Best Outfit for Sightseeing around Hakone! Examples of Fashion in Hakone
Hakone, located about 2 hours from Tokyo, is one of Japan's premier hot spring and resort destinations. With its prime location offering views of Mount Fuji, it never fails to captivate both domestic and international tourists, showcasing beautiful expressions throughout all four seasons.
Being blessed with natural surroundings, the climate and temperature variations can be significant throughout the year (and even within a day in some areas). In this article, we'll share basic climate information about Hakone and recommended clothing for each season. Please check this guide to ensure a comfortable trip.
Appropriate Seasonal Attire is Essential as Hakone's Climate Differs Completely from Urban Areas
Looking ahead to Hakone fashion 2025, understanding the local climate is crucial. Hakone is situated in the southwestern part of Kanagawa Prefecture, surrounded by mountains centered around Mount Hakone.
Due to its varied topography, temperature differences can be significant depending on location. The lowest elevation area around Hakone-Yumoto maintains temperatures similar to Tokyo throughout the year.
However, in higher elevation areas like Lake Ashinoko, the average temperature is 5-10°C lower than urban areas, requiring some level of cold weather protection even in spring and autumn.
It's essential to prepare the most suitable clothing for both the season and area you're visiting.
Seasonal Guide! Appropriate Clothing to Check Before Visiting Hakone
As a resort area surrounded by nature, Hakone experiences distinct seasonal weather changes.
Let's ensure comfortable stays with perfect seasonal attire.
Recommended Spring Clothing for Hakone
Spring begins to be felt from late March when cherry blossoms start blooming around the lower-elevation Hakone-Yumoto area.
The average temperature is still winter-like at 4-7°C. Winter outerwear like down jackets or long coats are essential.
From April to May, cherry blossoms and azaleas begin blooming even in higher elevation areas. The average temperature throughout Hakone rises above 10°C, finally allowing for spring-like weather.
While light knitwear is comfortable during the day, temperature differences between morning and evening become more noticeable. Having spring coats or functional mountain parkas for layering provides reassurance.
For women, pants are recommended for ease of movement. A colorful scarf can add a spring accent to your outfit while protecting your neck from the cold.
Recommended Clothing for Hiking
Hakone's cherry blossoms bloom at slightly different times across areas from Hakone-Yumoto to Lake Ashinoko due to elevation differences, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms for about a month.
With numerous hiking courses, it's a popular season for hikers from all over Japan. For spring hiking equipment, layering is fundamental.
Many days are chilly, and the perceived temperature varies significantly between sunny and shaded areas. The most basic layer should be long-sleeved, preferably made of moisture-wicking materials for easy temperature regulation.
Don't forget to layer with T-shirts and sweatshirts, topped with windbreakers for wind protection.
Spring mountains often experience strong winds that can steal body heat and make you feel cold.
Recommended Clothing for Summer in Hakone [Hakone Fashion 2025 Summer Collection]
June marks the beginning of the rainy season throughout Japan.
In Hakone, rainy days become frequent, making rain gear essential. The average temperature rises to around 20°C, allowing for T-shirt wear in the towns at the foot of the mountains.
At higher elevations, it can feel chilly, making long-sleeve shirts and cardigans useful, along with denim jackets and windbreakers that are predicted to be trending in Hakone fashion 2025.
When the rainy season ends in July, true summer arrives in Hakone. Even then, the average temperature fluctuates around 25°C during July and August.
While the rest of Japan experiences intense heat over 35°C, Hakone offers a refreshingly cool atmosphere. Enjoy resort fashion with cotton and linen summer dresses and T-shirts.
For summer events like firework festivals, renting a yukata is also recommended.
Convenient to Have a Light Cover-up for Indoor Spaces
Hakone has numerous indoor attractions, including historical temples and art museums.
These facilities are air-conditioned, creating significant temperature differences between indoor and outdoor spaces. It's advisable to prepare a light cardigan or summer jacket for layering.
Recommended Clothing for Autumn in Hakone [Hakone Fashion 2025 Fall Collection]
Until mid-September, summer-like clothing is still appropriate due to lingering heat.
By late September, mornings and evenings become cooler, and higher elevation areas feel more autumnal even during daytime. Large stoles for temperature adjustment are useful for dealing with morning and evening chills.
In October, when the mountains' foliage changes color and Hakone's famous pampas grass becomes beautiful, the average temperature drops to 13°C. Prepare thicker items like sweaters.
October has the highest rainfall, so rain protection is necessary. In November, temperatures can drop below freezing. Snow may fall in mountainous areas, so full cold-weather protection is essential.
Recommended Clothing for Hiking [Hakone Fashion 2025 Outdoor Collection]
Regardless of season, layering is key for mountain climbing attire.
Autumn particularly requires careful temperature regulation due to greater differences between body temperature during activity and ambient temperature.
For outer layers, "soft shell" materials with excellent stretch and breathability are ideal. They help maintain comfort by releasing sweat generated during extended walks.
