Discover Hakone: Onsen Escapes, Artistic Treasures & Mountain Adventures
Welcome to Hakone, where steaming natural springs meet world-class art in Japan’s volcanic heartland. Let’s explore this mountain paradise beyond the souvenir shops.
Hakone-Yumoto: Gateway to Relaxation
While Hakone-Yumoto might seem bustling with tourist shops at first glance, dig deeper to discover Japan’s bathing culture at its finest. After hiking through Hakone National Park, few pleasures compare to sinking into Yumoto’s therapeutic hot springs. Seek out the charming Kappa Tengoku Notemburo, an old-school outdoor bath where locals mix with travelers (arrive early to avoid crowds). For pure indulgence, head 2km southwest to the luxurious Tenzan Notemburo complex at Oku-Yumoto, where forest views complement the mineral-rich waters.
Miyanoshita: Where Nature Meets Nostalgia
Board the charming Hakone-Tozan Railway – Japan’s oldest mountain train – and prepare for a journey through breathtaking ravines. The real gem along this switchback route? Miyanoshita village. Wander cobbled streets past antique shops and temples before challenging yourself to the hike up 804-meter Mount Sengen. Your reward? Panoramic valley views that’ll have you reaching for your camera. Don’t miss the iconic Fujiya Hotel, where aristocrats have been pampered since 1878 – even if you’re not staying overnight, its historic halls whisper tales of Meiji-era glamour.
Just two stops up the mountain railway lies an artistic surprise: the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Imagine Rodin bronzes mingling with psychedelic modern installations across 70,000 square meters of lush gardens. The real showstopper? The Picasso Pavilion housing nearly 300 works by the master himself. Refuel at the hilltop teahouse with matcha overlooking this sculpture wonderland.
Artistic Alpine Adventures
At Gōra station, trade railway tracks for winding mountain roads heading towards the Pola Museum of Art. Nestled in ancient beech forest, this architectural marvel houses Impressionist masterpieces you’d expect in Paris – Monet’s water lilies, Renoir’s portraits, and Van Gogh’s vibrant canvases glow against forest-green backgrounds. The museum’s Glass Passage Gallery literally brings the outside in, making nature part of the exhibition.
Continue north to Sengokuhara’s highland meadows, where autumn transforms grasses into golden waves. This peaceful village offers boutique stays amid artistic treasures like the Lalique Museum, showcasing over 1,500 pieces of the French glassmaster’s radiant creations. For something truly unique, several niche museums here celebrate Japan’s exquisite craftsmanship traditions – perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind souvenir.
From steaming open-air baths to mountain-top art encounters, Hakone proves Japan’s most rewarding escape. Ready to plan your journey? Discover essential travel tips to make your Japanese adventure unforgettable.
