Tenseien
Tenseien is a hot spring inn conveniently located within walking distance from Hakone-Yumoto Station. The inn has four abundant, natural hot spring sources on its premises, flowing into the open-air bath, indoor bath, guest room open-air bath, and family bath.
The Japanese garden on the grounds is absolutely beautiful, and with two waterfalls and a shrine, it’s enjoyable just to stroll around.
The hot spring baths were also very spacious and relaxing.
Lake Yamanakako Pleasure Boat “Swan Lake”
Yamanakako, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes. Once known as the “Princess Odette”, the newly revamped sightseeing boat cruising Lake Yamanakako is now operating as “Swan Lake”. The full route takes 20 minutes, offering a cozy ride as you gaze upon the gorgeous lake scenery and Mt. Fuji above.
The weather was great, and we had a clear view of Mt. Fuji from the boat.
Inside, there were cozy seats with a warm wooden feel, which made the ride comfortable and a little luxurious.
We also got to see wild swans.
Ariake “Yokohama Harbor Double Marron”
A marron cake known for its original packaging by popular illustrator Ryohei Yanagihara, with an eye-catching shape inspired by ships docked at Yokohama Port. Wrapped in fluffy, soft castella sponge is an original marron bean paste made with gently sweet white bean paste, plus candied chestnuts and chestnut paste.
A sweet treat with a gentle chestnut flavor. The matcha version also has chopped chestnuts in it, and it’s really delicious.
It keeps well, so it’s great as a souvenir.
Fujiten Snow Resort
Fujiten Snow Resort is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and offers winter sports with Mount Fuji as a scenic backdrop.
I got to enjoy skiing with some absolutely stunning views.
The lifts had been upgraded and felt brand-new.
Sounds like you can ski here until early April.
They also have rentals for clothing and gear, so it’s a great option for beginners too.
Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchi-ko)
Lake Kawaguchi is known as one of the five Fuji lakes and is a popular spot because of its spectacular view of Mt. Fuji. The lakeside is filled with cherry blossoms in the spring, purple lavender in early summer, and autumn leaves in the fall, making each season a different and beautiful sight. Lake Kawaguchi is also known for having the only "island" and "bridge" in the Fuji Five Lakes.
I visited on the day of the winter fireworks, so I could see a beautiful show from the hotel where I stayed.
Since February 23 is considered “Mt. Fuji Day” every year, it seems like there are events happening in different places.
Daiyuzan Saijoji Temple
This is an ancient temple of the Soto sect of Buddhism located at the midpoint of Myojinga-dake in the Hakone Gairinzan (Outer rim of a crater). The temple was established in 1394 in the middle of the Muromachi period and has a history of about 600 years. It is the one of most prestigious Soto Zen temple after Eiheiji Temple in Fukui Prefecture and Sojiji Temple in Tsurumi, Yokohama, and has more than 4,000 schools nationwide.
To get to the Okunoin, you climb 354 stone steps.
With the tengu legends too, it feels like a kind of training.
Odawara Castle
Odawara Castle once served as the base of the Hojo clan during the Sengoku period before becoming the Okubo clan residence during the Edo period. Today this beloved symbol of Odawara keeps a revamped castle grounds that’s redeveloped as a park centered around the reconstructed main keep.
Since it’s known as an impregnable castle, it feels like it could bring you some good luck.
There are also places to eat, so you can take a break while looking out at the castle.
GOTEMBA PREMIUM OUTLETS
GOTEMBA PREMIUM OUTLETS was established in 2000 and is the largest outlet mall in Japan. It is easily accessible from famous tourist spots such as Hakone, Izu, and Mt. Fuji, and is a popular spot to stop by during sightseeing.
It’s huge—so big you can’t possibly see it all in one day.
The weather was nice, so we got a great view of Mt. Fuji.
There’s also a mini amusement area, so kids can have fun too.
