Hakone Shrine Travel Guide | A Sacred Place Shaped by History and Nature

Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine, with its striking vermilion torii gate on the shores of Lake Ashi, is one of the Kanto region’s most famous spiritual destinations. Follow the moss-covered stone steps and approach lined with centuries-old cedar trees to reach the main shrine surrounded by crisp, fresh air, where visitors can pray for safe travels and good fortune. The “Torii of Peace,” which appears to float on the lake, is a popular photo spot with Mt. Fuji in the background. It is especially enchanting in the early morning mist.

The shrine grounds are also home to several historic spots, including the Anzan-sugi cedar tree associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo and Amazake Chaya, a teahouse dating back to the Edo period. Combine your visit with a sightseeing cruise for a unique view of the torii from the water. Another highlight is the changing scenery throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn to snow-covered landscapes in winter.

Basic Information About Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine is located in Moto-Hakone, Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, in a forest overlooking Lake Ashi. Since ancient times, it has been revered as the guardian shrine of the Kanto region and is known to have been deeply worshipped by prominent historical figures, including Minamoto no Yoritomo and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Basic Information

Surrounded by Hakone’s beautiful natural scenery, the shrine becomes even more impressive during the cherry blossom season in spring and when the leaves change color in autumn. The shrine attracts many visitors throughout the year and has become increasingly popular among international tourists in recent years.

The History of Hakone Shrine

The origins of Hakone Shrine are said to date back to Japan’s mythological age. According to legend, during the reign of Emperor Kosho, the fifth emperor of Japan, a hermit named Seisen established a sacred site at the summit of Mt. Komagatake and began worshipping Mt. Kamiyama, the highest peak in the Hakone mountains, as a sacred mountain.

In 757, during the Nara period, a monk named Mangan Shonin is said to have received a divine message from the deity of Hakone and built a shrine at its present location. At the time, it was known as Hakone Gongen and became an important center of mountain worship.

During the Kamakura period, Minamoto no Yoritomo was deeply devoted to Hakone Gongen and worshipped it as a guardian deity of the Kamakura shogunate. The Hakoneyama Engi Narabi ni Jo (Records of the Origins of Mt. Hakone), completed in 1191 around the time the Kamakura shogunate was established, provides a detailed account of the origins of Hakone Shrine.

During the Edo period, the shrine was also widely worshipped by samurai families, including Tokugawa Ieyasu, who prayed for safe passage through Hakone, one of the most challenging sections of the Tokaido road. Many travelers also visited the shrine to pray for safety on their journeys.

Following the separation of Shinto and Buddhism during the Meiji period, the shrine was renamed Hakone Shrine and has continued to be an important place of worship in the Kanto region. In 1964, Hakone Mototsumiya was rebuilt at the summit of Mt. Komagatake, restoring the site where worship had traditionally taken place.

Hakone Shrine is home to valuable cultural properties dating from the Heian through the Edo periods. Its shrine buildings, including the main hall and tower gate, are also of significant historical value. Its long history and sacred atmosphere continue to attract many visitors today.

Highlights of Hakone Shrine

The Beautiful Vermilion Shrine Buildings

One of the highlights of Hakone Shrine is its beautiful vermilion shrine buildings, which stand out against the lush green forest. The contrast between the cypress-bark roofs and vivid vermilion pillars and walls showcases the beauty of traditional Japanese shrine architecture. The main hall in particular has a sacred and solemn atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

The Impressive Great Torii Gates

Passing through the large torii gate at the entrance marks the beginning of your journey into the sacred shrine grounds. Hakone Shrine has four torii gates, numbered from the first to the fourth, and passing through them creates a sense of gradually leaving the everyday world behind and entering a more sacred space. Most of the shrine’s torii gates are built in the myojin style, while the “Torii of Peace” on Lake Ashi, introduced later in this article, is the only one built in the ryobu style.

The Approach and Worship Route

The approach to Hakone Shrine, with its moss-covered stone steps and towering cedar trees on either side, creates a beautiful and mystical atmosphere. Walking through the quiet forest can feel refreshing and calming. A typical visit begins at the first torii gate, followed by cleansing your hands and mouth at the chozuya (purification fountain) before continuing to the main hall. There are many sights to discover along the approach, so take your time and enjoy the walk.

Treasures at the Homotsuden (Treasure Hall)

Hakone Shrine’s Treasure Hall is a museum that opened in 1907. It displays valuable materials related to Hakone dating from the Heian through the Edo periods, offering visitors a deeper look into the shrine’s history. Materials related to the famous “Revenge of the Soga Brothers” are among its highlights, making the Treasure Hall well worth a visit for anyone interested in Japanese history. Admission is 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children.

