Best Shrines & Temples in Hakone
10 top shrines & temples — Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples 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 Mototsumiya Shrine
８０-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
#2
Hakone Ropeway Ōwakudani Station
Ōwakudani Station is a spectacular ropeway stop perched high in Hakone's volcanic valley, offering breathtaking views of active sulfur vents and steaming fumaroles. Visitors can witness the dramatic landscape of this geothermal wonder while enjoying panoramic vistas of Mount Fuji on clear days. The station serves as the gateway to exploring the famous black eggs boiled in volcanic springs, believed to add seven years to your life.
#3
Hakone Shrine
80-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
#4
Hakone Pirate Ship Tōgendai Port
Tōgendai Port serves as the northern terminal for Hakone's iconic pirate ships that cruise across the stunning Lake Ashi, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji on clear days. This port is conveniently connected to the Hakone Ropeway, making it a key hub for exploring the volcanic Owakudani valley and the surrounding Hakone region. The elaborately decorated pirate ships provide a unique and entertaining way to experience one of Japan's most scenic lakes while traveling between major Hakone attractions.
#5
Hakone Sightseeing Cruise Motohakone-ko Pier
Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi from Motohakone-ko Pier, where colorful pirate-themed ships offer stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The pier serves as a gateway to exploring Hakone's natural beauty, with cruises connecting to other popular lakeside destinations like Togendai and Hakone-machi. The combination of serene lake waters, surrounding mountain vistas, and the iconic torii gate of Hakone Shrine visible from the water creates an unforgettable experience.
#6
Heiwa-no-Torii (Hakone Shrine)
80-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
#7
Chisuji Falls
507 Kowakudani, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0406, Japan
#8
Hakone Sekisho
Hakone Sekisho is a meticulously reconstructed Edo-period checkpoint that once controlled traffic along the historic Tokaido road connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. Visitors can explore authentic guard houses, gates, and observation towers while learning about the strict travel regulations of feudal Japan, when samurai inspectors examined travelers' permits. The checkpoint's stunning location on the shores of Lake Ashi offers picturesque views of Mount Fuji on clear days, making it both a historical and scenic highlight of the Hakone region.
#9
Sōun-ji
405 Yumoto, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0311, Japan
#10
Motohakone-ko
Motohakone-ko is the historic port area on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days and serving as a gateway to the region's cultural treasures. Visitors can explore the iconic vermillion torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing majestically in the water, stroll along the scenic lakeside promenade lined with ancient cedar trees, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises across the caldera lake. This charming area perfectly blends natural beauty with spiritual heritage, making it one of Hakone's most photographed and beloved destinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shrines & temples in Hakone?
Hakone has 10 notable shrines & temples worth visiting. Top picks include Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine, Hakone Ropeway Ōwakudani Station, Hakone Shrine.
Are shrines & temples in Hakone free to visit?
Some shrines & temples 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 shrines & temples 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 shrines & temples 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.