Amazake-chaya Teahouse - Image 1
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Amazake Chaya

4.5
·3k reviews·Hakone, Japan

A 400-year-old tea house on the historic Tokaido road, serving traditional Amazake and mochi.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Amazake-chaya Teahouse - Image 1

Amazake Chaya

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 400-year-old tea house on the historic Tokaido road, serving traditional Amazake and mochi.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"Truly a step back in time and an unforgettable experience. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Cash Only! 💴

This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen.

Walk the Old Road 🚶‍♀️

Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Amazake

Traditional Amazake

Main serving area

Sip on this sweet, non-alcoholic fermented rice drink, a refreshing taste of history.

Instagram+1
Handmade Chikara-Mochi

Handmade Chikara-Mochi

Main serving area

Enjoy these soft, chewy rice cakes, a perfect complement to your drink.

InstagramReddit
Historic Edo Period Setting

Historic Edo Period Setting

Entire tea house

Experience a genuine step back in time in this 400-year-old tea house.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King Here

Amazake Chaya is a historic establishment that operates on a cash-only basis. Make sure to have Japanese Yen on hand before you arrive to avoid any payment issues. Reddit

Plan Your Arrival

While there's a bus stop for Amazake Chaya, weekend buses might start later, and taxis can be scarce. Consider walking the historic route if you're up for it, or check the bus schedule carefully. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
After a hike
Why
Perfect reward stop
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Amazake Tea House, Hakone #hakone #japan #japantravel #teahouse #fypシ
@kiyomooon
7.1K likes • 54.3K views

Bring Cash Only! 💴

This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen. Reddit

Walk the Old Road 🚶‍♀️

Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house. Reddit

Enjoying Amazake and Chikara-mochi at Amasake Chaya in Hakone❣️❤️❤️❤️ Truly a nourishing drink and delicious mochi and a very beautiful teahouse❣️❤️❤️❤️#hakone #amazake #amazakechaya #japan #japantravel #japantrip #delicious #tea #traditional #explore #instagram #instagood #beautiful #beautifuldestinations #reels #reelsinstagram #reelitfeelit #reelsvideo #reel #travel #travelphotography
mylenepalaciosimao
70 likes • 1.6K views
Amazake Chaya, an old traditional tea house in Hakone that has been running for over 400 years. In the old times, they would serve snacks and amazake to the travelers traveling the Tokkaido road. The tea house is currently run by a 13th generation owner Satoshi-san. Would you like to visit? • 📍Amazake Chaya, Hakone • #japan #japantravel #japantrip #japanesefood #amazake #chaya #teahouse #hakone #...
japanbyfood
490 likes • 9.9K views

Check Bus Schedules 🚌

Weekend buses can be infrequent. Plan your transport in advance. Reddit

Meet the Owner 👋

The 13th-generation owner's hospitality is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

📌Amazake Chaya en Hakone. Un escape en medio de la naturaleza en una casa ancestral japonesa con bebidas y postres 100% japoneses, entre mochi, green tea, etc. Su bebida principal es el Amazake, que es un Sake no Alcohol y contiene saborizantes naturales y es muy refrescante. . . . . #hakone #kanagawa #amazake #amazakechaya #japantour #japantourism #japantravel #japantrip #viajeajapon #tourene...
viajandoenjapon
59 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Cash Only! 💴

This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen. Reddit

Walk the Old Road 🚶‍♀️

Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house. Reddit

Check Bus Schedules 🚌

Weekend buses can be infrequent. Plan your transport in advance. Reddit

Meet the Owner 👋

The 13th-generation owner's hospitality is a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Enjoy the Ambiance 🍵

Soak in the tranquil, wabi-sabi atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Amazake Chaya as a 'hidden gem' and a 'step back in time,' highlighting its authentic historical atmosphere and the delicious traditional offerings like Amazake and mochi. The hospitality of the 13th-generation owner is frequently mentioned as a standout positive. Some note the cash-only policy and potential transport challenges as minor drawbacks.

"A Hidden Gem of History and Hospitality!

