Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu
A serene shrine dedicated to a dragon god, featuring a mystical forest path and a striking torii gate on Lake Ashi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene shrine dedicated to a dragon god, featuring a mystical forest path and a striking torii gate on Lake Ashi.
"The most peaceful place I've ever had the pleasure of visiting. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the shrine is hilly and can be long; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the trails.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Enjoy the peaceful forest walk and the serene lake views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dragon's Torii Gate
Lake Ashi shore
A striking red torii gate partially submerged in the lake, offering a mystical and photogenic scene.
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Mystical Forest Trails
Path leading to the shrine
Wander through enchanting moss-covered paths surrounded by lush trees, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Serene Lake Views
Lake Ashi
Enjoy tranquil views of Lake Ashi, a beautiful crater lake that adds to the shrine's peaceful setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the Walk to the Shrine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the shrine is hilly and can be long; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the trails.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Enjoy the peaceful forest walk and the serene lake views.
🌫️ Embrace Foggy Days
Dense fog can enhance the mystical atmosphere, making the shrine feel even more ethereal.
🐉 Learn the Legend
Understanding the shrine's dedication to the dragon god Kuzuryu adds depth to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the shrine is hilly and can be long; comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the trails.
🚶♀️ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Enjoy the peaceful forest walk and the serene lake views.
🌫️ Embrace Foggy Days
Dense fog can enhance the mystical atmosphere, making the shrine feel even more ethereal.
🐉 Learn the Legend
Understanding the shrine's dedication to the dragon god Kuzuryu adds depth to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu for its serene atmosphere, beautiful forest trails, and the iconic torii gate. The peaceful ambiance, especially on less crowded days or during foggy weather, is frequently highlighted. Some find the admission fee a bit high for the shrine's size, and occasional noise from maintenance can detract from the tranquility.
"Walk through the tree and moss covered path to the shrine while listening to bush warblers singing along the way. When we went there, the entire.Hakobe was draped in dense fog, adding to the already mystical and ethereal atmosphere of the shrine. Because of the rain and fog, it was not crowded- just us and respectful group of French-speaking visitors"
佑実
"Small Shrine but cozy. It has nice trails to walk around and enjoy the lake view. The price of an Adult ticket is 600 yen."
H.心羅
"It's kind of a long walk from Togendai for a small park with shrine and the admission costs money. People were using leaf blowers right at the shrine when I went so it was not very peaceful. Very pretty but wouldn't go out of my way for this otherwise. The hike up is somewhat scenic though if you have the time."
Maggie Locke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the Odakyu Line to Hakone-Yumoto, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Bus towards Togendai or Moto-Hakone. From Moto-Hakone Port, it's a scenic walk along the lake to Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu.
While there might be limited parking near Moto-Hakone, the shrine itself is best accessed by walking from the port along the lake path.
Yes, you can travel from Kawaguchiko to Hakone. It involves bus and potentially train transfers. Plan for a longer travel time and consider a half-loop of Hakone to fit it in.
Hakone offers a variety of transport, including buses, trains, ropeways, and pirate ships on Lake Ashi, making it easy to explore the area. +1
Buses typically go to Moto-Hakone Port. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the shrine, which is part of the charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee of 600 yen per person to enter the shrine grounds and enjoy the trails.
The shrine is generally open during daylight hours, but it's best to check local listings or inquire upon arrival as specific hours can vary.
The Hakone Free Pass covers many transportation options in the area, which can be very convenient for reaching Moto-Hakone Port and exploring Hakone.
The shrine is accessible year-round, though weather conditions can affect the experience. Autumn foliage is particularly beautiful.
Information on specific events is not widely publicized online, but local festivals might occur. It's advisable to check local tourism information closer to your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the forest trails, admire the torii gate in the lake, enjoy views of Lake Ashi, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.
The walk is described as somewhat hilly and can be about a half-hour walk. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
It can be less crowded on weekdays and during off-peak hours. Foggy or rainy days might also mean fewer visitors, enhancing the tranquility.
While Mount Fuji is visible from some parts of Hakone on clear days, it's not guaranteed from the shrine itself. The Hakone Ropeway offers better chances.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the Moto-Hakone Port area, which is a short walk from the shrine.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic red torii gate in the water is a must-capture. The forest trails and lake views also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light. Foggy conditions can add a dramatic and mystical quality to your photos.
Drone usage is generally restricted at shrines and natural parks in Japan to preserve the peace and safety of visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the torii gate and landscapes. A standard zoom lens is versatile for trails and general shots.
Be respectful of the sacred nature of the shrine. Avoid disruptive photography and be mindful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with the Hakone pirate ship cruise, which is often a hit with kids. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the shrine are limited. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
+1It's a great place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and connect with the spiritual side of Japan. The manageable size of the shrine and its surroundings make it easy to explore independently without feeling overwhelmed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Experiment with different lighting conditions, from the soft morning light to the dramatic effects of fog. The moss-covered trails also offer opportunities for atmospheric shots. Remember to be respectful of the sacred site while capturing its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Kuzuryu
The shrine itself is relatively small, but its spiritual significance is profound. Visitors often feel a sense of peace and reverence when walking the moss-covered paths leading to the main sanctuary. The connection to the lake and the surrounding nature is palpable, making it a place for quiet contemplation.
+1This deep connection to nature and legend is a key reason why many travelers find Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu to be a uniquely tranquil and memorable experience, distinct from the more bustling attractions in Hakone.
Navigating Hakone's Transport Network
To reach Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu, visitors typically use the Hakone Tozan Bus to get to Moto-Hakone Port. From there, a pleasant walk along the lake leads to the shrine. Many visitors combine this with a ride on the pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi, which offers unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
For those planning an extensive exploration of Hakone, purchasing a Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended. This pass covers most of the transportation options, offering great value and convenience, allowing you to hop on and off various modes of transport to tailor your itinerary.
The Allure of Ryokans in Hakone
Many ryokans in Hakone also boast onsen (hot springs), providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Staying at a ryokan near Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu allows for a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing, often accompanied by beautiful natural views.
While ryokan stays can be a splurge, many travelers find the unique cultural experience and the high level of service to be well worth the cost, offering a memorable part of their Japan trip.
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