A thin fleece item is useful for adjusting to daily temperature variations.
For items in direct contact with skin, hydrophobic dry innerwear that repels moisture is suitable.
Recommended Winter Clothing for Hakone [Hakone Fashion 2025 Winter Collection]
Winter clothing needs in Hakone vary significantly between lower elevation (foothills) and higher elevation (mountain) areas.
In the foothills, temperatures are only 1-2°C lower than central Tokyo, allowing for similar clothing choices.
However, in mountainous areas, temperatures can drop below -5°C, creating snow mountain conditions. Down coats, boots, scarves, and gloves are strongly recommended for cold protection.
Around Lake Ashi, cold winds are common, making turtleneck sweaters valuable for neck protection.
Indoor spaces like hotels are well-heated, so easily adjustable layering is better.
4 Hakone Restaurants with Dress Codes You Need to Check Before Visiting
Hakone is home to historic classic hotels and luxury auberges, where you can enjoy sophisticated dining experiences in elegant settings. Here's your guide to dressing appropriately for Hakone fashion 2025 and beyond at these refined establishments.
Restaurant Cascade
Source: Official website
Restaurant Cascade is a renowned establishment at the Fujiya Hotel, a classic Hakone hotel founded in 1878. The restaurant is housed in the restored former banquet hall "Cascade Room" built in 1920. The stained glass and sculptures remain original from its construction, while the ranma (traditional Japanese architectural elements used for light, ventilation, and decoration below the ceiling) features impressive carvings depicting Hakone landscapes and travelers from the 1600s-1800s.
The menu offers "Fujiya Hotel Cuisine" which recreates classic Western dishes like their signature Beef Curry and Butter-Meunière Rainbow Trout Fujiya Style. The combination of nostalgic ambiance and Japanese-influenced Western cuisine creates a delightful time-slip experience.
Address: Cascade Wing 3F, 359 Miyanoshita, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours: 11:30-15:00 (L.O. 14:00), 17:30-21:30 (L.O. 20:00)
Closed: Open daily
Phone: 0460-82-2211
Official Website: https://www.fujiyahotel.jp/meal/cascade/index.html
Main Dining Room The Fujiya
Source: Official website
The Fujiya Hotel was Japan's first genuine resort hotel, and The Fujiya is its iconic main dining room. Modeled after the World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine, built as a prayer for peace, the space features magnificent temple-like decorations. The ceiling paintings of alpine plants and birds, along with intricate carvings, are must-see features.
Here you can enjoy French cuisine that blends traditional recipes with modern Fujiya style. Each dish is carefully prepared with perfect temperature control and delicate plating, earning high praise from gourmets. The beautiful Okura Toen (Japan's premium Western tableware manufacturer) dishes and cutlery enhance the dining experience. Combined with excellent service, this restaurant truly embodies the essence of a prestigious hotel.
Address: 359 Miyanoshita, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours: 11:30-15:30 (L.O. 14:00), 17:30-22:00/Reservation required (L.O. 20:00)
Closed: Open daily *May close for private events
Phone: 0460-82-2211
Official Website: https://www.fujiyahotel.jp/meal/thefujiya/index.html
Hakone Auberge Au Mirador
Source: Official website
Auberge Au Mirador, which opened in 1986, was Japan's first auberge. Owned by legendary chef Noboru Katsumata, it has attracted numerous food enthusiasts, including international actors, members of the Imperial family, and former prime ministers.
The restaurant's culinary theme is "fusion of East and West." Building on over 40 years of expertise at the forefront of French cuisine in Japan, they incorporate traditional Japanese culinary techniques while exploring local Hakone flavors.
The property features the main building plus the European château-style Pavilion Mirador and the Bali-themed Colonial Mirador, offering extraordinary spaces for relaxation.
Address: 159-15 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours: 10:30-22:00
Closed: Irregular holidays
Phone: 0460-84-7229
Official Website: https://mirador.co.jp/
Main Dining Room LE TRIANON
Source: Official website
The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko, situated in the scenic location along Lake Ashinoko, features several restaurants where guests can leisurely enjoy carefully selected flavors of Hakone. As part of the emerging Hakone fashion 2025 culinary scene, these dining experiences are becoming increasingly sought-after by international tourists.
The main dining room, "LE TRIANON," features an interior designed by Japan's leading architect Togo Murano, creating a space that combines openness with an air of sophistication.
The restaurant boasts luxurious double-height ceilings and large windows facing Lake Ashinoko, allowing guests to indulge in fine cuisine and wine while being surrounded by magnificent nature.
The restaurant serves authentic French cuisine that maintains The Prince Hotel's traditions while incorporating modern cooking techniques.
Guests can fully enjoy fresh and healthy ingredients unique to this resort area, which is surrounded by mountains and close to the sea.
Address: Main Building West Wing GF, 144 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Business Hours: 17:30 - 20:30 (Last Order 20:00)
Closed: Open daily
Phone: 0460-83-1111
Official Website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/the_prince_hakone/restaurant/trianon/
