Owakudani, found on Mt.Hakone, is a geothermal attraction found around a volcanic crater. It is believed that the crater formed during an eruption around 3000 years prior. Today, the crater is still an active volcano zone, which pumps out sulfurous fumes, steam, and hot springs. Furthermore, Owakudani offers stunning views of Mt.Fuji on clear days, adding to the appeal of this attraction.
Visitors to Owakudani can enjoy views of the geothermal area from a safe distance from the area around the Owakudani Station on the Hakone Ropeway. There are several free observation areas around the Owakudani station area, which provide you with great views of the sulfur vents. .
Additionally, a short guided walk is available for booking. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, following Okakudani Research trail. The walking trail takes visitors closer to many hot springs pools, and geothermal vents. Bookings are required for this walking trail, as for safety reasons, only a limited number of people can be on the trail at once. A booking fee of 500JPY applies, to be paid at time of participation (Cash not accepted, only electronic payments accepted).
The Hakone Ropeway traverses across the sulfur vents and geothermally active area, resulting in one of a kind views of Owakudani.
Kuru-tamago, literally ‘Black eggs’ are a specialty of Owakudani, and have become iconic attraction in their own right. Owakudani black eggs are just regular chicken eggs that have been boiled in the natural hot springs of the Owakudani valley. The eggshells turn black due to the sulfur and iron in the spring water. Despite their unusual appearance, the inside of the egg remains just like a regular boiled egg. These can be purchased from the tourist shops found nearby for about 500JPY.
Hours and Admission (Owakudani Walking Trail)
- Walking trail timeslots: 10:00am-2:30pm
- 500JPY (Bookings must be made online, cash not accepted)
- Average Time Spent: 30-60 Minutes
- Make a reservation
Accessing Owakudani
Owakudani can be accessed very easily from the Hakone Ropeway, a cablecar that scales Mt.Hakone. There are many stations on the Hakone Ropeway, including a station directly outside of Owakudani. Owakudani can be reached easily from either the Lake Ashi side of the mountain, or the eastern side of the mountain in Gora. From the Lake side of the mountain, board the Hakone ropeway at Togendai station – easily accessed from Hakone town via boat. A One way trip costs 1550JPY, and a return ticket costs 2500JPY.
The ropeway is covered by the Hakone Freepass, which offers unlimited travel on many of the local transport options, including the ropeway, Hakone Tozai Ropeway, and discounted entry to many local attractions.
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Where to Stay
Yoshiike Ryokan
Modern Japanese Ryokan, with stunning facilities, gorgeous indoor and outdoor onsen and beautiful gardens.
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Hakone Hotel
Luxury hotel, featuring rooms with unforgettable lake views, world class dining, and immaculate facilities.
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Odakyu Hotel De Yama
Lake-side hotel, boasting large gardens to explore and relax in, convenient location, just a 5 minute drive from the port.
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