Onsen Spa Experience
The cool climate of Hakone during the autumn will make people pretty eager to experience a Japanese onsen. Onsen is a natural hot spring bath. It is said to have therapeutic qualities, leaving one feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and relaxed after a good soaking. Experiencing the therapeutic benefits of a Japanese Onsen should be at the top of anyone’s list of things to do in Hakone. That's why hot springs in Hakone is very famous in Japan.
Stay in a traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn)
Many Ryokan in Hakone have been built on the natural hot springs to take advantage of the geothermal energy, thus offering bathing facilities exclusively for their guest house. Staying in a Ryokan and experience Japanese Onsen culture go hand-in-hand are highly recommended in Hakone.
Owakudani
Owakudani is the area around a crater created during the last eruption of Mount Hakone some 3000 years ago. Today, much of the area is an active volcanic zone where sulfurous fumes, hot springs, and hot rivers can be experienced. Additionally, Owakudani has good views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Unfortunately, due to volcanic gases, the walking and hiking trails around Owakudani are currently closed to tourists.
Torri Gate on Lake Ashi
If you do visit Hakone during the autumn season, make sure you look out for the Torii Gate along Lake Ashi which is surrounded by fall colors. The Hakone Shrine is located at the foot of Mt. Hakone and the shrine is hidden within the forest. A path leads from the torii gate in Lake Ashi up a series of steps flanked by lanterns through the forest to the main building of the shrine, which sits peacefully among the tall trees. The shrine is beautiful throughout the year and is particularly breathtaking when shrouded in mist.
The Hakone Open Air Museum
This Hakone Open Air Museum successfully attempts to create a harmonic balance of nature and art by exhibiting various sculptures on its grounds in combination with views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The museum has various different sections and exhibition spaces outdoors and indoors. The Picasso Exhibition Hall is one such space and showcases two stories of paintings, sculptures and ceramic works by the artist in addition to photos of him at various points during his life.
Odawara Castle
It was originally built in the mid-15th century and fell into the hands of the Hojo Clan, one of the most powerful clans during the Warring States era. The castle keep is three stories on the outside and four stories on the inside. The interior features exhibits on the history of the castle as well as displays of items such as armor and swords. The top floor offers nice views of the park and the surrounding city.
Hakone Glass no Mori
Featuring an Italian styled buildings housing a museum and shops, Hakone Glass no Mori's outside is a large strolling garden surrounding a canal like a pond. The garden has a number of large glass sculptures laid about it, as well as a cafe with an open terrace at one end where live Canzoni (Italian ballads) performances are held. The Glass no Mori's Venetian Glass Museum houses a collection of over 100 pieces of Venetian glassware. It displays both modern and classical works in all forms including vases, goblets, lamps, and sculptures.