Explore Japan's No.1 Hot Spring: Hakone Onsen
Shinobu
Hello!
When you think of hot springs in Japan, where do you think of?
Many Japanese people probably think of “Hakone Onsen”.
Located only one and a half hours from central Tokyo, Hakone Onsen is the perfect place for a short trip from Tokyo.
Today, we will introduce the charms of Hakone Onsen and share some of the special experiences and episodes that make it so special.
Contents
- History and Culture of Hakone Onsen
- What makes Hakone Onsen so appealing?
- Sightseeing around Hakone Onsen
- How to spend time at ryokan / hotel (Are you a ryokan or a hotel kind of person?)
- Access to Hakone
- Summary
1. History and Culture of Hakone Onsen
The history of Hakone Onsen is very old, dating back to the Nara Period (710-794).
Back then, hot springs were used to treat illnesses and injuries, and were visited by Buddhist monks and aristocrats.
Later during the Edo period (1603-1867), the area became known as a resort for the Tokugawa shoguns and was visited by many cultural figures and artists.
Such historical backgrounds still remain strong in Hakone's hot spring resorts today.
For more information, have a look at Hakone Japan Website!
2. What makes Hakone Onsen so appealing?
The charm of Hakone Onsen lies in its diversity.
There are 17 hot spring resorts scattered throughout Hakone, each with different spring qualities and atmospheres.
Here are some of the most recommended hot spring resorts.
For more information, have a look at Hakone Navi's compilation of onsen.
Yumoto Onsen
Yumoto Onsen is known as the gateway to Hakone Onsen.
It is one of the oldest hot spring resorts in Hakone and has been loved by many people since the Edo period.
The quality of Yumoto Onsen is an alkaline, simple hot spring, which is gentle to the skin and has a beautifying effect on the skin.
Yumoto Onsen is lined with traditional ryokan (Japanese-style inns), allowing visitors to enjoy the onsen while experiencing the history of the area.
Gora Onsen
Gora Onsen was developed in the Taisho era (1912-1926) and is located on a hill about 600 meters above sea level.
From here, one can view the beautiful sceneries of Hakone and the Mount Fuji.
Gora Onsen has various types of spring water, including sulfur spring water and chloride spring water, which are effective in relieving fatigue and improving sensitivity to cold.
Sightseeing can also be enjoyed at Gora Park and art museums nearby.
Hakone Yunohana Onsen
Hakone Yunohana Onsen is a quiet hot spring resort located in the mountains of Hakone.
It is known as a secluded hot spring resort surrounded by tranquility and nature.
The spring water is sulfur spring water, which is very relaxing and perfect for stress relief.
At Yunohana Onsen, you can refresh your body and mind in the midst of nature.
3. Sightseeing around Hakone Onsen
When you visit Hakone Onsen, you will not only soak in the hot springs, but also have a variety of interesting experiences waiting for you.
Here are some of what I have enjoyed at various locations near Hakone.
Refer to Hakone Navi to find out more things to do!
Black Eggs (Kuro Tamago) at Owakudani
If you come to Hakone, you should not miss out on Owakudani.
Owakudani is a volcanic area formed by the activity of the Hakone Volcano, and the specialty here is “black eggs” made using geothermal heat.
Kuro-tamago are boiled eggs that are blackened by the sulfur content of the hot spring water, and it is said that eating one will prolong your life by seven years.
The first time I tasted a kuro-tamago, I was surprised by its unique flavor, but was impressed by its taste, which is different from that of onsen eggs.
Hakone Tozan Railway
The Hakone Tozan Railway is a popular means of transportation that allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful nature of Hakone.
The railroad climbs steep slopes and offers seasonal scenery.
Especially during the fall foliage season, the autumn leaves seen from the train windows are so beautiful that they resemble a painting.
In addition, the mountain railroad passes through tunnels and bridges many times, making it an attraction-like ride that both children and adults can enjoy.
Yumoto Onsen Manju
There are many delicious food in Hakone Onsen.
One of the best ways to enjoy eating them is to stroll around the hot spring resort area.
My favorite is the “onsen manju” I had at Yumoto Onsen.
The manju is steamed in the steam of the hot spring and has a perfectly balanced combination of mochi (glutinous rice cake) skin and humble sweetness of red bean paste.
Gora Onsen also offers restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh local vegetables and fish.
Eating in Hakone is truly one of the pleasures of travel.
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi is one of Hakone's most popular tourist attractions, with its beautiful lake and surrounding nature.
From the lakeside, on a clear day, one can see Mt. Fuji.
