Overview
Hakone Shrine is one of the most popular places to visit in Hakone.
Surrounded by forests and sitting beside Lake Ashi, it offers beautiful scenery. The famous lakeside torii gate is one of the area’s most photographed landmarks.
I visited on a weekday in the early afternoon, and even then there were already many visitors.If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth knowing when to go and what to expect before you arrive.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best walking route, photo spots, and practical tips based on my own visit.
Is Hakone Shrine Worth Visiting?
I think the answer is yes.
The combination of the forest, the shrine buildings, and the lakeside setting makes it feel very different from many other shrines in Japan.
You can enjoy both nature and traditional architecture in one visit, and the walk itself is part of the experience.
Even if you don’t usually visit shrines, it’s an easy stop while exploring Hakone.
Where to Stay Near Lake Ashi
👉 Hotel de Yama Guide – Beautiful lakeside gardens and classic atmosphere
👉 The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko Guide – Spacious resort with lake views and easy sightseeing access
Is Hakone Shrine Crowded?
This is probably the most important thing to know before visiting.
Hakone Shrine is busy almost every day, and weekends can be especially crowded.
The lakeside torii gate is extremely popular, and visitors often wait in line to take photos. During busy periods, the queue can become surprisingly long.
If you prefer a quieter visit, I recommend arriving early in the morning or choosing a weekday.
The main shrine area is usually less crowded than the lakeside torii, so it’s worth walking a little farther after seeing the famous photo spot.
Walking to the Shrine
If you park at the free lakeside parking area, you’ll walk through the shrine approach before reaching the main buildings.
Tall cedar trees line the path, and the sounds of birds replace the noise of traffic.
After a few minutes, you’ll reach the entrance area, where many visitors stop to purify their hands and mouth before entering the shrine.
From there, a long stone staircase leads up through the forest to the main shrine.
⭐ Main Shrine
At the top of the stairs stands the bright vermilion main shrine, surrounded by towering cedar trees.
The vivid red buildings contrast beautifully with the deep green forest, creating one of the most iconic scenes in Hakone.
⭐ Kuzuryu Shrine
Next to the Hakone Shrine grounds, you’ll find Kuzuryu Shrine, dedicated to the dragon deity of Lake Ashi.
The spring water flowing from the mouths of nine dragon heads is a striking sight and unlike anything else I have seen in Japan.
The water is considered sacred and is associated with the blessings of the dragon deity, adding to the shrine’s unique atmosphere.
⭐ Walking to the Lakeside Torii
After visiting the shrine, follow the stone steps back toward Lake Ashi.
As you descend, the bright vermilion torii gradually comes into view between the cedar trees, creating one of my favorite views in the entire area.
At the bottom of the steps, you’ll find the famous lakeside photo spot.
Depending on the time of day, you may need to wait in line for a photo.
The torii gate is beautiful in every season, but it’s also one of the busiest places in Hakone. If you want a quieter experience, visiting early in the morning is the best option.
⭐ Stone Path Along Lake Ashi
After taking photos at the torii gate, continue along the old stone path beside Lake Ashi.
The lakeside scenery is beautiful, but the stones can become slippery after rain, so watch your step.
The path leads back toward the parking area, making it an easy and relaxing way to finish your visit.
Visitor Information
Access
- About 35 minutes by bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station
- Get off at Hakone Shrine or Moto-Hakone Port
Parking
- Several free parking areas are available nearby, but they fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
