One of Japan’s most iconic hot spring areas with scenic views of Mount Fuji
Hakone Onsen is one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring areas, nestled in the mountains of Kanagawa Prefecture and easily accessible from Tokyo. Known for its variety of mineral-rich hot springs, scenic views of Mount Fuji, and traditional ryokan inns, Hakone offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and nature. Whether you're soaking in an open-air bath overlooking Lake Ashi or enjoying a stay in a historic ryokan, Hakone Onsen is a must-visit destination for onsen lovers and first-time visitors alike.
Top Onsens in Hakone Onsen
Here’s a complete list of Hakone Onsen’s most popular onsens.
Few onsen towns can rival Hakone’s scenic beauty. On clear days, you can enjoy soothing hot spring baths with spectacular views of Mount Fuji in the distance—a truly unforgettable experience.
View of Lake Ashi and its famous torii with Mount Fuji in the background
Art, Nature & Culture Combined
Beyond the baths, Hakone is home to top-tier attractions like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, historic shrines, and Lake Ashi’s pirate ship cruises. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and culture in one destination.
Easy Day Trip from Tokyo
Located just 1.5 hours from Tokyo via the Odakyu Line or Shinkansen, Hakone is one of the most accessible onsen towns for both domestic and international travelers.
Luxurious Ryokan and Modern Resorts
Hakone caters to all budgets—from historic, family-run ryokan with kaiseki cuisine and private baths to modern onsen resorts
with panoramic mountain views and spa services.
Best Time to Visit Hakone Onsen
Spring (Mar–May): Spring in Hakone is stunning, with cherry blossoms blooming around Lake Ashi, Gora Park, and along mountain trails. The weather is mild and pleasant—perfect for enjoying open-air baths surrounded by pink petals.
Summer (Jun–Aug): While Tokyo swelters, Hakone’s higher elevation offers a cooler retreat. Forests are at their greenest, and it’s a great time for hiking, ropeway rides, and cooling off in mountain breezes between soaks.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Hakone is famous for its colorful autumn leaves, especially around the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields and the Hakone Museum of Art. The crisp air and vivid reds, oranges, and golds make for a cozy, picturesque onsen experience.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Winter brings crystal-clear skies and the best chance to see Mount Fuji. Some days even bring light snowfall—ideal for a magical soak in a steaming rotenburo (outdoor bath) while snowflakes fall around you.
How to Get to Hakone Onsen?
Hakone is one of the most accessible onsen towns in Japan, making it a popular choice for both weekend getaways and day trips from Tokyo. Here's how to reach Hakone with ease:
Train (Shinjuku Station)
From Tokyo: The most scenic and direct route is via the Odakyu Romancecar, a limited express train that runs directly from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station in about 85 minutes. This comfortable ride offers large windows for mountain views and doesn’t require transfers.
Shinkansen (via Odawara)
From Tokyo: For Japan Rail Pass holders, taking the Tokaido Shinkansen to Odawara Station is another excellent option. From Odawara, you can transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway to reach Hakone-Yumoto and other parts of the area. (approx. 35 minutes to Odawara + 15 minutes to Hakone-Yumoto )
Bus
From Tokyo, Shibuya, or Shinjuku: Direct highway buses run from major Tokyo hubs like Shibuya Mark City and Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Togendai (near Lake Ashi). This is a good option if you're staying near the lake or exploring the Hakone Loop. (approx. 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes)
