Suggested Itineraries

When you arrive at Togendai Station, hop aboard the 18-person gondola of the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani. Enjoy the majestic panorama of Mount Fuji while suspended in the air. Each of the seasons brings its own particular charm: in spring, a blanket of flowers surrounds the figure of Fuji, still topped with lingering snow; in summer, the green of new growth, in autumn, the brilliant colors of changing leaves, and in winter, the hush of fallen snow. No matter the season, the spectacular scenery of Owadakuni—historically known as “Hell Valley”—enhances the nearby mountains and Mount Fuji, especially from above.

What is now one of the best sightseeing spots in Hakone was created by a volcanic eruption of Mount Hakone more than three thousand years ago. Even now, white smoke billows out of the mountain's surface; this and the distinctive smell of sulfur rising from the bare, rust-colored earth are a highlight of the trip. While visiting, be sure to try a "black egg," a specialty of the area. These eggs are hardboiled in the hot spring water of Owakudani, where sulfur in the water turns their surfaces black. Eating one egg is said to extend a person’s life for seven years! Longevity-enhancing or not, savoring an egg while gazing out over the scenery is a special treat.

The Hakone Tozan Train began service in 1919 and is the only railway in Japan that can truly be said to climb a mountain. Winding its way up switchbacks, the cars travel in an unusual zigzag motion. The Hakone Tozan Train is also known as the "Hydrangea Train" for the hydrangeas that bloom resplendently on both sides of the tracks starting in mid-June. Views from the train of their colorful profusion are one more reason to love the local scenery.

Carrying passengers for more than a century, the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) provides service between Kamakura and Fujisawa Stations. The Enoden train line is popular with sightseers for the marvelous scenery along the route. Although best-known for its coastal segments, the Enoden also passes over mountains, crosses through residential areas, and traverses other varied terrain. Near Enoshima Station, the fifth stop, the glimmering sea appears through the right-side windows and is visible until Shichirigahama Station, the eighth stop from Fujisawa.

Kotoku-in is a Jodo Buddhist temple dedicated to Amida Buddha. The principal figure of the temple is a seated bronze statue known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura. Virtually unchanged since it was first erected in 1252, the Great Buddha is a National Treasure of immeasurable worth to Buddhist art and history. Seated out-of-doors, the Great Buddha changes in appearance depending on the time of day and the season, and is a beloved symbol of Kamakura.

Located only a few steps from Kamakura Station, Komachi-dori Street is lined with gift shops catering to sightseers traveling between the station andTsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine. This commercial district is fronted by a tall, red torii at the entrance and bustles with the excitement of visitors from Japan and abroad. On both sides of the street arerestaurants and shops selling a variety of commercial and hand-crafted merchandise. Look for Kamakura-bori, a traditional artisan-madelacquerware of carved wood. Other great gifts include small dishes, brooches, and other accessories that are affordably priced. The street is also a perfect place to take a break—try a cup of sweet matcha at one of the many sit-down cafés.

Closely connected to the Minamoto Clan, this shrine served as the cornerstone of the Kamakura shogunate during the Kamakura Period and today is central to Kamakura's culture and geography. When heading to the shrine from Komachi-dori Street, you will first see the brilliant vermillion of the Ni no Torii gate. Beyond that is the dankuzura, a raised pathway lined with cherry blossom trees that bloom beautifully in spring. Continuing onward, visitors will reach the main sanctuary, which is an Important Cultural Property of Japan. After touring the main shrine, return along the same path, and be sure not to miss the view overlooking Yuigahama Beach.

Telephone number: 0467-22-0315

Meet Hello Kitty and other popular Sanrio characters at this indoor theme park. Watch full-scale musicals, parades, and other events starring the Sanrio cast; there are also amusement rides, themed play areas, art booths, and more. If you are hungry, stop by any of the restaurants and cafés and select from their full menus. Spend a fun-filled day with Sanrio characters everywhere!

A short walk from the station, the colorful front gate will appear. Check the day’s shows and start times at the entrance information booth, and pick up an official brochure with additional information.

The Character Food Court on the first floor of SanrioTown is decorated with Sanrio characters and offers a wide range of themed entrées. Pictures of Sanrio characters come with the dishes, which are as tasty as they are cute.

Performed in the Fairyland Theater on the first floor, “Kawaii Kabuki–Momotaro” is a new musical fusing the traditions of the kabuki theater with kawaii (cute) culture. The show is a full-scale production by the Hello Kitty Troupe, and visuals and voices are perfomed by current leading kabuki actors. The result is a show that even kabuki enthusiasts will appreciate. This popular musical has multiple showings each day.

Located on the first floor next to the Discovery Theater entrance, the Village Shop sells merchandise marketed toward young girls. Here you will find kawaii lights shaped like strawberries and hearts that you can take to the shows and parades, as well as stationery, stuffed animals, and many other fun things.

Often shortened to Shimokita, Shimo-Kitazawa is a mecca for subcultures. This popular district is filled with small theaters, playhouses, live music clubs, and other entertainment venues. On any given day, there is at least one show or music performance to be seen. The lively back streets are lined with vintage clothing stores, restaurants, and shops of all kinds.

The Shimo-Kitazawa area is filled with uniquely themed vintage clothing shops that compete fiercely for customers. Among these, one standout is New York Joe Exchange, a playfully designed space that buys and sells recycled clothing. Originally a public bathhouse, the building has been remodeled; seeing the clever incorporation of bathhouse elements like the old flooring and walls into a modern store is well worth the visit. Even the name was selected to match the bathhouse theme: the pronunciation of “New York Joe” also means “bathing place” in Japanese. With clothing for men and women, New York Joe Exchange sells items spanning many styles, decades, and brands.