Hakone Shrine
箱根神社
An ancient shrine founded in 757. The vermilion 'Heiwa Torii' standing on the shore of Lake Ashi is Hakone's most popular photo spot.
Hakone Shrine lies on the southeast shore of Lake Ashi in Moto-Hakone. It is traditionally said to have been founded in 757 during the Nara period. Warlords such as Minamoto no Yoritomo and Tokugawa Ieyasu worshipped here, and it is an important shrine in the Kanto region for good fortune and traffic safety. The main hall is hidden in tall cedar forest, and the approach climbs about 90 steps through a serene atmosphere. The most famous feature is the Heiwa Torii standing in the lake. Photographing the lake and distant mountains from beneath it is Hakone's most popular shot, and lines often take 30–60 minutes, so arrive before 8 a.m. The grounds also include the Kuzuryu Shrine Shingū, dedicated to the nine-headed dragon and known for matchmaking, which holds its monthly festival on the 13th of each month. Worship is free, and the treasure hall costs ¥500. Access: it is a 10-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port. From Hakone-Yumoto, take the Hakone Tozan Bus about 35 minutes to 'Moto-Hakone Port.' Note: this is a religious site, so do not block the approach when taking photos. Lakeside winds are strong in winter, so dress warmly.
Opening hours
Grounds open all day; shrine office 08:30–17:00
Nearby sights
- Hakone Checkpoint
- Lake Ashi
- Old Tokaido Road & Amazake-chaya
- Owakudani
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Hakone Gora Park
- Hakone Tozan Railway
- Pola Museum of Art