1-Day Solo Shopping Adventure in Hakone, Japan

Hakone, Japan

1 days

Mototsumiya shrine
Lake Ashinoko with Tori gate
Cedar forest with lanterns at night
Traditional onsen hot spring
Sightseeing boat in lake Ashinoko

About Hakone, Japan

Experience the serene beauty of Hakone, Japan, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Famous for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji, Hakone offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the Hakone Shrine hidden in the forest, cruise on the pristine Lake Ashi, or take a scenic ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway. Don't miss the Open Air Museum, showcasing impressive sculptures set against stunning mountainous backdrops. Enjoy traditional Kaiseki Ryori (multi-course meal) and unwind in one of the many Onsens (hot springs) for the ultimate Japanese experience. Hakone is a perfect blend of culture, art, and nature.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

A Day of Art, Scenery, and Relaxation in Hakone

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum. This unique museum features a variety of sculptures set against the beautiful backdrop of Hakone's natural beauty. It's a perfect place to enjoy art and nature simultaneously.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant. Hakone is famous for its tofu and soba noodles, so make sure to try these local specialties.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Hakone Tozan Railway for a scenic ride through the mountains. Make sure to stop at Gora Park, a beautiful Western-style garden with a stunning view of the surrounding area.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local Izakaya. These traditional Japanese pubs offer a variety of small dishes, perfect for trying a bit of everything.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing soak in one of Hakone's many hot springs. These natural baths are the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Hakone Open Air Museum

1
Hakone Open Air Museum

An outdoor museum featuring sculptures and art installations, with a focus on 20th-century art and a Picasso Pavilion.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Hakone Tozan Railway

2
Hakone Tozan Railway

A mountain railway offering scenic views, especially during the hydrangea season and autumn foliage.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Gora Park

3
Gora Park

Gora Park is a western style landscape park in the Gora district of Hakone. It provides beautiful scenic views and serves as a relaxation spot for visitors. It also houses the Hakone Museum of Art.

Parks
Gardens
Cultural Experiences
Hakone's hot springs

4
Hakone's hot springs

Hakone is famous for its hot springs or 'onsen'. These natural hot springs are a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists, offering a traditional Japanese bathing experience and therapeutic benefits.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Yuba

Yuba

Yuba is a by-product of tofu and is very popular in Hakone. It's a delicacy often served in traditional multi-course meals.

Black Eggs

Black Eggs

Black Eggs, or Kuro-tamago, are eggs hard-boiled in the hot springs of Hakone. Eating one is said to add seven years to your life.

Hakone Beer

Hakone Beer

Hakone Beer is a local craft beer brewed in the region. It's a must-try for beer enthusiasts visiting Hakone.

Soba Noodles

Soba Noodles

Soba, or buckwheat noodles, are a staple in Hakone. They are often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup.

Unagi

Unagi

Unagi, or freshwater eel, is a popular dish in Hakone. It's usually grilled and served over rice.

Tempura

Tempura

Tempura is a dish of battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Sake

Sake

Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine. There are several breweries in the Hakone region where you can try different varieties.

Miso Soup

Miso Soup

Miso Soup is a traditional Japanese soup consisting of a stock called dashi, miso paste, and various other ingredients. It's a staple in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Matcha Tea

Matcha Tea

Matcha Tea is a type of powdered green tea that is often served in traditional tea ceremonies in Hakone.

Yakitori

Yakitori

Yakitori is a popular street food in Hakone. It consists of skewered and grilled chicken, often served with a soy-based sauce.

Udon

Udon

Udon is a type of thick wheat noodle often served hot in a mildly flavored broth. It's a common dish in Hakone and throughout Japan.

