Wander in Wonderland! A Golden Route Guide to Hakone's "Mountain and Sea" Adventure!

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Starting from Tokyo's Shinjuku, hop on the Odakyu Romancecar and head straight to Hakone to embark on a perfect journey combining volcanoes, lakes, shrines, and hot springs! The best way to explore Hakone is by using the "Hakone Freepass," which connects eight different modes of transportation into a circular golden route, making the journey itself an enjoyable experience!
🚠 First Stop: Ascend to the Clouds and Head to Owakudani
Take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car from Gora and transfer to the Ropeway to ascend the mountain. The scenery transitions from lush green forests to spectacular volcanic landscapes in an instant.
• 🌋 Must-Visit Spot: Owakudani
• The air is filled with the scent of sulfur, a testament to the active volcano! Don’t forget to try the legendary "Black Hot Spring Egg (Kuro Tamago)," said to extend your life by seven years. The egg’s shell turns black due to the hot spring minerals, and its chewy texture makes it a must-try delicacy!
• 🗻 Scenic Moment: On the Ropeway
• If the weather is clear, you can capture a perfect panoramic view of majestic Mount Fuji from the ropeway! Be sure to have your camera ready!
🚢 Second Stop: Cruise on Lake Ashi and Encounter the Peace Torii
After arriving at Togendai via the Ropeway, you’ll be greeted by the European-style Hakone Pirate Ship.
• 🏴☠️ Dreamy Lake Cruise: Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
• Board the magnificent pirate ship and sail across the volcanic Lake Ashi, surrounded by breathtaking mountain and lake views. From the lake, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains and catch glimpses of Mount Fuji.
• ⛩️ Iconic Spot: Hakone Shrine's Peace Torii
• Disembark at Motohakone Port and walk along the lakeside path to Hakone Shrine. Be sure to queue up for a photo in front of the "Peace Torii" on the lake. This vermilion torii gate blends seamlessly with the lake, exuding a mysterious and solemn Japanese aesthetic, making it a symbol of Hakone!
Hakone, with its mountains, lakes, and hot springs, cleanses the soul of every traveler.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is an "artistic check-in" highlight for your trip posts! It’s not just a museum but an art park full of surprises.
1. Surreal Outdoor Giant Sculptures:
• The artworks are scattered across expansive lawns, with a backdrop of layered mountains. No matter the angle, it feels like a movie scene. Look out for the rounded sculptures by Spanish artist Fernando Botero, whose humorous and adorable lines are full of childlike charm!
2. Must-See Architecture: "Symphonic Sculpture" (Stained Glass Tower):
• This massive circular structure made of stained glass is the museum’s iconic landmark! Step inside the tower, where sunlight streams through the glass, casting a kaleidoscope of colors, creating dreamy photos with every shot!