A Uniquely Beautiful Landscape that has Inspired Travelers for Centuries

Hakone’s most iconic view can be seen from the south shores of Lake Ashinoko. The red torii gate of Hakone Shrine stands in the foreground, reflected in the rippling waters that extend off towards the forested hills rising up into the distance. Above them all, reaching upwards into the clouds that come and go with the winds, is Mt. Fuji.

It is a spectacular sight – one that should not be missed – but it is far from alone here. From the swaying pampas grass of the Sengokuhara fields to the volcanic steam vents and bubbling hot pools of Owakudani to the soft green light inside its forests, Hakone has been blessed with a landscape that is uniquely fascinating, alluring, and enchanting.

Travelers passing through the area have been inspired by its beauty for centuries. The legendary ukiyo-e woodblock artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) was moved to create dreamlike images of Lake Ashinoko and Mt. Fuji in his stunning work “The Lake at Hakone in Sagami Province”. Art museums and galleries abound here, including the Hakone Open Air Museum, which juxtaposes modern sculptures with the forests and mountains all around.

The best way to experience the full range of Hakone’s visual splendor is via private car. Traveling this way allows you the freedom to move at your own pace, stopping wherever you like and visiting places not accessible by public transport.

Relax and Reconnect with Time and Space for Quiet Contemplation

Imagine yourself immersed in the soothing natural hot spring waters of an open-air onsen bath, gazing out upon a pristine landscape of forests and mountains. By day, the sky is a boundless blue. By night, an eternal field of twinkling stars. Such moments of calm and full relaxation offer time and space for much-needed moments of quiet contemplation.

Like many of Japan’s mountainous regions, Hakone has long been a refuge from the cares of city life. For centuries, travelers have relaxed in naturally-sourced onsen at ryokan such as Matsuzakaya Honten, which was founded in 1662. Traditional okami proprietress, Fumie Makino, explains how she is continuing this storied ryokan’s proud legacy of hospitality. “Hakone’s appeal lies in its long history of welcoming people from both Japan and abroad.”

As well as visiting temples and shrines embedded into the landscape of Hakone, you can participate in experiences such as zazen (seated meditation) and suizen (meditation to the sound of a shakuhachi flute) that speak to the deep spiritual connection to nature that is such an essential part of Japanese culture. Thoughts of busy life in the city will soon fade amidst thatched roofs and wooden floors, surrounded by the tranquility of the forest.

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