Best Places to See Mt. Fuji in Hakone

Hakone is one of Japan's most popular destinations for viewing the majestic Mt. Fuji. This iconic mountain, the highest in Japan, stands at 3,776 meters and is often capped with snow, creating a breathtakingly beautiful view. Hakone offers numerous vantage points where visitors can marvel at Mt. Fuji's grandeur, each with its unique charm. In this article, we will explore the best places in Hakone to experience stunning views of Mt. Fuji, as well as provide some tips to enhance your visit.

1. Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
One of the most famous spots in Hakone to view Mt. Fuji is Lake Ashi. This large crater lake, formed after a volcanic eruption, offers a tranquil setting with the mountain in the background. On clear days, the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the lake's surface adds to the picturesque scenery. You can take a sightseeing cruise across the lake to enjoy panoramic views, with the mountain looming majestically in the distance. The best spots around Lake Ashi to capture the view include Moto-Hakone and Hakone-machi. Pro tip: For the best photo opportunities, visit early in the morning when the air is still and the sky is clear.

2. Owakudani
Owakudani, also known as the Great Boiling Valley, is another prime location for Mt. Fuji viewing. This area is an active volcanic zone with sulfurous fumes, hot springs, and bubbling pools. Owakudani offers an elevated vantage point, providing a closer view of Mt. Fuji. The contrast between the barren, volcanic landscape and the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji creates a dramatic and unforgettable scene. You can reach Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway, which also offers fantastic aerial views of the mountain.

3. Hakone Shrine
Located near the shores of Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine is another popular spot to view Mt. Fuji. The shrine's red torii gate, which stands partially submerged in the lake, frames the mountain perfectly, creating a quintessential Japanese scene. The combination of the cultural significance of the shrine and the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji makes this location a must-visit. Pro tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.

4. Hakone Ropeway
The Hakone Ropeway offers a unique experience by providing a bird's-eye view of Mt. Fuji. The ropeway runs between Sounzan and Togendai, offering passengers stunning views of the mountain as they ascend and descend the mountainside. The best time to ride the ropeway is on a clear day when the sky is blue, and Mt. Fuji is visible in all its glory. The ropeway also provides an excellent opportunity to see the surrounding landscape, including Lake Ashi and Owakudani, from a different perspective.

5. Pola Museum of Art
While primarily known for its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, the Pola Museum of Art also offers one of the best indoor views of Mt. Fuji. The museum is located in a forested area of Hakone, and its large windows allow visitors to enjoy views of the mountain while appreciating the art. This spot is perfect for those who want to combine cultural activities with scenic beauty. Pro tip: Plan your visit to coincide with clear weather to fully enjoy the views.

6. Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field
Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field is a unique spot for viewing Mt. Fuji, especially during the autumn months when the pampas grass turns golden. The open field, with its tall, swaying grasses, provides a stunning foreground to the distant Mt. Fuji. This area is less crowded than some of the more popular viewing spots, making it a peaceful and serene place to appreciate the mountain. The contrast between the golden grasses and the blue sky with Mt. Fuji in the background is a sight to behold.

7. Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is another excellent location to see Mt. Fuji while enjoying art. This museum, which features an extensive collection of sculptures, is set in a beautiful outdoor environment with views of the mountain. The combination of art and nature creates a relaxing and inspiring experience. The museum is located near Gora, which is also a good area to catch views of Mt. Fuji. Pro tip: Take your time exploring the museum grounds to discover different angles and perspectives of the mountain.

8. Fujiya Hotel
For a luxurious experience, consider staying at the historic Fujiya Hotel in Miyanoshita. This hotel, established in 1878, is one of the oldest in Japan and offers splendid views of Mt. Fuji from some of its rooms and gardens. The hotel itself is a piece of history, with beautiful architecture and elegant interiors. Staying here allows you to enjoy the mountain views at your leisure, whether from your room, the garden, or the on-site restaurants.

9. Odawara Castle
Although a bit farther from Hakone, Odawara Castle offers a unique vantage point for viewing Mt. Fuji. The castle, a historical landmark, is located in Odawara City, just outside Hakone. From the top of the castle tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Mt. Fuji in the distance. This spot is perfect for those interested in combining history with natural beauty.

10. Onsen with a View
Hakone is famous for its hot springs (onsen), and many of them offer stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Imagine soaking in a warm, relaxing bath while gazing at the majestic mountain – a quintessential Japanese experience. Some of the best onsen with views of Mt. Fuji include the Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu and the Hotel Green Plaza Hakone. These onsen offer outdoor baths (rotenburo) where you can unwind while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Tips for Seeing Mt. Fuji in Hakone

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to see Mt. Fuji is during the winter months (December to February) when the air is crisp and clear. However, visibility can be good in the early mornings of spring and autumn as well.
• Weather: Mt. Fuji is often shrouded in clouds, so checking the weather forecast before your trip is essential. Clear skies are more common in the early morning, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Photography Tips: Bring a zoom lens to capture close-up shots of the mountain, especially from farther vantage points like Odawara Castle or Lake Ashi. A wide-angle lens is also useful for capturing the surrounding scenery with Mt. Fuji as the backdrop.
• Transport: Hakone is easily accessible from Tokyo via the Odakyu Romancecar or JR lines. Once in Hakone, the Hakone Free Pass is a convenient option for getting around the area.

Hakone is undoubtedly one of the best places in Japan to see Mt. Fuji. With its diverse landscapes, cultural landmarks, and numerous vantage points, it offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history enthusiast, or someone simply looking to relax and enjoy nature, Hakone has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, bring your camera, and get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Fuji in Hakone.