Exploring Hakone's Majestic Mountains: Top Hiking Trails, Scenic Views, and Visitor Tips

Hakone, renowned as one of Japan's premier tourist destinations and part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, offers seasonal natural beauty and hot springs. Located just 90 minutes from Tokyo, it provides an escape from urban chaos to enjoy the refreshing highland air of the Hakone mountains.

The area, surrounded by the Hakone Outer Rim Mountains, features diverse volcanic terrain including the mystical Lake Ashinoko, the steaming Owakudani Valley, and pristine forests with rich vegetation. Perhaps most captivating are the numerous vantage points offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji. From the mountain peaks, visitors can enjoy magnificent panoramas extending to Sagami Bay and the Izu Peninsula.

In this article, we'll introduce impressive hiking courses in the Hakone area and their unique attractions.

Many Mountains Around Hakone Offer Hiking with Mount Fuji Views

The Hakone area is dotted with numerous scenic spots offering magnificent views of Mount Fuji. Mountains averaging around 1,000 meters in elevation feature well-maintained trails suitable for everyone from beginners to veteran hikers.

From the summits, visitors can observe breathtaking 360-degree panoramas including the commanding presence of Mount Fuji, the blue sparkle of Lake Ashinoko, Sagami Bay, and on clear days, even the Izu islands.

Hakone's charm is evident in its seasonal landscapes. Spring brings fresh verdant leaves, summer offers refreshing highland breezes, autumn paints the mountains in brocade colors, and winter's clear air emphasizes Mount Fuji's majestic appearance.

With spectacular views unique to each season, Hakone is the perfect destination for those interested in hiking in Japan.

Introduction to 10 Mountains Around Hakone by Difficulty Level

For Beginners (Easy to Climb)

First, let's introduce mountains suitable for beginners - perfect for those who want to experience nature while sightseeing.

Mt. Daikanzan (1012m)

Source: Hakone Navi

Located in the Hakone mountains at an elevation of 1,012 meters, Mt. Daikanzan is renowned as one of Hakone's premier Mount Fuji viewing spots. With its relatively gentle slopes, it's a popular hiking destination suitable for beginners.

The well-maintained hiking trails are surrounded by beautiful cedar and cypress forests, offering a refreshing walking experience in crisp mountain air. Visitors can enjoy seasonal changes up close, from spring cherry blossoms to autumn foliage. This course offers both Mount Fuji views and a traditional satoyama atmosphere.

Particularly recommended for photographers seeking shots of Mount Fuji and those interested in experiencing Japanese satoyama culture. It's also ideal for visitors wanting to efficiently enjoy Hakone's spectacular views in a short time.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Daikanzan Bus Stop

[Access]
Outbound: About 40 minutes by Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station
Return: Take the bus bound for Hakone-Yumoto Station from the same bus stop

Mt. Mikuni (1101m)

Source: Yamanakako Lake Sightseeing Association

Situated in the Hakone mountains, Mt. Mikuni offers simultaneous views of three iconic Hakone landmarks: Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Valley. At approximately 1,100 meters, it's somewhat high but remains accessible thanks to its gentle slopes and well-maintained trails.

The summit provides views of Hakone's outer rim mountains' magnificent ridgelines and the Hakone caldera's interior. The contrasting scenery of verdant mountain ridges, blue Lake Ashi, and steaming Owakudani Valley creates a spectacular vista.

On clear days, visitors can see Mount Fuji, the Tanzawa Mountains, and even the Southern Alps, offering a comprehensive view of Japan's mountain scenery.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Owakudani Station on the Hakone Ropeway

[Access]
Outbound: About 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Odakyu Romance Car, then approximately 50 minutes via Hakone Tozan Railway and Hakone Ropeway
Return: Take the Hakone Tozan Bus from Kintoki Trailhead to Hakone-Yumoto Station

Mt. Kintoki (1212m)

Source: Wikipedia

One of the most popular peaks in the Hakone mountains, Mt. Kintoki stands at 1,212 meters with beginner-friendly maintained trails.

The mountain is associated with the Japanese folktale of Kintaro, a strong child who played with animals and practiced sumo in the mountains. Near the summit, visitors can find stones associated with the Kintaro legend.

The summit offers a direct view of Mount Fuji and, on clear days, even Tokyo Skytree. Seasonal attractions include spring Mitsubatsutsuji azaleas and autumn foliage contrasting with Mount Fuji.

