Little bit of a climb up the steps, but we'll worth it. There are a few shrines throughout the area, but this is the largest of the bunch. You can go up and make your offerings. Set in the forest, very beautiful. The cedar trees are humongous, just amazing. The parking lot is not that far away. There is also a small path you can follow instead of the steps. It's just so peaceful and scenic, a must stop.

An absolutely beautiful and serene shrine. I loved how the tall trees towered over our heads and the way the green of the forest mixed with the redish orange colors of the shrine. The architecture was simply stunning. And of course the torii gate on the lake is the main celebrity here. Just know that there’s a crazy long line to get a picture with it at all times, some saying it was an hour of waiting. We didn’t wait, we decided to admire the main part of the shrine instead. Don’t forget to get some water from the shrine spring, it’s said to bring good luck.

Definetely a must stop! Regretted not doing the tour around the lake which included seeing so many more Tori gates. Beautiful place to visit and very spiritual.

Its a must visit if you find yourself in the region. Dripping with history and culture. Its beautiful. Id recomend going as early as possible to dodge the group-tours that frequent the shrine though.

Hakone Jinja at night was a great experience. There was a line, but everyone respected it and even helped each other take photos. Calm atmosphere, beautiful lighting, and a really memorable moment.

Beautiful place! The trees are amazing in Autumn! The Tori was beautiful with the glistening lake behind it. Can be quite crowded with tourists though!

#throwback2016 Tucked between mistdrenched cedars and the still waters of Lake Ashi, Hakone Jinja feels less like a shrine and more like an accidental portal to Studio Ghibli. The iconic red torii gate, emerging from the lake like a spiritual submarine hatch, is Instagram bait but somehow still sacred. Founded in 757 AD, back when Fuji was still updating her firmware, the shrine once drew samurai warriors seeking divine WiFi before battle. These days, it draws influencers in linen shirts whispering “so zen” before posting a Reel with lofi beats. The walk up through ancient trees is calming except when the fog gets too thick and you start questioning your life choices and the location of your travel group. Bonus: there’s also a side shrine for a nineheaded dragon deity. Because oneheaded dragons are just too basic for Hakone. 1200 years of vibes and foggy drama, blessed. 📸 Tip: Come early morning for mist, mystery, and minimal humans. Otherwise, enjoy the queue to touch a gate.

Pretty kitschy kind of place for the main waterpark but it was fun to see the different themed areas. Was pretty good for our younger kids but I don’t think teenagers would have as much fun…. The traditional onsen area was much nicer but families have to split up and go by gender , kids are allowed there as well ( younger than 6 can go with either parent I think). Worth half a day if you’re looking for a way to have some fun with younger kids and do a traditional onsen

We went there just yesterday, I'll evaluate both places, pool area and onsen area. It was a Sunday and day before a national holiday, so quite crowded, as others mentioned 3.500 yen seems a little high because although the pool area is quite big with many pools it was very crowded and noisy so we couldn't enjoy it too much outside. I think it's nice for families but couples should come under the week. Onsen area on the other hand was beautiful, I like the differencet temperatures and it looked newly built. I didn't notice anything too dirty, so I can't understand the negative ratings to be honest. Overall 4/5 recommended on the weekend, would like to come again under the week 😊 Resting area is nice too! Also recommend eating outside because it's cold for sure if we go from bath to bath so I can't imagine sitting there. Recommendation: create a space with heaters.

Gross! We visited the swimsuit pool area as visitors, did not stay at the hotel. It was crammed full of people. Some surfaces were slippery and almost all areas except the rest area upstairs were not clean. Locker rooms were slimy and dirty. If youre from the U.S. and know Great Wolf Lodge, it was like that but worse. The staff at the front were very nice, that was about the only good thing about it. We didnt stay long, even the kids were grossed out.

I felt like the attendant had a bad attitude when I checked in. The first thing they did was rudely tell me I could get towel with my hotel voucher but next time I would need to pay, and understand what she might have been trying to tell me but the way she said it struck me as being unprofessional. I mentioned I didn't have a bathing suit so they said I could just use the onsen which is what I wanted to do anyways, what they didn't tell me is the onsen only opens at 11am, it was 10:15, like why hold back what is contextually valuable information so I don't waste both our times checking-in in the first place.

We came to the water park. It was hideous. For children they can run around and have a good time. It is not for adults at all. So busy and tacky. Not relaxing at all..I did come on a weekend. The staff were very helpful but unless you have small kids don't bother.

They have a lot of different baths, make sure to keep going even when you think you’re done. Some parts felt a bit dingy, but overall it’s still a good experience. The gem is the outdoor baths. We went because it’s included in the Hakone Pass.

We used a private Onsen room, and it was amazing!!!! Great atmosphere with a view to the mountains full of trees, and privacy! Highly recommended! * Cup of tea would add cherry to the cake! - Location is only convenient if you stay at Hakone, otherwise you will need around 1hr bus ride from Odawara sration.

Its important as tourist area before and still famous among locals and foreign tourist till now. Good place for photos, having meals, and shop some local souvenirs. Suitable for any group size or FIT since its open area for everyone to come and enjoy. Promised amazing panoramic view ...Worth visit

A fascinating glimpse into Japan’s history! Hakone Checkpoint is a well-preserved historical site that gives you insight into the Edo period’s travel and security system. The museum and reconstructed buildings are informative and engaging, with displays that bring history to life. The location by Lake Ashi offers beautiful views, making it both educational and scenic. Perfect for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone exploring Hakone’s cultural attractions!

The Hakone Checkpoint (箱根関所, Hakone Sekisho) is a historic site located in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It was once an important checkpoint during the Edo period (1603–1868) and was part of the Tokugawa shogunate’s system of control to monitor and regulate travelers, particularly to prevent the movement of women from the shogun’s family and samurai. Here’s a review of the site: Overview and Historical Significance • The Hakone Checkpoint was established in 1619 on the Tōkaidō, the most important route connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto, the capital at the time. It was a key part of the Shogun’s network of checkpoints designed to maintain control over the samurai class and prevent rebellion. The checkpoint specifically controlled the passage of people, goods, and information across the mountain pass. • The site features a replica of the original checkpoint station, and visitors can learn about the role it played in the Edo period’s transportation and governance. The original building was destroyed over time, but a reconstruction offers an immersive experience of what it would have looked like. Visitor Experience 1. Historical Exhibits: The site includes informative displays about life at the checkpoint, the role of guards, and the travel restrictions enforced during the Edo period. There are also costumes available for visitors to try on, which can make for a fun and interactive experience. 2. Reconstructed Checkpoint Building: The main attraction is the reconstructed checkpoint building, which looks quite authentic and offers a glimpse into the past. The building itself is not just a structure but a historical interpretation, so visitors can feel the weight of its historical importance. 3. Scenic Location: Situated in the beautiful Hakone area, the checkpoint is surrounded by lush greenery and is just a short distance from other notable attractions like the Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The natural beauty of the area adds to the overall experience, especially if you’re visiting on a sunny day. 4. Access to Local History: The museum within the checkpoint also highlights various aspects of life during the Edo period, including tools, weapons, and documents related to the functioning of the checkpoint. This is especially valuable for history enthusiasts who want to understand how the Tokugawa shogunate governed its territories. Pros: • Educational: The site provides valuable insight into the Edo period and the strategic importance of transportation and communication during that time. • Interactive: The option to dress in period clothing and see the original and replica items up close makes it a very engaging experience for those interested in history. • Scenic: The beautiful location in Hakone provides a peaceful, historic atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding nature. Cons: • Small Site: While the checkpoint is historically significant, the actual site is relatively small, so it may not take up too much time if you’re looking for a longer visit. • Limited in Scope: It’s focused mainly on the checkpoint’s role, which might not be enough for those looking for a broader view of Japan’s history or a deeper exploration of Hakone itself. Best Time to Visit • Autumn: The fall colors around Hakone are stunning, and the natural scenery around the checkpoint is even more impressive. • Spring: Cherry blossoms in the area are also breathtaking, and Hakone is less crowded compared to other spots during the peak tourist season. Overall Impression The Hakone Checkpoint is a fascinating and well-maintained historical site. It offers a great opportunity to dive into a crucial piece of Japan’s Edo period history while enjoying the beauty of Hakone’s nature. If you’re a history buff or just someone who appreciates the traditional aspects of Japanese culture, it’s definitely worth a stop. However, if you’re short on time or not as interested in historical checkpoints, it might be worth combining the visit with nearby attractions to make the most of your time in Hakone.