Subsidiary Shrines on the Grounds

In addition to the main shrine, the grounds are home to several subsidiary shrines (sessha and massha). Among them are Komagata Shrine, Soga Shrine, and Kuzuryu Shrine, each associated with its own particular blessings and attracting many worshippers. Soga Shrine is connected to the famous Kamakura-period story of the “Revenge of the Soga Brothers,” offering visitors another opportunity to learn about Japanese history.

The Legend of the Yatatesugi Cedar

The grounds of Hakone Shrine are home to a historically significant giant cedar known as Yatatesugi. According to legend, Minamoto no Yoritomo once used the tree as a target when shooting an arrow, and traces of this can still be seen today. It is also known as a place where Yoritomo prayed to the deity of Hakone for victory in battle, and many people today visit to pray for success in martial arts and other competitions.

Connection to Kuzuryu Shrine

The Origins and Legend of Kuzuryu Shrine

Kuzuryu Shrine has deep ties to Hakone Shrine. Its origins are linked to a legend about Mangan Shonin, the monk who founded Hakone Shrine, and a fearsome nine-headed dragon that lived in Lake Ashi. According to the legend, the dragon caused storms and brought suffering to the local villagers. Through Mangan Shonin’s prayers, however, the dragon changed its ways and came to be worshipped as Kuzuryu Okami, the guardian deity of Lake Ashi.

Kuzuryu Shrine was originally established as an auxiliary shrine of Hakone Shrine located outside its grounds. Today, it has two shrines: the Hongu (Main Shrine), located in a forest on the shores of Lake Ashi, and the Shingu (New Shrine), established within the grounds of Hakone Shrine on New Year’s Day in 2000, the Year of the Dragon.

Blessings at Kuzuryu Shrine

Kuzuryu Shrine is particularly popular for its blessings for en-musubi, or finding a good match and forming meaningful relationships. It is also believed to bring blessings for financial fortune, good luck, and business prosperity, attracting many visitors. The Tsukinami-sai, a monthly festival held on the 13th of each month, is considered especially significant, and it is said that visiting on this day can bring good fortune in finding a suitable match.

The Chozuya (Purification Fountain) at Kuzuryu Shrine

The chozuya at Kuzuryu Shrine has a distinctive design, with water flowing from the mouth of a dragon. Known as Ryujinsui (Dragon God Water), the water is said to bring special blessings when used to purify your hands and mouth. Drinking the water is also believed to bring good fortune, making the chozuya an important stop for visitors.

Visiting Both Shrines

Because Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine are closely connected, visitors are encouraged to visit both in a practice known as ryosha-mairi. By visiting both shrines, it is believed that you can receive their respective blessings, including good fortune, protection from misfortune, and en-musubi (finding a good match and forming meaningful relationships). A common route is to visit Hakone Shrine first, followed by either the Shingu or Hongu of Kuzuryu Shrine.

The Photogenic "Torii in the Lake"

What Is the Torii of Peace?

One of the most popular photo spots at Hakone Shrine is the “Torii of Peace,” which stands in the waters of Lake Ashi. Also known as the “Torii in the Lake,” it has become a popular photo spot, with countless images shared on social media.

The torii was built in 1952 to commemorate the investiture of the then-Crown Prince (later Emperor Emeritus Akihito) and the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty. The plaque bears the word “Peace,” inscribed by then-Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida, giving the torii its name.

The Best Time for Photos

The Torii in the Lake takes on a different appearance depending on the time of day and weather. It is especially beautiful reflected in the calm waters of the lake in the early morning or silhouetted against the sky at sunset. The scenery also changes dramatically with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring and lush greenery in summer to colorful autumn leaves and snowy landscapes in winter.

The following times are particularly recommended for photography:

• Early morning (just after sunrise): The lake is calm, creating a clear reflection of the torii.
• Evening (just before sunset): The setting sun creates a beautiful, dreamlike view of the torii.
• After rain: Mist can create a mysterious atmosphere around the lake.

How to Get to the Torii in the Lake and Things to Keep in Mind

The Torii in the Lake is located on the shores of Lake Ashi near the entrance to the approach to Hakone Shrine and is just a few minutes’ walk from the shrine’s parking lot.

