Exploring Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: What to Do and See
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of Japan’s most visited national parks, known for its natural beauty and variety of attractions. Located close to Tokyo, the park covers four main areas: Mount Fuji, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the Izu Islands. Each region offers different experiences, from hiking and hot springs to coastal adventures and historic sites. In this blog post, we’ll explore what you can do and see in each of these areas.
Mount Fuji Area
Climbing Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan's tallest mountain and a major attraction within the park. Rising to 3,776 meters, it’s an active volcano and a symbol of Japan. During the official climbing season, from early July to early September, many visitors set out to reach the summit.
There are several routes to choose from, each offering different levels of difficulty. The Yoshida Trail is the most popular, starting from the 5th Station and leading to the top in about six to eight hours. Many people start their climb early or late at night to witness the sunrise from the summit, a moment known as "Goraiko."
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Fuji Five Lakes
For those who prefer to enjoy Mount Fuji from a distance, the Fuji Five Lakes region offers stunning views and a variety of activities. This area, located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, includes five lakes: Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu. Lake Kawaguchi is the most accessible and developed, making it a popular destination for local and international visitors.
Lake Kawaguchi is known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, particularly during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake, enjoy hot spring baths, and visit museums like the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum.
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The Chureito Pagoda, located on a hill near Lake Kawaguchi, is one of the most photographed spots in Japan. From here, you can capture an iconic image of the pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background, framed by cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant leaves in autumn.
Hiking Trails Around Mount Fuji
If climbing Mount Fuji isn’t your thing, there are easier hiking trails around the base of the mountain and the nearby lakes. The Ochudo Trail, which circles Mount Fuji at about 2,300 meters, offers fantastic views of the surrounding area. The trails around the lakes are also ideal for walking, with paths that take you through forests, fields of flowers, and along the shores of the lakes.
Hakone Area
Enjoying Hot Springs (Onsen)
Hakone is also famous for its hot springs, or "onsen," which have been attracting visitors for centuries. The area is home to over a dozen hot spring resorts, many of which are located in traditional Japanese inns called ryokan. These ryokans offer guests the opportunity to soak in mineral-rich hot spring baths while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular onsen towns in Hakone include Hakone-Yumoto, Miyanoshita, and Gora.
The water in Hakone's hot springs is known for its healing properties, particularly for soothing sore muscles and improving circulation. The experience of soaking in an outdoor bath, known as "rotenburo," while surrounded by nature, is one of the highlights of any trip to Hakone.
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Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine
One of the main attractions in Hakone is Lake Ashi, a crater lake formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after its last eruption over 3,000 years ago. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises on the lake, including rides on pirate-themed ships, which are particularly popular with families.
On the shores of Lake Ashi is Hakone Shrine, a Shinto shrine with a history that dates back to the 8th century. The shrine is nestled within a dense forest, and its iconic red torii gate, which stands in the waters of Lake Ashi, is a symbol of Hakone. The shrine is dedicated to the gods of the mountains and has been a pilgrimage place for centuries.
Visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a unique museum set in a large garden. It features modern and contemporary sculptures by Japanese and international artists. There are also indoor galleries showcasing works by famous artists like Picasso.
The outdoor setting of the museum allows visitors to enjoy art in a natural environment, with the mountains and forests of Hakone as a backdrop.
Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani
The Hakone Ropeway is another must-do activity in the region, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Fuji on clear days. The ropeway connects several key attractions in Hakone, including Owakudani, a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs. Owakudani was formed around 3,000 years ago during the last eruption of Mount Hakone, and it remains an active volcanic area.
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Visitors to Owakudani can see steam vents and boiling hot springs up close. A popular treat here is the "kurotamago," or black eggs, which are boiled in the sulfuric hot springs. The eggs turn black due to the sulfur in the water, and local legend says that eating one of these eggs adds seven years to your life.
The Hakone Ropeway provides easy access to this unique volcanic landscape, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the region.
Izu Peninsula
Hiking Along the Jogasaki Coast
The Izu Peninsula, located south of Hakone, is known for its rugged coastline, hot springs, and charming seaside towns. One of the most scenic areas on the peninsula is the Jogasaki Coast, characterized by dramatic cliffs and lava formations created by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
The coast is lined with hiking trails, the most famous of which is the Jogasaki Picnical Course. This trail runs along the edge of the cliffs, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the rocky coastline below.