One of the best places in my overall Japan trip. The detailed rebuilt checkpoint buildings are amazing. The woodworking detail and the preservation is something to be proud of. The staffs are very helpful in explaining and the view is stunning!

A rebuilt old checkpoint fort. The old buildings have been reconstructed with care for the historical accuracy. It has brief placards talking about life at the fort, roles and responsibilities for staff members, and the construction of the fort. I would recommend walking up the hill to the watchtower for the view.

Visited Hakone Checkpoint and really enjoyed stepping back in time! The reconstructed gates and guardhouses are super well done, and the small museum has lots of interesting historical details. The lookout point offers amazing views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. Easy to walk around and the staff are friendly. A great stop if you’re exploring Hakone—history buffs and casual visitors alike will enjoy it!

The Hakone Checkpoint is a historical site that recreates a major inspection station from the Edo period. Located along the Tokaido Road, it offers a glimpse into feudal Japan with reconstructed buildings and informative exhibits. Ideal for history enthusiasts.

The ferry service to get from one side of the lake to the other is quite useful. It is much nicer than riding the bus, and the views along the way are great. I could pass on the fake pirate theme, but it doesn't hurt for the kids. They push getting the first class tickets, but I didn't see much of an advantage when we were there with low congestion. It might be worth the space if the ship is crowded.

It's a pretty quick cruise not that expensive. Very nice scenery. Boats are very nice and well maintained. It's a big day from Tokyo on trains, cable car, ropeway, boat, bus and train again. A good day out in the country hills.

PROS ➕ Pirate ship ➕ Free with Hakone Pass ➕ Great view of Lake Ashi CONS ➖ None Date visited: 05/06/2024 Since this cruise was included with the pass I bought upon arriving in Hakone, I took the opportunity to ride it. The check-in process was quick and easy, though the wait was long due to the ship’s schedule. There were seats and shops around the port—perfect for stocking up on snacks and drinks. Unfortunately, most shops had already closed by the time I finished checking in. I managed to grab a cookie and a coffee drink from a small café nearby. The weather was less than ideal: cold, cloudy, and foggy, which meant we wouldn’t be able to see Mount Fuji from the lake. When our ship finally arrived, it looked even more colorful and festive than it had from afar or in photos. People boarded and disembarked in an instant; I followed suit. Passengers who had purchased first-class seating were led to a separate hall. I was in the standard class, but chose to sit outside near the flagpole to enjoy the lake view. Many others joined me later, while some retreated indoors to escape the chilly wind. I spotted several local attractions peeking through the thick treeline—some I had already visited. The most recognizable were, of course, the Peace Torii and a luxury hotel, just to name a few. Since the ship was actually a ferry and didn’t sway much, I didn’t feel as seasick as I usually do on regular ships or airplanes. The whole trip went smoothly and without incident. We reached the port on the opposite side of the lake in under an hour. All in all, this is a must-do in Hakone—especially if you’ve purchased a pass. Just be mindful of the schedule; I nearly missed the cable car because of it.

Easily a must-do in Hakone. It's included with the Hakone Free Pass, and you can upgrade to first class for just 700 yen — which I highly recommend. You’ll enjoy beautiful views and a very fun ride.

Experienced the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise as part of our Hakone day tour, and it was a wonderful addition to the trip. The cruise takes you across Lake Ashi, offering spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The Peace Torii Gate looks especially beautiful from the water. The cruise ship itself is well-designed, with artistic sculptures and decorative elements overlooking from the bow, adding a nice touch to the overall experience. A calm and scenic ride that perfectly complements a day in Hakone.

The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (箱根遊覧船, Hakone Yūran-sen) is one of the most iconic ways to explore the scenic beauty of Hakone, and it’s a fantastic experience for anyone visiting this picturesque area. It offers a unique perspective of Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖), surrounded by lush forests and framed by views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Here’s a review of the cruise, covering the main aspects of the experience: The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise operates on Lake Ashi, a caldera lake that sits at the foot of Hakone Volcano. The cruise offers various routes and options, with the most popular being the one that connects the Hakone-machi and Moto-Hakone areas to the Pirate Ship port near Hakone Shrine. • The boat itself is a highlight for many visitors, especially because of its “pirate ship” design, which gives the cruise a bit of a playful, fantasy-like feel. While it’s not historically accurate, the pirate ship theme adds to the charm, and it’s fun for both kids and adults. • Inside, the ships are comfortable, with ample seating and large windows that provide unobstructed views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. 2. Scenic Views: • The cruise offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Ashi, which is known for its beauty, especially in the early morning when the mist creates a mystical atmosphere. The lake is set against a backdrop of dense forests and, on clear days, you can get amazing views of Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance. • Depending on the season, the colors of the surrounding landscape change dramatically. In spring, cherry blossoms. 3. Duration and Routes: • The cruise typically lasts about 30–40 minutes one-way, depending on the route you take. There are several different routes, so you can pick a shorter or longer ride based on your interests and schedule. • The most popular route is from Hakone-machi to Moto-Hakone, which gives you views of both the eastern and western shores of Lake Ashi. The full round-trip cruise, combining stops at both Hakone-machi and Moto-Hakone, can take around 1.5 hours. 4. Stops Along the Route: • Along the way, the cruise makes stops at Hakone-machi, Moto-Hakone, and sometimes at other nearby locations, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas. The stops are convenient for visiting attractions like Hakone Shrine, Chinzan-so Gardens, or hiking trails near the lake. 5. Relaxed and Comfortable: • The cruise is very relaxed, and it’s a great way to take in the stunning scenery without too much physical exertion. The boats are equipped with heating during colder months and air conditioning in the summer, making it comfortable regardless of the season. Pros: • Scenic: The views are absolutely breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky enough to get a clear view of Mount Fuji in the distance. • Themed Fun: The pirate ship theme adds an extra element of fun and charm, especially for families and anyone looking for something a little whimsical. • Access to Multiple Attractions: The cruise provides easy access to some of the best spots in Hakone, including Hakone Shrine and the Chinzan-so gardens. • Relaxing Experience: It’s a stress-free way to take in the beauty. Cons: • Weather Dependent: While the cruise is enjoyable on most days, visibility can be poor if the weather is cloudy or rainy, which might hinder the experience. Mount Fuji, in particular, is often elusive on overcast days. • Touristy: The pirate ship theme, while fun, can feel a bit gimmicky for some. If you’re looking for a more traditional or understated boat experience, this might not be your ideal. Best Time to Visit: • Autumn (October–November): Hakone is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, and a cruise during this time offers vibrant views of red and gold leaves surrounding the lake. • Spring (April–May): If you’re visiting in spring, the cherry blossoms along the lake create a magical atmosphere. • Winter: The winter months can be clear and crisp, offering a chance to see Mount Fuji in all its glory, though it may be a bit cold on the open-air deck.

