Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this scenic area offers pristine natural beauty and hot spring baths. The Hakone area has been a popular hot spring resort for hundreds of years, and to this day people travel there to get away from the cities and relax. The various hot springs in Hakone are believed to have healing properties, and the most popular is Yumoto. While the emphasis in Hakone is to enjoy nature and relax in its natural hot spring baths, there are interesting sights to see. Parts of the historical Tokaido highway, which used to be the main route connecting the Shogun’s capital of Edo and the imperial city of Kyoto, are still intact. A checkpoint used during the Edo Period (1600-1868), has been rebuilt. Its buildings and a small museum are open to visitors.
Lake Ashinoko, created by volcanic Mt Hakone thousands of years ago, is popular because of its beauty. Sightseeing boats, including replicas of pirate ships, are available to enjoy it from offshore. On very clear days Mt Fuji can be seen from Lake Ashinoko, but this does not happen often.
The Hakone Art Museum in Gora contains ceramics from the Jomon through the Edo Periods. The Haniwa burial statue, which has been classified as an Important Cultural Property, is one of the exhibits. The museum also has a Japanese moss garden on its grounds. Gora Park is a Western-style (mainly French) garden on the slopes above Gora Station.
Togendai has spectacular views and depending on the weather visitors might even be able to see Mt Fuji. There is a walkway around the Owakudani area, which is the crater that was formed during the last eruption of Mt Hakone about 3,000 years ago. This area remains an active volcanic zone where steam vents and bubbling pools can be seen.
Riding the scenic Tozan mountain railway is a good way to experience the natural beauty of the region. The Hakone Tozan Railway was Japan’s first mountain railroad. Its small trains run about every 15 minutes between Hakone-Yumoto and Gora.
The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.
It was our first trip to Japan. Working with Jeff was a pleasure. His knowledge of the country and local contacts were very helpful. Choice...
Working with Jeff at Rediscover Tours was a wonderful experience. He helped me plan a 10 day trip of a lifetime to Japan with my mother...
I would like to take this opportunity to commend and thank you for the marvelous vacation we recently enjoyed in Japan. The entire experience exceeded...
Years after years we have selected the best specialists about Japan. They have at least lived a minimum of 10 years in the country. They are here to answer all your questions and to make your tour just the way you want it.
Jeff was born in a south suburb of Chicago named South Holland and lived in Japan for 14 years. He now lives in Commerce Township, Michigan with his wife Yoshimi, son Shota, and daughter Mina. He enjoys playing with his kids, volunteering with his daughter’s marching band, cycling and training & teaching Aikido.
Michiyo was born in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido Prefecture though currently lives in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture. Her main passions in life is traveling all around the world and enjoying their cultures.
Noriko was born in Nagoya. During her childhood she moved around Japan following her father’s office transfer. She especially liked her time in Shizuoka, facing Mt Fuji. She now lives in Minoo (in the suburb of Osaka). Noriko graduated from Hiroshima university. She’s been to Malaysia, Thailand and Europe (Germany and Bulgaria). Her hobbies are hiking, reading and surfing.
Great trips don't just happen It takes a lot to create a truly memorable holiday. You can rely on us to make your trip a perfect Japanese Experience
This is your trip. Together we will design it just for you.
Your interests will be front and center.
We handle your specific requests. We will inform accommodations, guides and partners of any meal requirements, allergies or disabilities you may have.
Your Japan expert has lived in Japan for many years or is Japanese.
We know the hidden treasures of Japan.
Because most of our staff live in Japan we are always aware of what’s happening in Japan. Throughout our network of partners we get first-hand information that will benefit your trip.
They add a whole new depth to your Japanese tour.
Our local guides are extremely professional and knowledgeable.
Your guide will listen to you, give you suggestions and show you sights you want. They are also very flexible and can make on the fly changes to fit your style, mood, weather and crowds.
Our office in Japan is here to assist you.
Rediscover Tours has been organizing travel to Japan since 2000.
You will arrive in Japan feeling safe and comfortable knowing that all the details have been taken care of and that our Japan office is just a phone call away. Indulge yoursefl!