A weekend getaway in Japan: Hakone

Hakone is a town in Kanagawa Prefecture, less than 100 kilometres from Tokyo. It is known for its hot springs (Onsen温泉) and natural beauty – particularly the view across Lake Ashi, near Mount Fuji. I visited Hakone for a weekend trip with 2 other friends, here are some recommendations and tips I have for you! 

Hakone Open Air Museum 

Hakone Open Air Museum is an outdoor sculpture gallery that spreads across 70,000 square metres, it is the first outdoor gallery in Japan. Art works are placed in a way that is ought to be appreciated alongside Hakone’s natural scenery. My favourite of all was the Symphonic Sculpture, which is more of a tower than a sculpture. Whilst ascending the staircase of the tower, you will be captivated by the colourful stained glass that surrounds the tower. After reaching the top, you will also be able to see the whole Museum, surrounded by mountains. 

If you’re a fan of Picasso, there is a Picasso Exhibition Hall, which is a two-stories building filled with Picasso’s sculptures, paintings, and ceramic work. There is also a café inside the museum with a wide selection of sandwiches, sweets, coffee, and tea. There is also a hot spring footbath if you fancy a little dip into some warm water! 

Owakudani (via Cable Car)

Owakudani (大涌谷) is a place where you can observe volcanic activity up-close: a white pillar of smoking rising from the surface of the mountains. On a good day, you can see the majestic Mount Fuji. Much of the area is still an active volcanic zone, which means one can experience sulphurous fames and hot rivers. One of the things you’ll notice around the area is black eggs. These eggs are boiled using the natural hot spring water, and the sulphur in the water, gives the eggs its black colour. Rumour has it that having one of these eggs will extend your lifespan for 7 years!  

Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine (箱根神社), is located near the shore of Lake Ashi, the shrine dates back to year 757. I would highly recommend taking the Lake Ashi Cruise from Togendai (桃源台) to Hakonemachi-Ko (箱根町湖). This 25-minute journey will give you a glimpse of Hakone’s natural beauty and you will also be able to spot some red shrines along the way! After reaching Hakonemachi-Ko, the shrine is 10-15 away by foot. 
The most iconic site is the Tori of Peace (Heiwa no Tori平和の鳥居). It is called Tori of Peace because it was put together in 1951 to commemorate the Treaty of San Francisco, where Japan ended its role as an imperial power and established peace with 48 nations. Part of the Tori is submerged into the water, creating an astonishing site – redness of the Tori against the clear blue waters. Since the Tori is very famous, there might be a long queue to take photos! 

BONUS: Hakone Free Pass

The Hakone Free Pass is worth purchasing if you’re planning to visit Hakone. Not only does it include discounted prices for sightseeing locations (such as the Open-Air Museum), but it also includes unlimited access to 8 different transportation systems within Hakone (such as the cable car and the cruise). You can purchase the 2-day or 3-day pass depending on how many days you intend to stay in Hakone. You can find more details here.