As it is a popular photo spot, the area can become crowded, especially on weekends, public holidays, and during peak tourist seasons. If you want to avoid the crowds and get a good photo, visiting early in the morning or at another less busy time is recommended.

You can walk close to the torii, but some areas may be restricted, so be sure to follow any signs and instructions on-site. Access may also be temporarily restricted for infection control or other reasons, so check the latest information on the official website before visiting.

Blessings and Spiritual Significance

Main Blessings of Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine has long been revered as Kanto Sochinju Hakone Daigongen, the guardian of the Kanto region, and is associated with a variety of blessings. The main blessings include:

• Good fortune and protection from misfortune: Said to ward off misfortune and bring good luck
• Fulfillment of wishes: Believed to help wishes and prayers come true
• Traffic safety: Long worshipped as a deity that protects travelers on their journeys
• En-musubi: Believed to bring good matches and meaningful relationships

Because of the shrine’s connection to Minamoto no Yoritomo, many people also visit to pray for improvement in martial arts and success in competitions.

Popularity as a Spiritual Power Spot

In recent years, Hakone Shrine has attracted attention from visitors in Japan and abroad as a powerful spiritual destination. The following places in particular are said to have especially strong spiritual energy:

• Around the main hall: Said to be where the shrine’s sacred energy can be felt most strongly
• Yatatesugi Cedar: Associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo and believed to bring good luck in competitions
• Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu: Known as a powerful spot for en-musubi and particularly popular among women
• Torii in the Lake: Said to be a place where the energy of the water and sacred energy come together

Many visitors say that visiting these spiritual spots brings them greater good fortune. Hakone Shrine has also become increasingly popular among international visitors interested in Japan’s mystical and spiritual traditions.

How to Pray for Greater Blessings

The following practices are recommended for those wishing to receive the full blessings of Hakone Shrine:

1. Purify yourself: Cleanse your hands and mouth properly at the chozuya before worshipping.
2. Follow proper shrine etiquette: Pray respectfully by bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once.
3. Visit all three shrines: Visit Hakone Shrine, Kuzuryu Shrine, and Hakone Mototsumiya as part of the sansha-mairi (three-shrine pilgrimage) to receive the blessings associated with all three.
4. Attend the monthly festival: At Kuzuryu Shrine, attending the Tsukinami-sai on the 13th of each month is said to enhance the blessings of en-musubi.

It is said that following these worship practices can help visitors experience the shrine’s blessings in various aspects of their daily lives.

Popular Omamori and Goshuin

Popular Omamori at Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine offers a variety of omamori (amulets). Some of the most popular include:

Wago (Nakayoshi) Omamori: An amulet for couples made from yosegi-zaiku, Hakone’s traditional marquetry woodwork. The amulets come as a pair, one white and one red. Couples traditionally have the woman carry the white one and the man the red one. If you do not yet have a partner, you can keep both and give the red amulet to your partner when you find a suitable match. The pair is available for an offering of 1,500 yen.

Inro Omamori: Inspired by the divine protection received by Minamoto no Yoritomo, this amulet is believed to provide protection from misfortune and bring good fortune. It is recommended to tie it to something important and carry it with you.

Kachi-mamori: A good-luck amulet for victory inspired by the Yatatesugi Cedar. It is particularly suitable for those hoping for success in exams, sports, competitions, and other challenges.

Omamori at Kuzuryu Shrine

Kuzuryu Shrine also offers its own omamori, with those for en-musubi and financial fortune being particularly popular. The following omamori are available at Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu:

• Kuzuryu-mamori: Believed to bring good fortune, financial fortune, and fulfillment of wishes
• En-musubi Mamori: Particularly popular among those hoping to find a good match

How to Receive a Goshuin

At Hakone Shrine, you can receive a goshuin (shrine seal) at the amulet office in front of the main hall. For international visitors receiving a goshuin for the first time, here are the basic steps:

1. Line up at the window marked “御朱印” (Goshuin).
2. If you have a goshuincho (seal book), hand it to the staff. If you do not have one, you can purchase one there.
3. Say “Goshuin o onegaishimasu” (“A goshuin, please”).
4. Make the offering (usually 300 yen) and wait for a short while.
5. Once your goshuin is ready, collect it from the staff.

You can receive goshuin for Hakone Shrine, Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu, and Hakone Mototsumiya. However, please note that goshuin are not available at Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu. Goshuin are treasured both as a record of visits to shrines and temples in Japan and as a special memento.

Worship Etiquette and Tips for International Visitors

Basic Worship Etiquette

For international visitors to Japanese shrines, here is a simple guide to basic worship etiquette.

