What is famous in Hakone?

Hakone is famous for its **natural beauty, hot springs (onsen), and unique cultural experiences**, all within easy reach of Tokyo. Here are the top things that make Hakone special:

### **1. Natural Hot Springs (Onsen)**
– Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous **onsen (hot spring) destinations**, with numerous ryokans (traditional inns) and public baths.
– Popular spots: **Ten-yu, Hakone Yuryo, Yunessun (onsen theme park with coffee/wine baths!)**.

### **2. Stunning Views of Mount Fuji**
– On clear days, you can see **iconic views of Mt. Fuji** from:
– **Lake Ashi** (from the pirate ship or Hakone Shrine)
– **Owakudani Valley** (ropeway)
– **Open-air museums & ryokans with Fuji-view rooms**

### **3. Hakone Open-Air Museum**
– A world-class **sculpture park** with works by Picasso, Henry Moore, and Japanese artists, set against mountain scenery.

### **4. The Hakone Loop (Must-Do Sightseeing Route)**
A scenic circuit covering:
– **Hakone Ropeway** (over volcanic Owakudani, where you can eat **black eggs** boiled in sulfur springs)
– **Lake Ashi Pirate Ship** (a fun cruise with Mt. Fuji views)
– **Hakone Tozan Railway** (Japan’s oldest mountain train with switchbacks)
– **Cable Car to Sounzan**

### **5. Hakone Shrine & the Floating Torii Gate**
– The bright red **torii gate** standing in Lake Ashi is one of Japan’s most Instagrammable spots.
– The shrine itself has a **1,200-year history** and a mystical forest setting.

### **6. Owakudani Volcanic Valley**
– An active volcanic zone with **steaming vents** and sulfur fumes.
– Try **kuro-tamago (black eggs)**—legend says eating one adds 7 years to your life!

### **7. Traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inns)**
– Hakone is known for **luxury ryokans** with private onsens, kaiseki meals, and tatami rooms.
– Budget-friendly options also available.

### **8. Old Tokaido Road & Amazake Tea House**
– Walk a preserved section of the **Edo-era highway** between **Moto-Hakone and Hatajuku**.
– Stop at **Amazake Chaya**, a 300-year-old teahouse serving **sweet rice wine (amazake)**.

### **9. Art & Museums**
– **Pola Museum of Art** (Impressionist masterpieces in a forest setting)
– **Hakone Venetian Glass Museum** (elegant glass art & gardens)
– **Little Prince Museum** (dedicated to the French storybook)

### **10. Gotemba Premium Outlets**
– Japan’s largest outlet mall with **discounts on luxury brands** and a view of Mt. Fuji.

### **Seasonal Highlights**
– **Spring**: Cherry blossoms at **Hakone Gora Park**.
– **Autumn**: Vibrant fall foliage along the Old Tokaido Road.
– **Winter**: Snowy onsen retreats with open-air baths.

### **Why Visit Hakone?**
– **Easy day trip from Tokyo** (1.5–2 hours).
– **Perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation**.
– **Great for couples, families, and solo travelers**.

Would you like recommendations on the best ryokans, a 1-day itinerary, or hidden spots? 😊

1.