Amazake Chaya
A 400-year-old tea house on the historic Tokaido road, serving traditional Amazake and mochi.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Amazake Chaya
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 400-year-old tea house on the historic Tokaido road, serving traditional Amazake and mochi.
"Truly a step back in time and an unforgettable experience.
"Bring Cash Only! 💴
This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen.
Walk the Old Road 🚶♀️
Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Amazake
Main serving area
Sip on this sweet, non-alcoholic fermented rice drink, a refreshing taste of history.

Handmade Chikara-Mochi
Main serving area
Enjoy these soft, chewy rice cakes, a perfect complement to your drink.

Historic Edo Period Setting
Entire tea house
Experience a genuine step back in time in this 400-year-old tea house.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Plan Your Arrival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash Only! 💴
This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen.
Walk the Old Road 🚶♀️
Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house.
Check Bus Schedules 🚌
Weekend buses can be infrequent. Plan your transport in advance.
Meet the Owner 👋
The 13th-generation owner's hospitality is a highlight for many visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash Only! 💴
This historic spot is cash-only. Come prepared to pay with Yen.
Walk the Old Road 🚶♀️
Consider walking part of the historic Tokaido road to reach the tea house.
Check Bus Schedules 🚌
Weekend buses can be infrequent. Plan your transport in advance.
Meet the Owner 👋
The 13th-generation owner's hospitality is a highlight for many visitors.
Enjoy the Ambiance 🍵
Soak in the tranquil, wabi-sabi atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Amazake Chaya as a 'hidden gem' and a 'step back in time,' highlighting its authentic historical atmosphere and the delicious traditional offerings like Amazake and mochi. The hospitality of the 13th-generation owner is frequently mentioned as a standout positive. Some note the cash-only policy and potential transport challenges as minor drawbacks.
"A Hidden Gem of History and Hospitality!
This place is truly a step back in time and an unforgettable experience. If you’re in the area, you absolutely shouldn’t miss it! A quick tip — buses on weekends don’t run until 10 AM and taxis can be hard to find, so we ended up walking 2+ km to get here. It was worth every step. Make sure to bring cash, as that’s the only payment they accept.
The hike to the tea house is challenging — historically considered one of the toughest routes during the Edo period — but reaching it feels incredibly rewarding. Sitting down to enjoy their handmade mochi and warm akazake was the perfect way to recharge.
If you’re lucky enough to meet Satochi while you’re there, you’re in for a treat. Though he speaks limited English, his kindness and hospitality shine through. He clearly pours his heart into everything he does and goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. I’d gladly return just to see him again"
Ryan Lau
"Great place to start (or end) your short walk in the old stone-paved road. The place was well maintained and it definitely felt like time travel. The drinks and snacks were delicious! A must visit when in Hakone."
Clarenze Joy Maranan
"Step into tranquility at this traditional tea house. Indulge in their incredibly soft and chewy mochi, a delightful companion to their fermented sweet non-alcoholic sake (amasake )
While the tea house is a bit out of the way, its own bus stop makes it quite accessible, especially if you coordinate your visit with the bus schedule.
The serene atmosphere is further enhanced by the option to relax on tatami mats beside a cozy fire on cold days, truly transporting you to a peaceful retreat."
Jackie C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Amazake Chaya by bus or by walking. The bus stop is conveniently located near the tea house, but schedules can vary, especially on weekends.
Alternatively, you can walk a portion of the historic Tokaido road, which offers a scenic and rewarding experience, though it can be challenging. The walk is approximately 2+ km if buses are not running.Yes, Amazake Chaya has its own bus stop, making it accessible via local bus routes. However, it's advisable to check the bus schedule in advance, particularly for weekend services, as they may have limited operating hours.
Taxis can be difficult to find in the area, especially on weekends. It's recommended to rely on public buses or be prepared for a walk if you plan to visit.
While driving is possible, the roads leading to Amazake Chaya can be narrow and winding, characteristic of the Hakone mountain roads. Parking availability might also be limited.
The route to Amazake Chaya is part of the historic Tokaido road, which was once a major thoroughfare during the Edo period. It was known for its steep mountains and challenging terrain, making tea houses like Amazake Chaya essential resting points for travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Amazake Chaya. You pay for the food and drinks you consume.
Operating hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or look for recent visitor information. Some sources indicate that weekend buses may not run until 10 AM, suggesting a similar opening time for the tea house.
There is no entrance fee. You will be charged for any food or beverages you order.
Reservations are generally not mentioned or required, as it's a traditional tea house. It's more of a walk-in establishment.
Amazake Chaya is a cash-only establishment. It is crucial to have Japanese Yen with you as credit cards are not accepted.
🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience
The signature drink is Amazake, a sweet, non-alcoholic fermented rice beverage.
Visitors also rave about the Chikara-mochi, a soft and chewy rice cake. Other popular items include strawberry milk shaved ice and green tea.Amazake is a traditional Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It's naturally sweet and non-alcoholic, often enjoyed warm or cold.
Chikara-mochi is a type of mochi (rice cake) that is known for its soft, chewy texture. It's a popular traditional snack often served at tea houses like Amazake Chaya.
Yes, you can sit inside the traditional tea house, often on tatami mats. On cold days, there might be a cozy fire to enhance the atmosphere.
Yes, the tea house offers outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their refreshments amidst the natural beauty of Hakone.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charming thatched-roof exterior of the 400-year-old building.
Inside, the traditional tatami mat seating and rustic decor offer a glimpse into the past. Don't forget to photograph your delicious Amazake and mochi for a taste of the experience.Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other guests and the serene atmosphere. Focus on capturing the ambiance and your own experience.
Morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, especially if you're capturing the exterior or the surrounding nature. However, the interior ambiance is also a key photographic element.
The approach to the tea house, especially if you've walked part of the old road, offers scenic views. The outdoor seating area also provides a pleasant backdrop.
Any camera or smartphone can capture the charm of Amazake Chaya. The focus is on the historical atmosphere and the simple beauty of the offerings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Amazake Chaya
This continuity is palpable when you step inside. The architecture, the serving methods, and even the recipes for their signature Amazake and mochi have remained remarkably unchanged. It’s an experience that transcends a simple meal; it’s an immersion into a bygone era. Visitors often describe it as feeling like they've stepped back in time, a sentiment amplified by the rustic charm and the serene natural surroundings. The historical significance makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history.
The Tokaido road itself was a vital artery connecting Edo (modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto. The Hakone section was particularly notorious for its steep inclines and rugged terrain, making the services of tea houses like Amazake Chaya indispensable. Today, while the road is more accessible, the tea house continues its tradition of hospitality, offering a tangible connection to the past for modern-day travelers exploring the beautiful Hakone region.
The Flavors of Tradition: Amazake and Mochi
Complementing the Amazake is the Chikara-mochi, a type of mochi (rice cake) that is celebrated for its incredibly soft and chewy texture. These handmade rice cakes are a delightful accompaniment, providing a satisfying contrast to the liquid sweetness of the Amazake. Visitors frequently praise the mochi for its comforting simplicity and delicious taste, making it a highly recommended item to try. The combination of Amazake and mochi is a classic pairing that has sustained travelers for centuries.
Beyond these signature items, the menu may also feature other seasonal treats, such as strawberry milk shaved ice, offering a variety of traditional flavors. The emphasis is on simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with care, reflecting the wabi-sabi aesthetic – finding beauty in imperfection and simplicity. This culinary experience is an integral part of the historical journey that Amazake Chaya provides.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit