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 is not only a stunning destination for nature lovers but also an idyllic retreat for couples seeking a romantic Japan honeymoon.

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. Travelers can explore a wide variety of world-class cultural sites, from the Hakone Open-Air Museum—featuring a dedicated Picasso Pavilion alongside works by Henry Moore, Miró, Maillol, and Rodin—to the stunning Pola Museum of Art, which houses a premier collection of French Impressionist masterpieces within a modern glass structure tucked into the forest.

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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