Hakone Onsen

Tips for Your Hakone Onsen Experience

Choose an onsen in Hakone

Hakone, Japan, has lots of public bathhouses, ryokans, and private hot spring resorts that house numerous onsen (hot spring baths). Before your trip, consider looking for hot springs in advance that suit your needs and wants. 

Here are some notable hot spring areas in Hakone:

• Hakone Yumoto: This hot spring located near the Hakone Yumoto Station is the largest hot spring town in Hakone. Hakone Yumoto has lots of hot spring facilities and inns, like the Yu no Sato Okada with its spacious bathing area and sauna, or Hakone Yuryo with its rustic onsen that offer both public and private baths.

• Kowakudani: It's known for its geothermal activity and offers a range of onsen facilities. It also provides easy access to Hakone's attractions, including the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun hot spring theme park.

• Lake Ashi: You can choose from the different hot spring facilities along Lake Ashi's shores. Visit Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori, a modern hotel with both indoor and outdoor onsen that offer breathtaking lake views.

• Gora: In the mountainous Hakone area lies Gora, also known for its many hot spring resorts like the luxurious ryokan Gora Kadan. It's also a convenient place for visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum and is accessible via the Hakone Tozan Railway.

Check the rules of the onsen you're visiting

It's always best to check your chosen onsen's rules before your trip. Some might not allow tattoos or swimwear, while others are more flexible. Knowing the rules in advance helps you relax and enjoy without any surprises!

Nearby Attractions to Visit After Hakone Onsen

Hakone-jinja Shrine

With its rich history and spiritual significance, Hakone-jinja Shrine is a worthy stop. You can marvel at the iconic "red gate of peace" in Ashinoko Lake or discover the shrine's past at the treasure house.

Don't miss the shrine's seasonal festivals, like the Ashinoko Summer Festival Week from late July to early August, where 18,500 shimmering fireworks light up the night sky!

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Stroll through Hakone Open Air Museum's beautiful gardens decorated with sculptures and an outdoor art gallery, which creates a perfect blend of nature and art! The museum also has a Picasso Pavilion where an impressive collection of his masterpieces awaits, making it a must-visit highlight of your trip.

Owakudani Valley

Wander along the trails of Owakudani Valley, a thrilling volcanic area famous for its bubbling hot springs and steaming vents. Their black eggs cooked in the hot springs are said to add seven years to your life, so make sure to try one!

Lake Ashi

Lake Ashi, or Lake Ashinoko, is a stunning crater lake that offers a magnificent view of Mount Fuji in the background. You can snap some photos of its crystal-clear water reflecting Mount Fuji's iconic silhouette. Or if you want to add a fun twist to your lake experience, you can board the pirate ship cruising across the lake!

Hakone Ropeway

Experience both nature and adventure by trying the Hakone Ropeway, a thrilling gondola ride that will take you from Sounzan Station to Togendai Station. Here, you'll see a breathtaking view of Owakudani and Lake Ashi. On clear days, there's a higher chance of seeing Mount Fuji, creating an unforgettable scene.

Mount Omuro

Enjoy an exciting chairlift ride to the crater rim of Mount Omuro, a famous dormant volcano in the Izu Peninsula in Japan. For a unique treat, you can cook takoyaki using the natural volcanic heat once you reach the top!

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan's most iconic symbol, offers breathtaking views whether you're visiting the accessible Mt. Fuji 5th Station or admiring it from the scenic landscapes of Hakone. You can also get a clear view of Mount Fuji from Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani Valley!