Took this ferry service to get a nice view of Lake Ashi and surrounding areas. Comfortable and relaxing ride. Clean and nice cabin. Enjoyed our stay at the deck as well.

The hotel is situated in a gorgeous location overlooking lake Ashi wity pirate ships cruising the lake to the ropeway (cable car). Lovely views of the lake, large and comfortable rooms. What let’s them down are the food options - dinner portions are absolutely tiny, not particularly tasty and very expensive, so not a great combination. Also, very limited dining options nearby - more for lunch but hardly anything in the evening

We spent two nights at the Hakone Hotel and recommend it highly. The location is excellent, lake-side with beatiful views of the surrounding mountains and Mt.Fugi on clear days (we were lucky). The hotel staff is extremely helpful and attentive. Our room was quite large (38m) and well-appointed, though a bit dated. The onsen was lovely. There’s a bus stop at the hotel’s entrance and we found it convenient to the activities and museums on our itinerary. If you’re not interested in eating at the hotel’s restaurants, there are several small places to eat within walking distance.

The location is very scenic, right off of lake ashi. There are restaurants close by. The onsen is very nice. However the rooms are very outdated, and most notably, the hotel controls the AC level, you cannot adjust it. If you are an American and like air conditioning, this isn't a good option for you.

Absolutely beautiful location and staff members are all super courteous and polite and welcoming. Our top-floor room had stunning views and very comfy bed, and was perfectly quiet at night. Two (smallish) things that make this a 4-star rating rather than a 5-star are a) the shower, which is just a bath-attachment with curtain, and tricky to get in and out of; and b) the breakfast buffet, which is a bit on the stingy side, with limited options. That aside, I highly recommend a stay here.

Hakone truly felt like a treasure trove of experiences, and for me, it represented the highpoint, highlight, and even a source of anticipation during my 30-day journey through Japan. My itinerary was carefully crafted to encompass the iconic views of Mount Fuji, the unique volcanic landscape of Owakudani (complete with its famed volcano eggs), a scenic ride on the Odakyu Romancecar, the artistic wonders of the Open-Air Museum, and the serene beauty of Hakone Jinja's Peace Torii Gate. Our arrival at the Hakone Hotel was made especially welcoming by Cheong-san, who thoughtfully ensured we were well-oriented with the hotel's surroundings and the fabulous Onsen facilities, which my wife thoroughly enjoyed. Even on the morning of our departure, the hotel staff went above and beyond; the senior Security Officer kindly facilitated my early 5 am departure to photograph the Torii Gate and was there to greet me with a warm smile upon my 6 am return.

Good place if you don’t have to much time to explore this part of the country We were lucky to see Mt. Fuji and have an interesting excursion

Great room very good view Good service recommend for everyone

A little mom and pop noodle shop that only has 2 tables and serves a good bowl of homemade soba noodles. There was only 1 other table occupied when we went, so there was no wait and food was promptly served. The noodle was springy and the broth full of flavor. The piping hot soup was just the comfort food needed on a cold winters day. The shop is charming and traditional, located just right before the entrance to Hakone Shrine.

We had the beef soba noodles here and it was amazing! The broth was rich, the beef was super tender, and the noodles had just the right bite. The vibe was cozy, and sitting so close to the lake made it even better. Great spot for a quick, tasty meal after exploring.

Such a cute little mom and pop shop. The owner was so nice to us and the food was delicious. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but it was worth it. Try the curry noodle soup with soba noodles!

A beautifully quaint local noodle shop that only has two tables, but it is so worth it. The beef udon I had was excellent and the broth was delicious. If you are lucky enough to spot an empty table, jump straight in!!

A very tiny joint seats only two parties of 4 each. We went for lunch and were lucky to get a table. Hakone is known for its soba so we tried the shrimp tempura soba. It was very cold outside so the soup kept us nice and warm inside. Good flavors and a nice hearty meal. Restaurant is run by such a cute Japanese grandma who cannot speak English but is versed enough you can understand what she is saying. I definitely recommend to anyone passing through. The restaurant is cash only.

Chanced upon this quaint little restaurant which seats only two tables. The food was great and affordable. Oba-san was really nice and friendly. Menu has English words. Please come and visit her restaurant! There’s also a great view from her restaurant.

Super cute tiny place just before Hakone shrine. A very friendly older lady serves delicious Soba and Udon dishes at a very reasonable price, especially for this area (we had 2 full dishes for 2000 yen). Definitely recommendable it you are looking for a quick lunch spot.

Pleasant surprise while walking around the area. Place is conveniently located near the train station. Ample parking. Good number of seats. Fast and good service, Excellent food. Highly recommended if you're in the area. Will definitely visit this place again!

We have been here tonight after not being biggest fan of the food in the hotel and this place was great. Around 15 minute wait to get in but that's fine and worth it and staff kept coming out and getting people in as quick as possible Food was amazing and generous portions, service was really nice and prices more than reasonable. If in Gora or at the museum one day id highly recommend this.

PROS ➕ Great gyoza sets ➕ Close to cable car stations CONS ➖ None Date visited: 05/06/2024 We came here during a very busy evening, just as all the tourists were getting off the last cable car. Some headed straight to the train station, while others made their way to the onsen. We decided to have dinner first. The shop was already bustling when we arrived. Fortunately, we were seated at an empty table. There was also counter seating, but it offered less space for food and definitely wasn’t suitable for groups. The interior design was modern, with plenty of light and generous space between seats. I couldn’t take my eyes off a small corner near the front door, decorated with all sorts of Japanese trinkets and even a little fish tank. We placed our orders: classic gyoza sets and a variant gyoza dish. My set included seven pieces of fried gyoza, white rice, miso soup, and a garnish of vegetables. The fried gyoza were large and firm, with soft skin that was crispy on one side. The filling—pork and vegetables—had a satisfying sweetness and umami. I finished all of them before moving on to the rice and miso. Nothing beats a bowl of pure white rice and some salty miso on a cool evening. The extra gyoza we ordered were also fried but had a hard shell, with sweet sauce poured over them. I didn’t enjoy these as much, as the sauce overpowered the flavor of the gyoza. Overall, this restaurant is a great choice for just about any time of day. Its close proximity to the cable car station is a big plus. Just remember to close the door when you leave.

Simply delicious gyoza! We had the scallop, prawn and shiso variations and loved all three of them! Also lovely interior. Highly recommend coming here before or after visiting the Open Air Museum!

Located near Chokoku-no-Mori Station in Hakone, Gyoza Center is a popular spot known for its creative and delicious handmade dumplings. The tebasaki gyoza (stuffed chicken wings) is crispy outside and juicy inside. From garlic-rich stamina gyoza to unique ones like octopus or natto, the variety makes it fun to share. The restaurant has a cozy, old-school café vibe. Be prepared for a wait on weekends, sometimes over an hour, and note that reordering may not be allowed during busy times. Prices are reasonable, around ¥1,000–¥2,000. A great stop during your Hakone trip!

Conveniently located in between the famous Hakone open air museum and Gora station, this restaurant offers all kind of gyosa, including pork, kimchi, gingko, scallop and scampi filling. Well, we tried some of them and they were OK but certainly not the top of its kind in Japan.

Very tasty restaurant with wide menu of different types of gyoza dumplings. It’s nice that they offer boiled and fried options as well as soups with gyoza. I can truly recommend boiled gyoza soup, for the rainy day it was a really convenient option. Kimchi ramen with fried gyoza was tasty as well but I think it would taste better with boiled gyoza. Close to Gora Station and open air museum :)

Went here for lunch on 11:30 AM Saturday and there were still only another group of customers so best come early. We ordered the A5 Wagyu course, it was quite affordable price point and we enjoyed all of the food. Would love to visit again.