You could also enjoy a stroll along the lake and go sightseeing on a boat modeled after pirate ships, which are especially popular among tourists.
There is also Hakone Shrine on the lakeside, where visitors can worship in a sacred atmosphere.
4. How to spend time at ryokan / hotel (Are you a ryokan or a hotel kind of person?)
Although not limited to Hakone, Japanese ryokan and hotels offer different appealing points and ways to spend time.
Ryokans offer a traditional Japanese style experience, while hotels typically offer more modern and international services.
Both ryokan and hotels in Hakone offer charming features, so decide on one that best suits your travel goals and mood!
Ryokan
Recommended for those who want to enjoy Japanese culture, hot springs, and kaiseki cuisine.
You can experience Japanese traditions in a relaxed atmosphere.
Arriving at a Ryokan
Check-in: Upon arrival at the ryokan, you will be warmly welcomed by the staff.
You will take off your shoes at the entrance of the ryokan or at the entrance of each room, and will be guided into a Japanese-style room, where you will often be offered tea and Japanese sweets.
Japanese space: In a tatami room, you can enjoy the culture of sitting on the floor, shoji screens, sliding doors, and other Japanese-style architecture.
Ryokan Onsen
Open-air baths and large baths: Many ryokan have open-air baths and large baths surrounded by nature.
Visitors can enjoy hot spring baths while taking in the seasonal scenery.
Open-air baths with rooms: Some recently popular ryokans offer private open-air baths in their guest rooms, allowing you to enjoy your private time.
Ryokan Meals
Dinner: Dinner is often served in your room or in a dedicated dining room. Kaiseki cuisine using seasonal ingredients is common, and dishes are served sequentially at fresh temperatures and freshness, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful presentation and flavors of the dishes.
Breakfast: Japanese-style breakfast is the main dish, and includes rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and pickles.
Ryokan Relaxation and Entertainment
Sleeping on futons: Futons are generally laid out at night.
The futon is firmer than a bed, allowing for a good night's rest.
Entertainment inside: Some ryokans have lounges with sunken hearths, private baths, and gardens.
Hotels
Recommended for those seeking comfortable Western-style rooms and international service.
You can enjoy diverse facilities and modern comforts.
Arrival at the hotel
Check-in: Complete the formalities at the front desk and you will be shown to your modern room.
English and other multilingual services are common.
Comfort of Western-style rooms: Western-style rooms are equipped with beds, sofas, desks, etc.
Hotel hot springs and spas
Hotels with hot springs: Some hotels have hot spring facilities.
You can enjoy outdoor baths, saunas, and spa treatments.
Swimming pools and gyms: Modern hotels often have swimming pools and fitness gyms.
Hotel Dining
Restaurant Dining: International cuisine and buffet meals can be enjoyed at the hotel's restaurant.
Room service: A wide range of room service is available to enjoy meals in your room.
Hotel Relaxation and Entertainment
Sleeping in bed: Sleeping in a comfortable bed is common.
You can also enjoy the view from the large windows.
Hotel entertainment: A variety of facilities are available, including bars, lounges, and business centers.
5. Access to Hakone
There are several ways to get to Hakone.
The most common are train, bus, and car.
Access by train (From Tokyo to Hakone)
Odakyu Romance Car
Direct train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station takes about 85 minutes.Reservations are required, but you can enjoy a comfortable train ride.
JR Tokaido Line and Tokaido Shinkansen
35 minutes from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station by Shinkansen.
From Odawara Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station it is approximately 15 minutes by Hakone Tozan Railway.
To Hakone from other areas From Nagoya or Osaka
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya or Osaka to Odawara Station, and then take the Hakone Tozan Railway.
Access by bus
Direct buses from Tokyo
There are direct buses to Hakone from Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.
The trip takes about 2 hours.
Bus from Haneda Airport
There is a direct bus service from Haneda Airport to Hakone, which takes about 2.5 hours.
6. Summary
Hakone Onsen is an attractive tourist destination for its rich nature, history, and diverse hot spring resorts.
It would be a great trip to dip yourself in the hot springs, admire the beautiful scenery, and feel the history to refresh your body and soul.
There are many other great places in Hakone that was not introduced here.
Please visit Hakone Onsen and experience its splendor for yourself.
For more information regarding hot springs in Japan, we have a blog post about that too!
Onsen! Japan's Paradise!
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Both adults and children are welcome to try their hand at defeating the ninja master inside the cafe.
The cafe is an indoor interactive zone, so it can be enjoyed even on rainy days.
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