Best Nature & Parks in Hakone
9 top nature & parks — parks, gardens, mountains, and natural landscapes in Hakone, Japan.
Local tip: Buy the 2-day Hakone Free Pass (¥6,100 from Shinjuku) covering all transport including ropeway and pirate ship.
#1
Hakone Gora Park
1300 Gōra, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
#2
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi is a stunning crater lake in Hakone, formed over 3,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption of Mount Hakone. Visitors can enjoy scenic cruise rides across the crystal-clear waters while taking in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days, along with the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing majestically at the water's edge. The lake serves as a centerpiece of the Hakone region, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and relaxing hot spring resorts nearby.
#3
Ōwakudani Station
Ōwakudani Station serves as the gateway to one of Hakone's most dramatic volcanic landscapes, where visitors can witness active sulfur vents and steam rising from the mountainside. The station is a key stop on the Hakone Ropeway, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days and access to the famous black eggs boiled in volcanic springs. This unique geothermal area provides an unforgettable experience of Japan's volcanic activity, with walking trails that allow you to explore the otherworldly terrain safely.
#4
Sōunzan Station
Sōunzan Station is the upper terminus of the Hakone Tozan Cable Car and a key transit hub in the Hakone mountain region. Located at an elevation of 767 meters, this station serves as the gateway to the spectacular Hakone Ropeway, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Owakudani Valley, and Lake Ashi. The station area features souvenir shops and rest facilities, making it an essential stop for travelers exploring the famous Hakone Loop route.
#5
Owakudani Observatory
Owakudani Observatory offers breathtaking views of the active volcanic valley in Hakone, where sulfurous fumes and hot springs create an otherworldly landscape. Visitors can witness steam vents up close and sample the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) boiled in the volcanic hot springs, which are said to add seven years to your life. On clear days, the observatory provides stunning vistas of Mount Fuji rising majestically above the volcanic terrain.
#6
Owakudani Nature Research Trail
Owakudani Nature Research Trail takes you through an active volcanic valley where sulfurous steam vents and bubbling hot springs create an otherworldly landscape. The trail offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji on clear days while winding through a dramatic geological wonder formed by a volcanic eruption 3,000 years ago. Don't miss trying the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) boiled in the hot springs, said to add seven years to your life.
#7
Hakone Yumoto Hotaru Park
701 Yumoto, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0311, Japan
#8
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway whisks visitors 1,327 meters up Mount Komagatake in just seven minutes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the surrounding Hakone volcanic valley. At the summit, you'll find the historic Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine and observation platforms perfect for photography and soaking in the dramatic mountainous landscape. This scenic cable car ride is one of Hakone's most spectacular ways to experience the region's natural beauty from above.
#9
Hakonetozan Line
The Hakonetozan Line is a scenic mountain railway that winds through the beautiful Hakone region, offering breathtaking views of lush valleys, steep mountainsides, and seasonal landscapes. This charming switchback train climbs over 400 meters in elevation, making three dramatic reversals as it ascends from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora station. During the hydrangea season in June and July, the route becomes particularly spectacular with over 10,000 colorful blooms lining the tracks, earning it recognition as one of Japan's most picturesque railway journeys.
Book Tours & Experiences in Hakone
Tours & Experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best nature & parks in Hakone?
Hakone has 9 notable nature & parks worth visiting. Top picks include Hakone Gora Park, Lake Ashi, Ōwakudani Station.
Are nature & parks in Hakone free to visit?
Some nature & parks in Hakone are free to enter, while others charge a small admission fee. It is recommended to check each spot before visiting.
When is the best time to visit nature & parks in Hakone?
The best time to visit Hakone is November (autumn foliage), June-July (hydrangeas along mountain railway), clear winter days for Mt. Fuji views. Visiting nature & parks during this season offers the best experience.
Do I need a JR Pass to visit Hakone?
Hakone is served by Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) — 2 hours by train via Shinjuku; Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) — 2.5-3 hours. A JR Pass is recommended if you plan to visit multiple cities in Japan.