Experience Hakone in March 2025: Cherry Blossoms, Festivals, and Seasonal Highlights
Hakone is a popular tourist destination known for its high-quality hot springs and rich natural environment. Located less than 2 hours by train from central Tokyo, it attracts many international tourists who combine it with their Tokyo sightseeing. Beyond hot springs and nature, Hakone offers various attractions, from selecting souvenirs in traditional hot spring towns to enjoying art at museums.
While some winter chill remains in Hakone during March, daytime temperatures can reach around 20°C (68°F), making it quite comfortable. From late March, cherry blossoms begin to bloom alongside other spring flowers, making it a highly recommended time for sightseeing.
We've selected some recommended events to enjoy in Hakone during March 2025. From traditional shrine ceremonies to gourmet events, these can serve as excellent references for planning your trip!
Traditional Events in Hakone - March 2025
Sengokuhara Yutate Shishimai (Hot Water Splashing Lion Dance)
Source: Hakone Zenzan
The "Yutate Shishimai" is a traditional festival held at Suwa Shrine in Sengokuhara. This ceremony, continuing since the Edo period, has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Property of Kanagawa Prefecture.
"Shishimai" (Lion Dance) is one of Japan's traditional ceremonies where performers wear lion masks and dance to ward off evil spirits. In the "Yutate Shishimai," performers sprinkle hot water using bamboo leaves to pray for health and peace. Among lion dances performed throughout Japan, this festival is uniquely distinctive.
While various lion dances are performed, the highlight is the "Kamemeguri no Mai" (Cauldron Dance), where dancers circle around a simmering cauldron. It's said that if you're splashed with the hot water during the lion dance, you'll stay healthy for the entire year.
Come and enjoy this rare and powerful lion dance ceremony!
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Date: March 27, 2025 (Thursday)
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for "Togendai." Get off at "Sengoku" bus stop (5-minute walk)
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.kintokijinja.com/sisi-guide.html
Natural Highlights of Hakone in March 2025
Cherry Blossom Viewing
Cherry blossom viewing (hanami) is a Japanese custom of enjoying meals and drinks while appreciating cherry blossoms. This tradition originated when nobles of the Heian period composed poetry while viewing cherry blossoms.
While many people enjoy lively gatherings with family and friends bringing food to share, we also recommend enjoying the cherry blossom scenery quietly by yourself.
One of Hakone's attractive features is that due to its varying elevations, cherry blossoms bloom at slightly different times in different locations, allowing visitors to enjoy hanami for an extended period. Here, we'll introduce recommended cherry blossom viewing spots in Hakone.
Cherry Blossoms at Hakone Gora Park
Source: WEATHER NEWS
In Gora, located in central Hakone, cherry blossoms reach their peak from late March to mid-April 2025. Hakone Gora Park, which opened in 1914 and is Japan's oldest French-style garden, is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Hakone.
Visitors can enjoy 10 different varieties of cherry blossoms, including the widely recognized Somei Yoshino (the typical "cherry blossom" image), Kawazu-zakura, weeping cherry blossoms, and the rare Yaemamezakura, of which only a few trees exist in Hakone. The spacious park features fountains and benches, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossom viewing in a relaxed, open atmosphere.
Various events are held within the grounds, including pottery and glasswork experiences. Traditional tea ceremonies held in the historic tea room are particularly popular among international visitors.
If you'd like to enjoy various events besides cherry blossom viewing, make sure to visit!
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Cherry Blossom Peak Season: Late March to mid-April 2025
Access: Get off at Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway, then take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Koen-shimo Station (about 1-minute walk)
Admission: Adults ¥650 (Free for elementary school students and younger)
Website: https://www.hakone-tozan.co.jp/gorapark/en/
Cherry Blossoms at Miyagino Hayakawa Embankment
Source: Hakone Zenzan
The Miyagino Hayakawa Embankment is one of Hakone's premier cherry blossom viewing spots. Approximately 120 Somei Yoshino cherry trees line a 600-meter stretch along the Hayakawa River, creating what can truly be described as a tunnel of cherry blossoms.
The highlight here is undoubtedly the collaboration between the cherry blossoms and the river. Viewing the fully bloomed cherry blossoms while listening to the pleasant murmur of the river creates a quintessentially Japanese atmosphere. The sight of cherry petals dancing in the wind and falling onto the river's surface is a unique spectacle that can only be witnessed here. As night falls, the row of cherry trees is illuminated, offering a magical view of the ethereal night blossoms.
While the peak bloom is typically from early to mid-April, visitors planning their trip for March 2025 might catch the early blooming varieties. Due to expected crowds during peak season, early morning visits are recommended!
Don't miss this iconic spring landscape that perfectly captures the essence of Hakone.
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Peak Bloom: Early to mid-April
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," then take the Hakone Tozan Bus to "Miyagino" bus stop (5-minute walk)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.hakonenavi.jp/area/miyagino/
Ohiradai
Source: Official website
Ohiradai, located about 15 minutes by bus from the central hot spring area, is one of Hakone's hidden cherry blossom gems.
The "Weeping Cherry Tree Street" along the Hakone Tozan Railway tracks features approximately 100 weeping cherry trees. The combination of the colorful red and blue Hakone Tozan Railway trains against the soft pink cherry blossoms creates a stunning photo opportunity. By March 2025, this spot is expected to be even more popular among photographers and tourists. Viewing the cherry blossoms from the train window is also highly recommended.
Ishihara Park, near Ohiradai Station, is a lesser-known cherry blossom viewing spot. Cherry trees encircle the park, allowing visitors to enjoy hanami (flower viewing) leisurely from the benches.