A rest house near the summit serves the famous "Kintaro Manju" sweet buns. This mountain offers a safe hiking experience while exploring Japanese mountain culture and legends.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Mt. Kintoki Trailhead Bus Stop

[Access]
Outbound: About 40 minutes by Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station
Return: Recommended descent via Otome-guchi, with buses available to Gotemba Station

Sounzan (1,244m)

Source:Ikyu

Sounzan in the Hakone mountains uniquely harmonizes hot spring culture with mountainous scenery. Despite its 1,244-meter elevation, the Hakone Ropeway operates to near the summit, making it accessible for beginners.

The main attraction is the dramatic view of Owakudani's steam vents from the hiking trail. You can experience an active volcano's presence up close. Near the summit, there's a viewpoint overlooking the hot spring town of Gora, offering a visual understanding of the relationship between Japanese hot spring culture and volcanic activity.

The well-maintained walking trails feature spots to enjoy birdsong and alpine plants, providing an easy way to experience Hakone's nature. The summit area blooms with azaleas in spring and transforms into a tunnel of autumn colors in fall.

Historic hot spring ryokans dot the trailhead area, allowing hikers to experience Japanese onsen culture after their hike.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway

[Access]
Outbound: About 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Odakyu Romance Car, then 25 minutes to Gora Station via Hakone Tozan Railway.
Return: Same route back. Option to extend trip to Owakudani via Hakone Ropeway.

Beginner to Intermediate Level (Preparation Recommended)

The following mountains offer authentic hiking experiences even at lower elevations. Please prepare safety equipment like helmets, warm clothing, and water.

Mt. Asama (802m)

Source:Wikipedia

Mt. Asama, an active volcano standing at 802 meters on the Gunma-Nagano prefectural border, is known as the main peak of the Asama mountain range.

The mountain base showcases seasonal alpine flowers, particularly from May to September, featuring Nikko day lilies and Rhododendrons.

As an active volcano, checking current volcanic conditions is essential before climbing. Helmets are recommended near Mt. Maekake's summit and J-band rocky areas for unexpected eruptions.

Mt. Asama offers both rich nature and volcanic grandeur, suitable for all skill levels with proper equipment and safety measures.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Mt. Asama Visitor Center trailhead (Komoro City, Nagano)

[Access]
Outbound: 40 minutes from JR Komoro Station via Chikuma Bus "Takamine Kogen Line" to "Mt. Asama Visitor Center"
Return: 35 minutes from "Mt. Asama Visitor Center" to JR Komoro Station via Chikuma Bus

Mt. Myojogatake (1,104m)

Source:Wikipedia

Unlike other tourist-friendly Hakone mountains, Mt. Myojogatake offers an authentic mountain experience. Proper equipment and experience are necessary due to limited trail markers and changeable weather.

The summit provides spectacular views from the highest point of Hakone's outer rim, notably overlooking both Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi.

The beech forest near the summit showcases Japan's pristine forests. Spring brings three-leaf azaleas, while autumn combines fall colors with Mt. Fuji views.

Less crowded than Mt. Kintoki or Mt. Mikuni, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Myojogatake Tozanguchi bus stop

[Access]
Outbound: About 45 minutes by Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station
Check bus schedule in advance as services are limited.
Return: Same bus stop back to Hakone-Yumoto Station
Note the limited bus schedule, especially the last departure time.

Mt. Myojingatake (1169m)

Source:Wikipedia

Mt. Myojingatake is distinguished among the Hakone mountains for being the closest to Mt. Fuji. Compared to other peaks in the Hakone mountains, its trails have significant elevation changes, offering an authentic mountain hiking experience. However, with well-maintained trail markers and sufficient path width, beginners can safely attempt the climb with proper preparation.

The hiking trail winds through a rich forest of evergreen and deciduous trees. Most impressive is Mt. Fuji's sudden appearance through breaks in the forest. While hiking Mt. Myojingatake, you can enjoy multiple encounters with Mt. Fuji while experiencing forest bathing.

Essential equipment includes sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, water, and trail food. Bring warm clothing as the summit area is cold with changeable weather.