Through the luck of chance I took a wrong turn looking for the park entrance and discovered Itoh. I stopped in for lunch and had the A4 Wagyu option, adding the foie gras. The first course of red snapper ceviche was delicate and delicious; the red snapper placed on top of the ceviche sauce. Second course was a turnip soup that was seasoned perfectly to balance the turnip bitterness with a light herbal oil on top as an accent. For salad the shunkyo daikon and lettuce had a light carrot vinegar dressing with roasted cashews and almonds. The foie gras was decadent and melted with each bite, a light orange oil to add citrus hints and the crostini had just the right amount of give. I opted for the 140g Wagyu and it’s a very large portion but couldn’t stop till it was gone. It was served with a wasabi black pepper roux and fried garlic that complemented it perfectly. Dessert was a chestnut tiramisu that wasn’t too sweet and allowed the subtle chestnut flavor to come out. I’ll definitely return for dinner in the future!

Delicious place! We went earlier in the day to make a reservation (recommend if your going during dinner time). The food was delicious, they even made us a congrats plate because we were celebrating getting engaged. Would definitely go again! The 5 course meal was definitely worth the price and every course was amazing!

Was a good fine dining experience overall, but for being sponsored by nobu I expected a bit more on the service end (water refills without asking, also forgot one of our food items and the kitchen already requested last order). The steak was excellent and the chef brought out the meat prior to cooking for approval. Our friend got the seafood prefix course but didnt see overly impressed. Cocktails were very good, and the atmosphere was nice. For the price I would have expected just better service.

We dined at Itoh Nobu this week with our friends whom we have not seen in many years. Our reservation was at 7:30pm for 4. Our expectations were what you’d expect from a Nobu restaurant and unexpectedly the service was the worst we experienced in Japan. The sommelier was rude from the very beginning and seemed unhappy to be serving English speaking guests. Around 8:30 my husband noticed they were rushing us along, however we ordered a set menu and it is not the type of meal you eat in a rush. We were unaware the restaurant closed at 9pm and the staff did not mention this. At 9:10 they basically asked us to leave and rushed to give us the cheque. The moment we stepped out of the restaurant, they immediately turned off the lights leaving us completely in the dark trying to find a uber. The food was ok but the experience was so horrible we couldn’t forget it. I understand the customs might be different here in Japan however, when a booking is made at 7:30 pm it is understandable a 5 course meal would take minimum 1,5-2 hours to finish.

Wonderful, quiet, intimate experience! Each course was incredibly delicious and they were very accommodating for my gluten allergy and double checked before each dish that everything was ok for me to eat. The wagyu was the best we’ve had in Japan!

A very fun experience, each dish is memorable and I’m very glad I came. The restaurant looked fully booked but when I rang they had space for an early sitting.

A wonderful open air museum. A great experience walking around through the gardens and enjoying the nature , the art works and the weather. Because the museum is in open air you need to choose for a day with good weather ( not a rainy day ). We especially enjoyed the Picasso Pavilion ! A very clean place and we suggest to spend approx 3 hours for the visit. By the way if you guys are a little bit tired there is a nice cozy coffee shop , with great Italian Coffee , ice cream , soft drinks and sandwiches. A huge parking space on the spot which cost 500 yen - we came by car. A highly recommended place if you are in Hakone. Enjoy !

The day I visited, the weather was perfect—not cold, with plenty of sunshine. The gardens were beautifully arranged and the views were stunning, with many corners ideal for taking photos. Walking around was truly enjoyable. I especially liked how they placed little statues tucked into hidden spots, making it fun to explore. Later, I sat in the coffee shop, enjoyed some desserts, and admired the scenery. It was such a relaxing and refreshing experience.

Wow, wow, wow. They shouldn't call this a museum. It is an art gallery extraordinaire. Beautiful environment, many external installations allow for interaction. The Picasso and other indoor galleries are equally impressive. Child friendly. Lovely places to eat and drink as well as a top class shop. A must visit.

The museum was one of my highlights of a visit to Japan, it is a unique experience with many art pieces in beautiful tranquil surrounds as you wander the gardens with the backdrop of the mountains. There are also some kid friendly areas including the climbing net where many children will spend at least an hour, the maze, and then when tired the pockeT area. Make sure to enjoy the foot Onsen that will rest those weary feet. There is a self serve ticket machine at the entrance so no need to wait in line.

The museum is very pleasant, with beautiful views of the surrounding area. It's not a traditional museum, but it has many interesting and unusual exhibits. There's a pavilion displaying Picasso's works, and the exhibits are indoors. Just to walk around the museum takes more than an hour, and if you're looking closely at the exhibits, three hours might not be enough. Although the museum is located on the traditional Hakone Loop, it's very difficult to combine both the Loop and the museum in one day, especially for those visiting Hakone for just one day from Tokyo. Ideally, you should spend at least two days in Hakone, so you can leisurely visit the museums rather than rushing the entire route to finish before dark.

Simply stunning. A lot of thought and effort has gone into making this place special. Loved the mini Picasso museum in the middle. Top tip - try to arrive as close to 9am as possible to avoid the hoards of day trippers coming in from Tokyo

There are a couple of ticket machines to the left side of the entrance, if you’d like to skip the line. Overall it’s an interesting outdoor museum. It was nice to walk around even in the rain. The gift shops are also very nice

Today I went to the Hakone park and along the route I saw a cute shop where they sold handmade glass jewelry. They also facilitated a workshop and I signed up for a glass bead workshop. The staff was so nice and explained every single stap. If you had any question, they happily answered. Also the choice of beads to complete your necklace, earring or whatever it is you are making, is huge! So expect to spend some time on designing the final piece of art. All in all it was a very special event and it got me a very special memory of my visit to Hakone! If you want to make a unique piece of art, then look no further and book yourself a workshop. You won't regret it.

So much fun. I chose to upgrade to the earrings and had fun making them. The staff helps you 1 on 1 to make sure it will come out well. They let me do the whole thing but guided my hand when I let my wrist drop. Had fun decorating then with gold flecks too. I was scheduled for 1145a but they got me in right away around 1115a and I was done with the entire process by 1205.

All I can say is wow!! What a super fun and unique experience with a great souvenir to take home afterward! We did the Kiriko Glass experience and it was a blast! The staff member that assisted us was super kind and helpful, and her English was excellent which is really great for tourists. I would highly recommend a visit to the Hakone craft house and any of the courses they have available it is a really special memory.

Great high quality gifts. The works for sale here are from actual craftspeople and are of very high quality. The staff is friendly and understand a good amount of English. There are also experiences here and the availability seems to be pretty good even day of.

We stumbled upon this shop while exploring Hakone Gora Park and ended up spending two hours there, indulging in shopping and the glass blowing experience. The staff here were incredibly friendly and accommodating, making our visit one of the highlights of our trip to Hakone!

I bought a beautiful mug from this craft house and I loved its simple, yet, elegant design. I purchased this mug on Oct. 3rd 2024: exactly one year ago! Very strange it broke while pouring 95 degree Celsius water in for tea. Really sad this happened.

Wonderful staff, they were friendly and helpful despite the language barrier. We had the opportunity to make our own beautiful custom bracelets and loved the experience! Highly recommend stopping in, at least to look at the wonderful glass work.

