1 day itinerary for Hakone

Itinerary

A day in Hakone can be a delightful experience, filled with stunning views, relaxing hot springs, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your day in Hakone, starting from Hakone-Yumoto Station.

Morning: Arrival and Scenic Views

8:00 AM - Arrive at Hakone-Yumoto Station Welcome to Hakone! As you step off the train, take a moment to soak in the fresh mountain air. The station area has a charming vibe, with little shops and cafes. Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery or café—try a delicious melon bread or a matcha latte to kickstart your day!

9:00 AM - Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum Hop on the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Chokoku-no-Mori Station (about 15 minutes). The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-visit! It features stunning sculptures set against the backdrop of the beautiful mountains. Don’t miss the Picasso Pavilion, which showcases some of his works. Take your time wandering through the gardens and enjoying the art.

Midday: Relaxation and Culture

11:30 AM - Explore Gora Park After the museum, take a short walk to Gora Park. This lovely park is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can enjoy the seasonal flowers, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at making your own matcha tea in the tea house!

12:30 PM - Lunch at a Local Restaurant Head to one of the nearby restaurants for lunch. You can try some local specialties like soba noodles or kaiseki (a traditional multi-course meal). If you’re in the mood for something casual, grab a bento box to enjoy in the park.

Afternoon: Hot Springs and Views

2:00 PM - Visit Owakudani Valley After lunch, take the Hakone Ropeway from Gora to Owakudani. The views from the ropeway are breathtaking! Once you arrive at Owakudani, you can see the volcanic activity, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous black eggs (kuro tamago) boiled in the hot springs—legend has it that eating one adds seven years to your life!

3:30 PM - Relax at an Onsen Next, head to one of the nearby onsens (hot springs) for some relaxation. Many onsens in Hakone offer day-use options. If you want a traditional experience, consider visiting Tenzan Onsen, which has beautiful outdoor baths surrounded by nature. Just remember to follow the onsen etiquette!

Evening: Scenic Views and Dinner

5:30 PM - Lake Ashi Cruise After your onsen experience, make your way to Lake Ashi. You can take a scenic boat cruise on the lake, which offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The sunset over the lake is simply magical!

7:00 PM - Dinner with a View Once you’re back on land, find a restaurant with a view of the lake or Mount Fuji. Many places offer delicious local cuisine, so treat yourself to a nice dinner. If you’re up for it, try some fresh fish or a hot pot dish.

Night: Return to Hakone-Yumoto

8:30 PM - Head Back to Hakone-Yumoto Station After dinner, take the bus or train back to Hakone-Yumoto Station. If you have time, you can explore the little shops for souvenirs or grab a sweet treat for the journey home.

9:30 PM - Depart from Hakone-Yumoto Station As you leave, take a moment to reflect on your wonderful day in Hakone. You’ve experienced art, nature, relaxation, and delicious food—all in one day!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your day in Hakone! Enjoy every moment! 🌄✨