Local Guide
[2025 Edition] 12 carefully selected spots to admire autumn leaves in Hakone

Starting from Lake Ashi, the autumn leaves of Hakone change through Sengokuhara, Gora, and Kowakudani. Due to the difference in elevation between Hakone Yumoto, which is about 110m above sea level, and Owakudani, which is nearly 1,000m above sea level, the trees in the higher elevation areas begin to change color about a month earlier than in Tokyo. We will introduce recommended spots, from the panoramic autumn foliage created by the mountains of the Hakone outer rim, Lake Ashi, and Mt. Fuji, to the tranquil autumn scenery that can be encountered at ancient temples, gardens, and art museums.

Enjoy the beauty of the autumn valley at the scenic "Deyama Iron Bridge"

The Hakone Tozan Railway runs approximately 15km from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora. The route is full of variety, with switchbacks that require the train to switch direction to navigate steep inclines, and sharp curves.
One of the highlights is the view from the Deyama Bridge (official name: Hayakawa Bridge), a railway bridge that crosses the mountains. The train departs from Hakone-Yumoto Station, passes Tonosawa Station, and heads over the Deyama Bridge. The view from the bridge is fantastic, and you can enjoy the autumn leaves weaving a gradation of red and yellow from below to the mountain peak.
Also, if you ride the 3100-type Allegra train, you can enjoy a close-up view of the autumn leaves from the large windows and the observation windows on the side of the train.

[Start of coloring] Early November
[Best time to see] Mid to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, ginkgo, etc.

Hakone Tozan Railway
  • 住所Hayakawa Bridge MAP, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
  • 営業時間Operation area: Odawara - Gora
    Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes (Hakone Yumoto - Gora)
    Operating days: Every day
  • 入場料Fare: Hakone-Yumoto - Gora / 460 yen
    How to reserve and purchase tickets: Purchase at the boarding station

Enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Hakone painted in colorful lights from the lake all to yourself

Lake Ashi is a caldera lake that stretches about 7km from north to south and 20km in circumference, and is surrounded by the Hakone outer rim. From the sightseeing boats that run on the lake, you can get a 360-degree view of the Hakone mountains, and during the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.
Especially on a clear day, the view of Lake Ashi, the autumn foliage of the Hakone mountains, and the snow-capped Mount Fuji in the distance is like a painting. If you go up to the observation deck on the upper floor, you can have the magnificent unobstructed view all to yourself. There are regular ferries that cruise Hakone Sekishoato Port near the Hakone Sekisho and Motohakone Port near Hakone Shrine, as well as excursion boats that depart from each port, cruise on the lake, and return to their original port. If you want to disembark along the way to enjoy the tourist spots, you can use a free ticket to take the regular ferries, or if you have your own car, a tour boat is convenient.

[Start of coloring] Usually around late October
[Best time to see] Early to mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, Enkianthus campanulatus, etc.

Hakone Lake Ashi Sightseeing Cruise
  • 住所45-3 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Odawara Station or Hakone-Yumoto Station, and get off at "Motohakone"
  • 営業時間Operating hours: 10:00 - 16:40 *Depending on the season
    Operation area: Hakone Sekishoato Port - Motohakone Port - Hakone-en Port
    Time required: Round trip course approx. 40-45 minutes
    Operating days: Every day
  • 入場料Boarding fee: Round trip/circumnavigation fare 2,000 yen
    How to make a reservation and purchase a ticket: Purchase at the port of embarkation

Drive through three mountain passes greeted by spectacular autumn foliage

This tourist toll road is located on the west shore of Lake Ashi, at an altitude of about 900m, connecting the border between Kanagawa and Shizuoka prefectures. The total length is 10.7km. The road runs along the ridge of the outer rim of the volcano, and you can enjoy dynamic autumn foliage everywhere.
Among them, three passes are must-sees, offering spectacular views and beautiful autumn foliage. First, Yamabushi Pass is the first pass you see after entering from the toll gate on the Hakone Pass side. From the observation deck next to the Lake Ashi Skyline Rest House Lake View, you can get a beautiful panoramic view of Lake Ashi and the autumn foliage of Mt. Komagatake. At Shakushi Pass, located halfway up, you can enjoy a wide autumn view of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Southern Alps in the distance. Going further, you will come to Mikuni Pass Observatory, where you can enjoy a dynamic view of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Gotemba city.
There are few Parking at Shakushi Pass, so if it is full, head to Mikuni Pass.

[Start of coloring] Usually around early November
[Best time to see] Early to late November
[Type of autumn leaves] Maple, etc.

