Hakone is a popular destination for visitors in Japan. Not only is it home to stunning natural scenery, but it also offers plenty of activities to do. If you have limited time in Japan, you might wonder if Hakone is worth visiting. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to decide why Hakone should be (or shouldn’t be) on your Japan itinerary.
On clear days, you can get stunning views of the iconic mountain from various locations around Hakone.
You can take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi, enjoy the views from the cable car, and take a dip in one of the onsen hot springs. There are also plenty of scenic hikes around Hakone that you can enjoy.
Located just outside Tokyo, you can get to Hakone from the city in a couple of hours. In fact, Hakone is one of the top spots for a day trip from Tokyo.
Hakone is located in the mountains and because of this, it can be very unpredictable weather-wise. We suggest you stay at least two nights in the area to increase your chances of seeing Mount Fuji.
The town is popular with foreign and Japanese tourists, so you’ll find many crowds here. You could avoid the crowd by traveling in spring, winter, or autumn, but again, the weather will influence your experience.
The answer is: It depends. If you’re looking for a chance to experience Japan’s iconic sights and unique activities, then Hakone is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or if you prefer less crowded spots, there are other places in Japan that might be better suited for you.