Ohiradai is also famous for its hot springs, known for their skin-beautifying properties, and its "Longevity Water" spring. Why not enjoy these attractions along with the cherry blossoms?
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Peak Bloom: Early to mid-April
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," then take the Hakone Tozan Bus to "Ohiradai Station" bus stop (5-minute walk)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.hakonenavi.jp/area/ohiradai/
Soun-ji Temple
Source: Yahoo! Maps
Located in a tranquil area about 15 minutes' walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Soun-ji Temple has deep historical connections with feudal warlords from the Warring States period. While the main hall is only open for worship on limited days throughout the year, the temple's atmospheric architecture is definitely worth visiting, especially in March 2025.
From late March, vibrant pink weeping cherry blossoms begin to bloom, followed by the pale pink Somei Yoshino and pure white Oshima cherry blossoms reaching their peak. A highlight of visiting during this period is the extended viewing opportunity as different varieties gradually reach full bloom, offering a spectrum of cherry blossom colors.
Usually quiet and serene, Soun-ji Temple becomes enveloped in spring ambiance during this season. Benches are available on the grounds, making it perfect for a leisurely visit with packed lunch or snacks.
This temple is highly recommended for those who wish to enjoy cherry blossoms in a solemn, peaceful atmosphere.
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Best Viewing Period: Late March - Early April
Access: About 15 minutes walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.hakoneyumoto.com/exp/8
Chokozan Shotai-ji Temple
Source: Official website
Chokozan Shotai-ji Temple is known as a hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing in Hakone. The highlight is a magnificent weeping cherry tree, approximately 360 years old and 13 meters tall. When in full bloom, expected to be spectacular in March 2025, its blossoms cascade like a waterfall, creating a dynamic display. Looking up from beneath offers a unique perspective of the falling flowers, presenting a different kind of beauty than viewing from afar.
Designated as one of Kanagawa Prefecture's 100 Notable Trees and a Natural Monument of Odawara City, the tree's thick trunk and widely spread branches exude the dignity of its long history.
The famous weeping cherry tree is located about 15 minutes uphill from the temple's main gate, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The temple grounds also house many cultural properties and historic sites, making it an excellent destination for those interested in Hakone's history.
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Best Viewing Period: Late March - Early April
Access: About 5 minutes walk from Iriuda Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.choukouzan.com/
Hakone Wetland Botanical Garden - Spring Flower Viewing
Source: Official website
The "Hakone Wetland Botanical Garden" is a unique garden in Japan specializing in plants that thrive near water bodies such as rivers, ponds, and lakes. The garden showcases approximately 1,700 species of plants from both Japan and abroad. March 2025 marks the beginning of colorful spring blooms, making it an ideal time for tourism.
One of the garden's most appealing aspects is its meticulous maintenance to ensure optimal conditions for plant growth. The staff constantly tends to tasks such as weeding, transplanting, and arranging plants, making it enjoyable even for visitors without botanical knowledge.
Well-maintained walkways between the wetlands allow for leisurely strolls. When you need a break, why not enjoy an ice cream from the shop while taking in the panoramic mountain views?
This is a must-visit spot for nature and plant enthusiasts.
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Opening Period: March-November (Closed during winter)
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for "Togendai." Get off at "Sengoku-Annaijo-mae" bus stop (8-minute walk)
Admission: Adults ¥700 / Elementary School Students ¥400
Website: https://hakone-shisseikaen.com/english/
Special Experiences Exclusive to Hakone in March 2025
Lake Ashi "Special Fishing Tournament Opening"
Source: Tsuri Vision
Lake Ashi, a popular fishing destination, has a fishing ban from mid-December to February. The "Special Fishing Tournament Opening" celebrates the start of the fishing season every March. Limited to lure fishing and fly fishing, this event attracts numerous fishing enthusiasts eager for the season's opening.
The tournament features five fish species eligible for prizes, including rainbow trout and yamame (cherry salmon), with top winners sometimes catching fish weighing over 7kg.
While the 2025 tournament has been cancelled, fishing is open to everyone during the regular season. The Lake Ashi area offers boat and fishing rod rentals for interested visitors.
Why not enjoy a relaxing fishing experience on the majestic Lake Ashi this spring?
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Season: March 1, 2025 - mid-December
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," then transfer to Hakone Tozan Bus and get off at "Hakone-machi Port" bus stop (2-minute walk)
Fee: Please check the official website
Website: https://www.ashinoko-gyokyou.com/
Gourmet Events in Hakone: March 2025
Hakone Sweets Collection
Source: PR TIMES
The "Hakone Sweets Collection" is a gourmet event where cafes, hotels, and other establishments throughout the Hakone area sell themed desserts. Last year, approximately 30 shops participated under the theme "Celebrate Spring! Party Sweets."
If you're looking to experience luxury and sophisticated presentation during your visit to Hakone in March 2025, hotel desserts are highly recommended. For those who prefer casual dining, cafes in parks and tourist facilities offer easily accessible options. Feel free to explore multiple locations if you'd like to sample various treats.
Since some items are available in limited quantities, it's recommended to check the website in advance and make reservations for any sweets that catch your interest. The event is held across various locations throughout the Hakone area, so you can plan your dessert stops alongside your sightseeing itinerary.
Sweet lovers shouldn't miss this special event!
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Dates: From March 1, 2025
Location: Various tourist areas in Hakone
Admission: Free
Official Website (2024 version): https://www.odakyu-travel.co.jp/hakone/hakone-sweets.html
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hakonesweetscollection/