Hakone Nature Trails
Explore ancient cobblestone paths, mystical forests, and serene lakes in Hakone's breathtaking nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies for Fuji views
Hakone Nature Trails
Best Time
Clear skies for Fuji views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient cobblestone paths, mystical forests, and serene lakes in Hakone's breathtaking nature trails.
"Walk historic cobblestone paths through mystical forests, a journey through time."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Mossy cobblestones and steep paths demand good footwear.
☁️ Fuji Views Can Be Tricky
Clouds often obscure Mount Fuji; try early mornings for best chances.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Tokaido Road
Connects Hakone-Yumoto to Lake Ashi
Walk historic cobblestone paths through mystical forests, a journey through time.
Hiryu Falls Nature Trails
Near Lake Ashi
Challenging but rewarding trails with misty forests and numerous stairs.
Lake Ashi
Central Hakone
Serene lake offering boat rides and iconic views, often with Mount Fuji as a backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key for Hakone Trails
Timing Your Mount Fuji Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Mossy cobblestones and steep paths demand good footwear. +1
☁️ Fuji Views Can Be Tricky
Clouds often obscure Mount Fuji; try early mornings for best chances.
💧 Be Prepared for Slippery Trails
Rain makes paths treacherous; extra caution is needed. +1
🚶♀️ Not Overcrowded
Major trails see fewer hikers than expected, offering a peaceful experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Mossy cobblestones and steep paths demand good footwear. +1
☁️ Fuji Views Can Be Tricky
Clouds often obscure Mount Fuji; try early mornings for best chances.
💧 Be Prepared for Slippery Trails
Rain makes paths treacherous; extra caution is needed. +1
🚶♀️ Not Overcrowded
Major trails see fewer hikers than expected, offering a peaceful experience.
☕️ Amazake-chaya Stop
Enjoy a traditional sweet drink and rest at this historic teahouse. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the serene beauty and historical significance of Hakone's nature trails, particularly the moss-covered Old Tokaido Road. The chance to experience traditional Japan and enjoy peaceful walks is a major draw. However, some find the trails challenging due to slippery conditions and steep inclines, and Mount Fuji views are not always guaranteed.
"Old Tokaido Challenge 2025
Entrance to the Sukumo River Nature Exploration Trail. There is a monument to Onna-Tenzaka here. This monument seems to have been placed in commemoration of a female traveler who fell from a horse and lost her life during the Kanei era."
Tetsushi Okawa
"Addendum
Late February 2022
I went back from Lake Ashi and headed for the hot springs in Yumoto. It was half a snowy road, so even trekking shoes were slippery. It was mostly downhill, so you can clearly see how high Lake Ashi is. I started at Motohakone Lawson at 10:30, and excluding the break and lunch time at Amazake-chaya, I was able to reach Yoshiike Ryokan in about 3.5 hours.
Hay fever... If I get distracted by the snowy road, my nose will be in trouble lol
This is my hiking debut in Hakone.
I usually take Route 1 by car, but today I walked, leaving the Suwangawa bus stop at 10:00 ⇒ I arrived at Lake Ashi at 13:20, walking at a pace that was easy enough to chat with, with Amazake-chaya as a rest stop.
The cobblestones were mossy and uneven, so hiking boots were the right choice. It was a difficult spot to go up the hairpin curves of Route 1 in a straight line with stairs. Once I got past the pass, I was able to walk calmly.
There is one toilet on the way and one at Amazake-chaya, so you won't have any problems.
Although it's a major trail, there were not many hikers.
I wanted to eat pizza at La Terrazza at Lake Ashi, but it was already full on the day. Next time I hike the same trail, I'll make a reservation based on my arrival time."
きぃろいとり
"It had rained until noon the previous day, making the road very slippery and confusing, so we got lost.
We followed the arrows to the riverbank to cross the Suwan River, but we came across a log bridge with no handrails!