Before Passing Through the Torii

A torii marks the boundary between the everyday world and the sacred shrine grounds. It is customary to give a slight bow before passing through.

Purification at the Chozuya

• Hold the ladle in your right hand and rinse your left hand.
• Switch the ladle to your left hand and rinse your right hand.
• Switch it back to your right hand, pour some water into your left hand, and use it to rinse your mouth. Do not swallow the water; spit it out beside your hand.
• Finally, tilt the ladle upright so that the remaining water runs down the handle to clean it, then return it to its original position.

Worship at the Main Hall

• Place a coin in the offering box. A 5-yen coin is considered especially lucky because go-en (five yen) sounds like the Japanese word for a good connection or relationship.
• Ring the bell if there is one.
• Bow deeply twice.
• Clap your hands twice.
• Make your prayer, silently stating your name, address, and wish.
• Finish with one deep bow.

Why Hakone Shrine Is Popular Among International Visitors

There are several reasons why Hakone Shrine is popular among international visitors.

Photogenic scenery: The beautiful Torii in the Lake is frequently featured on social media and has become well known around the world.

Easy access: Hakone Shrine is close enough to Tokyo for a day trip and is located in Hakone, an internationally popular tourist destination.

A chance to experience Japanese culture: Visiting and worshipping at a shrine offers international visitors an opportunity to experience a unique aspect of Japanese culture.

A mystical spiritual experience: Many visitors are drawn to the spiritual traditions of Shinto and the experience of visiting a Japanese power spot, something that is not commonly encountered in Western countries.

A breakdown of international visitors to Hakone by country and region shows that many come from Asia, including China (23.7%), Taiwan (11.9%), Hong Kong (4.6%), and South Korea (2.5%).

Things International Visitors Should Know

Here are a few things international visitors should keep in mind when visiting Hakone Shrine.

Language: Most signs and information at the shrine are in Japanese, and English information may be limited. It can be helpful to look up some basic information before your visit.

Photography etiquette: Photography is generally permitted from outside the shrine buildings, but it may be prohibited in certain areas or at certain times, such as inside the main hall or during ceremonies. Be sure to follow any signs and instructions on-site.

Busy seasons: The shrine can become very crowded, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn foliage season, and the New Year holidays. Give yourself plenty of time when visiting during these periods.

Clothing and shoes: Visiting the shrine involves walking up stone steps and through natural surroundings, so comfortable shoes and clothing that are easy to move in are recommended.

What you see may differ from photos: The Torii in the Lake, in particular, is often photographed under ideal conditions for social media. Depending on the weather, time of day, and access restrictions, the actual view may differ from what you have seen in photos, so keep this in mind when planning your visit.

How to Get There

From Tokyo

There are several ways to get to Hakone Shrine from Tokyo.

By Train and Bus

• Take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku to Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto.
• From Hakone-Yumoto, take a bus bound for Hakone / Moto-Hakone for about 60 minutes and get off at the “Hakone Jinja Mae” bus stop.
• Alternatively, take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora Station, then take the Hakone Ropeway and a Lake Ashi sightseeing boat to Moto-Hakone Port. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk to the shrine.

By Car

• Take the Tomei Expressway to Gotemba IC or the Odawara-Atsugi Road to Odawara-Nishi IC, then take National Route 1 toward Hakone.
• Cross Hakone Pass and continue toward Moto-Hakone, following the signs for Hakone Shrine.

Getting Around Hakone

Here are the main ways to get to Hakone Shrine from within the Hakone area.

From Hakone-Yumoto

• Take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Hakone / Moto-Hakone and get off at the “Hakone Jinja Mae” bus stop (about 60 minutes).

From Hakone-machi (Lakeside)

• Take a bus toward Moto-Hakone and get off at the “Hakone Jinja Mae” bus stop (about 10 minutes).
• Alternatively, take a sightseeing boat to Moto-Hakone Port and walk about 10 minutes to the shrine.

From Gora / Togendai

• Take the Hakone Ropeway from Gora to Togendai.
• From Togendai, take a Lake Ashi sightseeing boat to Moto-Hakone Port.
• From Moto-Hakone Port, it is about a 10-minute walk to the shrine.

Parking Information

Hakone Shrine’s official parking lots have space for about 180 cars in total and are available free of charge from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Paid parking is also available nearby.

The parking lots often fill up during peak tourist seasons and on weekends, so using public transportation is recommended whenever possible. Traffic restrictions may also be in place during the New Year shrine-visit season, so be sure to check the latest information before your visit.