A very well layed out park with French origins. You don’t have to walk miles to see things but there is much to see and enjoy. Like any park or garden it does depend on the seasons as to what you see. The park is in Hakone high up in the hills which creates for a very unique climate and therefore an opportunity to see things which you would not see elsewhere at that time of year. It has a really interesting craft centre, properly organised and run to quite a high level. The shops and restaurants are not tacky in any way or ridiculously expensive. Loved the rose ice cream real value for money especially with the coupon at the entrance! Toilets and other facilities are way up to standard nothing old and just about to break or smelly!! And clean!!! Easy to get to with ample parking areas. Station nearby if needed!

This is a beautiful French garden with a little Japanese touch, great combination. I saw very cool and interesting species of plants. Highly recommended in addition that it is included in your Hakone free pass.

Beautiful , small area. Lovely roses and gymnosperm varieties. Glass house / green house should have more varieties.

Cute little park with free entrance if you have Hakone freepass. Right next to Hakone open air museum. We had a lovely afternoon tea with a rose theme in one of their cafés.

You can enter free with Hakone Free Pass. Not very big but really scenary. There are lots of maple tree with mountain view of the sky is clear. Is raining when I visit but it is still very very nice. There are more than 10 craft activities available.

Small but charming park with many pretty flowers. It is within 5 minute walking distance of the cable car station. Has a ‘treasure box’ with a stamp for children to stamp their books. Closes at 5pm

The park is small but very beautiful, designed in a European style, with a fountain and a café in the center. It's a 15-minute walk from Gora Station. If you plan to extend your Hakone Loop tour, there's no need to return to Gora Station after the park. You can exit the park directly at Koen-Kami Station or Koen-Shimo Station and continue your ride. The entire park is small and can be walked around in an hour. Although the park is on the classic Hakone Lopp, it's difficult to combine both in one day, especially for those visiting Hakone from Tokyo for just one day. Ideally, spend at least two days in Hakone, allowing you to leisurely visit the museums and parks rather than rushing the entire route to finish before dark.

I forgot the story of Little Princes, but I enjoyed very much. The flower garden ,the French buildings and the princes goods are very good. The Xmas illumination is wonderful!! I recommend to visit when you visit Hakone before the museum close!

If you are a fan of the Little Prince, this is the museum you should visit. The gardens, buildings, and exhibits well express the world together and made me want to read the book again. My one-year-old daughter was also happy to be able to freely walk around in the beautiful garden. She got a bit scared though with some dim areas in the exhibition buildings. Even the information pamphlet is so cute. The menu at the café was also designed with the Little Prince theme, and I highly recommend this museum.

If you are a fan of Little Prince you will definitely like this place. I was not a fan but yet I was quite entertained by the museum. The exhibits were so well made and exquisite. Love the details and secrets they left along the way for visitors to uncover. The only problem was this place was pretty out of the way.

You would NEVER have imagined that such a place can exist anywhere ESPECIALLY in a remote area of Japan. It was just so well- done ; explained & detailed ; books translated in every language and most importantly a full replay of every step of Saint Exupery’s life and the Little Prince book. Something to definitely visit. Prices can also be combined with other visits in Hakone. So think of going there first in order to buy tickets at discounted prices. There’s also a restaurant with french food if of any interest.

Im a huge fan of the Little Prince, but i didnt know much of its creator; Antoine de Saint-Exupery. And this museum tells a lot about him. From his childhood until he went missing on his expedition and never had known that his book(s) bocome the world's darling. The museum its self is well thought. Entering this museum is like going inside to the Little Prince book. Youll meet him, the fox, the sheep, the king and the other characters - not to mention the iconic well and airplane. Too bed you cant take any picture inside the exhibition hall. But i really enjoyed my visit to this world's only museum devoted to the most heartwarming story. The ambience made me feel like i was strolling in one of France countryside villages. If you happened to be in Hakone, this museum is worth a visit!

Best place to explore on a rainy day. Lots of history about the little prince ! No photographs allowed inside the exhibit. Kids scan enjoy stamp collecting activity. Good outdoor space for children to roam and play.

I strongly recommend you to be here if you like “the Little Prince” as it got lots of history about “the Little Prince”. The entrance fee is thousand something yen which is valuable to pay among all the museum in Hakone. With a wonderful outdoor area and detail explanation with “the Little Prince”. I post a lot of outdoor area since it is good for photo. However, there are lots of area which is not suitable to take photo, which means you better come to visit.

The owner and Chef Yusuke is a real one. This guy delivered the best meal I had in Japan. The ambience and overall experience was insanely good, and the value for money exceeds anything I had in Japan. What a treat, if you’re in this region, you must go!!

Exceptional place, with incredible service as well. Chef was willing to open for dinner an hour early for us to accommodate our travel plans, and was very friendly throughout the meal. Highly recommend the Kinki fish - a seasonal item for the winter which is well worth the (very reasonable) 1200 yen top up.

What a treat! Incredible food and kind/attentive service. Each course was a work of art.

We had the full course tasting menu and trust me, you really don’t want to miss out on anything. You could say we are quite the foodies and we’ve eaten in a lot of restaurants all across the world (from best of the world to local ramen shops etc). We’ve entered this cosy Japanese restaurant and the service and hospitality is top notch, you take off your shoes upon entry which adds to the experience (as a western person I guess). We roughly had around 7 courses and they were all incredibly well balanced and super tasteful. The sashimi we had was arguably the best we’ve tasted in our lives so far (yes we’ve been to the Tokyo fish market and had dinner the day before at a Michelin star sushi restaurant in Tokyo) and we still think this sashimi was better. The photo’s will speak for itself, if you are anywhere near we would say it’s a must visit. Thank you so much Chef and wife for an incredible evening and experience!! Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu! ♥️ PS: the price quality ratio is amazing as well! (Not expensive at all with the current exchange rate)

We loved the 7 course menu chef Yuughen and his assistant Mikko prepared for us. (I’m sorry if the spelling of the names is not correct!) The combination of ingredients, flavors, textures was perfectly balanced throughout the meal. The tempura was the best I have ever had. The abalone and sea urchin appetizer was definitely the most intriguing dish for my palate. We thought that this restaurant was a real discovery for us. The price of the set menu is more than fair for the experience and for the actual choice of dishes that you can taste. The great thing is that both chef Yuughen and Mikko are fluent in English, so communication for us was easy. I highly recommend this restaurant!

Delicious food, the chef conjured the most amazing Japanese dishes on our table. Highly recommended!

Out of expectation, Yuzen is a nice japanese restaurant in Hakone. The shabu shabu and tempura were really tasty. Staff were friendly and helpful.

No-frills place with solid food. The hamburger steak was good, and the prices are pretty well in line with the area. The atmosphere/Toy Story decor is the best part, as I’m mostly writing this review so I can post this picture of Mr. Potato Head looking ominous

Toy story themed restaurant that makes fusion food. The taste was decent, nothing out of the ordinary. They don't have WiFi and only accept cash payment. Dropping one star for the cleanliness. Their toilet was the dirtiest I've seen in Japan so far. The staff also came across as impolite. She had the "I don't care" tone in her voice.

Food was delicious and fast. Service was very friendly. Beer was good and I loved the wooden mug. Good prices too. Great spot to grab a feed after the open air museum.

Food was surprisingly very nice! Although the english menu seems oversimplified and unclear, we decided to ordered their kimchi salad -which comes with rice and tastes more like korean bibimbap with a twist of a very tender & delicious burger patty-, and a chicken curry which also surpassed my expectation. All in all, I highly recommend ordering their burger patty, top notch!

A must visit place! Absolutely delicious food the best western style food ive had in the past 3+ weeks of travelling Japan. Very tasty burger and at a good price Atmosphere was great too they had note pads previous customers had done little doodles and art in which was very fun to browse. Also had a fun wood ascetic and nice drinks 10/10 if you want a burger in Japan go there! I recommend the cheese one was very flavorful

We stopped by here after going to the Open Air Museum. It’s a tiny, adorable restaurant with an awesome lady running it! The Toy Story memorabilia were so cute. My husband got the loco moco and I got the Hakone cheeseburger and they were both generous portioned and delicious. So glad we stopped by. Cash only.