My husband wondered if we should cross there, but he crossed first and immediately slipped into the river. 😱
The water was high and fast-flowing, so we were glad later that he was safe. 😔
Upon closer inspection, we saw a proper bridge ahead. ❗
I know it was our fault for mistaking the bridge, but please reconsider. We managed to walk to the checkpoint, but Lake Ashi was foggy.
The waves were high, and it seemed the sightseeing boats were closed. We had planned to walk to Mishima, but
we headed home from here via Odawara today.
I was relieved to have safely crossed the Hakone mountains. 😅"
mmグランマ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto Station (approx. 85 mins). From there, local buses can take you to various trailheads like Suwangawa or Motohakone.
While marked, some sections can be challenging due to uneven terrain and weather. Following signs and using a map is advised.
Yes, Hakone's bus network is extensive and connects major points of interest, including trail access.
Routes like the Hakone Tozan Bus are useful for reaching trailheads. Check local schedules for specific stops.
Yes, the Old Tokaido Road connects areas like Hakone-Yumoto to Lake Ashi, offering a multi-hour hiking experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most nature trails in Hakone are free to access. However, some specific attractions within the area might have entrance fees.
Nature trails are generally accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. Specific park areas might have set hours.
Consider the Hakone Free Pass, which covers most transportation (trains, buses, ropeway, boats) and offers discounts on attractions.
Yes, guided tours are available and can provide valuable insights into the history and nature of the trails.
The Old Tokaido Road itself is a public path and does not have an entrance fee.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Combine walking the historic Old Tokaido Road with exploring areas like Hiryu Falls for a varied experience.
Yes, historic teahouses like Amazake-chaya offer refreshments and rest stops along the Old Tokaido Road. +1
While not guaranteed, you might spot birds, insects, and possibly fish in the rivers.
Swimming is generally not recommended in the rivers due to currents. Lake Ashi is for boating, not swimming.
The moss-covered sections of the Old Tokaido Road and the views from Hiryu Falls are particularly picturesque.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the mossy cobblestones of the Old Tokaido Road, the misty Hiryu Falls, and the iconic red torii gate at Lake Ashi.
Early morning or late afternoon light creates beautiful, soft illumination on the trails.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions on shaded trails.
While not directly on the trails, viewpoints around Lake Ashi offer potential glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Use a polarizing filter to enhance the mist and fog, and consider shooting in black and white for a dramatic effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking more active exploration, the Hiryu Falls Nature Trails offer a more adventurous experience with stairs and varied terrain, but assess your children's stamina and ensure they have appropriate footwear.
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be aware that facilities like restrooms can be spaced out on some trails. 🚶 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own lunch and snacks to enjoy amidst the scenery.
Look for affordable guesthouses or hostels in areas like Hakone-Yumoto for accommodation. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Old Tokaido Road
Travelers often describe the experience as stepping back in time. The path can be challenging, with steep inclines and descents, but the reward is the tranquility and the beauty of the ancient forest.
Key Takeaways:
* Wear sturdy hiking boots due to slippery, uneven surfaces.
* Allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere and rest at Amazake-chaya.
* The historical significance adds a profound layer to the natural beauty.
Navigating Hakone's Trails Safely
Beyond slippery surfaces, some trails involve significant elevation changes and stairs, such as the Hiryu Falls trails.
It's crucial to assess your fitness level and choose trails accordingly. Carrying water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit is always a good idea. Safety Tips:
* Always wear hiking boots with good grip.
* Be mindful of weather conditions; rain significantly increases slipperiness.
* Stay on marked paths and heed any warning signs.
* Consider a hiking pole for added stability on steep sections.
Chasing the Elusive Mount Fuji
The best chances to see Fuji-san are typically during clear mornings, especially in the cooler seasons. While many trails offer glimpses, the area around Lake Ashi is a prime location for Fuji views, provided the weather cooperates.
Boat tours on the lake can offer panoramic perspectives. Even if Fuji remains hidden, the natural beauty of Hakone, with its serene lake and surrounding mountains, is still a compelling reason to visit. Tips for Fuji Views:
* Visit during spring or autumn for clearer skies.
* Aim for early morning hours.
* Be patient; Fuji's appearance is weather-dependent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit