Ultimate Hakone Hiking Guide: Top Trails, Tips, and Must-See Attractions
Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations, famous for its stunning views of Mt. Fuji. The area, particularly the villa district of Gora, attracts both domestic and international tourists with its numerous cultural facilities like art museums and historic shrines.
One of Hakone's key features is its excellent accessibility from Tokyo, Japan's capital. Despite its proximity to the metropolis, Hakone's location at the foot of Mt. Hakone offers rich natural landscapes, including Lake Ashi (a caldera lake) and Owakudani, an active volcanic valley with rising steam vents.
In this guide, we'll explore the enchanting natural hiking experiences that Hakone has to offer.
Make Hakone Hiking Part of Your Itinerary!
While Hakone boasts numerous attractive spots like hot springs and museums, its majestic natural scenery surrounded by mountains is a must-see.
To experience nature up close, try Hakone hiking, which offers unique opportunities to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
Hakone features various hiking courses suitable for both beginners and advanced hikers. Each course has different highlights and time requirements, allowing you to choose one that fits your schedule and ability level.
The trails offer diverse experiences, from abundant Mt. Fuji viewpoints to historic rest stops that have existed for about 400 years.
5 Recommended Hiking Courses in Hakone Selected by the Author
Here, I'll introduce particularly recommended hiking courses that showcase Hakone's natural beauty, along with their highlights.
Old Hakone Highway: Yumoto to Hakone Course (9.0-9.5km)
Source: Hakone Zenzan
The "Old Hakone Highway Yumoto to Hakone Course" is the most classic hiking route in Hakone, suitable for everyone from children to seniors.
The Old Hakone Highway is a historic route stretching approximately 32km from Kanagawa Prefecture across Hakone Pass to neighboring Shizuoka Prefecture. About 400 years ago, before cars and trains existed, people traveled this mountain path on foot.
One highlight of this course is the preserved cobblestone pavement from that era. Due to the steep slopes and difficulty walking in mud during rainy days, these stone pavements were installed.
The course features numerous spots to experience Hakone's history, including free rest houses where you can learn about 400-year-old travelers' experiences and facilities showcasing Hakone Wood Parquetry, a traditional Japanese woodworking technique originating in Hakone.
This course is ideal for those who want to enjoy a leisurely hike while experiencing Hakone's traditional culture through various stopping points.
<Course Details>
- Access:
[Starting from Hakone-Yumoto]
14-minute bus from Odawara Station to "Sanmaibashi," start from Yumoto entrance
13-minute train from Odawara Station to "Hakone-Yumoto Station," start from Yumoto entrance
[Starting from Motohakone]
58-minute bus from Odawara Station to "Hakone Checkpoint Ruins," start from Hakone entrance
- Duration: [Hakone-Yumoto→Hakone] 4.5 hours [Hakone→Hakone-Yumoto] 3.5 hours
*When departing from Hakone-Yumoto Station via stone pavement route
- Suitable for: All ages, those wanting to experience classic Hakone hiking
Tonosawa to Mt. Myojogatake Course (5.7km)
Source: Tripadvisor
The Tonosawa to Mt. Myojogatake hiking course is perfect for those seeking a tranquil nature experience in Hakone. This trail is more challenging than the stone-paved Hakone Old Road (Yumoto to Hakone course) due to its exposed dirt slopes and stairs.
The course preserves deep natural surroundings, offering hikers therapeutic mountain breezes and birdsong. One highlight is the Amidaji Temple, located midway up Mt. Tonomine. In winter, visitors can enjoy the seasonal spectacle of approximately 200 blooming camellias.
The main hiking trail beginning behind Amida Hall is primarily dirt paths with exposed tree roots and scattered rocks, so comfortable hiking shoes are essential for safety.
Near the Mt. Myojogatake summit, there's a viewing point for Mt. Fuji. On clear days, don't miss the opportunity to spot Japan's iconic symbol.
Course Details:
- Access:
* 18-minute bus ride from Odawara Station to "Tonosawa"
* 17-minute train ride from Odawara Station to "Tonosawa"
- Duration: 3 hours each way
- Recommended for: Nature enthusiasts seeking quiet Hakone hiking experiences and Mt. Fuji views
Mt. Myojogatake to Mt. Myojintake Course (3.5km)
Source: Google Maps
This course is renowned for offering the best views among Hakone hiking trails. Mt. Myojogatake and Mt. Myojintake, part of the Hakone volcano's somma, feature open summits providing spectacular views and vast skies.
While following the mountain ridge offers a high mountain atmosphere, the relatively gentle undulations make it accessible for casual hikers.
Multiple Mt. Fuji viewing spots dot the trail. The Mt. Myojintake summit offers exceptional views of Mt. Fuji over Mt. Kintoki (the highest peak of Hakone's outer rim), plus views of Owakudani and Hakone townscape.
