Lake Ashi

Lake Ashi showing sailing, a lake or waterhole and a sunset
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi featuring a lake or waterhole, sailing and a sunset
Lake Ashi


Stroll around a section of this lake or sail across it on a pirate ship and, if you’re lucky, you might see a clear view of Mount Fuji rising up in the distance.

Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) is a forest-fringed lake within the ranges of Mount Hakone. The lake was formed within Mount Hakone’s caldera, after the volcano erupted 3,000 years ago. Today, it is a pristine area dotted with small villages, lakeside resorts, pleasant walking paths and dense forests.

Visit Moto-Hakone, a town on the lake’s eastern side that hugs the base of Mount Byobu. A leisurely 1-hour lakeside stroll will bring you to Onshihakone Park, Hakone Detached Palace and Garden, the Hakone Shrine and the village of Hakone-Machi. From the southerly end of this walk, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji aligning with Lake Ashi.

Visit the Hakone Detached Palace, a former summer residence for the Imperial Family, to spot the red torii gates coming out of the water on the opposite bank, marking the entry to the Hakone Shrine. This stunning Shinto shrine is located a short walk from Moto-Hakone. Visit the shrine to experience its solemn spiritual atmosphere and traditional architecture. The shrine is located at the end of a pathway flanked with cedar trees and red lanterns. Snap a photograph of the lake framed through the striking red torii gates.

Take in the view of the lake’s silvery surface from aboard a sightseeing boat. Boats cruise across the lake in approximately 30 minutes and offer the chance to see Lake Ashi’s stunning wild escarpments and mountain vistas. You can ride on a ferry or a boat themed like a pirate ship. Hakone Free Passholders can enjoy free access to the fun-filled pirate ships. Boat trips operate between the southern villages of Moto-Hakone and Hakone-Machi to the northern towns of Togendai and Kojiri.

Lake Ashi can be reached by bus, rail and ropeway. Purchase a Hakone Free Pass to gain unlimited access to the scenic railway, cable car, ropeway and selected buses and boats. Traditional ryokan (inns) and lakeside resorts can be found in each town. Don’t miss the chance to soak in an outdoor hot spring bath (onsen) while visiting Lake Ashi. Take in views of the surrounding mountains any time of the year while relaxing in these Japanese-style spas.

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Things to do near Lake Ashi

At Lake Ashi, immerse yourself in stunning views aboard sightseeing boats that glide across the serene waters. For a panoramic experience, take the Hakone Ropeway, offering breathtaking vistas of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, consider indulging in delightful day trips to explore the picturesque area, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, making your visit truly unforgettable.

Shopping

For shopping, visit Hakone Pass Road Station, only 559m from Lake Ashi, offering a range of local goods. If you're up for a drive, Gotemba Premium Outlets, 5.0km away, features various brands, while Harune Odawara, 5.6km away, combines city and family vibes.

Recreation

Daihakone Country Club offers a luxurious retreat with stunning views, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. At Hakoneen Golf Course, enjoy outdoor sports amidst beautiful landscapes, while Onshi Hakone Koen Park provides a tranquil space for relaxation and wellness, ideal for leisurely strolls and meditation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Fuji Speedway, located 8.1km from Lake Ashi, where adrenaline meets adventure. For stunning views, take the Hakone Ropeway, just 1.9km away, or enjoy a scenic ride on the Jukkoku Pass funicular, 3.1km from the lake.

Nightlife

At Lake Ashi, the Gekko Observatory offers a stunning celestial experience, while the Fujisan Juku no Mori Amphitheater provides a perfect blend of culture and romance. For a thrilling adventure, the Cycle Sports Center is ideal for families seeking excitement in an arcade setting.

Find the best attractions near Lake Ashi

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for outdoor adventures, Lake Ashi in Hakone offers a delightful array of attractions. Explore the beautiful Hakone Shrine and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside, immersing yourself in the serene landscape. With a blend of museums and family-friendly experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery of Kanagawa Prefecture.

  • Mishima Sky Walk: Experience breathtaking views while walking across Japan's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Located just 2.5km from Lake Ashi, this modern marvel offers a stunning panorama of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape, blending city vibes with natural beauty.
  • Hakone Gora Park: A delightful botanical garden situated 2.5km from Lake Ashi, this lush green space is perfect for a romantic stroll, family picnics, or simply enjoying the seasonal flowers. The park's charming atmosphere and outdoor attractions invite relaxation and exploration.
  • Tenzan Onsen: Just 3.1km from Lake Ashi, Tenzan Onsen offers a serene hot spring experience. Surrounded by nature, this oasis is ideal for wellness and relaxation, allowing you to unwind in its outdoor baths and embrace the tranquil atmosphere.

Best time to go to Lake Ashi

The best time to visit Lake Ashi can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Lake Ashi falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Lake Ashi falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September74.3°F (23.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October64.9°F (18.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Ashi

To save money on your trip to Lake Ashi, consider visiting in February, June, or September, as these months offer lower prices compared to peak times like April and August. Book your hotel about a month in advance or take advantage of last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Fridays tend to be the least expensive nights to stay, while Sundays are pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and combine hotel bookings with flights for extra savings. Explore the area on foot to enjoy free activities and stunning views.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Ashi are February, June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Lake Ashi is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Ashi is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Ashi is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking for Lake Ashi with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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