When visiting Japan, particularly the Kanto region, be sure to explore Hakone. With hydrangeas (or “ajisai”) adorning the rail tracks and hotels during summer, Hakone is a sight to behold! It’s best to visit on weekdays to avoid local onsen-goers. Also, don’t miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashi, attracting global tourists. Here’s a relaxed 2-day itinerary covering all prominent attractions in Hakone.
2-Day Itinerary
6.16 Day1 Shinjuku ➡️ Hakone-Yumoto ➡️ Sounzan ➡️ Owakudani ➡️ Lake Ashi ➡️ Hakone Shrine ➡️ Hakone-Yumoto
6.17 Day2 Hakone-Yumoto ➡️ Hakone Open-Air Museum ➡️ Shinjuku
Detailed Day1 Itinerary
🚉 Depart from Shinjuku Station in the morning. Buy a free pass and a 1200 yen Romancecar ticket to Hakone-Yumoto at the Odakyu counter.
🕚 Arrive at Hakone Yumoto after about an hour’s ride. Choose a nearby hotel for easy luggage drop-off.
🚂 After depositing luggage, take the slow but frequent red train to Gora.
🚂 Arrive at Gora around 12:30. Have a quick lunch nearby and continue to Sounzan. Once there, enjoy the panoramic views and try a local snack (though it may not taste very good).
🚠 Then, take the ropeway to Owakudani. The views on a clear day are exceptional. Don’t forget to try the black eggs, tasting just like regular ones, and check out the Hello Kitty photo op!
🚠 Continue on the ropeway (follow the crowd if unsure), and you’ll eventually reach Lake Ashi.
🚢 From there, board a pirate ship to the other side. Be mindful of the last boat’s departure time if you plan to return the same way.
⛩️ Disembark at Motohakone-ko, where you’ll find the stunning Hakone Shrine. You may also view it from the boat. The lakeside scenery here is incredibly picturesque and less crowded.
🚌 Around 5:30 PM, take a direct bus back to Hakone-Yumoto and unwind in the onsen at your hotel.
Detailed Day2 Itinerary
🚂 Catch the train to Gora around 10 AM. You might stumble upon a cute capsule toy, just like we did!
🗿 Get off at Chokoku no Mori and follow the crowd to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Use your free pass for a slight ticket discount.
🍣 Enjoy lunch at a random sushi restaurant, Kappo Sushi. Be prepared for a queue, and savor the fresh dishes served.
🚄 Post lunch, take a train back to Shinjuku. You may even spot Mount Fuji on your journey back!
Remember, Hakone is best enjoyed in good weather. This itinerary is relaxed and leaves you plenty of energy for shopping in Tokyo upon return!
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