The course offers views of Mt. Fuji and the ocean beyond the summit. Perfect for those wanting to experience Japan's unique natural landscapes.
Course Details:
- Access:
Starting from Mt. Myojogatake:
* 35-minute bus ride from Odawara Station (Kojiri/Togendai-bound) to "Miyagino-bashi," then to Mt. Myojogatake trailhead
Starting from Mt. Myojintake:
* 40-minute bus ride from Odawara Station (Kojiri/Togendai-bound) to "Miyagino shisho mae," then to Mt. Myojintake trailhead
- Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes (Myojogatake→Myojintake), 1 hour 30 minutes (Myojintake→Myojogatake)
- Recommended for: Those seeking spectacular Mt. Fuji views
Mt. Komagatake to Owakudani Course (3.5km)
Source: Hakone Zenzan
The "Mt. Komagatake to Owakudani Course" is a popular hakone hiking trail offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji and Owakudani's natural landscapes.
Both the summit of Mt. Komagatake and Owakudani offer clear views of Mount Fuji on fair weather days.
Owakudani is the symbol of Hakone's active volcano, featuring unique scenery where white steam rises from volcanic rock ground. The area is a popular tourist spot, famous for its "black eggs" - eggs boiled in the volcanic hot springs that turn black from the sulfuric water.
From Mt. Komagatake's summit, you can view Lake Ashi (a caldera lake) and the town of Hakone. The deep green of Hakone's forests merging with Lake Ashi's cobalt blue creates a picturesque panorama.
While this hiking course passes through Mt. Kamiyama (Hakone's highest peak), the trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for beginners except during snowy seasons (mainly December to March).
<Course Details>
*Currently closed due to volcanic activity restrictions around Owakudani
Access:
[Starting from Mt. Komagatake summit]
Take bus from Odawara Station to Hakone-en (70 min), then ropeway (7 min) to "Komagatake Summit"
[Starting from Owakudani]
Take bus from Odawara Station via Owakudani Station to Kojiri (50 min), get off at "Owakudani"
Duration:
Komagatake→Owakudani: 2h 5min
Owakudani→Komagatake: 2h 15min
Recommended for: Those wanting to experience Mount Fuji views and Hakone's volcanic landscapes
Kowakidani to Mt. Asama Course (2.3km)
Source: Komoro City
This hakone hiking route passes by Chisuji Falls on the Jakotsu River. Though modest at 3m high and 20m wide, the falls feature beautiful thread-like water streams, making it a popular spot. The transparent water reveals moss-covered rocks beneath, creating a uniquely beautiful Hakone landscape.
The trail offers seasonal attractions including cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. Though unpaved, the path has minimal elevation changes, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.
With a round-trip time of just 1.5 hours, it's one of Hakone's shortest hiking courses, perfect for experiencing nature efficiently.
<Course Details>
Access:
- Train: Odawara Station→Hakone-Yumoto Station→Kowakidani Station
- Bus: 35 min from Odawara Station to Kowakidani Station
Duration:
Kowakidani→Mt. Asama: 50min
Mt. Asama→Kowakidani: 40min
Recommended for: Those seeking a quick, refreshing nature experience
Local-Guided Tours Showcasing Hakone's Natural Beauty
Hakone hiking tours led by local guides have gained popularity among tourists seeking an efficient way to experience the area's diverse natural attractions.
Hike Japan Heritage Hakone Hachiri with certified mountain guide
Source: Viator
This guided hiking tour explores selected natural and cultural spots along the historic Hakone Hachiri trail with a professional mountain guide. "Hachiri" represents a traditional Japanese distance unit of approximately 32km, of which you'll hike about 8km during this tour.
Highlights include visits to preserved teahouses and the historic Hakone Checkpoint where travelers were once required to obtain passage permits during the 1600s. The guide's expertise in Hakone hiking history provides deeper insights than self-guided tours.
During my visit on a clear day, I captured photos of the Hakone Shrine's torii gate floating on Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji. This tour is perfect for those wanting to experience both Hakone's ancient history and natural landscapes.
・Meeting point: Hakone Yumoto Station
・Tour area: Hakone Yumoto Station to Mishima Station
・Start time: From 9:00
Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour
Source: Viator
This guided hiking tour combines a trek along Hakone's outer rim with a traditional Japanese lunch and onsen experience.
The tour's highlight is viewing seasonal landscapes while enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Valley - iconic Hakone hiking destinations. For first-time visitors, having a professional guide is invaluable in identifying these landmarks among the numerous mountains.
With an elevation change of about 500m, this 4-5 hour hike is recommended for those with good physical fitness. After the intensive hiking session, visitors can relax in the onsen hot springs.
