Lake Ashi

芦ノ湖

Scenic volcanic lake in Hakone offering mountain views, open-air art museums, and traditional pirate ship boat tours. The lake is surrounded by hiking trails, hot springs, and the famous Torii gate of Hakone Shrine reflected in its waters.

Things to do

• Hakone Pirate Ship Cruise — Take a scenic boat tour across Lake Ashi aboard a replica pirate ship, offering views of Mount Fuji on clear days and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
• Hakone Shrine Torii Gate — Visit the iconic red torii gate partially submerged in the lake's waters, best photographed in early morning light and reflected on calm surfaces.
• Open-Air Sculpture Museum — Explore contemporary art installations and sculptures set against mountain views at the Hakone Open-Air Museum on the lake's western shore.
• Ropeway to Mt. Komagatake — Ride the mountain ropeway from the lake area to the summit of Mt. Komagatake for panoramic views of Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and the Hakone caldera.
• Hakone Loop Hiking Trail — Trek the scenic circuit around portions of the lake, passing through forest, volcanic rock formations, and multiple access points for different skill levels.
• Hakone Museum of Art — View Japanese and Western art collections housed in a modern building with lake views, including works by contemporary and classical artists.
• Onsen Hot Spring Bath with Lake Views — Soak in natural hot springs at one of several ryokan or public bath facilities overlooking Lake Ashi, a signature Hakone experience.

Food to try

• Hakone Yama-Arashi (Mountain Soba) — Buckwheat noodles served in a light dashi broth, often made with locally foraged mountain vegetables and eaten at lakeside restaurants.
• Hakone Tofu — Silky tofu made with spring water from the volcanic region, served chilled or in hot pots at traditional restaurants around the lake.
• Kinmedai (Golden Eye Fish) Grilled — Fresh saltwater fish delivered daily to lakeside restaurants and grilled whole, showcasing the region's access to nearby coastal ingredients.
• Hakone Miso — Locally-brewed miso paste used in soups and sauces, made using traditional fermentation methods specific to the Hakone area.
• Yama-Takana (Mountain Mustard Greens) Pickles — Tangy pickled mountain vegetables served as a condiment or side dish, reflecting Hakone's highland agricultural heritage.
• Kaiseki Dinner at Ryokan — Multi-course traditional Japanese haute cuisine dinner featuring seasonal ingredients, local fish, and vegetables, paired with views of the illuminated lake.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Shrine Etiquette at Hakone Shrine — Bow before passing through the torii gate, cleanse hands and mouth at the water basin, and walk respectfully through the sacred grounds of this Shinto shrine.
• Book Pirate Ship and Ropeway in Advance — During peak seasons (especially autumn foliage and holiday periods), boat tours and mountain ropeway rides fill quickly, so reserve tickets ahead.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear for Hiking — The volcanic rock terrain and mountain trails around Lake Ashi can be slippery and uneven, making sturdy hiking boots essential for safety.
• Check Weather for Mount Fuji Visibility — Clear views of Mount Fuji are only possible on specific weather conditions; locals recommend early morning in autumn and winter for the best chance of seeing the mountain.