The lady is super nice and attentive. She runs the whole thing by herself! Burgers are delicious...perfect to come before or after the open air museum. Decoration inside is super cute.

My favorite place in Japan. And I live here for four years. The tofu is amazing, fresh, warm, and the owners who make the tofu are so warm too!! Really need a try. I almost can’t wait to gosto hakone again to eat again this treasure.

I still remember they had some really nice tofu with vegetables in, many years ago. It was nice!

You can have a fresh tofu with 210yen. I stayed near the hotel so I told the staff that I'd like to take away, she wrapped the bowls of fresh tofu which was nice! Tofu was so soft, fresh, creamy and mild. My two and four years old kids loved to eat that with soy source.

Freshly made Tofu (豆腐）available here. You eat wigh soya sauce n eat standing. At Yen 220 per bowl it us way way too expensive. If u have toufu in your home region it cos only Yen 60 to Yen 100. Too overrated place. NO LOST IF U SKIP THIS.

I have watched this tofu shop in comic book. We went around 1 o’clock. Around 3 o clock the tofu was out of stock already. The taste is so softly and feel little sweetness. I liked it! The madame gave us the soy source.

Located just behind Gōra Station. Small family running the business. No one were at the counter when I was there, until I walked into the kitchen to ask for service. Freshly made soft plain tofu, taste better with soy sauce. Reasonably priced at 230 yen per bowl.

The old couple is so adorable and very hardworking. The tofu is out of this world silky and the soy sauce just elevated it. Get it. You won’t regret it.

THE FOOD IS SO BAD. I got the 27,000 yen Kikukaiseki because the front desk lady told me it was going to be everything premium and it was a complete scam. The food was horrible, portions were extremely small. I even got my “meat dish” cold. Honestly I’m extremely frustrated with the situation because it is not a good price for value. It’s also one of my last nights in Japan so it’s a shame I ate here. The place itself is cool. This is the only place I didn’t like the food in Japan. Honestly would not recommend, the food quality is cheat Chinese all you can eat in the USA type of vibe. Even the sashimi was bad. How can you make bad sashimi in JAPAN? .

We were really looking forward to this experience but left disappointed. It was our first time dining at a fine Japanese restaurant, and since we were staying in the hotel, we were excited to enjoy the full experience. Unfortunately, our waitress wasn’t helpful when we asked for guidance on the menu. We had reviewed it beforehand and hoped for clarification on several items that weren’t described, as well as recommendations on pairing dishes — none were provided. My main dishes were served far apart, and one was incorrect, resulting in a longer wait. Portions were extremely small, and depending on your choices, you may leave hungry. While the presentation was beautiful — as expected of Japanese cuisine — many of the dishes lacked depth of flavour. Prices were also very high for the overall experience. We’ve enjoyed incredible food throughout Japan, so our disappointment lies not with Japanese cuisine, but with this particular restaurant. A real pity, as it’s set in such beautiful surroundings.

Beautiful restaurant with great setting. Services were so great, especially the waitress that served 11 of us the whole lunch. We were led to the restaurant from the hotel foyer, as the restaurant is outside of the hotel compound. 3 star for the food, nothing surprising, but the private room we booked was just perfect. The booking experience was tiring, but I am glad they adjust the menu to fit the dietary requirements. Still worth a visit, but don't expect much about the food.

I was excited to try this highly rated kaiseki restaurant in Hakone, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a major disappointment. For 23,000 yen per person, I expected a refined and memorable dining experience, but the meal fell far short of expectations. The portions were tiny, the flavors were weird and didn’t complement each other well, and overall, the food quality was underwhelming—I’ve had much better meals at small family-run restaurants. To make matters worse, one of the dishes was missing an ingredient, and we had to ask for it which is definitely not acceptable at 23,000 yen per person. While our server was friendly, the restaurant seemed short-staffed. At times, the next course was brought out before we had finished the current one. I’m not sure if this is typical in Japan, but in most restaurant, this would be seen as inconsiderate. If you’re looking for an exceptional kaiseki experience in Hakone, I would recommend exploring other options and skipping Kikka So. This is the first meal in Japan that deeply disappointed me.

2 stars and pushing. Only for the atmosphere and customer service is Excellent. However the food, disgraceful; coming to a 5 star resort, you would think you will get 5 star food especially when you’re paying top dollar. My wife and I spent about $300 Australian Dollars and I still had to go down the road to buy a burger I was starving! The portions are embarrassing, it’s a big let down for the hotel! So embarrassing honestly and if that was Australia you would be fined for serving lobster that small. Very disappointed and it’s sad I had to put this out there but people shouldn’t have to pay top dollar for this. We ordered lobster $70 60 grams of wagyu steak for $85 sushimi was $30 for three pieces and the fruit platter topped it off $25 for 3 pieces of pineapple and one grape and one little piece of mango.

Had dinner in this Japanese restaurant in connection with the Fujiya Hotel. This is their Japanese restaurant and you have to cross a road from hotel to get there. The meal is generally of high standard but its lacks luxury ingredients. The tempura course are quite disappointed as it is not crispy enough and tasted soso Sashimi course also too simple. No good surprise element from this restaurant and I had better ones in other onsen hotel.

A former Imperial Villa now a restaurant of the next door Fujiya Hotel. Had breakfast here—very good traditional Japanese breakfast. Excellent service.

WOW!!! The sparkles here!! You have to go on a sunny day or at least with the sun peaking through the clouds. The way the light hits the outdoor pieces is UNREAL! Loved all the indoor pieces too. Chihuly is always amazing to see in person. We had just been to Venice about a year earlier and it was so lovely to see it replicated so well here in Hakone! You will not regret exploring this museum, absolutely recommend!

Not a very big place, but very pretty, definitely worth a visit especially sometime close to sunset so you get a chance to photo the outside sculptures after dark. Just be vary that it closes early (before 6pm) like everything else in hakone

An adventurous bus ride from Hakone into the hills. The entry fee is 1800 yen. Some amazing pieces in the collection. Many nice images to take on a sunny day. The shop there is large and a cool Eki stamp as you enter. Well worth the journey.

Fabulous museum, both indoors and out. A brilliantly varied mix of static glassware indoors, glass sculptures outside, a concert, and an excellent restaurant (ideal for lunch). I was expecting a tourist trap but was very pleasantly surprised. Whether you're looking for entertainment or just shade and relaxation, you mustn't miss this one.

A museum that displays glass art throughout history. The museum has a spectacular garden and a very large souvenir shop. The place is beautiful and highly recommended for a visit.

One of the best museums I’ve been to! Not only is the fall foliage looks amazing, the glass exhibits are also incredible. We also got to enjoy a wonderful live concert!

March 2021 An interesting venue to visit when you are in hakone. A variety of different display of glasswork to enjoy. This isn’t far from the outdoor sculpture museum so can do both on the same day. There arent many food options around but we had a big breakfast included from our hotel. Suggest not to expect too much for food around this area.

As with most things Japanese the harmony of the art work, the architecture of the building and the surrounding nature make for a very appealing visit. There is both a bus stop out front as well as a free shuttle to and from Gora. There are free lockers for personal items as well as cables to secure large suitcases in case this is your last activity on the way out. The colours exhibition was memorable and well curated. Do also have a stroll in the forest. There are short, medium and long options for the walk and you get to see some of the fantastic supporting structure that makes this building float on the mountain. The Japanese stewartia trees make a compelling argument that nature is the best artist.