The Jogasaki Suspension Bridge, which spans a deep chasm along the coast, is a highlight of the trail. Walking across the bridge provides an exhilarating experience, with the ocean waves crashing against the rocks below.
Hot Springs and Historic Towns on the Izu Peninsula
The Izu Peninsula is home to several hot spring towns, each with its own unique charm. Shuzenji, often referred to as the "Little Kyoto" of Izu, is a historic town known for its tranquil atmosphere and cultural heritage.
Shuzenji Temple, founded in the 8th century, is the town's centerpiece and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a bamboo grove. The town also has several ryokan with hot spring baths, offering visitors a peaceful retreat.
Atami, located on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula, is another popular hot spring resort town. Atami has been a favorite getaway for Tokyo residents since the Edo period, and it continues to attract visitors with its beaches, hot springs, and cultural sites. Atami Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town, offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Visiting the Izu Shaboten Zoo
The Izu Shaboten Zoo is near the town of Ito and combines a zoo with a botanical garden. The zoo is home to various animals, including capybaras and lemurs, while the botanical garden features over 1,500 species of cacti and succulents. The most famous attraction at the zoo is the capybara onsen, where you can watch these large rodents enjoy a hot spring bath in the winter.
Diving and Snorkeling in the Izu Peninsula’s Clear Waters
The Izu Peninsula is also a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, thanks to its clear waters and rich marine life. The southern part of the peninsula, particularly around the towns of Shimoda and Ito, is known for its excellent diving spots.
The waters here are home to coral reefs, schools of colorful fish, and even sea turtles. For those interested in exploring the underwater world, there are several diving schools and tour operators in the area that offer guided dives and snorkeling trips.
Izu Islands
Exploring Oshima Island
The Izu Islands are a group of volcanic islands located south of the Izu Peninsula, each with its own unique landscape and attractions. Oshima, the largest of the Izu Islands, is best known for Mount Mihara, an active volcano that last erupted in 1990. The volcano is the island's most prominent feature, and visitors can hike to its summit to peer into the volcanic crater.
The hike to the summit of Mount Mihara is relatively easy and takes about two hours round trip. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
The landscape around the volcano is barren and otherworldly, with lava fields and steam vents creating a stark contrast to the lush greenery found elsewhere on the island.
Surfing on Niijima Island
Niijima is a small island known for its white-sand beaches and clear water, making it an excellent spot for surfing. Habushiura Beach is the most popular, attracting surfers from around the world. The island also has hot springs, including Yunohama Onsen, an open-air bath with ocean views.
Hiking on Hachijojima Island
Hachijojima is a remote island known for its lush forests and hot springs. The island offers several hiking trails that lead through forests, past waterfalls, and up to the summit of Mount Hachijo-Fuji, an extinct volcano. The island is also known for traditional crafts like Hachijo-ori, a type of textile made from local plants.
Diving and Snorkeling in the Izu Islands
The Izu Islands are a great place for diving and snorkeling, with clear water and rich marine life. Mikurajima Island is one of the best spots for diving, known for its friendly dolphins. Guided tours are available for swimming with dolphins or exploring the coral reefs around the island.
Other popular diving spots include the waters around Shikinejima and Kozushima, where you can see a variety of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
Final Thoughts on Exploring Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers diverse experiences, from hiking Japan's iconic Mount Fuji to soaking in natural hot springs and exploring volcanic islands. The park’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and outdoor activities make it a destination that caters to various interests.
Whether you’re visiting for the scenic views, historical landmarks, or unique landscapes, the park provides a memorable experience for all. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it an accessible escape for those looking to experience the best of Japan’s natural and cultural offerings.
Embark on the Hike Hakone Hachiri 1-Day Tour to explore the ancient Tokaido route.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?
The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. For climbing Mount Fuji, July to early September is ideal. For cherry blossoms, visit in April, and for autumn foliage, November is the best time. Hot springs and coastal areas can be enjoyed year-round.
How do I get to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park from Tokyo?
The park is easily accessible from Tokyo by train. You can take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Odawara for Hakone or Mishima for the Izu Peninsula. To reach the Mount Fuji area, take the JR Chuo Line or Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station.
What are the must-see attractions in Hakone?
Don’t miss Hakone’s hot springs (onsen), Lake Ashi, which has views of Mount Fuji, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the Hakone Shrine. The Hakone Tozan Railway is also a scenic way to explore the area.
Can I swim or surf in the Izu Peninsula?
Yes, the Izu Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Popular spots include Shirahama Beach, Toji Beach, and Yumigahama Beach.