・Meeting point: Hakone Yumoto Station
・Tour area: Hakone Yumoto Station to Hakone Yumoto Station or Togendai Station
・Start time: From 8:30
Hike Hakone Hachiri
Source: Viator
Hike Hakone Hachiri is a 12km hiking tour through Hakone Hachiri, designated as Japan Heritage for its cultural and traditional significance.
This guided hiking experience features essential stops along the historic trail, including the 400-year-old Amazake-chaya Tea House, ancient cedar trees lining both sides of Hakone Hachiri, and the Hakone Checkpoint. The guided tour efficiently covers numerous landmark locations in a limited time.
At Amazake-chaya, you can try amazake, a traditional sweet Japanese fermented rice drink. Known for its high nutritional value, it historically served as a revitalizing drink for travelers walking long distances. The memorable sensation of amazake warming your body during the hiking tour is truly unforgettable.
Join Hike Hakone Hachiri to experience the journey as travelers did 400 years ago.
Meeting point: Hakone-Yumoto Station or Odawara Station
Tour area: Hakone-Yumoto Station/Odawara Station to Mishima Station
Start time: From 8:30
3 Nature Spots Perfect for Families with Children Around Hakone
Forest Adventure HAKONE
Source: Official website
Forest Adventure HAKONE is an eco-friendly outdoor park where you can exercise in nature. The park features various obstacles utilizing tall trees, allowing visitors to engage with Hakone's natural environment while being physically active.
The Obstacle Course offers two difficulty levels:
- Adventure course: Challenging course with 36 activities, guaranteed to keep adults engaged
- Canopy course: More accessible course with 33 activities, suitable for children
Please wear comfortable clothes suitable for physical activity when visiting Forest Adventure HAKONE.
Address: 749-1 Yumoto Chanoha, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Operating (Reception) Hours:
Adventure Course: 9:00-14:00
Canopy Course: 9:00-15:00
*Hours may vary by season; please check the official website
Closed: Irregular
Phone: 080-4219-2206
Official website: https://foret-aventure.jp/park/fa-hakone/
Hakone GeoMuseum
Source: Official website
The Hakone Geopark is dedicated to preserving the natural environment around the Hakone volcano while utilizing it as an international tourist attraction and incorporating it into Hakone's educational and cultural initiatives.
The Hakone GeoMuseum, one of the Hakone Geopark's key facilities, is an interactive museum showcasing the formation and appeal of the Hakone Geopark. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts exploring Hakone's geological wonders, the museum features panel exhibitions about Owakudani's unique volcanic terrain and Lake Ashi, plus hands-on displays including a Hakone volcano model and rock specimens.
The museum occasionally presents volcanic experiments, making it an engaging learning experience for children to understand the Hakone Geopark. Located next to the active volcanic area of Owakudani, visitors can combine their museum visit with a hiking exploration of the impressive steaming vents.
Address: 1251 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa
Hours: 9:00-16:00
Open: Daily
Phone: 0460-83-8140
Official Website: https://www.hakone-geomuseum.jp/
Hakone Gora Park
Source: Hakone Navi
Established in 1914, Hakone Gora Park is Japan's oldest French-style garden. The park's centerpiece fountain pool attracts visitors year-round with seasonal displays of azaleas, hydrangeas, and autumn foliage. It's an ideal rest stop for hikers exploring Hakone's scenic trails.
The park features various cultural facilities including a craft house and a century-old Japanese tea room. Popular activities include pottery-making using special clay and creating glass bead accessories. The traditional tea ceremony experience, offering matcha and Japanese sweets, is particularly popular among international visitors.
The park offers activities suitable for young children, making it perfect for family memories.
Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
Open: Daily
Phone: 0460-82-2825
Official Website: https://www.hakone-tozan.co.jp/gorapark/
Consider Mt. Fuji Climbing if Time Permits
While hiking in Hakone offers great views of Mt. Fuji, ambitious visitors can attempt climbing Japan's highest peak from early July to early September.
The mountain features four main climbing routes of varying difficulty. The Yoshida Route is most popular and suitable for beginners. Starting from the 5th Station of Mt. Fuji (2,300m elevation), accessible by bus, the round-trip summit hike takes about 10 hours. This route features gentle paths and numerous rest stops, making it ideal for first-time climbers.
While distant views of Mt. Fuji are impressive, the panoramic vistas from Japan's highest point (3,776m) are equally remarkable. The summit shrine offers exclusive amulets that make unique Japanese souvenirs.
For First-Time Climbers: Guided Tours to Fully Experience Mt. Fuji's Appeal
For first-time Mt. Fuji climbers guided tours are recommended for safety and maximum enjoyment, offering a significantly more challenging experience than hakone hiking trails.
