Sounzan

Sounzan, written in Japanese as 早雲山, is a mountain in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It forms part of the volcanic landscape around Lake Ashi and the Owakudani Valley within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The summit rises to about 1,200 meters above sea level, offering views of the surrounding ridges on clear days.

The area around Sounzan is characterized by hydrothermal activity and dramatic scenery. The nearby Owakudani Valley contains sulfur vents, hot springs, and fumaroles, reflecting ongoing volcanic processes in the region. The landscape and geological activity make the Hakone area a notable example of a volcanic ecosystem adjacent to a popular resort zone.

Sounzan is a transport hub in the Hakone region. It serves as the upper terminus of the Hakone Ropeway, which runs from Togendai on Lake Ashi and passes over Owakudani before reaching Sounzan. The ropeway provides access to the valley and surrounding attractions and connects with other Hakone transport networks at nearby hubs, facilitating access to destinations such as Gora, Hakone-Yumoto, and the lake area.

In addition to its transport role, the Sounzan area is a destination for sightseeing and panoramic views. The accessibility of Sounzan via ropeway and its proximity to Owakudani and Lake Ashi contribute to its popularity among visitors. As with other parts of Hakone, operations can be affected by volcanic activity, with closures or schedule changes during periods of unrest.