Hakone in May 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
In May, Hakone is embraced by pleasant spring weather, where the contrast between the freshly sprouted greenery of the mountains and the clear blue Lake Ashi creates a beautiful landscape bustling with tourists. The view of Mt. Fuji is especially magnificent in the crisp air. The average temperature remains comfortable at around 20 degrees Celsius.
Hakone, a hot spring resort accessible within about 90 minutes from Tokyo, is known as a tourist destination where rich nature, historical structures, and contemporary art converge. The hot spring district features traditional Japanese-style ryokans scattered throughout, along with numerous historical shrines and temples.
In May, Hakone hosts traditional festivals that have continued for centuries. The shrine festivals, deeply rooted in local people's faith and daily lives, offer valuable opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Here, we'll introduce the access methods and highlights of events being held in Hakone in May 2025.
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・Mt. Fuji Full-day Nature Guided Tour with a Private Chartered Car & Guide
2025 Year-round Event Schedule in Hakone↓
・Top Hakone Events & Festivals 2025: Your Guide to Celebrations, Parades, and Seasonal Highlights
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Table of Contents
Traditional Events in Hakone - May 2025
Hakone Art Events in May
Natural Attractions in Hakone in May
Traditional Events in Hakone - May 2025
Kintoki Shrine Grand Festival
Source:Hakone Navi
The Kintoki Shrine, located at the foot of Mt. Kintoki, holds its annual grand festival on May 5th. This date is a national holiday called "Kodomo no Hi (Children's Day)," dedicated to praying for children's healthy growth and happiness. Koinobori (carp streamers) are displayed within the shrine grounds.
Koinobori are colorful carp-shaped flags displayed during this season, representing a unique Japanese cultural tradition that carries deep meaning in wishing for family happiness and children's growth.
The festival also features the "Yutate Shishimai" ritual performance. In this ceremony, a performer wearing a Shishi (legendary guardian beast) head stirs boiling water in a large cauldron with a bundle of bear bamboo grass and sprinkles the water on visitors to ward off evil spirits. It's believed that being sprinkled with this water ensures good health throughout the year.
I personally experienced this water sprinkling and barely felt any heat. Please feel free to receive this blessing for good health without worry.
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Date: May 5th, 2025
Access: From Hakone-Yumoto Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway, take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Togendai for 25 minutes, transfer at Sengoku Information Center to the Odakyu Express Bus heading toward Gotemba Station, ride for 2 minutes and get off at "Kintoki Shrine Entrance." 7-minute walk from there
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.kintokijinja.com/jinja-kintoki.html
Kuzuryu Shrine Monthly Festival (Tsukinama-sai)
The Tsukinama-sai held on the 13th of every month at Kuzuryu Shrine is a sacred ceremony honoring the dragon deity of Lake Ashi. It is known as a powerful spiritual spot especially popular among women seeking romantic connections.
The Kuzuryu Shrine is nestled in the forest and cannot be accessed by car. You can reach the shrine either by walking along the nature trail or by boat. I recommend taking the boat route - the view from the lake creates a mystical and fantastical atmosphere.
One of the attractions is experiencing the solemn atmosphere during the sacred ritual ceremonies. The mysterious ambiance provides an excellent opportunity to connect with centuries-old religious traditions. This festival harmoniously blends Lake Ashi's natural beauty with traditional Japanese culture in a mystical setting.
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Date: May 13, 2025
Access:
- By motorboat from "Hakone Hotel Pier" in Hakone-machi or "Hakone-en Pier" to Kuzuryu Shrine Main Shrine Pier
- 30-minute walk from "Hakone-en/Hotel The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko" or "Hakone Ashinoko Sightseeing Boat Kojiri Terminal" in Kojiri
Admission: 600 yen (Free when visiting by motorboat)
Website: https://hakonejinja.or.jp/hakone/celebration.html
Soga Shrine Annual Festival
Source:Official website
The Soga Shrine Annual Festival is a historic celebration with over 700 years of tradition. The shrine is dedicated to the Soga Brothers, famous for avenging their father's death, and features the annual "Kasayaki Shinji" (Umbrella Burning Ritual) based on their story.
"Katakiuchi" (revenge) refers to the act of pursuing those who killed one's family members or close associates. Legend says the Soga Brothers burned umbrellas as makeshift lights during their nighttime revenge. Following this tradition, festival participants write their wishes on Japanese umbrellas and burn them as prayer offerings.
The flames illuminating the dark night create a mystical atmosphere where you can feel the breath of history. Another highlight is the special exhibition at the treasure house featuring the swords "Mijinmaru" and "Usumidorimaru," allegedly used by the Soga Brothers.