Amazake

Amazake

Amazake is a traditional sweet, low-alcohol Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's often enjoyed during the New Year's holidays in Hakone.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hakone, Japan, is during the spring months of March to May and the autumn months of September to November. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring offers the added beauty of cherry blossoms, while autumn boasts vibrant fall foliage. However, it's worth noting that these are also peak tourist seasons, so attractions may be more crowded.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Coming of Age Day

February 11

Sun

National Foundation Day

February 12

Mon

National Foundation Day observed

February 23

Fri

Emperor's Birthday

March 20

Wed

Spring Equinox

April 29

Mon

Shōwa Day

May 3

Fri

Constitution Memorial Day

May 4

Sat

Greenery Day

May 5

Sun

Children's Day

May 6

Mon

Children's Day observed

July 15

Mon

Sea Day

August 11

Sun

Mountain Day

August 12

Mon

Day off for Mountain Day

September 16

Mon

Respect for the Aged Day

September 22

Sun

Autumn Equinox

September 23

Mon

Autumn Equinox observed

October 14

Mon

Sports Day

November 3

Sun

Culture Day

November 4

Mon

Culture Day observed

November 23

Sat

Labor Thanksgiving Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

This is the only mountain railway in Japan. It allows you to travel from Hakone-Yumoto Station (at the base of the mountain) to Gora Station (near the top). The train is known for its switchbacks, where the driver and the conductor change shifts and the train switches to reverse direction.

From Gora Station, you can take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan Station. The cable car travels up the steep slope of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

From Sounzan Station, you can take the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station. The ropeway offers stunning views of Lake Ashi, the Owakudani volcanic valley, and on clear days, Mount Fuji.

There are numerous bus lines that operate in Hakone, connecting various tourist attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Shrine, and many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns).

From Togendai, you can take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. The boats are designed like pirate ships, adding a fun element to the journey. The cruise offers beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings.

Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Hakone, especially if you plan to visit areas that are not easily accessible by public transportation. Note that international visitors will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Japan.

Taxis are readily available in Hakone and can be a convenient way to reach your destination. However, they can be expensive for longer distances.

Ridesharing services like Uber are not widely available in Hakone. However, local taxi companies may offer similar services through their own apps.

Many of Hakone's attractions are located in scenic areas that are enjoyable to explore on foot. For example, the Old Tokaido Road is a historic highway that is now a popular hiking trail.

Renting a bicycle can be a fun and active way to explore Hakone. There are several rental shops in the area, and some ryokans may also offer bicycle rentals to their guests.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency¥ JPY

Time zoneUTC+9

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage100 V

Things to know about Hakone, Japan as a first time visitor

1

Hakone is located in the Kanagawa Prefecture, about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo.

2

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

3

Japanese is the official language. English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic phrases.

4

Hakone is known for its hot springs, or 'onsen'. Remember, it's customary to bathe naked and wash thoroughly before entering the hot springs.

5

The weather in Hakone is relatively mild. Summers (June to August) can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while winters (December to February) can drop to 32°F (0°C).

6

Public transportation is efficient and reliable. The Hakone Tozan Train and Hakone Tozan Bus are popular options for getting around.

7

Tipping is not customary in Japan. In fact, it can sometimes be seen as rude.

8

Hakone is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, so it's a great location for hiking and outdoor activities.

9

The Hakone Free Pass is a cost-effective way to travel around Hakone. It provides unlimited use of Odakyu-affiliated buses, trains, boats, cablecars and ropeways in the Hakone area.

10

Hakone is famous for its traditional inns, or 'ryokan'. Staying in a ryokan can provide a unique cultural experience.

11

Most ryokan provide meals as part of the accommodation package. These meals often feature local and seasonal ingredients.

12

It's customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments in Japan.

13

Japan operates on a 100V supply voltage and 50Hz.

14

Hakone is in the Japan Standard Time zone, which is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9).

15

Japan has a low crime rate and Hakone is generally a safe place to visit. However, it's always important to take standard travel precautions.

16

The emergency phone number in Japan is 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance.

17

Japan has a national health insurance system, but it does not cover short-term visitors. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health.

18

Hakone is known for its traditional crafts, such as Yosegi Zaiku (marquetry) and Hakone Glass.

19

The drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.

