Visiting Hakone Shrine

About Hakone Shrine

Traditionally founded in the 8th century, Hakone Shrine stands among tall cedars above Lake Ashi, reached by stone steps from the shore. Its vermilion Peace Torii rises from the water's edge, one of the most photographed views in Japan.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning, before the boats bring day trippers, to photograph the lakeside torii without a long queue.

Plan your visit

• Time needed: 1 hour.
• Cost: Free — no ticket needed for the main area.
• Book ahead: not usually needed; buy on arrival.
• Where: Moto-Hakone and Hakone-machi, lakeside villages at the southern end of Lake Ashi.

Best time to visit Hakone Shrine

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for the quietest of the good months:

• February: 8°C (46°F) highs, about 7 rainy days, quiet crowds.
• January: 7°C (45°F) highs, about 6 rainy days, moderate crowds.
• December: 9°C (48°F) highs, about 6 rainy days, moderate crowds.

When to visit Hakone has the full month-by-month picture.

Fit it into your trip

Our 3-day Hakone itinerary visits Hakone Shrine on day 2, together with Hakone Ropeway and Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise.

• No. 5 of the 18 sights in our Hakone things-to-do list.
• Day 2 of the 2-day plan.
• Listed in free things to do in Hakone.

Near Hakone Shrine

Also in Moto-Hakone and Hakone-machi, so you can walk between them:

• Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise — 40 minutes, mid-priced
• Old Tōkaidō road and cedar avenue — 1–3 hours, free
• Hakone Checkpoint — 45 minutes, low cost

If you like Hakone Shrine

• Sengokuhara susuki grassland — Sengokuhara, 1 hour

Staying near Hakone Shrine

Stay in Moto-Hakone and Hakone-machi ($$$) to walk here: lakeside villages at the southern end of Lake Ashi. All areas to stay in Hakone.

Questions travellers ask