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Date: May 28, 2025
Access: From Hakone-Yumoto Station, take the Hakone Tozan Bus (Route H or K) for about 30 minutes, get off at "Hakone Shrine Entrance" bus stop, then walk about 10 minutes
Admission: Free
Website: https://hakonejinja.or.jp/info/20230520_946/
Hakone Art Events in May
Van Gogh Impact at Pola Museum (Working Title)
Source:FASHION SNAP
The "Van Gogh Impact" exhibition, held at the Pola Museum surrounded by Hakone's natural beauty, is the museum's first-ever exhibition themed around Van Gogh. Centered around three Van Gogh works in the Pola Museum's collection, including "The Gleize Bridge over the Vigueirat Canal" painted in Arles, Southern France, this exhibition presents a multifaceted view of how his art influenced later generations.
The highlight is not only the charm of Van Gogh's works themselves but also the opportunity to see works by artists from different eras who were influenced by Van Gogh. This is a precious opportunity to experience how Van Gogh's unique expressive style, characterized by undulating brushstrokes and vivid colors, and the passion contained in his brief 37-year life, has influenced contemporary artists.
Visitors can enjoy a spiritually enriching time while experiencing the rich natural surroundings of the Pola Museum.
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Date: May 31 - November 30, 2025
Access: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen Kodama to Odawara Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then transfer to Hakone Tozan Train to Gora Station. Free shuttle bus available from Gora Station to Pola Museum
Admission: Adults ¥2,200
Website: https://www.polamuseum.or.jp/news/
Natural Attractions in Hakone in May
Source:PR TIMES
The Azalea and Rhododendron Fair is a traditional event held annually since 1965. In the historic garden where Baron Koyata Iwasaki once held garden parties, approximately 3,000 azalea plants of 70 varieties and 300 rhododendron plants of 40 varieties bloom gloriously. With Mt. Fuji as the backdrop, the sight of red, pink, and white flowers in full bloom is truly spectacular.
From personal experience walking through the garden, the sight of azaleas and rhododendrons spreading like a vibrant carpet before your eyes is breathtaking. The sweet fragrance of flowers wafting through the air with each step creates a sense of tranquility. This is a special opportunity to experience traditional Japanese garden culture and seasonal changes. Early morning and evening hours are relatively uncrowded, perfect for leisurely photo sessions.
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Date: Late April - Late May 2025
Access: Take Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station (approx. 35 min) to "Motohakone-ko Kaizokusen Noriba-mae," then take the free shuttle bus
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.hakone-hoteldeyama.jp/tsutsuji_shakunage/
For Extended Nature Enjoyment in Hakone, We Recommend the Conveniently
Source:Official website
Located "Hotel de Yama"!
Hotel de Yama, situated on the lakeside of Lake Ashi, is a classic resort hotel with over 70 years of history. Built on the former villa site of Baron Koyata Iwasaki, this prestigious establishment has hosted tourists from around the world. Located in an ideal setting surrounded by Hakone's rich nature, it's perfect for a multi-day stay to fully enjoy the natural environment.
The hotel features gardens that showcase seasonal changes and offers spectacular views of Lake Ashi. Nearby attractions include the famous power spot Hakone Shrine and beautiful cedar-lined paths, with regular nature tours conducted by local guides.
Enjoy luxurious relaxation at this historic resort while embraced by Hakone's beautiful nature.
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Address: 80 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Phone: 0460-83-6321
Official Website: https://www.hakone-hoteldeyama.jp/
In May, the fresh green foliage becomes beautifully vibrant, making it a perfect time to experience Japan's changing seasons. This natural beauty is even more striking in Hakone, with its abundant natural surroundings.
However, since Tokyo hosts many traditional events in May, you might find it difficult to spend multiple nights in Hakone. If that's the case, why not take a day trip with an expert guide who knows Hakone's attractions inside and out? They can show you all the must-visit spots in Hakone.
With private car service providing round-trip transportation from Tokyo, you can fully enjoy Hakone without any stress.
・Hakone Full Day Chartered Private Tour: Art & Nature
Hakone Forest Therapy Walk
Source:Hakone Zenzan
The Hakone Forest Therapy Walk is a 12-kilometer course that starts from Seisa Lake Arena Hakone and extends to the Hakone Woodland Museum. Participants don't compete with each other but enjoy walking at their own pace while immersing themselves in Hakone's natural beauty.
When I participated, Lake Ashi's surface sparkled beautifully under the clear blue sky, and the refreshing breeze blowing through the cedar trees was incredibly pleasant. By visiting historical sites, I could experience Japanese culture and history while rejuvenating both body and mind.
This walking event is a unique experience only possible in Hakone, which is known as one of the world's premier geoparks. Since details for this year's event haven't been announced yet, please check the official website or the Hakone Tourism Association website for the latest information.
