1 day itinerary for Hakone

Itinerary

A day in Hakone can be a delightful experience, especially for couples looking to enjoy some fun activities and explore hidden gems. Here’s a charming itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and romance. Let’s dive in!

Morning: Scenic Start

8:00 AM - Breakfast at a Local Café Start your day with a cozy breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Japanese breakfast set or some delicious pastries. A popular spot is Bakery & Café Kuro, where you can enjoy freshly baked bread and coffee.

9:00 AM - Hakone Open-Air Museum After breakfast, head to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This unique outdoor museum features stunning sculptures and art installations set against the backdrop of the beautiful Hakone mountains. Stroll hand-in-hand through the gardens, and don’t miss the Picasso Pavilion, which houses some of his works. It’s a perfect blend of art and nature!

Midday: Adventure Awaits

11:30 AM - Ride the Hakone Ropeway Next, make your way to the Hakone Ropeway. This aerial tramway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. It’s a thrilling experience, and you can even spot Mount Fuji on a clear day!

12:30 PM - Lunch with a View Once you reach the top, enjoy lunch at Owakudani, where you can try the famous black eggs (kuro tamago) boiled in the hot springs. The view from here is simply stunning, making it a perfect spot for a romantic meal.

Afternoon: Hidden Gems and Relaxation

1:30 PM - Explore Owakudani After lunch, take some time to explore Owakudani. This volcanic area has steaming vents and bubbling hot springs. There are also some lovely walking trails where you can enjoy the scenery and maybe even spot some wildlife.

3:00 PM - Visit the Hakone Shrine Next, head to the Hakone Shrine, a hidden gem nestled in the forest by Lake Ashi. The serene atmosphere and beautiful torii gate leading to the water make it a romantic spot for a couple’s photo. Take a moment to reflect and enjoy the tranquility.

Evening: Romantic Relaxation

4:30 PM - Lake Ashi Cruise After exploring the shrine, take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi. The boat ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and, if you’re lucky, Mount Fuji in the distance. It’s a lovely way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.

6:00 PM - Onsen Experience After your cruise, treat yourselves to a relaxing soak in an onsen (hot spring). Many ryokans (traditional inns) offer day-use options. Yunessun is a fun choice with various themed baths, or you can opt for a more traditional experience at Tenzan Tohji-kyo.

Dinner: A Romantic Finale

7:30 PM - Dinner at a Traditional Ryokan End your day with a romantic dinner at a traditional ryokan. Gora Kadan is a luxurious option where you can enjoy a kaiseki meal, a multi-course Japanese dinner that’s as much about the presentation as it is about the taste.

9:00 PM - Stargazing If you’re up for it, take a short walk outside after dinner for some stargazing. The clear mountain air can offer a beautiful view of the night sky, making it a perfect end to a romantic day.

Wrap-Up

And there you have it! A day filled with fun couple activities, hidden gems, and plenty of opportunities to explore and connect. Hakone is a beautiful destination, and I hope you have an unforgettable time together! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor the itinerary even more!