A peaceful and elegant afternoon in the forest. The collection features beautiful works by Cézanne, Monet, Picasso, and Renoir, all thoughtfully displayed in a serene, modern space. I had lunch at the museum’s restaurant, then wandered through the forest trail surrounded by quiet and trees. Art, food, and nature — the perfect balance.

Amazing museum, one of the nicest I’ve been to both because of it’s selection of art, it’s architecture, and it’s natural surroundings. Very convenient free shuttle from Gora station every 30 minutes. Today was a rainy day but the museum is definitely enjoyable anyway, we also walked the natural path around it and it was beautiful in rainy and cloudy weather. Only downside for me was the restaurants vegetarian/vegan food. Only one option which actually was a plate with meat removed so it was not very filling at all (spent ¥6.000 for 2 people).

Pretty snazzy art museum. Or art gallery. They have various exhibitions and I went to see the Van Gogh one. It had more art from people influenced by Van Gogh. The building is pretty nice and it's nice to wander around. They even let you take pictures of some artworks as well. The surrounding grounds also look pretty good as well, but best go when the weather is nicer than when I went. It was cloudy and raining a bit. I bet the autumn leaves there are very nice. If you buy tickets beforehand you can get a discount on the cost. It's a pretty cool place.

We caught the local bus up to the museum which was really easy to do, lovely drive up there through the beautiful lush green vegetation, we had lunch at the restaurant which was absolutely superb before wandering around the museum, amazing artwork very thought-provoking, with modern and classical arts on display

Beautiful building situated in a most beautiful mountain forest Great exhibition, good for 1.5h to 2.5h tour Coffee is horrible though ;)

Total change of exhibits from previous years! This time the whole museum was about Japanese artists essentially, who were impacted on by the famous Dutch Van Gogh along with a few other artists from other countries

One the best free attractions in Hakone better than some paid ones. The grass field from autumn until March is quite beautiful with a golden hour gotten it's expanse. Have a jacket at hand as the place gets windy. Also wear comfortable shoes as it is a gravel path with a bit of an incline.

Pretty scenic short route (probably about 30min return if you take your time) It was a dry, sunny day so not slippery at all. The route itself is slightly steep but nothing too challenging. Strollers definitely not recommended

Amazing spot - 100% recommend it was definitely one of the most amazing spots we saw around Hakone. The pictures don't do it justice - the grass fields with the forest and mountains in the background are simply splendid. You can only reach out by car so it was also not as crowded as the other popular places around Hakone.

Expansive field of susuki ( Pampas) grasses. The view can change greatly depending on the weather or time of day. If you're lucky you'll see some kiji (pheasants) flying around. There is one main path to follow up the hill in the midst of the grass which is pretty cool. It's very rocky and uneven so leave those stilettos back home for this trip! There's a Lawson across the road and a few small cafes/ tea shops in the vicinity but not much else. A short walk away is free parking by the sewage treatment centre, with a huge lot. There are other parking spots nearby charging a small fortune, but don't be fooled

I’m actually surprised how much I enjoyed myself. Had fun taking quite a number of photographs here. Come on a sunny day and see the sunlight get reflected off the tall grass.

Beautiful area. It gets dark at 4pm in the mountains by early November so do t forget to have a sturdy jacket with you

Quite nice experience walking through the grasses. It is possible to get nice angles to take photos without other tourists.

The Hakone Pirate Ship from Tōgendai Port was such a fun experience! Sailing across Lake Ashi on a pirate-themed cruise felt awesome — the ship looks great and even has a cozy café on board. If you’ve got the Hakone Pass, it’s a total steal since you can ride this (and other attractions) for free. On cruise we are!

Fantastic way to get back to our guide. He dropped us off at the top and after checking that out, we took the Ropeway down and took this tour back to the main port. It was a beautiful day and we upgraded to VIP, so we got to go out on the top of the boat for an amazing view of the lake. VIP also lets you boars early as well, we would recommend it. Staff was was super friendly and helpful. Does fill up, so get your tickets early. They have drinks and snacks on board you can buy. lots of seating and places you can walk around. Really pretty boat, very clean and smooth ride.

The Hakone Pirate Ship is a fun, photogenic sightseeing cruise across Lake Ashi, offering Mount Fuji views and a playful pirate-themed atmosphere. It’s generally considered worth doing if you’re already in Hakone, though reviews highlight it as more of a novelty than a must‑see. --- 🚢 What It Is - Replica pirate ships sail across Lake Ashi, styled after European sailing vessels with decorative details. - The cruise lasts 25–40 minutes, depending on the route chosen. - Ships depart from Togendai, Moto-Hakone, and Hakone-machi, all part of the Hakone Loop route. 🌄 Highlights - Scenic views: Mount Fuji (on clear days), Hakone Shrine’s iconic red torii gate, and forested lake surroundings. - Family-friendly novelty: The pirate theme makes it fun for kids and photogenic for travelers. - Convenient connection: The cruise links directly to the Hakone Ropeway, making it easy to combine with other attractions. ⭐ Reviews Snapshot - Positive notes: - “Great way to see Lake Ashi” and “novel way to tour around the lake”. - Easy access to other Hakone attractions. - Criticisms: - its crowded, especially during peak seasons. - Limited appeal if you’re short on time many suggest prioritizing the shrine or ropeway instead. ⚖️ Verdict - Worth it if: You enjoy themed experiences, want a relaxing way to see Lake Ashi, or are traveling with family. - Skip if: You’re pressed for time or prefer quieter, less touristy activities

I bought the Hakone free pass so I could easily go here. But since I wanted to go 1st class, I had to spend another 700 yen for it. The comfort of first class and the fewer tourists meant that we had more freedom and peace in our travel experience. The upper deck of the ship is very cold these days. With the free pass, you can travel as many times as you want. To have a good experience, you should use public transportation.

A breathtaking and scenic journey across Lake Ashi! The pirate ship was a fun and unique way to take in the stunning views of the lake, the iconic Hakone Shrine torii gate, and the surrounding mountains. The ship itself is impressive, with plenty of space on the deck to walk around and get the perfect photo . It was a clear day, and we were lucky enough to get a glimpse of Mt. Fuji in the distance. This was a highlight of our trip to Hakone and a must-do for anyone visiting the area!

Best way to see the lake if you don't wanna trek around it. If you take the round trip, you can always visit the empty boat between the passenger changes and find a nice spot to sit and relax while you enjoy the view.

Very touristic. Found the ship ride a little too full to enjoy the whole experience. Will definitely recommend the vip boat upcharge if going with a tour guide to be a little less crowded. Overall great experience.

Nice sightseeing destination. After the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, highly recommend visiting Hakone for some peace. Do be warned, this park is in a very mountainous region and thus is quite a hike. Views of the surrounding mountain forests and lake are absolutely worth it.

This place is a perfect spot for your weekend cascade. There are couple of great pictures spots with great view with both mountains and the nearby lake. Although when we went, it was a bit cloudy, on a sunny day with clear sky, you could also see Mt. Fuji. We did see some foliages and they were as beautiful as you would see in these post cards. There are some stores around the park too where you could get some snacks and refreshments. Overall, a very solid choice if you just want to enjoy a great view.

There's nothing special about this park, it's pretty normal. We didn't stay there long, maybe on a sunny day it would be better to use it as a place to relax and stay longer. In some parts of it there's a really nice view of the lake next to the mountains.

Taking the coastal path was a little challenging but beautiful views! All worth it! Glad we made it last minute before heading home.

The imperial Island gives you an astonishing view over lake ashi. The Parc has some steep stairs when choosing the way by the lake. Some paths were closed because of the deep ground caused by the winter spring weather.

