Owakudani Hakone
Experience a surreal volcanic landscape with steaming vents and iconic black eggs, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier for families.
Owakudani Hakone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier for families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a surreal volcanic landscape with steaming vents and iconic black eggs, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
"It's like stepping onto another planet with steaming valleys and sulfur clouds."
😷 Mask Up for Sulfur Smells
The air can be pungent due to sulfur. Wearing a mask is recommended for a more comfortable experience.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It's cooler and windier at Owakudani, so a jacket is a good idea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steaming Volcanic Vents
Witness the raw power of nature with steaming sulfur vents and a dramatic volcanic landscape. It's like stepping onto another planet!
Famous Black Eggs (Kuro-tamago)
Taste the legendary black eggs, boiled in the hot springs, said to add seven years to your life. A must-try local delicacy!
Panoramic Views of Mt. Fuji
On a clear day, enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of the iconic Mt. Fuji from this elevated vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check the Ropeway Status
Weather is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
😷 Mask Up for Sulfur Smells
The air can be pungent due to sulfur. Wearing a mask is recommended for a more comfortable experience.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It's cooler and windier at Owakudani, so a jacket is a good idea.
🥚 Black Eggs in 5-Packs
The famous black eggs come in packs of five, perfect for sharing!
♿ Stroller-Friendly Access
Use the elevator inside the main building; outdoor paths are better with a compact stroller.
Tips
from all over the internet
😷 Mask Up for Sulfur Smells
The air can be pungent due to sulfur. Wearing a mask is recommended for a more comfortable experience.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It's cooler and windier at Owakudani, so a jacket is a good idea.
🥚 Black Eggs in 5-Packs
The famous black eggs come in packs of five, perfect for sharing!
♿ Stroller-Friendly Access
Use the elevator inside the main building; outdoor paths are better with a compact stroller.
📲 Check Ropeway Status
Always check the ropeway status before visiting as it can close unexpectedly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Owakudani is a highly memorable volcanic valley in Hakone, praised for its unique steaming vents and the iconic black eggs. Visitors appreciate the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji on clear days and the otherworldly landscape. While the sulfur smell can be strong, it's considered a must-visit for its natural spectacle and local delicacies.
"Owakudani is one of the most memorable spots in Hakone. The moment you arrive, you can see the steam rising from the volcanic vents and smell the sulfur in the air—it’s like stepping onto another planet. On a clear day, the view of Mt. Fuji is breathtaking.
The highlight for us was trying the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago), sold in warm 5-packs—delicious and fun with the local legend that each egg adds seven years to your life. The shops are clean and organized, and staff were kind. It’s also family-friendly: we had no issues with our stroller, and there are elevators in the main building to make it easier.
Pro tips:
• Weekdays = calmer → fewer crowds, easier for families.
• Check the weather → Mt. Fuji views only appear on clear days.
• Black eggs → come in 5-packs—perfect for sharing.
• Bring a jacket → cooler and windier up here.
• Ropeway status → check ahead, as it sometimes closes due to volcanic gases or strong winds.
• Strollers → use the elevator inside; outdoor paths are better with a compact stroller.
A unique, 10/10 experience that blends nature, culture, and a little bit of fun."
Giovanni A.
"Fantastic views of Mt. Fuji from the cable car. At Owakudani, you can really feel the volcanic activity with the sulfuric scent from the steam vents. There’s a large souvenir shop as well, including the famous black eggs. It’s a unique and memorable stop in Hakone. I just wish we could’ve stayed longer but our tour guide left us at the cable car station without giving us the tickets, so we ended up wasting time calling and waiting for him to send them over. A real bummer, honestly."
Misty Flores
"To be honest: nothing special! Yes, you can see the thermal springs here emitting smoke and sulfur, but that’s about it. With some luck, you get a nice view of Mt. Fuji, but you can enjoy that from many other beautiful places as well. Apart from the viewing platform, you can’t enter the area without booking a guided tour beforehand (which might have made it a bit more interesting)."
Tim Bretschneider
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take a train to Hakone-Yumoto, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan train to Gora. From Gora, take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan, and finally, the Hakone Ropeway directly to Owakudani.
Yes, the Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended as it covers most transportation within Hakone, including the ropeway to Owakudani. Purchase it in advance to save time.