Helpful English Phrases for Asking Directions

Here are some useful English phrases when asking taxi drivers or local residents for directions:

• “Could you tell me how to get to Hakone Shrine?”
• “Where is the nearest bus stop to Hakone Shrine?”
• “How long does it take to walk from Lake Ashi to Hakone Shrine?”
• “Is there a direct bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Hakone Shrine?”

Combining Your Visit with Nearby Attractions

Top Attractions in the Hakone Area

When visiting Hakone Shrine, you can easily combine your trip with several other popular attractions in the area.

Lake Ashi: A beautiful lake located right by Hakone Shrine, popular for sightseeing cruises aboard the Hakone Pirate Ship. The Torii in the Lake also stands along its shores.

Owakudani: A popular sightseeing spot where you can see Hakone’s volcanic activity up close. The area is famous for its kuro-tamago (black eggs), which are said to extend your life by seven years if you eat one.

Hakone Ropeway: An aerial ropeway connecting Owakudani and Togendai. On clear days, it offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Sagami Bay.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum: A museum featuring modern sculptures in both outdoor and indoor spaces, including works by Picasso.

Hakone Sekisho: A reconstructed Edo-period checkpoint where visitors can learn how travel into and out of Edo was strictly controlled at the time.

Sample Itineraries

Here are two sample itineraries for making the most of your visit to Hakone Shrine and the surrounding area.

One-Day Course: Hakone Shrine and Lake Ashi

• Morning: Take a bus from Hakone-Yumoto bound for Hakone / Moto-Hakone to Hakone Shrine.
• Visit Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine Shingu.
• Take photos at the Torii in the Lake.
• Lunch: Enjoy Japanese cuisine at a restaurant in the Moto-Hakone area.
• Afternoon: Take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi.
• Visit Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu.
• Explore Hakone Sekisho.
• Return: Take a bus from Moto-Hakone to Hakone-Yumoto.

Two-Day Course: Experience the Best of Hakone

Day 1

• Morning: Start from Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto.
• Take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora.
• Take the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani and explore the area.
• Lunch: Try Owakudani’s famous kuro-tamago (black eggs).
• Afternoon: Take the ropeway to Togendai.
• Take a sightseeing boat across Lake Ashi to Moto-Hakone Port.
• Visit Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine.
• Stay: Spend the night at an onsen ryokan in Moto-Hakone or Hakone-machi.

Day 2

• Morning: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a Western-style restaurant in Hakone-machi.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Glass Forest Museum or the Hakone Museum of Photography.
• Return: Take a bus to Hakone-Yumoto.

Restaurants and Souvenir Shops

Here are some recommended places to eat and shop for souvenirs near Hakone Shrine.

Restaurants

• Amazake Chaya: A historic teahouse along the approach to Hakone Shrine where you can enjoy amazake and traditional Japanese sweets. It is also popular among international visitors.
• Hakone-en Suisan: Located near Moto-Hakone Port, this restaurant serves dishes made with fresh lake fish.
• Soba-dokoro Hakone Yamaboushi: A restaurant near Hakone Shrine where you can enjoy authentic soba noodles.

Souvenir Shops

• Hakone Shrine Office: Located within the shrine grounds, the office offers omamori, goshuincho, and other shrine-related keepsakes.
• Hakone Yosegi-zaiku Gallery Hakone Marutama: Offers products made with yosegi-zaiku, Hakone’s traditional marquetry woodwork.
• Hakone-machi Port Hakone Bussankan: A souvenir shop offering a wide selection of Hakone souvenirs.

Summary

As a guardian shrine of the Kanto region, Hakone Shrine is believed to bring blessings such as good fortune, protection from misfortune, and fulfillment of wishes, attracting many visitors from Japan and around the world.

In recent years, the beauty of the Torii in the Lake on Lake Ashi and the popularity of Kuzuryu Shrine as a spiritual spot for en-musubi have also drawn increasing attention from international visitors. Located in Hakone, one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations, the shrine can easily be combined with visits to the area’s hot springs, museums, and other attractions.

A visit to Hakone Shrine is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture. By following proper shrine etiquette and worshipping respectfully, you may also experience some of the blessings the shrine is known for. The majestic shrine buildings surrounded by nature throughout the seasons and the Torii in the Lake reflected in the calm waters of Lake Ashi are sure to become unforgettable memories of your trip to Japan.

