Hakone

Hakone is a town located in Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It sits in the western part of the Hakone area within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, near Lake Ashi and Mount Hakone. The town is a major onsen (hot spring) destination and serves as a gateway for visitors exploring the region’s natural scenery, museums, and historic sites.

The area includes Lake Ashi, the Owakudani volcanic valley, and surrounding mountains. The terrain ranges from lake shores to forested highlands, and the climate is generally mild with cooler conditions at higher elevations. On clear days, Mount Fuji can be visible from several viewpoints.

Hakone developed as a post station on the Edo-period Tōkaidō road and grew into a popular leisure destination for travelers and artists. Today, tourism is the main industry, supported by ryokan inns, hot-spring facilities, and cultural attractions.

Tourism and attractions in Hakone include lake cruises on Lake Ashi, the Hakone Tozan Railway and cable car to the town of Gora, and a ropeway to Sounzan. Notable sites include Hakone Shrine beside the lake and the Hakone Open-Air Museum, along with other art venues such as the Pola Museum of Art and various galleries.

The Hakone Ekiden, a famous long-distance relay race held annually between Tokyo and Hakone, is closely associated with the region. Access is via Odawara Station on the JR Tokaido Line, with onward travel by Hakone Tozan Railway, ropeway, cable car, and local buses connecting Hakone’s towns.