This place is truly a step back in time and an unforgettable experience. If you’re in the area, you absolutely shouldn’t miss it! A quick tip — buses on weekends don’t run until 10 AM and taxis can be hard to find, so we ended up walking 2+ km to get here. It was worth every step. Make sure to bring cash, as that’s the only payment they accept.

The hike to the tea house is challenging — historically considered one of the toughest routes during the Edo period — but reaching it feels incredibly rewarding. Sitting down to enjoy their handmade mochi and warm akazake was the perfect way to recharge.

If you’re lucky enough to meet Satochi while you’re there, you’re in for a treat. Though he speaks limited English, his kindness and hospitality shine through. He clearly pours his heart into everything he does and goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. I’d gladly return just to see him again"

Ryan Lau

"Great place to start (or end) your short walk in the old stone-paved road. The place was well maintained and it definitely felt like time travel. The drinks and snacks were delicious! A must visit when in Hakone."

Clarenze Joy Maranan

"Step into tranquility at this traditional tea house. Indulge in their incredibly soft and chewy mochi, a delightful companion to their fermented sweet non-alcoholic sake (amasake )

While the tea house is a bit out of the way, its own bus stop makes it quite accessible, especially if you coordinate your visit with the bus schedule.

The serene atmosphere is further enhanced by the option to relax on tatami mats beside a cozy fire on cold days, truly transporting you to a peaceful retreat."

Jackie C

What People Like

Authentic historical atmosphere
Delicious Amazake and mochi
Exceptional owner hospitality

What People Dislike

Cash-only policy
Transport can be tricky

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Amazake Chaya by bus or by walking. The bus stop is conveniently located near the tea house, but schedules can vary, especially on weekends. Reddit Alternatively, you can walk a portion of the historic Tokaido road, which offers a scenic and rewarding experience, though it can be challenging. Reddit The walk is approximately 2+ km if buses are not running. Reddit

Yes, Amazake Chaya has its own bus stop, making it accessible via local bus routes. However, it's advisable to check the bus schedule in advance, particularly for weekend services, as they may have limited operating hours. Reddit

Taxis can be difficult to find in the area, especially on weekends. It's recommended to rely on public buses or be prepared for a walk if you plan to visit. Reddit

While driving is possible, the roads leading to Amazake Chaya can be narrow and winding, characteristic of the Hakone mountain roads. Parking availability might also be limited. Instagram

The route to Amazake Chaya is part of the historic Tokaido road, which was once a major thoroughfare during the Edo period. It was known for its steep mountains and challenging terrain, making tea houses like Amazake Chaya essential resting points for travelers. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Amazake Chaya. You pay for the food and drinks you consume. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or look for recent visitor information. Some sources indicate that weekend buses may not run until 10 AM, suggesting a similar opening time for the tea house. Reddit

There is no entrance fee. You will be charged for any food or beverages you order. Reddit

Reservations are generally not mentioned or required, as it's a traditional tea house. It's more of a walk-in establishment. Reddit

Amazake Chaya is a cash-only establishment. It is crucial to have Japanese Yen with you as credit cards are not accepted. Reddit

🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience

The signature drink is Amazake, a sweet, non-alcoholic fermented rice beverage. Instagram+1 Visitors also rave about the Chikara-mochi, a soft and chewy rice cake. InstagramReddit Other popular items include strawberry milk shaved ice and green tea. Reddit

Amazake is a traditional Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's naturally sweet and non-alcoholic, often enjoyed warm or cold. Instagram+1

Chikara-mochi is a type of mochi (rice cake) that is known for its soft, chewy texture. It's a popular traditional snack often served at tea houses like Amazake Chaya. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can sit inside the traditional tea house, often on tatami mats. On cold days, there might be a cozy fire to enhance the atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, the tea house offers outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their refreshments amidst the natural beauty of Hakone. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the charming thatched-roof exterior of the 400-year-old building. Instagram Inside, the traditional tatami mat seating and rustic decor offer a glimpse into the past. Reddit Don't forget to photograph your delicious Amazake and mochi for a taste of the experience. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other guests and the serene atmosphere. Focus on capturing the ambiance and your own experience. TikTok

Morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, especially if you're capturing the exterior or the surrounding nature. However, the interior ambiance is also a key photographic element. TikTok

The approach to the tea house, especially if you've walked part of the old road, offers scenic views. The outdoor seating area also provides a pleasant backdrop. Instagram

Any camera or smartphone can capture the charm of Amazake Chaya. The focus is on the historical atmosphere and the simple beauty of the offerings. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Amazake Chaya offers a unique cultural experience that can be enjoyed by families. The Amazake is non-alcoholic and naturally sweet, making it a safe and interesting drink for children to try. Instagram The Chikara-mochi is also a hit with kids due to its soft, chewy texture. Instagram The historic setting provides a gentle introduction to Japanese history and traditions. Consider the walk to the tea house; if it's too long for little legs, ensure you check the bus schedule carefully. Reddit

🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those exploring the Hakone region on foot, Amazake Chaya is an ideal pit stop. It's situated along the historic Tokaido road, offering a perfect place to rest and refuel after a hike. Reddit The journey to the tea house can be part of the adventure, with some visitors choosing to walk sections of the old stone-paved path. Reddit The serene natural surroundings enhance the experience, making it a tranquil reward for your efforts. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

Amazake Chaya is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. As the last surviving tea house from the Edo period's Tokaido road, it offers a direct connection to Japan's past. Instagram+1 The fact that it's run by the same family for 13 generations adds a remarkable layer of continuity. Instagram+1 Exploring the tea house allows you to step back in time and imagine the lives of travelers from centuries ago. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of Amazake Chaya

Amazake Chaya is not just a tea house; it's a living piece of Japanese history. Founded over 400 years ago during the Edo period, it stands as the last remaining tea house from the original Tokaido road that traversed the challenging Hakone mountain pass. Instagram+2 For centuries, it has provided weary travelers with a much-needed respite, offering sustenance and a moment of peace amidst their arduous journeys. The fact that it's still operated by the 13th generation of the same family, the Yamamoto family, is a testament to their dedication to preserving this unique heritage. Instagram+2

This continuity is palpable when you step inside. The architecture, the serving methods, and even the recipes for their signature Amazake and mochi have remained remarkably unchanged. Instagram It’s an experience that transcends a simple meal; it’s an immersion into a bygone era. Visitors often describe it as feeling like they've stepped back in time, a sentiment amplified by the rustic charm and the serene natural surroundings. Reddit The historical significance makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. Instagram

The Tokaido road itself was a vital artery connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto. The Hakone section was particularly notorious for its steep inclines and rugged terrain, making the services of tea houses like Amazake Chaya indispensable. Instagram Today, while the road is more accessible, the tea house continues its tradition of hospitality, offering a tangible connection to the past for modern-day travelers exploring the beautiful Hakone region. Instagram

The Flavors of Tradition: Amazake and Mochi

The culinary offerings at Amazake Chaya are as steeped in tradition as the tea house itself. The star attraction is undoubtedly the Amazake, a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Instagram+1 It's prepared using a traditional method that has been passed down through generations, resulting in a unique, subtly sweet flavor profile. Whether enjoyed warm on a cool day or cold as a refreshing treat, Amazake offers a taste of authentic Japanese heritage. Instagram

Complementing the Amazake is the Chikara-mochi, a type of mochi (rice cake) that is celebrated for its incredibly soft and chewy texture. InstagramReddit These handmade rice cakes are a delightful accompaniment, providing a satisfying contrast to the liquid sweetness of the Amazake. Visitors frequently praise the mochi for its comforting simplicity and delicious taste, making it a highly recommended item to try. Reddit The combination of Amazake and mochi is a classic pairing that has sustained travelers for centuries. Reddit

Beyond these signature items, the menu may also feature other seasonal treats, such as strawberry milk shaved ice, offering a variety of traditional flavors. Reddit The emphasis is on simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with care, reflecting the wabi-sabi aesthetic – finding beauty in imperfection and simplicity. Instagram This culinary experience is an integral part of the historical journey that Amazake Chaya provides. Reddit

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