Hakone

Hakone is a beautiful destination that perfectly blends culture, sightseeing, and traditional experiences. Here’s a delightful one-day itinerary that will let you soak in the essence of this charming area.

Morning: Start with a Scenic Journey

8:00 AM - Depart from Tokyo

• Begin your day early by taking the Romancecar train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. The ride is about 85 minutes and offers stunning views of the countryside.

9:30 AM - Arrive in Hakone and Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum

• Once you arrive, head straight to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This unique museum features a beautiful collection of sculptures set against the backdrop of the mountains. Don’t miss the Picasso Pavilion, which showcases some of his works. Take your time wandering through the gardens and enjoying the art!

Late Morning: Traditional Experience

11:30 AM - Visit a Traditional Onsen

• After the museum, treat yourself to a traditional onsen experience. Head to Yunessun or Tenzan Tohji-kyo, where you can relax in the hot springs. If you prefer a more traditional ryokan experience, consider visiting Hakone Yuryo for a private onsen bath.

Lunch: Savor Local Cuisine

1:00 PM - Lunch at a Local Restaurant

• For lunch, try some local specialties like Kaiseki (a traditional multi-course meal) or Soba (buckwheat noodles). A great spot is Gora Kadan, which offers a beautiful setting and delicious food.

Afternoon: Cultural Exploration

2:30 PM - Visit the Hakone Shrine

• After lunch, make your way to the iconic Hakone Shrine. Nestled in the forest, this shrine is famous for its beautiful torii gate that stands in Lake Ashi. Take a leisurely stroll around the area and soak in the serene atmosphere.

3:30 PM - Lake Ashi Cruise

• Next, hop on a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi! This is a fun way to enjoy the stunning views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting) and the surrounding nature. The cruise takes about 30 minutes and is a fantastic photo opportunity.

Late Afternoon: Scenic Views

4:30 PM - Ride the Hakone Ropeway

• After your cruise, take the Hakone Ropeway up to Owakudani. The views from the ropeway are breathtaking, and you might even catch a glimpse of the volcanic activity in the area. Don’t forget to try the famous black eggs boiled in the hot springs!

Evening: Relax and Reflect

6:00 PM - Dinner at a Traditional Izakaya

• For dinner, head to a local izakaya (Japanese pub) to enjoy some casual dining. Try some yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and sake to round off your day.

7:30 PM - Return to Tokyo

• After a fulfilling day, take the train back to Tokyo. You’ll have plenty of memories and perhaps a few souvenirs from your day in Hakone!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather, especially if you want to see Mount Fuji.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking.
• If you have time, consider staying overnight in a ryokan for a more immersive experience!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic day in Hakone! Enjoy the culture, the sights, and the traditional experiences! 🌸