Wanderyn
Lake Ashi
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Lake Ashi

Getting around: From Tokyo, take the Odakyu Romancecar or regular train to Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 1.5-2 hours), then a bus or the Hakone Tozan cable car/ropeway combination to reach the lake.
Hours: Sightseeing boats and cable cars run on daily published schedules, roughly 9am-5pm (seasonal variation).

Lake Ashi is a scenic caldera lake in Hakone, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, and famous for views of Mount Fuji across the water on clear days, along with a floating torii gate belonging to Hakone Shrine near its shore. Sightseeing boats, including replica pirate ships, cross the lake, connecting with the Hakone Ropeway that continues up toward Owakudani's active volcanic valley.

It's a core stop within the broader Hakone hot spring resort area, typically visited as part of a full loop that also includes the ropeway, Owakudani, and Hakone's onsen ryokan, rather than as a standalone destination.

Lake Ashi FAQs

Can I see Mount Fuji from the lake?

Yes, on clear days, particularly in winter when the air is often clearer, though the mountain can be obscured by clouds or haze at other times.

What is the floating torii gate?

A red torii gate belonging to Hakone Shrine that appears to stand in the water near the lake's shore, a popular photo spot.

How far is Hakone from Tokyo?

About 1.5-2 hours by train to Hakone-Yumoto, plus further local transport to reach the lake itself.

Is there an entrance fee for the lake?

No, the lake itself is free to view; sightseeing boats and the connecting ropeway each charge their own fares.

What else is nearby?

The Hakone Ropeway continues to Owakudani, an active volcanic valley, and the wider Hakone area has numerous onsen ryokan.

Your travel graph

Ready to plan Lake Ashi?Planning a trip soon? Add it to build an itinerary.

Reviews/Comments

No comments yet — be the first.