Owakudani Valley Hakone
Explore a steaming volcanic valley with sulfurous hot springs and iconic black eggs, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better Fuji views
Owakudani Valley Hakone
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better Fuji views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a steaming volcanic valley with sulfurous hot springs and iconic black eggs, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
"The views of the sulphur mines and mt Fuji are simply breathtaking."
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Scent
The volcanic fumes are part of the experience! If sensitive, consider a mask.
🥚 Lucky Black Eggs
Try the famous Kuro-Tamago; legend says they add 7 years to your life!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 322 reviews
Type
Transit station
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Owakudani Volcanic Valley
Hakone
Walk amidst steaming vents and sulfurous hot springs in this active volcanic wonderland. Feel the earth's power!
Hakone Ropeway
Sounzan to Togendai
Soar over the volcanic landscape with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding mountains.
Kuro-Tamago (Black Eggs)
Owakudani Station
Savor these unique eggs boiled in hot springs, said to add seven years to your life!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Volcanic Views (and Smells!)
Timing is Key for Fuji Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Scent
The volcanic fumes are part of the experience! If sensitive, consider a mask.
🥚 Lucky Black Eggs
Try the famous Kuro-Tamago; legend says they add 7 years to your life! 
📸 Mt. Fuji Photo Ops
On clear days, the views of Mt. Fuji are spectacular. Aim for morning for best light.
🚠 Ropeway for Views
The Hakone Ropeway offers unparalleled views, but avoid if you have a fear of heights.
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Scent
The volcanic fumes are part of the experience! If sensitive, consider a mask.
🥚 Lucky Black Eggs
Try the famous Kuro-Tamago; legend says they add 7 years to your life!
📸 Mt. Fuji Photo Ops
On clear days, the views of Mt. Fuji are spectacular. Aim for morning for best light.
🚠 Ropeway for Views
The Hakone Ropeway offers unparalleled views, but avoid if you have a fear of heights.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the volcanic area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Owakudani is praised for its unique volcanic landscape and the iconic Hakone Ropeway offering stunning views, especially of Mt. Fuji. The legendary black eggs are a must-try novelty. However, some find it overrated and crowded, with the sulfurous smell being a point of contention for a few.
"Are you acrophobic? You're gonna hate the Hakone Ropeway, which is all the more reason why you've just gotta experience it!
Start your ascent at the Sounzan Station, climbing above the cloud layer to arrive at Owakudani station, a waypoint where you can purchase such novelties as charcoal ice cream, and tasty, slightly sulfurous eggs whose shells have carbonized to a jet black after being boiled in volcanic hot spring water; they say eating one adds seven years to your life! If you're afraid of heights, you probably need to add back seven years, since the ascent probably shaved a few off, eh?
When you're ready, the ropeway continues on, descending and swaying gently as it makes its way towards its terminus at Togendai station, on the shore of Lake Ashi. Stop, shop, catch your breath, grab some food at one of the many local, world-class restaurants, and when you're ready, you can board a replica pirate ship (of all things!) to continue your journey. Hopefully you're not a limnophobe or thalassoharpaxophobe as well!
Along the way, you'll encounter sweeping, gorgeous views of Mt. Fuji, volcanic pools, ancient forests, picturesque mountain towns, gorgeous bodies of water and, more than likely, other tourists, cowering and squealing with fear and trepidation, snapping skittish selfies while trying to maintain their balance and keep their nauseated stomachs in check. Fun for the whole family!"
Jason Van Camp
"Well-maintained station with a restaurant and convenience store all in one place. I loved the serenity of the location."
Tanzim Khan
"Highly overrated in it’s entirety. The landscape is small and consists almost entirely of tree covered hills. Trains etc run with the usual Japanese efficiency. Very crowded even midweek at the end of September."
Andrew Riley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, and finally the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani. +1
Yes, you can drive to Owakudani Station, but you'll miss the incredible views from the Hakone Ropeway. Parking is available.
While buses cover many Hakone attractions, they don't typically reach Owakudani directly. The Hakone Ropeway is the primary access.
The Hakone Loop is a popular sightseeing route that uses various modes of transport, including trains, cable cars, ropeways, and boats, to explore the region's attractions, including Owakudani. +2
The Hakone Free Pass covers most transportation within Hakone, including the Hakone Ropeway, making it a cost-effective option for exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Owakudani itself is generally free, but you will need to purchase tickets for the Hakone Ropeway to access it.
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 information.
The cost of the Hakone Ropeway varies depending on your starting and ending points. The Hakone Free Pass often includes this.
Tickets for the Hakone Ropeway can typically be purchased at the stations. If you have the Hakone Free Pass, it covers your ride.
There are generally no age restrictions for the Hakone Ropeway, but individuals with severe acrophobia or certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Owakudani, you can witness volcanic activity, smell the sulfurous fumes, try the famous black eggs, and enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
These are eggs boiled in the natural hot springs, turning their shells black due to the sulfur content. They are a local delicacy and said to prolong life.
Owakudani is considered safe for visitors, with designated viewing areas and safety measures in place. However, volcanic activity can sometimes lead to temporary closures.
The distinct smell is due to the sulfurous gases released from the volcanic hot springs, often described as a rotten egg smell.
On a clear day, you can see stunning views of Mt. Fuji, the surrounding mountains, and sometimes even the Pacific Ocean.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hakone Ropeway offers incredible aerial shots. Look for viewpoints overlooking the steaming vents and, of course, Mt. Fuji.
Early mornings or late afternoons on clear days usually provide the best light and visibility for photographing Mt. Fuji.
Yes, you can safely photograph the steaming vents and hot springs from designated viewing areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscape and Mt. Fuji. A telephoto lens can be useful for closer shots of the vents.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit