Things to do in Hakone

Best Things to do in Hakone

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Hakone? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2026.

With over 31 activities in Hakone, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 4081, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Hakone in January and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore Unique Things to Do in Hakone - The Spa Town of Japan

About Hakone

Known as a rare notable spa town, Hakone is a popular tourist destination as well, which is known for its numerous hot springs. It's known for the mesmerising view of Mount Fuji from various locations across the city. In the scenic mountain town, you can spot various snow-capped peaks that are also home to numerous adventurous activities, which definitely top the list of things to do in Hakone.

Some popular attractions in Hakone that are worth visiting include its popular Lake Ashi, which is known for its boat rides, the Shinto shrine and the unique botanical garden that houses numerous floral varieties. You can also try various tea and cooking experiences in the authentic and traditional way across various spots in this city.

So, be it a guided forest bathing walk, an exploration of the open-air art museum or being a witness to the traditional tea ceremony, Hakone is just the right place for you.

Most Popular Attractions to Visit and Things to Do in Hakone

Unique Experiences

Kimono, Tea Experience and Handcraft Bonsai in Hakon, Gora

A popular travelling spot located beside the city of Tokyo, Hakone is known for its authentic tea preparations, which you can try out. Watch a Japanese tea master make classic Japanese tea with all the preparations. Also, get the experience of wearing the traditional dress of Japan, the Kimono, while you sip on your Japanese tea. These classes also teach how to make your own Bonsai with a quick D.I.Y session once you have completed your tea time.

Where: Hakone

Pricing: It starts from INR 6,700 per person

Timing: Opens in two slots, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM (Takes about 4 hours)

When to Visit: March to May and September to November

Yosegi Zaiku Craft Experience in Hakone

Learn the traditional woodcraft of Japan, known as Yosegi Zaiku, to experience this timeless beauty that has been maintained and preserved in the country for more than 300 years. Immerse yourself in the beauty of creating this intricate and delicate art form, a unique masterpiece that you can take back home.

Where: Hatajuku, Hakone

Pricing: Starting from INR 8,400 per person

Timing: Multiple slots available, starting from 10:30 AM (Takes 2 hours and 30 minutes approx.)

When to Visit: All year round

Hakone Valley Hike, Forest Bathing and Wagashi Shop

Get the experience of enjoying scenic views, exploring nature and relaxing by the water in the Hakon Valley forest. There are also various river spots nearby, where you can try forest bathing. A walk of about 3 km also ends up in a dessert shop where you can try out various local snacks at this Wagashi shop. This makes exploring this unique activity among the top things to do in Hakone.

Where: Hakone

Pricing: It starts from INR 10,700 per person

Timing: Visits starting from 12:30 PM (Takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes)

When to Visit: From April to November

Top Attractions

Try Skywalk: A New Way of Enjoying Hakone

A trip from Hakone to Mishima allows you to explore the famous skywalk adorning the city. The high altitude at which the skywalk is situated gives a wide glimpse of the valley beneath and also allows you to get a beautiful view of Mount Fuji with its snow-capped peak. Get a personalised experience of a private tour with a guide that takes care of the language barrier, and explains to you the unique history of the place and the story of the skywalk, making it one of the best things to do in Hakone.

Where: Hakone to Mishima

Pricing: Starting from INR 15,900 per person

Timing: Starting from 9:30 AM(Takes approximately 7 hour 30 minutes)

When to Visit: From March to May and September to November

Tokyo, Hakone: Mount Fuji, Owakudani, Open-Air Museum, Hakone Shrine

Go on an immersive trip in Hakone to try out various top attractions of the city, including numerous cultural gems and breathtaking scenery. You can find modern sculptures created by acclaimed artists like Picasso in the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The Owakudani valley of volcanic eruptions is also included in this trip, which takes you through the dramatic landscape of sulphur vents, which often serve as the source of hot springs. Near Lake Ashi, you will also find the Hakone Shrine, which is set in a peaceful environment with a serene forest surrounding it. Visiting these attractions is definitely one of the best things to do in Hakone.

Where: Hakone, Near Tokyo

Pricing: It starts from INR 6,850 per person

Timing: Trip starts from 7:30 AM (Approximately 10 to 11 hours.)

When to Visit: From March to November

Sightseeing Tours

Hakone Onsen Experience, Lake Ashi, Open-Air Museum Tour

Explore this sightseeing tour via public transportation that takes you through popular sites across the city, covering top tourist attractions in Hakone. Starting from the Hakone Open-Air Museum, you can spend time exploring the hot springs in the city and also take a cruise across Lake Ashi. Most of the popular Hakone tourist attractions are covered in this trip, making it one of the best things to do in Hakone.

