Japan (Part 3): Hakone

Hakone

If you look at our itinerary, I’m sure you have heard of Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, but where and what is Hakone? About 2 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen, Hakone is famous for its numerous relaxing hot springs and ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), but the area is filled with numerous other sights. We visited Hakone on the way to Tokyo from Kyoto, right in the middle of our trip, and it was the perfect mini vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities. 

Where we stayed:

There are so many to choose from so pick the one that fits your budget and desire-- you can’t go wrong! We stayed at Yaeikan, which was fantastic. We splurged for an onsen in our room, which was kind of small (like everything in Japan) and received two kaiseki meals (dinner and breakfast) served IN OUR ROOM. The room was modern with a TV and mini-fridge, but retained its traditional Japanese feel, also helped by the yukata we were given to wear. 

Andy, a yukata clad popsicle, in front of our ryokan.

The interior of our living room and second living room.

The first courses of many for our dinner!

Each dish was beautifully presented and made with seasonal ingredients.

Our bedroom had two futon style beds which were surprisingly comfortable to sleep on.

The bedroom connects to the bathroom, which has a separate room for the onsen.

Things to see and do:

Of course the main attraction is the hot springs, but definitely visit Moto-Hakone on the south side of Lake Ashinoko, a crater lake formed from Mount Hakone’s last eruption some 3000 years ago. If you’re lucky, you can get a spectacular view of Mount Fuji in the background of the lake, or so I’ve read, because sadly when we visited, it was very foggy. (I guess that means we have to visit again!) Don’t miss Hakone Shrine and it’s torii gate that almost touches the water. The bright orange in contrast with the blue water makes for a perfect photo op:

While we only stayed one night, I would not have minded staying another, as there was so much to explore in the Hakone region like the Hakone Ropeway, Owakudani (sulfurous active volcanic area where you can buy black eggs said to make you live longer), and the Hakone Open Air Museum. I highly recommend staying in an onsen ryokan and bathing all your stress away for at least one night, so your body will be refreshed while you explore those big cities. It can be a little harder to navigate the area so make sure you have a plan or good idea of what you’re going to do.