Lake Ashi
4.4
(1.4k)Lake Ashi, also known as Hakone Lake, is a scenic crater lake in Japan's Kanagawa Prefecture, formed 3,000 years ago by a major eruption of Mount Hakone. It's a popular spot for sightseeing cruises, offering views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The lake was historically significant as a key point on the Old Tokaido Road connecting Tokyo and Kyoto.
Address
Lake Ashi, Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Worth it?
Worth it for the serene lake and mountain views, especially if you enjoy boat cruises
Skip if you're expecting guaranteed clear views of Mount Fuji, as it depends on the weather
Location
Lake Ashi, Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
Nearby places
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Highlights
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji from the lake cruise, which many reviewers describe as beautiful and peaceful.
The sightseeing ships on the lake are uniquely styled after pirate ships, adding a quirky element to the cruise.
You can connect directly to the Hakone Ropeway from Togendai Station, making it convenient to explore other parts of the Hakone area.
Who it's for
This is for anyone looking for scenic views, especially those hoping to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, and travelers interested in historical sites and unique boat rides. It's also great for hikers, with numerous trails in the area.
Explore more near Lake Ashi
Know before you go
The Hakone Sightseeing Cruise operates counterclockwise, serving Togendai Station, Moto-Hakone Port, and Hakone-Machi Port.
An entire loop around the lake on the sightseeing cruise takes about 90 minutes.
Reviews
4.4
Very good
5 ReviewsTravelers love Lake Ashi for its stunning natural beauty and the peaceful cruise experience, often highlighting the chance to see Mount Fuji. However, many note that clear views of the mountain are not a given and depend on the weather.
Fun facts
The lake's name means "lake of reeds" in Japanese.
Lake Ashi is a volcanic crater lake situated along the southwestern wall of the caldera of Mount Hakone.
During the Edo period, Lake Ashi was a critical point on the Old Tokaido Road, the main route connecting Tokyo and Kyoto.