With views of Mt. Fuji, Hakone offers a unique opportunity to experience the mystical side of Japan and its traditional culture. Why not include Hakone Shrine in your next visit?

About the Information in This Article

*Prices generally vary depending on the season and plan.

Due to changes in the tourism industry, including recent economic conditions and the recovery of inbound tourism, prices may have changed.

The prices listed in this article are for reference only. When making a reservation, please check the latest information on the official website of each facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the visiting hours and admission fees for Hakone Shrine?

A1: Hakone Shrine is open for worship 24 hours a day, and admission is free. The Treasure Hall is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with admission of 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. The parking lot is open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Q2: What is the difference between Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine?

A2: Hakone Shrine has long been revered as a guardian shrine of the Kanto region and is known for blessings such as good fortune, protection from misfortune, and fulfillment of wishes. Kuzuryu Shrine originates from a legend in which the deity of Hakone Shrine subdued the dragon of Lake Ashi and is particularly known for its blessings for en-musubi. Kuzuryu Shrine has two locations: the Hongu on the shores of Lake Ashi and the Shingu within the grounds of Hakone Shrine.

Q3: What is the most convenient way to get to Hakone Shrine?

A3: From the Tokyo area, the most common route is to take the Odakyu Line to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then take a bus bound for Hakone / Moto-Hakone for about 60 minutes and get off at the “Hakone Jinja Mae” bus stop. By car, take the Tomei Expressway to Gotemba IC or the Odawara-Atsugi Road to Odawara-Nishi IC, then take National Route 1 toward Hakone. Once you reach Moto-Hakone, follow the signs to Hakone Shrine.

Q4: When is the best time to see the Torii in the Lake at Hakone Shrine?

A4: The Torii in the Lake is especially beautiful when reflected in the calm waters of Lake Ashi in the early morning. Its silhouette at sunset also creates a dreamlike view. Cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season are particularly recommended for their beautiful scenery. Visiting on a clear day can also provide better conditions for taking photos.

Q5: Can international visitors receive a goshuin?

A5: Yes. International visitors can receive a goshuin just like Japanese visitors. At the amulet office in front of the main hall, say “Goshuin o onegaishimasu” or, in English, “Could I have a goshuin, please?” The offering is usually around 300 yen. If you do not have a goshuincho, you can also purchase one at the shrine.

Q6: What is the Tsukinami-sai at Kuzuryu Shrine?

A6: The Tsukinami-sai is a special monthly ritual held at Kuzuryu Shrine on the 13th of each month, starting at 10:00 a.m. Visiting on this day is said to enhance the blessings of en-musubi, and the shrine attracts many worshippers. Special omamori, such as the En-musubi Mamori, may also be available on the day of the festival.

Q7: What is the best way to visit Hakone Shrine and nearby attractions in one day?

A7: To make the most of your day, start with an early morning visit to Hakone Shrine, then take a Lake Ashi sightseeing boat to Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu. In the afternoon, visit Hakone Sekisho and other attractions around Lake Ashi. If you are using public transportation, the Hakone Freepass is a convenient and economical option. It includes travel on the Odakyu Line as well as unlimited rides on buses, the ropeway, sightseeing boats, and other transportation within the Hakone area.

Q8: Is Hakone Shrine worth visiting on a rainy day?

A8: Yes. Hakone Shrine has a unique charm on rainy days and is still well worth a visit. The rain-soaked shrine buildings, stone-paved approach, and towering cedar trees create a mystical atmosphere. There are also usually fewer visitors, allowing you to explore and worship at a more relaxed pace. However, some areas can become slippery, so comfortable walking shoes and appropriate rain gear are recommended.

Q9: Is English information available at Hakone Shrine?

A9: English signs are available at major locations around Hakone Shrine, although more detailed information may only be available in Japanese. As the number of international visitors has increased, English-speaking staff may also be available. Using a translation app on your smartphone and looking up some basic information before your visit can help make your experience smoother.

Q10: What etiquette should I keep in mind at Hakone Shrine?

A10: When visiting a Japanese shrine, keep the following points in mind:

• When passing through a torii gate, avoid the center and walk to one side.
• The center of the approach is traditionally considered the path of the deities, so walk to one side.
• Follow the proper purification etiquette at the chozuya.
• Avoid talking loudly or making excessive noise in front of the main hall.
• Do not take photos in areas where photography is prohibited.
• Avoid eating and drinking on the shrine grounds except in designated areas.
• Remember that you are visiting a sacred place and be respectful when worshipping.