The Hakone Loop is a popular way to see Owakudani and other sights. It involves using the Hakone Tozan train, cable car, ropeway, and a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. +1
While there is parking available, traffic into the valley can be tremendous. Public transport via the Hakone Ropeway is often more convenient.
It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Owakudani from central Tokyo by train, depending on transfers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Owakudani itself is generally free. However, you will need tickets for the Hakone Ropeway and other transportation methods used to reach it.
The operating hours for the Hakone Ropeway can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Hakone Ropeway website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting Owakudani. It's a family-friendly destination, though the sulfurous air might be strong for very young children or those with respiratory issues.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for the Hakone Ropeway at the stations, but buying a Hakone Free Pass in advance is often more cost-effective and convenient.
Owakudani itself does not have an entrance fee. The costs are associated with the transportation required to reach the volcanic valley.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Owakudani, you can witness steaming volcanic vents, try the famous black eggs, enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, and explore souvenir shops.
The black eggs, or 'kuro-tamago,' are hard-boiled in the natural hot springs, absorbing sulfur and minerals, which turns their shells black. They are a local specialty.
Yes, on clear days, Owakudani offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. The visibility is highly dependent on the weather.
Owakudani is an active volcanic area that is closely monitored. The ropeway may close if volcanic gas levels are too high or due to strong winds, but generally, it is safe for visitors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers, including a jacket, as it can be cooler and windier. A mask is also recommended due to the sulfur smell.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most famous food is the black egg (kuro-tamago), boiled in the hot springs. Black curry bread and black ice cream are also popular local treats.
There are several shops and eateries at Owakudani selling local specialties like black eggs, snacks, and souvenirs.
While the focus is on local specialties like black eggs, you can likely find some basic snacks or convenience food items. It's advisable to check menus or inquire at the eateries.
Black eggs are typically sold in packs of five and are quite affordable, making them a popular and accessible snack for visitors.
Reviews suggest the food, particularly the black eggs and ice cream, is enjoyable and a unique part of the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the steaming vents, the panoramic views of Mt. Fuji (weather permitting), and the unique volcanic landscape.
Yes, on clear days, Mt. Fuji is a prominent feature. The far corner of the parking lot offers a less crowded spot for great views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast volcanic landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on Mt. Fuji.
Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The famous black eggs are a fun and tasty treat that kids often enjoy, and the legend behind them adds an element of intrigue. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
You can easily spend time observing the steaming vents, trying the local black eggs, and soaking in the unique atmosphere at your own pace. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths; a wide-angle lens is ideal for the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can bring Mt. Fuji closer. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Owakudani's Volcanic Activity
One of the most iconic experiences here is trying the black eggs (kuro-tamago). These eggs are boiled in the natural hot springs, and the sulfur in the water turns their shells black. Local legend has it that eating one of these eggs adds seven years to your life!
It's important to note that Owakudani's volcanic activity means the Hakone Ropeway can sometimes be closed due to high concentrations of volcanic gases or strong winds. Always check the operational status before your visit to ensure you can access this incredible natural wonder.
Capturing the Scenery: Photography Tips for Owakudani
On clear days, the view of Mt. Fuji from Owakudani is absolutely breathtaking and a prime subject for photographers. To get the best shots, aim for early morning or late afternoon light, which can provide softer shadows and a more dramatic sky.
Some visitors suggest that the far corner of the parking lot offers a less crowded vantage point for capturing both Mt. Fuji and the volcanic valley. Remember to bring a telephoto lens if you want to zoom in on the details of Mt. Fuji or the distant scenery.Be prepared for the unique atmospheric conditions. The sulfurous air can sometimes create a haze, which can add to the mystique of the photos but might also affect clarity. Consider bringing a lens cloth to clean your lens from any potential volcanic particles. While photography is generally permitted, always be respectful of other visitors and any posted signage.
Navigating Hakone to Reach Owakudani
+1Many travelers opt for the Hakone Free Pass, which covers most of the transportation needed for the loop, including the ropeway. Purchasing this pass in advance, often through platforms like Klook, is highly recommended to save time and money, especially as lines for tickets can be long.
While driving is an option, it's often less convenient due to potential traffic congestion and parking challenges within the valley.
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