Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street
A charming street at the gateway to Hakone, offering local crafts, delicious snacks, and a warm welcome from friendly shopkeepers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming street at the gateway to Hakone, offering local crafts, delicious snacks, and a warm welcome from friendly shopkeepers.
"The owner here was also kind! Next time I go to Hakone again, I want to buy it again."
🚶♀️ Explore the Back Alleys
Don't just stick to the main path; hidden gems and charming shops await in the side streets!
🛍️ Unique Souvenir Finds
Look for local crafts and specialty snacks like manju. The oil blotting paper shop is a unique find!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisanal Crafts and Local Goods
Discover unique handmade items, from ceramics to textiles, perfect for souvenirs. Many shops offer a taste of local craftsmanship.

Specialty Snacks and Sweets
Indulge in delicious local treats like manju (steamed buns) and other Hakone specialties. A must-try for foodies!

Oil Blotting Paper Shop
A unique find for those with oily skin, offering specialized blotting papers and friendly service. A quirky and practical souvenir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Hakone-Yumoto's Charm
Souvenirs and Local Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Back Alleys
Don't just stick to the main path; hidden gems and charming shops await in the side streets!
🛍️ Unique Souvenir Finds
Look for local crafts and specialty snacks like manju. The oil blotting paper shop is a unique find!
🤝 Friendly Shop Owners
Engage with the shopkeepers; they are often kind and happy to share insights about their products.
💳 Cash is Handy
While many places accept cards, having some cash can be useful for smaller purchases.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Back Alleys
Don't just stick to the main path; hidden gems and charming shops await in the side streets!
🛍️ Unique Souvenir Finds
Look for local crafts and specialty snacks like manju. The oil blotting paper shop is a unique find!
🤝 Friendly Shop Owners
Engage with the shopkeepers; they are often kind and happy to share insights about their products.
💳 Cash is Handy
While many places accept cards, having some cash can be useful for smaller purchases.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the kindness of the shop owners and the unique finds available, particularly the specialty oil blotting paper. While some shops are tucked away in back alleys, the overall experience is described as pleasant and memorable, with many looking forward to returning.
"The owner is so kind and helpful!"
Todd Crimmel
"In a back alley.
The same blotting paper I used in high school.
A shop that's perfect for someone like me who has oily skin.
I've been looking for a shop like this."
まーくん。
"I came across this oil blotting paper shop while exploring Hakone.
I chatted briefly with the shop owner and purchased some men's oil blotting paper.
The staff were very friendly, so I'll definitely come back next time I'm in Hakone."
サトウグッチ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street is conveniently located right outside Hakone-Yumoto Station, the main gateway to Hakone. You can easily walk there directly from the train platforms.
While there are parking lots available, they can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It's often easier and more convenient to arrive by train.
Yes, the Hakone Tozan Railway connects Hakone-Yumoto to other popular areas like Gora and Miyanoshita, making it easy to visit the shopping street as part of a larger Hakone itinerary.
Many visitors use Hakone-Yumoto as a base or a starting point. Consider purchasing a Hakone Free Pass for unlimited travel on various transportations in the area.
The main street is generally flat and accessible, but some smaller shops or side alleys might have steps. It's advisable to check with individual establishments if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander and explore the shops.
Most shops are open from around 10 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM. Some restaurants and cafes may have later hours. It's best to check individual shop hours if you have specific places in mind.
The street itself is free to access. Any specific attractions or museums located on or near the street would have their own admission fees.
Absolutely! Hakone-Yumoto is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, and the shopping street is a great place to start or end your visit.
Occasionally, there might be local festivals or seasonal events. Checking local event calendars closer to your travel date is recommended for any special happenings.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Popular souvenirs include local crafts, Hakone Yosegi-zaiku (marquetry), traditional sweets like manju, and unique items like the oil blotting paper mentioned by visitors.
Explore the various food stalls and small shops along the street. Look for freshly made manju, senbei (rice crackers), and other regional delicacies.
Yes, you'll find several shops offering a variety of traditional Japanese crafts, including ceramics, wooden items, and textiles.
Prices can vary, but many visitors find good value for money, especially for unique handcrafted items. Haggling is generally not common in Japanese shops.
Yes, there's a notable shop specializing in oil blotting paper, which has received positive mentions from visitors looking for such specific items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a range of dining options, from casual eateries serving local specialties like soba and udon noodles to cafes and restaurants offering more diverse Japanese cuisine.
Don't miss trying Hakone's famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) if you venture further into the volcanic areas, and locally made manju (sweet buns) are a popular treat on the shopping street.
There are numerous small restaurants and eateries along the street and in the surrounding alleys. Many offer set lunches (teishoku) which are great value.
Finding strictly vegetarian or vegan options can be challenging in traditional Japanese eateries. It's advisable to inquire about ingredients or look for places that offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura (ensure no fish broth is used).
Yes, there are several cafes along the shopping street where you can relax, enjoy a beverage, and perhaps a light snack.
📸 📸 Photography
The charming traditional architecture, colorful shop displays, and the bustling atmosphere make for great photos. Look for picturesque alleyways and unique storefronts.
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the street and exteriors. For photos inside shops or of specific products, it's always polite to ask permission first.
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting, adding a warm glow to your photos.
The iconic Hakone Tozan Railway station itself, with its distinctive architecture, is a great photo opportunity. The street leading up to it also offers scenic views.
Yes, the Hakone Tozan Railway is a picturesque element of the area and many visitors capture photos of the trains and the station.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hakone-Yumoto: More Than Just a Station
Beyond the main thoroughfare, don't hesitate to explore the smaller side streets and alleys. These often hide more intimate shops, traditional eateries, and a quieter atmosphere, offering a more authentic experience. The friendly nature of the shop owners is frequently highlighted by visitors, adding a personal touch to the shopping experience. Whether you're looking for a specific item or simply enjoying the local ambiance, Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street provides a delightful start to any Hakone journey.
Culinary Delights of Hakone-Yumoto
For a more substantial meal, numerous small restaurants and eateries line the street, offering classic Japanese comfort food like soba and udon noodles, as well as teriyaki dishes. Many of these establishments provide affordable set lunches, making them ideal for a midday break. Don't overlook the opportunity to try kuro-tamago (black eggs) if you venture further into the volcanic areas of Hakone, though they are not typically sold directly on this street. The dining experience here is generally casual and focused on authentic local flavors.
Unique Finds: The Oil Blotting Paper Shop
This shop offers a variety of blotting papers and handkerchiefs, making them a novel and practical souvenir. Many reviewers mention purchasing items as gifts, noting that the recipients were very pleased with the softness and pleasant scent of the products. The friendly interaction with the shop owner is a recurring theme, encouraging repeat visits. It's a testament to how even a small, specialized shop can leave a lasting impression on travelers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit