The autumn foliage is in full bloom! Top 5 Must-Visit Spots for Maple Viewing in Hakone, Japan

Text and photos by /TravelBAG

Last time we introduced autumn flowers, so this time let’s talk about maple leaves — you should also be getting ready for your Japanese autumn foliage trip. This time, TravelBAG is featuring Hakone, which is very convenient to get to from Tokyo. There are plenty of hot spring inns there, making it perfect for a cozy 2-day, 1-night maple viewing and hot spring getaway.

Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture — Hayakawa Bridge (Idezawa Iron Bridge)

As one of Hakone’s famous attractions, the Hakone Tozan Railway is extremely popular during the autumn foliage season, drawing numerous tourists eager to admire the red leaves. The scene is lively with visitors. The Hayakawa Bridge (Idezawa Iron Bridge), located between Togendai and Ohiradai, is a recommended spot where you can enjoy both the maple leaves and the valley scenery. It’s also one of the earliest places in Hakone where the leaves turn red.

Hakone Tozan Railway:http://www.hakone-tozan.co.jp
Maple Viewing Season: Late October – Mid-November

Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture — Chōan Temple

Surrounded by nature, Chōan Temple is a Soto sect Buddhist temple, particularly well known as a scenic spot for autumn leaves. The expressive and human-like arhat statues, together with the vibrant red foliage, create a unique atmosphere at the temple.

Website:http://futami.good.cx/photowalk/056hakone/index.htm
Maple Viewing Season: Early November – Mid-November

Hakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture — Lake Ashi Skyline

This spot is best enjoyed by car, and there’s also a popular winding mountain road. From Hakone to Motohakone, you can drive along the twisting mountain road to reach the summit of Lake Ashi. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains; when the leaves change color, it creates a breathtaking view of the valleys from high above. It’s also a great photo spot.

Roadside Station: http://www.hakone.or.jp/shop/michinoekihakonetoge/
Maple Viewing Season: Early November – Late November

Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture — Hakone Gora Park

Opened in 2014 (Heisei 26), Gora Park celebrated its 100th anniversary. It is Japan’s first French-style formal garden. The park features a rose garden centered around a fountain, a bougainvillea house, a craft house, and the Hakone Baien Tea House. When framed against the backdrop of trees turning red, it becomes especially beautiful.

Website:http://hakone-tozan.co.jp/gorapark/
Maple Viewing Season: Mid-November – Late November

Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture — Hakone-Yumoto

The history of Hakone-Yumoto Onsen dates back to 738 (Tenpyō 10) during the Nara period, and it has many historical anecdotes. At the base of the Asahi Bridge over the Hayakawa River, you can still find the hot spring bathhouse where Hojo Ujitsuna once rested his weary feet. Strolling along the Hayakawa and Suenomatsu rivers, you’ll be greeted by valley scenery adorned with red leaves. It’s also a great route for a walking tour.

Website:http://www.gotokyo.org/tc/tourists/spot/suburbs/hakone/index.html
Maple Viewing Season: Early December – Mid-December

Image and information sources:http://travel.rakuten.com.hk/

TravelBAG
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