Lake Ashi Skyline
  • 住所Lake Ashinoko Skyline MAP, Susono City, Shizuoka Prefecture
  • 営業時間7:00-19:00 *Special sections are free outside opening hours
  • 入場料Regular section (Hakone Pass - Kojiri Pass) 1,000 yen, special section (Kojiri Pass - Kojiri Water Gate) 200 yen

The whole area is golden. The pampas grass swaying in the breeze is soothing.

Sengokuhara, which spreads out to the north of Lake Ashi, is said to have once been the site of a lake called Lake Sengokuhara. An eruption split the lake in two, with one part becoming Lake Ashi and the other part becoming Kanagawa Prefecture's only marshland. Part of that marshland, the silver grass field that spreads across the foot of Mount Daigatake, is now a seasonal feature of autumn in Hakone. Enormous amounts of silver grass cover the slopes, stretching as far as the eye can see. In early autumn, the silver grass heads shine silver and turn gold as autumn deepens. The sight of the heads swaying all at once with every wind is reminiscent of a golden ocean.
In the silver grass field, there is a promenade that goes straight ahead and turns around before returning. The grass field is undulating, and there is no shortage of photo spots, including hills with panoramic views of the whole field, small paths that seem to be buried in silver grass that covers both sides of the promenade, and panoramic views of the mountains and silver grass field.

[Start of coloring] Usually around mid-September
[Best time to see] Mid-October to mid-November

Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Grassland
  • 住所Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • TEL0460-85-5700（箱根町総合観光案内所）
  • 駐車場Free (September 1st to November 30th, 9:00-16:00)
  • メモ*The URL information is for the Hakone Tourist Association official website.

A heart-warming, tranquil autumn scene at an ancient temple

Choanji Temple is an ancient temple of the Soto sect founded in 1658 (Manji 1). Like the Susuki Grass Grass Field, it is a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves in Sengokuhara. It is located just a short walk from the Sengoku bus stop and is conveniently located just a side Direction away from National Route 138, but once you enter the temple grounds, you will find a tranquil atmosphere.
The scenery within the temple grounds, which are listed as one of the "100 Flower Temples in the Eastern Region," and are known throughout the Kanto region, is not only beautiful with flowers throughout the year, but also with the maple leaves in autumn, which are just as spectacular. The scenery of the stately hall, which is said to be the original building from when the temple was first built, combined with the maple leaves that paint the surrounding area red and yellow, is deeply tasteful and cleansing to the soul. The 500 expressive arhat statues can be found throughout the temple grounds, including the path leading to the mountain behind the temple, and their peaceful expressions and the scenery painted by the autumn leaves are unique to Choanji Temple.

[Start of coloring] Usually around late October
[Best time to see] Early to mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, zelkova, beech, Japanese azalea, rhododendron trifoliate, etc.

Provided by: Hakone Zenzan
Provided by: Hakone Zenzan
Choanji Temple
  • 住所82 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 14 minutes by car from Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station or Gora Station, get off at "Sengoku" and walk for about 1 minute
  • 入場料free
  • メモ*The URL information is for the Hakone Tourist Association official website.

A collaboration between crystals and autumn leaves. Immerse yourself in the gorgeous autumn.

Located in Sengokuhara, this is Japan's first museum specializing in Venetian glass. The Western-style building is a replica of a European aristocrat's mansion and displays around 100 masterpieces from the 15th to 19th centuries. The garden on the premises features a large pond, and is a great spot to view the autumn leaves, with Owakudani in front and Mount Daigatake and Mount Kozuka on either side. On the southwest side of the garden, there is the "Autumn Leaves Path" that stretches all the way to Hayakawa River, and it is also attractive to be able to take a leisurely stroll along the path surrounded by colorful trees.
In addition, a crystal glass arch measuring 9m in height and 10m in length has been installed on the bridge leading from the garden to the museum. You can enjoy the fantastical sight of 160,000 crystals sparkling in the autumn breeze, and the crystal glass ears of silver grass, available only in autumn, shining in the sunlight. The combination of autumn leaves and glass adds an extra touch of color to the autumn season, making this a unique place worth seeing.

[Start of coloring] Usually around mid-October
[Best time to see] Late October to mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, Japanese maple, etc.

