The Fuji Hakone Izu National Park
Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji
The Hakone Izu National Park is a government protected area covering a large part of Western Kanagawa and the Izu peninsula. The nature and outdoor activities in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park are abundant and eclectic. You can hike, swim, surf, fish, mountain bike, and much more in wonderful natural surroundings.
Within the park are volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, and forests to discover. It takes about an hour to reach the Hakone area from Tokyo by Odakyu train, JR Line, or Shinkansen. ACCESS The area is a popular getaway destination for people in Tokyo. Here are some highlights of the park located in the Hakone area.
Hot Springs
Japan has thousands of hot springs, known as onsen, throughout the country. The onsen has a long a rich history and place is Japanese culture and society. Hakone is one of the most popular hot spring destinations in Japan. Hakone is known as a “Hot Spring Theme Park” because of the variety of hot springs located in the same area. The onsen differ in temperature and mineral content. The differences in water, views, and location make this one of the best places in Japan to experience the Japanese hot spring.
Owakudani
Steaming Vents of Owakudani
The main geological attraction in the Hakone Izu National Park is Owakudani. Owakudani is an exposed mountainside of steaming vents and sulfur gases located in the heart of Hakone. Visitors can explore the area on foot and marvel at this geological marvel. There are also wonderful views of Mt. Fuji from the area, accessed by ropeway or bus from Gora or Lake Ashi
Hakone Hiking
Suginamiki, Ancient Cedar Road
The majority of the Hakone area is located within the walls of weathered dormant volcanoes. These make for wonderful peaks to explore on foot. There are many hiking trails throughout the area that are easily accessible from one of the many bus stops in the area. The trails have different lengths, difficulty levels, and views to enjoy. Click here to see more.
Lake Ashi
View from Washintei Hougetsu Ryokan
Lake Ashi was formed from the a landslide from one of the volcanic peaks in Hakone. This fresh water high altitude lake is the backdrop for the famed Hakone Shrine. You can enjoy different activities such as boat riding, kayaking, and SUP on the lake during the summer months. There are wonderful historic locations around the lake, it has been used as a setting for many popular anime, and has legends of a nine headed dragon.
