Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street, Hakone - Image 1
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Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street

4.5
·15 reviews·Hakone, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street, Hakone - Image 1

Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.5
(15 reviews)

"The owner here was also kind! Next time I go to Hakone again, I want to buy it again."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisanal Crafts and Local Goods

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

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

Oil Blotting Paper Shop

A unique find for those with oily skin, offering specialized blotting papers and friendly service. A quirky and practical souvenir.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Hakone-Yumoto's Charm

Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street is a delightful introduction to Hakone, offering local crafts and snacks. It's easily accessible from the train station, making it a perfect stop before or after exploring the wider Hakone region. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience.

Souvenirs and Local Delights

This street is a treasure trove for unique souvenirs, from traditional crafts to specialty snacks. Look out for local delicacies and artisanal products. Many visitors find the friendly shop owners add to the charm, making it a memorable stop for gifts and personal treats.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

【箱根を楽しめ】 人気の箱根を調査してきた! 箱根 🇯🇵 Hakone 近くのおすすめ宿泊施設 【仙石原古今】 〒250-0631 神奈川県足柄下郡箱根町仙石原1245−280 #箱根 #hakone #箱根旅行 #箱根ホテル #pr
@japan..no..1
14K likes • 419.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Back Alleys

Don't just stick to the main path; hidden gems and charming shops await in the side streets! Reddit

🛍️ Unique Souvenir Finds

Look for local crafts and specialty snacks like manju. The oil blotting paper shop is a unique find! Reddit

A D | Which one’s your vibe? ♨️🇯🇵 These are the most memorable onsen hotels and ryokan we’ve stayed at in Japan ⬇️ 1. Kinnotake Sengokuhara, Hakone 2. Nishimuraya Shogetsutei, Kinosaki Onsen 3. Matsumoto Jujo, Matsumoto #onsen #ryokan #japan #japantrip #travelguide @Skyscanner
@hangrybynature
11.8K likes • 183.5K views
@japan_travel_tokyo 📍Hakone,Japan 🍽️kinosuke 703-19 Yumoto Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa-ken 250-0311 Japan 💰約2,500JPY/Approximately 16.72USD 🕙AM11:30~PM2:00/PM5:30~PM9:30 Japanese restaurant located 2 minutes walk from Hakone Station, on the shopping street. I had a lot of delicious dishes such as teriyaki chicken and sanma (mackerel)! There were quite a few foreigners there. 这家日...
japan_travel_tokyo
0 likes • 21.5K views

🤝 Friendly Shop Owners

Engage with the shopkeepers; they are often kind and happy to share insights about their products. Reddit

💳 Cash is Handy

While many places accept cards, having some cash can be useful for smaller purchases. TikTok

強羅、雪月花♨️ 強羅駅ド真ん前!!全室客室露天風呂付き、貸切り露天風呂3つ、大浴場2つ、夜はアイス食べ放題、朝は乳酸菌飲料飲み放題の自由度にワクワクする宿👘 22:00から無料の夜鳴きそば提供もあり🍜 #箱根 #箱根旅行 #強羅 #温泉 #温泉旅行 #観光 #国内旅行 #旅行 #旅行日記 #旅行vlog #おすすめ #コスパ最強 #和食 #hakone #hotsprings #japantiktok #日本の風景
@x.lol.xz
7.2K likes • 1.2M views

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! Reddit

🛍️ Unique Souvenir Finds

Look for local crafts and specialty snacks like manju. The oil blotting paper shop is a unique find! Reddit

🤝 Friendly Shop Owners

Engage with the shopkeepers; they are often kind and happy to share insights about their products. Reddit

💳 Cash is Handy

While many places accept cards, having some cash can be useful for smaller purchases. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(15 reviews)

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

Kind and helpful owners
Unique souvenir finds
Local snacks and sweets

What People Dislike

Some shops in back alleys

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

The street itself is free to access. Any specific attractions or museums located on or near the street would have their own admission fees. TikTok

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. TikTok

Occasionally, there might be local festivals or seasonal events. Checking local event calendars closer to your travel date is recommended for any special happenings. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ 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. Reddit

Explore the various food stalls and small shops along the street. Look for freshly made manju, senbei (rice crackers), and other regional delicacies. Instagram

Yes, you'll find several shops offering a variety of traditional Japanese crafts, including ceramics, wooden items, and textiles. TikTok

Prices can vary, but many visitors find good value for money, especially for unique handcrafted items. Haggling is generally not common in Japanese shops. Reddit

Yes, there's a notable shop specializing in oil blotting paper, which has received positive mentions from visitors looking for such specific items. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram

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. TikTok

There are numerous small restaurants and eateries along the street and in the surrounding alleys. Many offer set lunches (teishoku) which are great value. Instagram

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). TikTok

Yes, there are several cafes along the shopping street where you can relax, enjoy a beverage, and perhaps a light snack. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The charming traditional architecture, colorful shop displays, and the bustling atmosphere make for great photos. Look for picturesque alleyways and unique storefronts. TikTok

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. TikTok

Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting, adding a warm glow to your photos. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, the Hakone Tozan Railway is a picturesque element of the area and many visitors capture photos of the trains and the station. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street offers a gentle introduction to Hakone for families. The street is relatively flat and easy to navigate with strollers. Kids will likely enjoy trying local sweets like manju and browsing the colorful shops. It's a good place for a relaxed stroll and picking up small souvenirs. Consider stopping for ice cream or a simple noodle dish for a quick and easy meal. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

This shopping street is excellent for budget-conscious travelers. You can enjoy the atmosphere and window shop without spending a yen. For affordable eats, look for local eateries offering set lunches or grab some manju or senbei from street vendors. The oil blotting paper shop also offers practical items at reasonable prices, making them a good value souvenir. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The charming architecture, traditional storefronts, and the iconic Hakone Tozan Railway station provide ample photo opportunities. Explore the side streets for unique angles and capture the bustling local atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Hakone-Yumoto: More Than Just a Station

Hakone-Yumoto is the primary gateway to the Hakone region, and its shopping street serves as a vibrant introduction to the area's charm. It's a bustling hub where visitors can find everything from local souvenirs and snacks to essential travel information. The street is lined with a variety of shops, offering a glimpse into local life and artisanal crafts. Many travelers find it a convenient and pleasant place to start their Hakone adventure, picking up last-minute necessities or unique gifts before heading to the hot springs or museums.

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. TikTokReddit

Culinary Delights of Hakone-Yumoto

The Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street is a fantastic place to sample local culinary treats. You'll find an array of shops selling traditional Japanese sweets, most notably manju, which are steamed buns often filled with sweet bean paste. These are a popular and delicious souvenir or snack to enjoy while exploring. Other local delicacies include various types of senbei (rice crackers) and regional snacks unique to the Kanagawa prefecture. Instagram

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. TikTok+1

Unique Finds: The Oil Blotting Paper Shop

One of the more unique and frequently mentioned shops on Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street is a specialty store selling oil blotting paper. Visitors with oily skin have expressed delight in finding such a specific and effective product, often reminiscing about using similar items in their youth. The shop is praised not only for its products but also for the exceptionally kind and helpful owner, who contributes significantly to the positive shopping experience. Reddit

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. Reddit