Hakone Glass Forest Museum
  • 住所940-48 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes by car from Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway
  • バスアクセスTake a bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station, get off at "Tawaraishi Hakone Glass Forest" and walk for about 1 minute, or take a bus from Gora Station and get off at "Hakone Glass Forest"
  • 営業時間10:00-17:30 (last entry at 17:00)
  • 定休日January: 11 days from the day after Coming of Age Day
  • 入場料Adults: 1,800 yen, 65 years and older: 1,700 yen, university and high school students: 1,300 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 600 yen
  • TEL0460-86-3111
  • 駐車場Paid parking lot *Third Parking (5 minutes walk) is free

Take an aerial stroll over a carpet of autumn leaves

The Hakone Ropeway allows you to enjoy an aerial stroll from Sounzan Station, the terminus of the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, through Owakudani Station and Ubako Station to Togendai Station near Lake Ashi.
The journey between each station takes about eight minutes. The ropeway departs from Sounzan Station, at an altitude of 757m, and quickly ascends to Owakudani Station, at an altitude of 1,044m. Below you can see the impressive scenery of Owakudani, and if you turn your gaze to the surrounding area, you will see a panoramic view of the Hakone outer rim dyed in colorful autumn colors. On the way to Ubako Station after changing ropeways at Owakudani Station, if it is a clear day, you can enjoy a large-scale autumn view of Lake Ashi, Mt. Fuji, and the autumn leaves of the surrounding mountains. As the ropeway descends close to the forest along the mountain slope, you can experience the sensation of sliding down a carpet of autumn leaves.

[Start of coloring] Usually around late October
[Best time to see] Early to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Cornus kousa, Quercus mizunara, Acer palmatum, etc.

Hakone Ropeway
  • 住所1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture (Sounzan Station) MAP
  • アクセスImmediately after getting off at Hakone Tozan Cable Car "Sounzan Station" (Sounzan Station)
  • 営業時間February to November 9:00 to 16:45 (Owakudani Station only - 17:00)
    December to January 9:00 to 16:15
    Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes (not including transfers at Owakudani Station and stops at each station)
  • 定休日Service may be suspended due to bad weather or regular inspection and maintenance.
  • 入場料One way 1,500 yen (Souunzan - Togendai)
  • TEL平日 0465-32-2205　土日祝 0460-84-8439
  • メモOperation area: Sounzan Station - Owakudani Station - Ubako Station - Togendai Station
    Tickets are purchased at the boarding station

A scenic spot where you can see the whole of Hakone in autumn

It connects Hakone-en, a resort Property on the shores of Lake Ashi, to the summit of Mt. Komagatake, the third highest mountain in Hakone at an altitude of 1,356m. The total length is about 1,800m, and the aerial stroll takes about 7 minutes.
The first thing you see as you leave Hakone-en Garden is the red and yellow trees that cover the slopes. The colorful foliage spreads out like paint smeared on a canvas. From the halfway point, looking back towards Hakone-en Garden, you'll be amazed at the breathtaking view. The panoramic view of Hakone with Lake Ashi at the center looks like a miniature garden, allowing you to experience Hakone dyed in autumn colors. At the peak, you'll be treated to a dynamic view of the autumn-colored mountains of Hakone and Mount Fuji towering beyond.

[Start of coloring] Usually around mid-October
[Best time to see] Late October to mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, etc.

Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
  • 住所139 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture (Hakone-en Station) MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 30 minutes by car from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station and get off at "Hakone-en"
  • 営業時間Ascending 9:00-16:30 Descending 16:50
    Duration: Approximately 7 minutes
  • 入場料Fare (round trip): 2,200 yen for adults, 1,100 yen for children (elementary school students)
    *Service may be suspended due to bad weather or regular inspections and maintenance.
  • TEL0460-83-1151（箱根園）
  • メモTickets are purchased at the boarding station

Enjoy a foot bath in a space where art and autumn leaves come together in harmony

The first open-air art museum in Japan, it exhibits about 120 works by famous sculptors on a vast site of about 70,000 m2. Visitors can enjoy an artistic autumn with the collaboration of the trees, which change color with the deepening of autumn, and the sculptures, which have a strong presence.
To stimulate your senses and enjoy the autumn leaves, visit the "Symphony of Happiness Sculpture" by French sculptor Gabriel Rohr. Experience Inside the 18-meter-high tower, stained glass windows on all sides create a magical space that catches the light from outside. Climbing up the spiral staircase inside, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Hakone mountains in the distance as well as the whole of the Hakone Open-Air Museum in autumn.
When you get tired of strolling, take a dip in the footbath with 100% free-flowing spring water that gushes out from the grounds. hot spring Soak your feet in the footbath and enjoy the harmony of the sculptures and the autumn leaves. The true joy of autumn can only be experienced here, and it will warm your heart and soul.

[Start of coloring] Usually around late October
[Best time to see] Mid to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, cherry blossom, zelkova, enkianthus campanulatus, mountain dogwood, oak, etc.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum
  • 住所1121 Ninotaira, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスAbout 2 minutes walk from Hakone Tozan Railway Chokoku-no-Mori Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station, get off at "Ninohira Iriguchi" and walk for about 5 minutes
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料Adults: 2,000 yen, university and high school students: 1,600 yen, junior high and elementary school students: 800 yen
    * Discounts available for advance purchase of online tickets
  • TEL0460-82-1161
  • 駐車場Paid

Enjoy the contrast between maples and autumn roses in this historic garden

Japan's first French-style garden has retained its original appearance even now, more than 100 years after its opening in 1914 (Taisho 3). It is located on a slope along the Hakone Tozan Cablecar line, with the West Gate at an elevation of about 40m from the Main Gate, and most of the walking paths are stairs and slopes, which is a major feature. There are many deciduous trees in the garden from the fountain in the center of the garden to the West Gate, and the autumn leaves, mainly maples, color the garden. There is also a rose garden in the same area, and the combination of autumn roses and trees dyed in beautiful autumn colors is well worth seeing.
Near the fountain, you can enjoy the impressive, desolate teahouse "Hakuundo Chaen" and the crimson-colored maple trees, creating a truly Japanese autumn atmosphere.

[Start of coloring] Usually around late October
[Best time to see] Early to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, etc.

Hakone Gora Park
  • 住所1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 1 minute walk from Hakone Tozan Cable Car Koen-Shita Station (Main Gate), Approximately 1 minute walk from Koen-Kami Station (West Gate)
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station or Gora Station and get off at Gora Park
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30)
    Cafe PIC 10:00〜16:00(LO15:30)
    *Opening hours may change depending on weather, maintenance, etc.
  • 定休日Open all year round *May be closed temporarily due to weather, maintenance, etc.
  • 入場料Adults: 650 yen, elementary school students and younger: free
    * Re-entry on the same day or the next day is possible (please present your receipt at the reception desk)
  • TEL0460-82-2825
  • 駐車場Paid

Take a stroll through the graceful autumn scenery of moss and maple leaves

Located next to Gora Park, this is the oldest art museum in Hakone, having opened in 1952. It displays a collection of rare pottery, including Jomon pottery, haniwa clay figurines from the Kofun period, jars and jars from the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, and plates from the Chinese period.
The garden "Shinsenkyo" at this museum is known as one of the best places in Hakone to see autumn leaves. Due to the splendor of its seasonal scenery, it has been designated as a national registered monument (scenic spot). The elegant scenery created by the green of 130 types of moss and the red of 200 maple trees is simply overwhelming. Experience the tranquil Japanese autumn by strolling along the stone-paved walkway that winds through the garden. In the teahouse at the back of the garden, you can spend a peaceful time enjoying matcha tea while looking out at the garden.

[Start of coloring] Usually around early November
[Best time to see] Early to mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, wild cherry, etc.

Hakone Museum of Art
  • 住所1300 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスAbout 1 minute walk from Hakone Tozan Cable Car Koen-kami Station
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Gora Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway and get off at the Hakone Museum of Art stop
  • 営業時間April to November: 9:30 to 16:30, December to March: 16:00 (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
    Tea room “Shinwatei” 10:00-15:30
  • 定休日Thursdays (open on public holidays), New Year's holidays
  • 入場料Adults: 1,430 yen, high school and university students: 660 yen, junior high school students and younger: free
    *Discounts available for online ticket purchases
    Tea room "Shinwa-tei" 800 yen per cup
  • TEL0460-82-2623
  • 駐車場free

The large tree that paints the vast garden a splendid sight

This famous azalea spot is said to have been created in the early Taisho period when Kyozo Enomoto, founder of the Mikawaya Ryokan in Kowakudani hot spring, transplanted azaleas from Okubo Park in Tokyo and created a garden. Many tourists visit in May when over 30,000 azaleas of dozens of varieties bloom in full glory, but the beauty of the autumn leaves is in fact no less impressive. All of the trees, mainly maples, are tall, with branches stretching high into the sky. Looking up at the trees from the walking path, you can see the blue sky peeking through the red and yellow leaves, and the sunlight filtering through the trees makes for a photogenic landscape.

[Start of coloring] Usually around early November
[Best time to see] Mid-November
[Types of autumn leaves] Zelkova, Japanese maple, Japanese maple, etc.

Hakone Kowakien Horaien
  • 住所1297 Ninohira, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 11 minutes walk from Kowakudani Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway
  • バスアクセスTake the bus from Hakone Tozan Railway Hakone Yumoto Station and get off at "Horaien"
  • 営業時間Free to wander around
  • 定休日Open daily
  • 入場料free
  • TEL0460-85-0261（箱根小涌園 三河屋旅館）
  • 駐車場None *Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Parking is available (free for up to 2 hours)
  • メモ*The URL information is for the Hakone Tourist Association official website.

MAP

Hakone Yumoto, Tonosawa and Ohiradai area
Lake Ashi area
Sengokuhara/Owakudani area
Gora and Kowakudani area
Nearby Hoshino Resorts Property
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