Hakone Highlights: Art, Onsen, and Scenic Views! Hakone Family Trip 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

#summervacay Day 1: Art & Onsen Bliss Our Hakone journey began from Yokohama in the morning, with half the day dedicated to the Hakone Open-Air Museum (雕刻之森美术馆). I can't praise this museum enough! Hakone has many museums, but if you only visit one, especially with kids, make it this one. The weather in the mountains is delightful; even with sunshine, the breeze is cool, making outdoor strolls comfortable. Kids can freely run and explore. We had a simple lunch at the restaurant next to the footbath, and the ambiance was wonderful. After the museum, we headed straight to our onsen hotel, which offered excellent value for a one-night stay with two meals. Both breakfast and dinner were buffet style, with more than enough variety for someone like me who gets choice paralysis! The hotel boasts a beautiful small garden (mentioned in a previous note) where you can see Mount Fuji. You can even enjoy views of Mount Fuji while relaxing in the public onsen. The hotel is conveniently located near Ubako Station (姥子站), a cable car and bus stop, just a five-minute walk away. Day 2: Volcanic Vistas & Lake Cruises Our second day took us to Owakudani (大涌谷) and a ride on the Hakone Pirate Ship (海贼船). Owakudani: This active volcanic valley is famous for its sulfurous fumes and hot springs. You can take a cable car up for incredible views of the steaming vents and, on a clear day, a spectacular view of Mount Fuji. Hakone Ropeway & Pirate Ship: The ropeway connects Owakudani to Lake Ashi, where the impressive Pirate Ship awaits. Cruising across Lake Ashi offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic torii gate of Hakone Shrine. Even without doing the full loop, these selections provide a fantastic blend of art, relaxation, natural wonders, and scenic transportation, perfect for a family trip! #hakone #familytravel #japantravel #hakoneopenairmuseum #onsenhotel #owakudani #hakoneropeway #hakonepirateship #mountfuji #traveljapan