20

Japan is a predominantly cash-based society, so it's a good idea to have cash on hand for small purchases, transportation fares, and at locations where cards may not be accepted.

Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

こんにちは

Konnichiwa

Greeting someone

Goodbye

さようなら

Sayonara

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

ありがとう

Arigatou

Showing gratitude

Yes

はい

Hai

Agreeing or confirming

No

いいえ

Iie

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

すみません

Sumimasen

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

ごめんなさい

Gomen nasai

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

英語を話しますか?

Eigo o hanashimasu ka?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

わかりません

Wakarimasen

When you don't understand what was said

Where is the bathroom?

トイレはどこですか?

Toire wa doko desu ka?

Asking for the location of the bathroom

How much does this cost?

これはいくらですか?

Kore wa ikura desu ka?

Asking the price of something

I would like this

これをください

Kore o kudasai

When you want to order or buy something

Help

助けて

Tasukete

When you need assistance

Good morning

おはようございます

Ohayou gozaimasu

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

おやすみなさい

Oyasumi nasai

Saying goodnight or going to bed

Delicious

おいしい

Oishii

Complimenting food

Please

お願いします

Onegaishimasu

Making a request

Cheers

乾杯

Kanpai

Making a toast

Where is...?

...はどこですか?

...wa doko desu ka?

Asking for the location of something

I'm lost

迷子です

Maigo desu

When you are lost

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Portable power bank

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Hakone

  • Map of Hakone

  • Phrasebook or language app

  • Backpack or day bag

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

Weather Conditions

Hakone, Japan is known for its diverse weather patterns, which can greatly influence your travel experience. Here are some weather-related tips to help you plan your trip. Hakone experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. The summer months, from June to August, can reach temperatures of around 85°F (29°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. However, sudden rain showers are common during this period, so don't forget to bring a raincoat or umbrella. The winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild with temperatures usually hovering around 41°F (5°C). However, Hakone is located in a mountainous region, so it can get quite chilly, especially at night. Pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Snowfall is not uncommon during these months, so be prepared for potential disruptions to travel plans. The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are considered the best times to visit Hakone. The temperatures during these seasons are quite comfortable, usually ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 70°F (21°C). These periods also coincide with the beautiful cherry blossom bloom and the vibrant autumn foliage, respectively. Regardless of when you visit, Hakone's mountainous terrain can lead to sudden changes in weather. It's always a good idea to check the local forecast regularly during your stay and plan your activities accordingly. Also, remember to pack layers so you can adjust to any unexpected changes in temperature. Lastly, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, which can be particularly enjoyable during the colder months. So, don't forget to pack a swimsuit, regardless of the season. Enjoy your trip!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

9° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Hakone, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.

February

9° / -1°

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit the hot springs and enjoy the winter landscapes.

March

14° / 2°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. Cherry blossoms start to bloom towards the end of the month.

April

20° / 8°

April is a popular time to visit due to the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The weather is mild, but it can be a bit rainy.

May

24° / 12°

May brings warm and comfortable weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The lush greenery and blooming flowers make for beautiful scenery.

June

28° / 16°

June is the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for wet weather. Despite the rain, the temperatures are warm and the scenery is lush.

July

32° / 20°

July is hot and humid, with frequent rain showers. It's a good time to visit the indoor attractions or enjoy a dip in the hot springs.

August

34° / 22°

August is the hottest month in Hakone, with high humidity. It's a great time for water activities, but be prepared for the heat.

September

30° / 18°

September sees the end of summer and the start of autumn. The weather is still warm, but the humidity decreases, making it more comfortable.

October

24° / 12°

October brings cooler temperatures and the beautiful autumn foliage. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the fall colors.

November

18° / 6°

November is quite cool, with the autumn foliage at its peak. It's a great time to visit the outdoor hot springs and enjoy the fall scenery.

December

10° / 1°

December is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping and a chance of snow. It's a great time to enjoy the winter scenery and the indoor attractions.

Did you know?

Did you know that Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which is one of Japan's most popular national parks?

1 of 10

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