2-Day Mt. Fuji Climbing Private Tour - Gotemba Trail (Prince Route)
Source: Official website
The 2-Day Mt. Fuji Climbing Private Tour via Gotemba Trail (Prince Route) follows the path once taken by Japan's current emperor. The route features unique attractions including the magnificent bowl-shaped Hoei Crater. After overnight accommodation at approximately 3,300m elevation, climbers proceed to the summit.
The Gotemba Trail presents a relatively high difficulty level due to its lengthy distance and challenging gravel paths. However, specialized Mt. Fuji guides ensure a safe experience even for beginners.
Unlike the casual hakone hiking experiences nearby, climbing Mt. Fuji demands significant physical stamina. Participants should prepare thoroughly with proper conditioning and mountaineering equipment.
・Meeting point: Fujinomiya 5th Station
・Tour area: Fujinomiya Route～Gotemba Route～Summit～Fujinomiya Route
・Start time: From 13:30
Off Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour
Source: Official website
The Off Season 2 Day Mt. Fuji Tour operates from early September to early October, after the main climbing season. Highlights include viewing the sunrise after overnight mountain hut accommodation.
As Japan's tallest and most popular mountain, Mt. Fuji gets crowded during peak season. This off-season tour offers a quieter natural experience. Departing from either Tokyo or Gotemba (area between Hakone and Mt. Fuji), the tour includes transportation to the mountain.
Off-season conditions can be severe with below-freezing temperatures. Please check the tour website for required equipment details.
・Meeting point: Tochomae Station (Tokyo) or Gotemba Station
・Tour area: Tochomae Station/Gotemba Station～Mt. Fuji～Tochomae Station/Gotemba Station
・Start time: From 8:30 (Tochomae Station departure), From 11:00 (Gotemba Station departure)
After Hakone Hiking, Relax Your Body in Hot Springs
After enjoying hiking in Hakone, it's recommended to soothe your fatigue in the high-quality hot springs created by the Hakone volcano. The following hot springs have private baths where you can leisurely bathe while discussing your hiking adventures with family.
Hakone Yuryo
Source: Official website
Hakone Yuryo is a day-use hot spring facility featuring waters from Tonosawa Hot Spring, one of Hakone's seven hot springs. The alkaline waters are gentle with minimal stimulation, making it comfortable for first-time foreign visitors.
The private outdoor baths are a key attraction, allowing families to relax without concern for others. These baths feature Japanese garden-style settings where you can enjoy seasonal nature views while bathing.
The facility also offers Japanese-style BBQ (hearth grilling), and a restaurant serving traditional dishes like sashimi and tempura. After your Hakone hiking adventure, rejuvenate with warm springs and delicious cuisine.
Address: 4 Tonosawa, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours:
[Public Bath] Weekdays 10:00-20:00 (last entry 18:00), Weekends/Holidays 10:00-21:00 (last entry 20:00)
[Private Outdoor Bath] Weekdays 10:00-20:00 (last entry 19:00), Weekends/Holidays 10:00-21:00 (last entry 19:00)
[Restaurant] Weekdays 11:30-20:00 (L.O.19:00), Weekends/Holidays 11:30-21:00 (L.O.20:00)
[Relaxation] 11:00-20:00 (last entry 19:00)
[Herbal Treatment Salon] 11:00-19:00 (last entry 18:00)
Closed: Open year-round (*occasional maintenance closures)
Tel: 0460-85-8411
Official Website: https://www.hakoneyuryo.jp/
Hakone Pax Yoshino
Source: Official website
Hakone Pax Yoshino is a hot spring ryokan with alkaline waters known for their skin-beautifying properties. The top floor features private outdoor baths with expansive forest views, perfect for family relaxation after hiking. Autumn visits are especially recommended for viewing fall foliage while bathing.
Some rooms include private outdoor baths for unlimited use during your stay. The ryokan also serves Japanese cuisine featuring local Hakone ingredients.
Address: 139-5 Yumoto-Chaya, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours:
[Private Outdoor Bath] 12:00-23:00 (last entry 22:00) *Available for overnight or day-use plans only
[Public Bath] Men 15:00-2:00, Women 5:00-9:30
Closed: Never
Tel: 0460-85-8111
Official Website: https://www.pax-yoshino.com/
Hakone Kamon
Source: Official website
Hakone Kamon is a ryokan with its own hot spring source. It features unique private outdoor baths decorated with teapot-shaped ornaments and wooden swings. The secluded baths surrounded by nature appeal to both adults and children, available for both day use and overnight stays.
Six rooms feature private outdoor baths, each themed with traditional elements like Hakone crafts and Japanese paper.
Address: 435 Yumoto, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Hours:
[Day Use] 10:30-17:00 (last entry 16:00)
[Overnight Stay] Available all day except cleaning hours (9:00-10:30, 1:00-1:30)
Closed: Irregular (*Check official website)
Tel: 0460-85-5050
Official Website: https://www.hakone-kamon.jp/