How can I get to Lake Ashinoko?

You can reach Lake Ashinoko by taking a train to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then transferring to a bus or the Hakone Tozan Railway. Another scenic option is the Hakone Ropeway, which provides aerial views of the area.

What activities are available at Lake Ashinoko?

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including sightseeing cruises, renting pedal boats, fishing, hiking trails around the lake, and visiting nearby attractions like the Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Can I see Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko?

Yes, on clear days, you can see stunning views of Mount Fuji from various points around Lake Ashinoko. Some of the best vantage points are from sightseeing boats on the lake and along the shores.

Are there any historical sites near Lake Ashinoko?

Yes, the area is rich in history. The Hakone Shrine, with its iconic red torii gate in the lake, and the Hakone Sekisho (Checkpoint), a restored Edo-era post station, are notable sites near Lake Ashinoko.

Are there hot springs near Lake Ashinoko?

Yes, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, or "onsen." There are several hot spring resorts and public baths near Lake Ashinoko where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural mineral waters.

Hakone

Lake Ashinoko

4.4 (1460)Natural FeatureEstablishment

Lake Ashinoko, created by a volcanic eruption millennia ago, stands as a gem in Hakone. This expansive body of water, surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, offers one of Japan’s most captivating vistas, especially with the majestic Mount Fuji looming in the background.

A key historical and cultural hub, the lake was once a vital route in the Edo period, connecting travelers on the ancient Tokaido Road. Today, its waters are plied by unique pirate-themed ships, offering a whimsical touch to the scenic cruises. These vessels provide panoramic views of the region's natural splendor, from the verdant banks to the clear, reflective waters.

The shores of Lake Ashinoko are rich with attractions. The Hakone Shrine, with its vermilion torii gate seemingly floating on the lake, is a spiritual beacon and a striking visual landmark. Nearby, the Komagatake Ropeway offers a bird’s-eye view of the lake and the surrounding mountainous terrain, enhancing the area's allure.

Beyond its visual appeal, the lake is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers find the waters teeming with fish, while hikers and nature lovers explore the numerous trails that wind through the picturesque surroundings.

The area

Address

Lake Ashi, Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan

Top ways to experience Lake Ashinoko

10 hours

Discover Hakone: An Exclusive Full-Day Private Tour with an English-Speaking Guide

From $485 /group

9 hours and 30 minutes

Group 1 Day Tour of Mt. Fuji and Hakone: Onsen, Arts, and Nature

From $291 /person

What other travelers are saying about Lake Ashinoko

Breathtaking view with beautiful lake. If you are lucky, you can see mount Fuji so clearly..

Nearby attractions to see

A large red torii gate stands over a paved pathway surrounded by tall, green trees and lush forest vegetation, with small lanterns lining the path.

Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine

Lush, rounded green bushes and trees under a dramatic cloudy sky, with distant mountains and a hint of water visible in the background, creating a peaceful natural landscape.

Onshi Hakone Park

A brick pathway with a green archway leads through a garden filled with bushes and trees, with mountains and a partly cloudy sky in the background. A tall tree stands prominently at the path's end.

Hakone Gora Park

Nearby attractions to see

Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine

Onshi Hakone Park

Hakone Gora Park

More about Lake Ashinoko from our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

I think it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I wish we could stay longer. So serene and beautiful, in a cloudy and even a bit rainy day. The surroundings are surprisingly not clean but it doesn’t ruin the experience.

Dana Bashi

Oct 7, 2025

Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) is a scenic crater lake in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the region's most iconic destinations, famous for its classic views of Mount Fuji, historical shrines, and unique sightseeing boats. Volcanic Origins: The lake was formed approximately 3,000 years ago following a major eruption of Mount Hakone. The eruption caused a landslide that dammed a local river, creating the caldera lake we see today. Historical Significance: During the Edo period, the lake was a critical point on the Old Tokaido Road, the main route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. Travelers had to pass through the nearby Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone Sekisho), which has been reconstructed for visitors to tour today. Took a pirate ship tour ride and the views are spectacular.

George Fine

Nov 24, 2025

The lake is known for its views of Mount Fuji, its numerous hot springs, historical sites,However, i might visit at the wrong timimg so there is nothing special. Surrounded by mountains and trees ,also a few buildings along the shore. If you visit Hakone, you can take a 30-minute boat cruise excursion from the port at Hakone Sekisho-ato Port or the Moto-hakone Port.