Mt. Myojingatake is especially recommended for those wanting to experience authentic mountain hiking while immersing themselves in Japanese forest culture.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Bus stop "Myojingatake Tozanguchi"

[Access]
Outbound: About 30 minutes by Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station
Buses run from 8 AM, but an early start is recommended for this full hiking experience.
Return: Take the bus back to Hakone-Yumoto Station from the same bus stop

For Intermediate to Advanced Hikers (For Those with Good Physical Fitness)

The mountains introduced here are suitable for physically fit people with extensive hiking experience. For beginners or those with limited experience, these routes may be too challenging, so choose mountains that match your ability.

Mt. Kamiyama (1437m)

Source:Wikipedia

Mt. Kamiyama, at 1437 meters, is the highest peak in the Hakone mountains and is known as "Hakone's Fuji" due to its majestic appearance. While previously introduced mountains combine tourism and hiking elements, Mt. Kamiyama offers advanced-level climbing.

Its steep slopes formed by volcanic activity and virgin forest-covered profile create an impression of concentrated Japanese alpine climbing elements.

The summit offers Hakone's finest views, including Mt. Fuji, Southern Alps, Tanzawa Mountains, Izu Peninsula, and distant Izu Islands on clear days. Near the summit, Kamiyama Shrine's Inner Shrine allows visitors to experience traditional Japanese mountain worship atmosphere.

With steep rocky areas, chains for climbing, and severe weather changes, proper equipment and experience are essential. However, for those seeking authentic Japanese mountain experiences and unique volcanic landscapes, Mt. Kamiyama offers an excellent challenge.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Owakudani Station on the Hakone Ropeway

[Access]
Outbound:
About 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Odakyu Romance Car, then approximately 50 minutes via Hakone Tozan Railway and Hakone Ropeway.
Return:
Descend towards Togendai to take the Hakone Pirate Ship to Moto-Hakone.

Hakone Outer Rim Mountain Trail

Source:Yahoo! News

The Hakone Outer Rim Mountain Trail is a challenging 25-kilometer long-distance hiking course circling the Hakone mountains' outer rim. This trail, typically completed in 1-2 nights and 2-3 days, offers a challenging course for intermediate to advanced hikers.

The course features diverse terrain connecting Hakone's major peaks. Hikers experience various natural environments including virgin forests, volcanic formations, and highlands while visiting prominent Hakone mountains like Mt. Myojogatake, Mt. Mikunitake, and Mt. Kintoki.

This trail is perfect for those wanting to seriously hike Japan's volcanic mountain regions and challenge long-distance hiking. However, proper equipment, experience, and preparation are essential due to sudden weather changes and navigation risks.

[Recommended Starting Point]
Hakone-Yumoto Station

[Access]
About 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station via Odakyu Romance Car. Multiple mountain huts and emergency shelters are available for overnight stays. Several descent routes allow course adjustment based on stamina and time. After completion, return to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Hakone Tozan Bus.

For Those Who Want to Enjoy Mountain Views: Hakone-Komagatake is Accessible by Ropeway!

Source: PR TIMES

Mt. Hakone-Komagatake, standing at 1,356 meters in the Hakone Mountains, offers spectacular views. The summit provides a 360-degree panorama where you can see magnificent Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Sagami Bay on clear days. It's easily accessible by ropeway from Hakone-en, taking just 7 minutes.

At the summit sits Hakone Motomiya, the inner shrine of Hakone Shrine, boasting over 2,000 years of history. The summit is a 10-minute walk on well-maintained gentle slopes and stairs, making it accessible for visitors of all fitness levels. During my visit, I observed families of all ages enjoying casual strolls.

The mountain's seasonal changes add to its charm. In autumn, the slopes are painted with vibrant fall colors, while winter offers crystal-clear views of Mt. Fuji's majestic silhouette.

Hakone-Komagatake is perfect for tourists seeking breathtaking views during their Hakone visit.

For Hiking Enthusiasts: The Hakone Old Tokaido Road is Highly Recommended!

Source: Hakone Zenzan

The Hakone Old Tokaido Road, established in 1618, was a crucial route connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. This historic path through the Hakone Mountains features stone pavements and beautiful cedar-lined paths. A 4.5-kilometer stretch of the stone-paved road is preserved as a national historic site.

The cedar-lined stone path offers occasional spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and the Hakone Mountains. As you walk, imagine the bustling scenes of travelers from centuries past.

Walking east to west, the trail has a moderate elevation change of 160 meters up and 80 meters down, taking about 2 hours to complete. This trail offers seasonal natural beauty and combines Japan's historic mountain landscapes with traditional culture.