I live in Odawara, just a short train ride from Hakone-Yumoto.
Whenever I want a relaxing afternoon, I sometimes head there for lunch, a little souvenir shopping, and a walk around town.
On this visit, I followed a simple route around Hakone-Yumoto Station that anyone can enjoy in a few hours.
From Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto
Getting to Hakone-Yumoto is easy.
From Odawara Station, it’s about 15 minutes by train and costs 360 yen.
As the train moves toward Hakone, you’ll see mountains and rivers outside the window.
The trip itself is part of the experience.
Lunch at Hakone BOOTEA
I arrived around lunchtime and wanted something filling.
Many restaurants in Hakone serve soba noodles and traditional Japanese food, but I was looking for a bigger meal.
I chose Hakone BOOTEA, a short walk from the station.
The restaurant was comfortable, easy to enter alone, and the food was satisfying.
Read more here → Hakone BOOTEA Review
A Unique Souvenir: Umeboshi
After lunch, I walked through the shopping streets.
This time, I bought umeboshi (Japanese pickled plums) at Fujiya.
Most visitors buy sweets or snacks, but umeboshi makes a useful souvenir and lasts much longer.
There were many different kinds to choose from.
Read more here → Fujiya Umeboshi Shop Review
Relaxing by the Hayakawa River
Next, I bought a Hakone Manju from Kikukawa Shoten.
Instead of eating it on the busy street, I walked to the Hayakawa River.
The riverside was peaceful.
I sat by the water, enjoyed the view, and ate my snack while listening to the sound of the river.
It was one of the best moments of the day.
Read more here → Hakone Manju at Kikukawa Shoten
Is Hakone-Yumoto Worth Visiting?
Ofcourse,Yes!
Hakone-Yumoto is a great place if you want to:
- Take an easy day trip from Tokyo
- Enjoy local food
- Buy Japanese souvenirs
- Walk around a traditional town
- Travel at a relaxed pace
You don’t need a full day or a detailed plan.
Just walking around Hakone-Yumoto is enjoyable.
If you have more time, staying overnight lets you enjoy Hakone at a slower pace.
Browse hotels in Hakone here.
