisine and Brews
Hakone is a paradise for food lovers and beer enthusiasts10. It’s known for its seasonal local foods, from Black Eggs to Pond Smelt, and delicious desserts like Onsen Manju & Castella-Yaki10. You can also try unique Hakone Craft Beers infused with fruits to give you a real taste of the area.10
Savour Local Beers at Gora Brewery & Grill
At Gora Brewery & Grill, you can enjoy local craft beers in a cosy setting10. The place has a wooden interior and beautiful Japanese garden views10. Plus, there’s a hot spring foot bath outside for relaxation while you sip your beer10.
Craft Your Souvenirs at Crafthouse
For a hands-on experience, visit the Crafthouse in Gora Park10. Here, you can make souvenirs like pottery, glass blowing, or jewelry10. It’s a fun way to bring home a piece of Hakone’s culture10.
Hakone’s food and beer scene showcases its rich culture and nature10. Visitors are urged to sample the local food and drinks for a true Hakone experience.
| Restaurant | Specialty | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kikkaso | Traditional Japanese Cuisine | – |
| Sushi Sho | Sushi | – |
| Moshiri-Soba Nakamura | Soba Noodles | – |
| Taigen | Liver Dishes | – |
| Kinosuke | Diverse Culinary Creations | Dinner: 2,500 JPY, Lunch: 1,300 JPY |
| Sengokuhara Yuzen | Hakone Dishes and Seafood | Dinner: 5,000 JPY, Lunch: 1,600 JPY |
| Hakone Kinnotake Saryo | Wagyu Shabu-Shabu | – |
| Himeshara | Buffet | Lunch: 3,800 JPY |
| Hakone Yumoto Restaurant | Flat Hand-made Noodles | – |
| Hakone Yumoto Restaurant | Tofu Shakes, Menchi Katsu Burger, Midnight Ramen | – |
| Hakone-Yumoto Station Restaurant | Buffet with Seasonal Ingredients | Lunch: 2,800 JPY |
| Toukarou | Chinese Cuisine | – |
| Yamahiko Zushi | Sushi, Kaisen-don | – |
“Hakone provides a cultural experience centered around local food and nature. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local cuisine and brews for an authentic Hakone experience.”
Hakone’s food scene is as varied as its landscapes, offering a chance to try local specialities and craft beers10. Whether it’s enjoying Onsen Stew Bread or making a unique souvenir, Hakone’s food and crafts are unforgettable101112.
Conclusion
Hakone is a top spot for those wanting to see nature, art, and culture together13. It has attractions like the Hakone Glass Museum and the peaceful Choanji Temple14. You can also enjoy art museums and try local foods, making it perfect for any traveler15.
Getting around Hakone is easy with buses, trains, boats, cable cars, and ropeways14. The Hakone Free Pass makes visiting places like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Mishima Sky Walk affordable15. This pass gives you unlimited transport and a round-trip ticket from Tokyo.13
Visiting Hakone means seeing Mount Fuji, trying black eggs, and immersing yourself in local art and culture15. It offers a lot and is easy to get to from Tokyo, so it’s a must-see spot for anyone travelling to Japan.
FAQ
What are the top attractions in Hakone, Japan?
Hakone has amazing spots like the Hakone Glass Museum, the famous Lake Ashi, and the beautiful Choanji Temple. You can also visit art museums and local breweries and try craft experiences.
What can I do at the Hakone Glass Museum?
At the Hakone Glass Museum, you can explore a dreamy crystal garden. Enjoy afternoon tea with Italian performers. And try delicious Italian food in a setting that feels like Europe.
How can I experience Lake Ashi in Hakone?
To see Lake Ashi, take a cruise showing the area’s beauty. You’ll see the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine and Mount Fuji. A sunset cruise is especially magical.
What can I discover at the Choanji Temple in Hakone?
The Choanji Temple is a gem in autumn. It’s peaceful, with vibrant maple trees and hundreds of rakan statues, each with a unique look and pose.
What art museums can I visit in Hakone?
Hakone is known for its art museums. Visit the Pola Museum of Art for French Impressionist paintings. The Lalique Museum shows beautiful glass and jewelry by René Lalique. The Hakone Open-Air Museum has sculptures and indoor exhibits.
What culinary and craft experiences can I enjoy in Hakone?
Hakone has great food and craft activities. Try craft beers at the Gora Brewery & Grill. Or make your souvenirs at the Crafthouse with pottery, glass blowing, or jewellery making.
Source Links
- https://www.snowmonkeyresorts.com/smr/mount-fuji/things-to-do-in-hakone/
- https://hakone-japan.com/plan-your-trip/travelog/hakone-travel-with-teenagers/top-things-to-do-in-hakone-with-teenagers/
- https://www.klook.com/en-HK/destination/p50310088-hakone-shrine/1-things-to-do/
- https://www.timeout.com/tokyo/travel/guide-to-hakone
- https://hakone-japan.com/plan-your-trip/travelog/15-things-to-do-in-hakone/15-things-to-do-in-hakone-en/
- https://jw-webmagazine.com/hakone-best-things-to-do/
- https://www.myholidays.com/travel/tokyo-hakone-3-days-2-nights-tour-package/
- https://www.honeyj-tours.com/a-mesmerizing-day-tour-of-hakone-art-nature-and-spirituality
- https://thegate12.com/article/210
- https://www.byfood.com/blog/travel-tips/what-to-eat-in-hakone
- https://savorjapan.com/contents/discover-oishii-japan/14-must-visit-spots-for-lunch-in-hakone-yumoto/
- https://simify.com/blogs/travel/top-things-to-do-in-japan
- https://www.ourpassionfortravel.com/2020/06/hakone-2-day-itinerary/
- https://donnykimball.com/hakone-8f5744a96c54
- https://hanastraveljournal.com/what-to-do-in-hakone/