Great spot to see a beautiful view of Mt Fuji. Signs are very helpful throughout the park. The grounds crew does an amazing job to keep the park looking beautiful. Easy to access via public transport with a bus station right outside of it. Glad we stopped here!

Generally a very worth going to park! There was multiple parts of the park which showed a different view of Mt Fuji or different scenery. The best part was that this park had minimal people and it was pure scenery! Amazing.

With the Hakone pass, you have a great experience. After the cable car, you can take a lunch stop. It's a nice place that can get busy; upon entering, order your food right away, then wait a bit on the left. There’s quite a bit of choice, and you’ll receive your order fairly quickly before you board the sightseeing boat.

Don’t get the steak-small cheap cut of steak that’s overcooked. Omelette rice is okay (a little bland). Chicken skewer is fine same with sausage plate

We had a short but lovely lunch at Togendai View Restaurant right before boarding the Hakone pirate ship. The view from the restaurant is beautiful—Lake Ashi and the mountains in the distance made it feel like a scenic pause before the next adventure. The food was genuinely good—simple, fresh, and exactly what we needed. Staff were super friendly and helpful, and everything ran smoothly. Great little stop if you’re passing through Togendai Station and want something easy with a view.

I just had a quick sandwich but was super happy about the soy veggie option. It was slightly burned which made it even better for me. Loved it would actually come back just for it! The location is touristic and fast food style but that didn't bother me at all 😊

Great place for a spot of lunch if you’re waiting for your river cruise and like a good view. Prices aren’t unreasonable given the quality - upsized the stewed beef omurice which was generous with the rice, but could do better with the quantity of beef. That said, the 3 beef pieces were well stewed and tender. Sauce was good - could use a little more given the quantity of rice.

This place is very good. Is counter order food. but is very good. the spearing are very tasty and the burger is excellent. Keep in mind is not your regular burger (No Bun) both plates were served with side of small salad and rice. The burgeris served on a cheese sauce and the ribs with sausage and small side of veggies. Staff very helpful. overall great experience

Very good food to match the very good view! I would recommend to those who come too early for the boat to arrive. Its in a convenient spot to wait for the boat.

Fantastic dining experience and very well priced for lunch. Service was excellent and there was live violin by an Italian violinist

Their pumpkin soup was the BEST! The most delicious pumpkin soup I’ve tasted so far. I ordered beef and burdock bolognese for our lunch and the the beef is so tender it melts in my mouth. The dessert is is also delicious. The restaurant is sorrounded by glittery glass all over.

You've been walking around in the museum and you're starving. Worry no more, because there is a restaurant in the Venetian Glass Museum. Then you first think, what a fancy Italian restaurant. The ambience is classy, and it even has live piano performance. You see the menu, and you'd think. Okay, a bit pricey than other italian restaurant you tried in Japan, but it's still okay since you've been served by nice customer service, and you get to listen to beautiful music in the background as you stare the window, with a scenery of mountain and the windmill you see across the restaurant, while it is raining. Then your order arrives, and you're slightly disappointed because the portion is not too big. I may have expected it to be bigger portion, as I was tired and starving and felt like I want to eat a lot. The taste is not to your liking, but you accept it anyway.

Attentive service and nice desserts. We have experience a live Italian performance and it was great. Nice ambience and music great relaxation spot.

A lovely lunch experience in the museum ground. Food was delicious and service friendly and efficient. Well priced Italian set menu with a great atmosphere.

Great ambience, Totally feels like you are in middle of Italy, Very nice live music, Good food and attentive staff, Highly recommend if you like to try some Western food in your stay in hakone. Two thumbs up

Olive oil was bland. Soup's flavor was not good. The food looked great but tasted poor. I love Japanese food and the tweaks they put on other cuisine, but this was a complete miss on an Italian themed restaurant.

This place is known for kamameshi, which we ordered. It tasted very healthy and fresh with all the bright vegetables, although somewhat bland. Service was excellent and it’s a beautiful little restaurant. Just across the street from the grass field people like to take photos of.

Place was recommended by our airbnb. Fast service, wide menu, well translated in English - see attached. Our dishes were very original with the soup coming in a special metallic burner. For lover of unagi, we recommend this option (no.1). The wagyaburi was melting in your mouth. We found all delicious.

Food 3.5 The food is served in a stone pot which is quite yummy and healthy. But I find the broth served on the pot with candle underneath to keep it warm taste a bit bland. Service 4 The staff are friendly and speak little bit of English. Atmosphere 4 I love the little Japanese garden they made for the waiting customers. You sit around a recessed table on a tatami upstairs. The only downside was it was a bit hot and stuffy. We asked the staff to turn on the aircon but it is still quite hot. There is not enough air circulation.

Great Izakaya Restaurant in Hakone. Reasonably priced and free shuttle bus within Sengokuhara district

Everything we ordered were delicious! We have big windows where we sat and we have a nice view of the trees n their Japanese garden. The wait staff were attentive and they know enough English to explain things to us. Multilingual menu available. We were very satisfied with our meal.

Ordered #3 that has "five" in the name and I got exactly one tiny piece of chicken, one shrimp, one shitake, one quail egg and one gingko 😒 tasted bland as well but the unagi and beef ones looked good so maybe you can try that instead. A hit-or-miss place I guess. Nice enough presentation-wise and staff are really polite and accommodating.

Delicious and delicate steam rice (kamameshi), price is a bit expensive but worth a visit. Service is great with friendly and English speaking staffs.

I had dinner in the restaurant and despite the waiters with the uniform and the location, the service and restaurant are nothing right. I have allergy to lactose and the waiter was not understanding english, nor knowing what is inside the food they serve. Despite the menu indicates gluten free and vegan meals, the waiter reported the food was with milk. Clearly she is not knowledgeable enough to avoid clients to feel bad for what they eat. Also, i asked what was the mix of 7 grilletto vegetables and she did not know. None serve the bread to me or asked if i wanted the dessert. Definetely a cloth does not signify anything. You can be elegant but you don't know the rules of your job.

Fab hotel experience; only stayed a few nights, whilst touring Hakone and Mitanishita. Fab eel restaurant round the corner and an equally fab open air spa. Spa water in the bathrooms was good, though I personally preferred the spa water filled communal bath which at the time was in the basement.

Great food, amazing service, good for value, more of a high tea experience for the classy people out there, it’s such a great vibe, the customer service is on point and the food was just right! All the history behind the artwork and interior design of walls and ceilings give you a sense of comfort and joy! Highly recommend for the French cuisine lovers. Food was well presented. Flavours were amazing!

The hotel is an old school lovely classy hotel and the staff are very nice. The reason my review is not higher is because the Fujiya restaraunt inside the hotel had some serious flaws. The portions are microscopic. I ordered 4 dishes and none of them were very good. I had to sit at the table and wait way too long to be brought the next dish even though it was empty. For such an upscale place I expected better food and better service in the restaraunt. Go to Mori- Meshi a tiny local spot for better food and service. 5 minute walk from the hotel and will cost 1/20 of the hotel Restaraunt.

The particular waitress I had could have been more attentive especially to bring the next dish smoothly after the first one was completed - was a noticeable lag where the finished plates were just sitting on the table and was waiting for the next one for some time even though it was not that busy

Finished hiking in nearby hill and happened to came cross this gem. Stopped here for lunch at their French Restaurant, not sure if they have any but it's Michelin star level experience. Will definitely stay next time I Hakone.

This is probably one of the worst hotels I've ever stayed in, and I'd strongly recommend going somewhere else. The rooms are hideously outdated, the beds extremely uncomfortable, the food bad and very very over-priced. The whole place is in desperate need of a complete overhaul.