Soak up nature, culture, and a hot bath!
Hakone, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, is only an hour and a half from Shinjuku. The romantic town is spread over the Japanese mountainside and makes for some truly remarkable photo spots as well as sightseeing stops. Make sure to visit if you find yourself worn ragged from the city’s hustle and bustle—or if you just want to experience a quieter, more natural side of Japan.
Travel within Hakone takes on various forms: Enjoy a luxurious afternoon cruise as you cross Lake Ashi in the shadow of Mount Fuji or watch the gentle giant mountain sleep from a sky-high vantage point on the ropeway. There are also a variety of trains for those interested in transportation, including mountain-climbing cable cars. It’s especially beautiful in summer when the hydrangeas are in bloom.
While in Hakone, check out Owakudani and its sulfur-boiled eggs are a hot stop for any tourist. The eggs are rumored to add seven years to your life despite the fearsome location where they are cooked. If culture and art are your passion, be sure to visit the Open Air Museum featuring over 1,000 works of art, including pieces by Picasso.
After a full day of sightseeing and trekking, relax your weary body in any one of the numerous hot springs available and breathe in the fresh forest air for a rejuvenating effect on your body, health, and overall mood!
