A Two Day Solo Trip to Hakone
Every travel guide for Japan will feature Hakone, and for all the best reasons. Well known for its perfect views of Mt. Fuji, historic ryokans, nutritious onsen water, museums, and plenty of outdoor activities. The various small villages that make up Hakone gives every visitor a chance to discover the rich history and culture of Japan. Below is a guide to inspire your trip, solo or not.
Day One
Getting to Hakone from Tokyo
The fastest and simplest way to travel to Hakone from Tokyo is by reserving a ticket in advance on the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar. It travels from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto in 80 minutes and only ¥2,330 one way. Alternatively, there is a three day Fuji Hakone Travel Pass that includes fare for all of the bus options plus the ropeway and sightseeing cruise. This is a good option if you plan to see everything Hakone has to offer and don’t want to deal with buying new tickets all the time.
Hakone Open-Air Museum
Only at the Hakone Open-Air Museum can you view giant abstract sculptures, rare Picasso work, plus mountain views & surrounding lush greenery all at once. The museum has various different sections and several big lawn areas dotted with abstract sculptures from both international & Japanese artists. The most impressive building has got to be the two-story permanent Picasso exhibit full of the artists rare sketches, ceramics, glass, and tapestry work. This is definitely a must when visiting Hakone.
Coffee Camp
Coffee Camp is only a 15 minute walk away from the Open-Air Museum. This is a lovely spot with all the comforting lunch menu items like seasonal drinks, open-faced sandwiches, Japanese curry, plus handmade treats too.
Hakone Retreat Före
At this point in the day, it’s nearing the 16:00 check-in time for most hotels in the area. I highly recommend Hakone Retreat Före, which is nestled perfectly in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The design aesthetic is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese, with sleek Scandinavian design textures and colors. The property has everything you will need: two classy restaurants, a communal music & creative space, cafe with fresh bread baked daily, indoor & outdoor hot springs baths, and a spa. If you’re up for an adventure, they also offer guided kayaking and hiking trips, ceramic classes, horseback riding along the lake, and yoga on the terrace. A stay here will leave you feeling fully relaxed and recharged.
Day Two
Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields
Late September until Early November is the best time to hike the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields. The bright golden pampas grass is planted as far as the eye can see, and all against the Autumn mountains, making this a perfect spot for photography and crisp Autumn breeze.
Hakone Ropeway & Lake Ashinoko
From Gora Station, take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan Station where you can board the Hakone Ropeway. There are several stops, but I recommend taking it all the way to Togendai Station by Lake Ashi. On a clear day, you’ll be treated with an incredible view of Mount Fuji. The lake is lined with lots of restaurants and local shops. The best way to visit the different parts of the lake is actually by Pirate Ship.
POLA Museum of Art
Walking distance from Hakone Retreat Före is the incredible POLA Museum of Art, and possibly my favorite museum of all time. It is thoughtfully built underground, in order to preserve the surrounding nature and mountain views. The cement and glass building alone is such an impressive structure. They have fully embraced the surrounding environment with a lovely outdoor Nature Trail lined with unique sculptures and various bird sounds.
Inside the museum, you will find contemporary and modern artworks from all over the world. The permanent exhibit features work by Cezanne, Monet and Picasso, plus a couple rotating exhibits too. View their website ahead of time to see what is on display.
