Enjoy Stunning Views of Mt. Fuji in Hakone: Best Scenic Spots

This cafe, which reopened in July 2020, offers a stunning open view. From both inside the shop and from the open-air wooden deck, visitors can enjoy breathtaking, seasonal glimpses of Mt. Fuji standing tall in the distance. The cafe's menu items feature locally sourced ingredients. These items include the Fujimi Burger, fully with Shizuoka Ashitaka beef, and the Iced Matcha Latte which uses a premium matcha grown in Shizuoka’s mountainous regions called Tenku no Matcha. These offerings are perfect companions to the magnificent scenery.

Nestled in one of the most scenic spots along Lake Ashi in Hakone, this upscale resort hotel is built on the site of the villa of a baron who was active as a businessman from the early to mid-20th century. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the beautiful Lake Ashi below and Mt. Fuji to the west.
The expansive garden, filled with seasonal flowers and natural beauty, creates a memorable backdrop in harmony with the breathtaking sight of Mount Fuji. Known for its vibrant azaleas, the garden is one of Hakone’s celebrated floral attractions, where the vivid reds and deep crimsons of the blooms against the sacred peak evoke the feeling of a true masterpiece.
Also, from the observation room, which is exclusive to lodging guests, you can enjoy a breathtaking 180-degree panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, along with Lake Ashi, the surrounding mountains, and the beautiful garden.

Narusawa Art Museum houses a collection of contemporary nihonga paintings from the mid-Showa era onward. Visitors can enjoy fascinating exhibitions, including “Brilliance of Nihonga” which showcases renowned masterpieces. The museum is perched on a hill overlooking Lake Ashi and the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine. A must-see is the breathtaking view from the first-floor panorama lounge and the cafe, Kisetsufu, where a 50-meter-wide glass wall offers a panoramic vista of Hakone and Lake Ashi. It's an experience akin to enjoying a masterpiece painting.
In early summer, the museum’s garden blooms with rhododendrons, offering a stunning open-air view of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor scenic enjoyment.

The Owakudani area, known as the Owakudani Park, has a 700-meter walking trail where visitors can explore the area’s volcanic activity up close with a guide. Along the trail, you can witness the dramatic landscapes shaped by past eruptions, observe active steam vents, and marvel at the dynamic volcanic forces. On clear days with crisp air on the nature trail or near Owakudani Station, you'll also be treated to stunning views of Mt. Fuji behind rising volcanic steam.

The Hakone Ropeway offers a bird's-eye view of the scenic beauty of Hakone’s natural landscape. This aerial experience allows you to take in breathtaking views, especially between Owakudani Station and Ubako Station where Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi appear ahead amidst the seasonal colors of fresh greenery or autumn leaves. On clear days, as soon as you leave Owakudani Station heading toward Togendai Station, keep your eyes forward for a great view. There are many other scenic views on this ropeway, so don’t look away!

The Motohakone area is home to several ports, including Motohakone-ko and Hakonemachi-ko, where the grand Hakone pirate ships dock. Visitors can enjoy close-up views of these ships against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji's awe-inspiring presence in the distance. This area offers a quintessential Hakone scene, with Lake Ashi, Mt. Fuji, Hakone Shrin’s Torii of Peace, and the pirate ships all coming together in the same place. Nearby attractions, such as the scenic Onshi Hakone Park and the historic Hakone Sekisho (Hakone Checkpoint), are within walking distance. The area is perfect for leisurely lakeside strolls, with plenty of restaurants and souvenir shops to explore.

The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise connects the ports of Motohakone-ko and Hakonemachi-ko in the south of Lake Ashi with Togendai-ko in the north. The elaborately designed ships are so detailed and grand that even adults will find them impressive and realistic. The cruise glides gently across the blue waters, surrounded by lush mountains. Enjoy a leisurely voyage while taking in stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

At an elevation of about 1,356 meters, Mt. Komagatake is one of Hakone's most scenic mountains. The Komagatake Ropeway takes about seven minutes from the shore of Lake Ashi to reach the summit. From the top, unobstructed views await, especially at the observation plaza, where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Mt. Fuji. This spot offers the rare chance to see the entire mountain, from its snow-capped peak to its broad base. Along with Mt. Fuji, you'll also be treated to views of Lake Ashi, the Izu Peninsula, Odawara, Shonan, and Sagami Bay. Additionally, at the summit is Hakone Motomiya Shrine, a spiritual power spot known as the "Shrine in the Sky."
Note: The Hakone Freepass does not cover the Komagatake Ropeway. However, showing the pass entitles you to a 10% discount on the fare.