Where: From Hakone Open-Air Museum

Pricing: Starting from INR 21,500 approximately per person

Timing: Multiple slots; starts from 9:00 AM; last slot starts at 10:00 AM (Takes approximately 7 hours)

When to Visit: March to November

Private Hakone Night Experience: Sunset, Lights and Tranquility

Explore the city of Hakone with a new perspective that takes you through the journey of a magical nighttime, with scenic views that are unmatched. On a day with clear weather, you can also get a glimpse of the beautiful Mount Fuji after sunset. Top attractions that cannot be missed on this sightseeing trip include Odawara Castle and the Tamadare Waterfalls. The city is also known for its historic buildings that light up the night sky and create an enchanting landscape. The tour also gives a great opportunity to explore local delicacies and know about the culture and nightlife of the city, making it one of the most unique things to do in Hakone at night.

Where: Hakone

Pricing: It starts from INR 26,400 per person

Timing: Slots available every 30 minutes between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM (Takes about 4 hours)

When to Visit: March to May and September to November

Visiting Historical Sites in Hakone with a View of Mount Fuji

Accompanied by a seasoned guide, go on this sightseeing tour that will take you through popular historical attractions of the city, which also turn out to be the cultural landmarks here. Starting from the Hakone shrine, which is located near Lake Ashi, you will be taken to the Owaku Dani valley and Lake Ashinoko. The trip also covers the mesmerising Hakone ropeway and the Hiryu Falls. Some popular museums and ports are also covered in this trip. One of the best things to do in Hakone in November, this trip introduces you to the local culture and traditions.

Where: Hakone

Pricing: It starts from INR 15,400 per person

Timing: Starting from 8:00 AM; multiple slots available (Takes approximately 7 hours)

When to Visit: March to May and September to November

Day Trips

Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Gotemba

The Gotemba Premium Outlets is a shopping hub near Hakone, where you can explore various luxury boutiques and different stores which sell upscale clothing, cosmetics, accessories and various home essential products. Go on this memorable shopping experience if you visit Hakone for the first time. You can also make purchases here at unbeatable prices, which makes it one of the best things to do in Hakone.

Where: Hakone to Gotemba

Pricing: It starts from INR 23,400 per person

Timing: Starting from 9:00 AM (5 to 6 hours approx.)

When to Visit: All Year Long

Boat Tours

Mt. Fuji, Kamakura, Hakone and Atami Sea Boat Hanabi 2 Day Tour

Go on this two-day sea boat tour of two days that takes you through the cultural gems of Japan, including Hakone. From marvelling at the majestic Mt. Fuji, to capturing picture-perfect photos, and visiting attractions like Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, the boat trip has it all.

Where: Tokyo, Near Hakone

Pricing: It starts from INR 45,200 per person

Timing: Two starting slots available, from 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM (Takes 2 days)

When to Visit: March to November

Getting Around

It is easy to travel in Hakone from one place to another through the various means of public transport available here. In fact, Hakone is one of the very few cities across the world where transportation itself becomes a form of tourism, with various mountain train and bus services launched just for sightseeing. Check out some top means of transport that you can use to explore the things to do in Hakon.

• The Tozan network of transportation in Hakone provides great connectivity across various means of transportation for easy commuting within the city from one place to another, like trains, buses and cable cars. The Hakone Tozan train is a historic train connecting the mountains, which passes through scenic views and is quite fast.
• The Hakone Tozan bus network is also known for its great connectivity, with which you can reach different attractions and explore the top things to do in Hakone, like museums and shrines.
• The Tozan cable car connectivity in Hakone is great for travelling from different points of the mountain, like Gora and Souzan.
• You can also use the Hakone ropeway that takes you through scenic views, crossing over the Owakudani volcanic zone.
• Use the Hankone Free Pass that allows unlimited travel across the Hakone Loop with any available means of transport here.
• Hakone sightseeing cruise is also available in the form of a pirate ship that runs on Lake Ashi, giving you a new perspective across the mountainous area.

Traveller Tips

• Make Plans in Advance: For your trip to Hakone, make sure to plan your itinerary in advance and make bookings of required tickets well in time. This will ensure you are able to explore top attractions, activities and things to do in Hakone. As the seats for top-selling tours fill out fast, it is best to prepare for the trip in advance.
• Prepare for the Weather: With an oceanic climate, Hakone receives rainfall throughout the year. As such, it is best to get the latest weather forecasts before travelling to the city. Also, you can ideally carry raincoats and umbrellas for any impending shower.
• Cultural Etiquette: Culturally, Hakone is known for protecting its traditions and cleanliness. You must thus ensure to keep the city free of litter and respect the local traditions when exploring various things to do in Hakone.
• Currency: It is best to carry some cash when transacting for Hakone tourist attractions and exploring the top things to do here. Ensure transacting in local currency as card and online transactions may be limited.