Lake Ashi Travel Guide

Lake Ashi, also known as Hakone Lake or Ashinoko Lake, is located in Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. It was created about 3,000 years ago due to the volcanic eruption of Mt. Hakone. Today, Ashi Lake is a scenic landscape for nature-seekers and history buffs. It is easily accessed from Tokyo by bus or train.

In the surrounding area, you can find an abundance of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and rejuvenating onsen. With the Hakone Free Pass you can move around freely on certain buses starting from Odawara Station.

Make a pilgrimage to the fairytale-like Hakone Shrine and descend down the path to the monumental red torii gate that is built in water. After some meditating, enjoy a boat cruise and take a short lake tour while getting the chance to witness the staggering view of Mt. Fuji from across Lake Ashi. Afterwards, why not take a hot and relaxing bath in one of the several onsen of the area?