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Date: Late May 2025
Access: Take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for "Kojiri/Togendai," get off at "Minami-Onsenso," 3-minute walk to the starting point
Entry Fee: 1,500 yen (participation fee)
Website: https://www.hakone.or.jp/8738 (Reference: 2024)
Onshi Hakone Park "Early Summer Rose Exhibition"
Source:Hakone Zenzan
The "Early Summer Rose Exhibition" at Onshi Hakone Park features 120 rose plants of 44 varieties in full bloom. The park offers numerous viewpoints overlooking the spectacular Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi, where visitors can enjoy fragrant roses in a garden dappled with sunlight. It's an exceptional spot where you can simultaneously appreciate the garden's beauty and nature's grandeur.
In the central garden, colorfully arranged roses create an elegant atmosphere in the early summer park surrounded by fresh greenery. At the central gate, beautiful potted arrangements combining various roses are displayed, showcasing Japan's advanced horticultural techniques.
The park features rest areas, observation decks, and walking paths. It's an ideal place to spend time leisurely while enjoying typically Japanese scenery.
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Date: Mid-May to Mid-June 2025
Access: From JR Line/Odakyu Line "Odawara Station," take the bus bound for Hakone-machi Port/Hakone Checkpoint, get off at "Onshi-koen-mae"
Entry Fee: Free
Website: https://www.hakone.or.jp/8772 (Reference: 2024)
Natural Spots are Especially Recommended in Hakone During May When It Gets Genuinely Warm!
In May, Hakone features both spring flowers in full bloom and striking fresh greenery. Daytime temperatures are comfortable around 20 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for walks and hiking. In nature-rich Hakone, this season is perfect for enjoying the natural environment.
Views of Mt. Fuji become clearer as the spring haze diminishes, with more days offering crisp visibility. Since there are relatively fewer tourists during this period, you can enjoy sightseeing at a relaxed pace.
"Hakone Gora Park" Where Azaleas Bloom in Full Glory
Source:PR TIMES
At Hakone Gora Park, 1,000 azalea plants of 8 different varieties bloom magnificently around the fountain. During the same period, rhododendrons also reach their peak bloom, making the park the most spectacular sight of the year. In May 2025, visitors can enjoy special azalea viewing events and traditional Japanese cultural festivals throughout the park.
My recommended way to spend time at Hakone Gora Park is to experience Japanese traditional culture at the elegant Japanese-style tea house "Hakuundo Chaen." While Sado (Japanese tea ceremony) has various rules and can be challenging for first-time participants, this venue offers services that allow beginners to experience authentic Sado comfortably. During the May 2025 festival season, special tea ceremony demonstrations and workshops will be available for international visitors.
From the garden, you can enjoy views of the Hakone mountain range, and the landscape created by the Japanese garden and mountains is truly a soul-soothing spectacular view. Please take the opportunity to experience these luxurious moments of Japanese traditional culture along with the beautiful scenery.
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Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
Closed: Open daily
Phone: 0460-82-2825
Official Website: https://www.hakone-tozan.co.jp/gorapark/
"Hakone Wetlands Garden" Most Colorful from Late May to June
Source:Official website
The Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands, home to approximately 1,700 plant species, reaches its peak blooming season from late May to June. More than 100 varieties of flowers can be viewed simultaneously, with particularly impressive colonies of Nikko Kisuge (Day lily) and Shobu (Japanese iris). For the 2025 season, the garden will host special evening illumination events and botanical festivals.
This park specializes in plants that grow in wetlands, rivers, and lakes, creating a therapeutic space where water and plants interweave.
Well-maintained walking paths allow visitors to observe waterside plants and wild flowers up close. It takes about an hour to circle the garden. You can experience the beauty and diversity of Japanese plants while taking a leisurely stroll.
The garden also features numerous photo spots, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy scenes.
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Address: 817 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
Closed: December 1st to mid-March
Phone: 0460-84-7293
Official Website: https://hakone-shisseikaen.com/
"Sengokuhara Plateau" A Majestic Natural Spot Perfect for Picnics
Sengokuhara Plateau is one of Hakone's most nature-rich spots. While famous for its autumn pampas grass, in May the sprawling grassland is enveloped in vibrant fresh greenery. On nice days, it's recommended to bring a bento box for a picnic. The May 2025 Green Festival will feature special outdoor concerts and nature workshops.
From the vast plateau, you can enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Kintoki and Owakudani. Art museums and hot spring facilities are scattered around the plateau, allowing for an elegant day combining art and onsen. In particular, the Pola Museum and Lalique Museum are globally acclaimed as art spaces within nature, so please make sure to visit them.
Additionally, activities like mountain biking in the great outdoors are recommended. Please enjoy your luxurious time in your own style while experiencing Hakone's unique nature and culture.
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Address: Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Open daily
Phone: 0460-85-7410
Official Website: https://www.town.hakone.kanagawa.jp/www/contents/1100000000007/index.html
