There are hundreds of hot spring areas throughout Japan and Hakone is one of the most popular. Other popular hot spring areas in Japan include Beppu, Kusatsu, Gero, and Noboribetsu. Hakone is known as a “Hot Spring Resort” because of the wide variety of different water quality in the hot spring found throughout the area. The unique geology of the area gives the hot springs different ph levels, mineral composition, and feel. Being able to enjoy many different kinds of onsen all in one area makes Hakone a special place.

Hakone is located close to Tokyo, but the natural surroundings and beautiful nature make it feel a world apart. This nature and isolation make it a wonderful place for art museums to exhibit their works. Among the Hakone mountains are works by Monet, Van Gogh, Chagall, Picasso, Degas, Lalique, and many more. There are some world class museums hidden among the trees and other museums that cater to a specific niche of art enthusiasts. Among the many museums in the area are the Okada Art Museum, POLA Art Museum, Outdoor Museum, Lalique Museum, Narukawa Museum, Venetian Art Museum, Little Prince Museum, and many more.

Hakone is a unique place in Japan and the world. Among the Hakone Mountains you can get views of Mt. Fuji, walk the shores of the crater Lake Ashi, and feel the power of nature at the steaming vents of Owakudani. The deep valleys, flowing streams, and green moutains of Hakone are full of hiking options and quiet places to to relax. Hakone is part of the international Izu-Hakone Natural Park and Hakone Geopark to ensure the beauty of the area is protected and shared with future generations.

Hakone has shrines with histories that date back more than 1200 years! Hakone became a popular stop on the Tokaido Road when Japan`s capital was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Hakone has welcomed visitors and travelers for centuries. The mountains are dotted with historical shrines, the setting for famous folktales, and have many well preserved buildings. Hakone has been a place visited by people like Charlie Chaplin, Helen Keller, Albert Einstein and more.

One of the reasons for Hakone`s popularity is the easy access and close proximity to Tokyo. All the reasons to visit Hakone and all so close to Tokyo. You can reach Hakone in about an hour by using the JR Shinkansen or the Odakyu Romance Car. Hakone covers a wide area, but the transportation is smooth efficient and even economical with the Hakone Freepass. Hakone is also very close to Mt. Fuji and easily accessible from Lake Kawaguchi, making it easy to fit into any itinerary.