Hakone Shrine

Featured Destination on our Cherry Blossom Japan Tours vacation series.

Hakone Shrine stands at the foot of Mount Hakone along the shores of Lake Ashi. While the shrine was founded in 757, the shrine was relocated to the shores of Lake Ashi around 1667. The shrine buildings are hidden in the dense forest, but are well advertised by its huge torii gates, one standing prominently in the shores of Lake Ashi and two others over the main street of Moto-Hakone. A path leads from the torii gate in Lake Ashi up a series of steps flanked by lanterns through the forest to the main building of the shrine, which sits peacefully among the tall trees. The shrine's location hidden in the forest creates a tranquil, beautiful environment. While the shrine is beautiful throughout the year, it is particularly breathtaking when shrouded in mist.

In addition to the torii gates, Hakone Shrine has a small museum displaying the shrine's treasures. Among the list, five are ranked as National Important Cultural Property in Japan. The primary deities of the shrine include Ninigi-no-Mikoto, Konohanasakuya-hime (Goddess of Mount Fuji & Volcanoes), and Hikohohodemi no Mikoto. Together, the three are known as the Hakone Okami at the shrine. There's also the main festival for the shrine held each year on August 1st. A popular shrine for Samurai during the Kamakura Period, the shrine is said to have provided Minamoto no Yoritomo shelter and guidance after his defeat at Ishibashiyama. After becoming Shogun, it is said Yoritomo became a patron of the shrine.

Hakone Shrine continues to be popular destination in Japan and is a great visit after riding the Lake Ashi cruise. Come see the shrine for yourself while we explore Hakone on all of our Cherry Blossom Japan Tours and Highlights Tour Packages between Tokyo & Kyoto!