Hakone

Though it has a reputation as one of Japan's more traditional destinations, Hakone has plenty of excitement to keep kids busy. A pirate ship ride across Lake Ashi under the gaze of Mount Fuji is a great experience for younger children, and eating black eggs boiled in the bubbling hot springs of Owakudani is an interesting novelty. Our top recommendation, however, is the Open-Air Sculpture Park � truly fascinating and a great place for kids to let off some steam.

“No matter how many postcards, pictures or paintings you see, nothing compares you for that first glimpse of the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji from Hakone.”

Hakone has been a popular resting post since the Japanese warrior Toyotomi Hideyoshi ordered a natural bath to be built here in 1590, enabling his battle-weary men to relax in the natural hot spring waters of this volcanic area.

Onsen houses proliferate throughout the region, which is criss-crossed by a collection of ropeways, cable-cars and funicular railways linking the many small communities and a wide variety of museums, from the outdoor sculpture park with works by Henry Moore, Miro, Maillol and Rodin to a Ferrari exhibition hall.

On clear days the ropeways provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and of course away in the distance the imperious Mount Fuji - one of the world's most famous mountains and perhaps the most recognisable symbol of Japan.

Recommended Accommodation in Hakone

The following are our favourites from among the western-style hotels and Japanese-style inns of Hakone.

Experiences in Hakone

Hakone offers a wealth of exciting experiences that will help you get beneath the surface of Japan's fascinating culture. See below for a few of our favourites

Weather in Hakone

The Climate Guide for Hakone, Japan is perfect for planning your holiday. Monthly weather averages give the best indication of what the weather is usually like for every month of the year including figures for temperature, rainfall and sunshine.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

Max Daytime Temperature (°C)	9	9	12	17	21	24	27	29	25	20	16	11
Min Night-time Temperature (°C)	0	0	3	8	12	17	20	21	18	13	7	2
Hours of Sunshine (Daily)	6	6	6	5	6	4	5	6	4	4	5	6
Hours of Daylight (Daily)	10	11	12	13	14	14	14	13	12	11	10	10
Heat and Humidity Discomfort	None	None	None	None	None	None	Moderate	Moderate	Low	None	None	None
Days with some Rainfall	10	12	17	16	15	20	19	16	19	16	12	9
Monthly Rainfall (mm)	58	76	155	156	156	226	211	218	264	188	106	43
UV Index (Maximum)	3	4	6	8	9	10	10	10	8	6	3	2

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Featured trips including Hakone

Self-Guided Adventure

Golden Route (Classic)
- Tokyo
- Hakone
- Kyoto
- Tokyo
From ultra-modern Tokyo to the ancient capital of Kyoto via the hot springs of Hakone, this is a classic first-timer's trip to Japan.

9 nights: from US$2819 pp (twin share) Read more >

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Small Group Tour

Autumn Elegance (IJT Classic)
- Tokyo
- Matsumoto
- Takayama
- Kanazawa
- Kyoto
- Hakone
- Tokyo
As stunning as spring � just in a different colour scheme. Autumn Elegance combines cities and countryside at a gorgeous time of year.

13 nights: US$6968 Read more >

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Self-Guided Adventure

Golden Route (Deluxe)
- Tokyo
- Hakone
- Kyoto
- Tokyo
This deluxe week-long trip introduces the best of Japan: five-star accommodation, superb food, exclusive cultural experiences and iconic locations.

9 nights: from US$11597 pp (twin share) Read more >

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