Sengokuhara Pampas Grass
Vast fields of golden pampas grass creating a mesmerizing, dreamlike landscape in Hakone.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hues, best scenery
Sengokuhara Pampas Grass
Best Time
Golden hues, best scenery

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast fields of golden pampas grass creating a mesmerizing, dreamlike landscape in Hakone.
"This stunning trail takes you through the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, one of Hakone’s most scenic natural landscapes."
🎯 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking golden light and fewer people .
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy shoes for the gravel path and slight incline. No sandals!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Pampas Grass Fields
Sengokuhara, Hakone
Vast fields of golden pampas grass swaying in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing, dreamlike landscape.

Scenic Walking Trail
Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields
An easy, well-maintained path offering breathtaking views of the mountains and golden grass.

Photography Paradise
Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields
The golden hues and vast landscape make it an ideal spot for capturing stunning, memorable photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Pampas Grass
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking golden light and fewer people.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy shoes for the gravel path and slight incline. No sandals!
🌬️ Windbreaker Recommended
The fields can get breezy, so bring a light jacket for comfort.
📸 Capture the Beauty
This spot is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking golden light and fewer people.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Wear sturdy shoes for the gravel path and slight incline. No sandals!
🌬️ Windbreaker Recommended
The fields can get breezy, so bring a light jacket for comfort.
📸 Capture the Beauty
This spot is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours.
🐶 Cute Dog Encounters
You might meet a friendly dog along the path!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning golden beauty of the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, especially during autumn. It's praised as a free, scenic attraction offering a peaceful escape and excellent photo opportunities. Some note it can get crowded, and comfortable footwear is essential due to the gravel path.
"Pretty scenic short route (probably about 30min return if you take your time)
It was a dry, sunny day so not slippery at all. The route itself is slightly steep but nothing too challenging. Strollers definitely not recommended"
Jeff Wong
"One the best free attractions in Hakone better than some paid ones. The grass field from autumn until March is quite beautiful with a golden hour gotten it's expanse. Have a jacket at hand as the place gets windy. Also wear comfortable shoes as it is a gravel path with a bit of an incline."
Saurabh
"This stunning trail takes you through the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, one of Hakone’s most scenic natural landscapes. The path gently ascends through rolling hills covered in golden pampas grass, creating a mesmerizing sea of swaying stalks that change color with the seasons—from lush green in summer to golden hues in autumn and winter.
The trail itself is relatively easy, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Walking along the well-maintained path, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, especially on clear days when the sky provides a striking contrast to the golden grass. The peaceful atmosphere makes this an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature.
Best time to visit: Autumn (September–November) offers the most dramatic golden landscapes, but the trail is beautiful year-round.
Tips:
• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as the path has a slight incline.
• Bring a light jacket, as it can get windy.
If you’re in Hakone, this trail is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers!"
Pakorn Manorom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fields are easily accessible in Hakone. Many visitors arrive via the Hakone Tozan Railway and then take a bus to the Sengokuhara area. It's often located across from convenience stores like Lawson, making it easy to find.
Yes, the fields are quite well-known and generally easy to locate, often situated across from landmarks like Lawson convenience stores.
Absolutely! Hakone is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, and the pampas grass fields are a key attraction within Hakone.
Consider using the Hakone Free Pass for convenient travel on various modes of transport within Hakone, including buses that will take you near the fields.
Bus routes serving the Sengokuhara area are frequent. Check local Hakone Tozan Bus schedules for routes that stop near the pampas grass fields.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields are a free attraction, making them one of Hakone's best value experiences.
The fields are an outdoor natural attraction and are generally accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Since there is no entrance fee, no advance booking is required to visit the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields.
As a natural area, visitors are asked to stay on marked paths and respect the environment. Avoid picking the grass.
The fields are accessible year-round, but the visual appeal is most striking during the autumn months when the grass turns golden.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise and before sunset provides the most magical lighting for photography, creating a warm glow on the grass.
Expect stunning panoramic shots of rolling hills covered in golden pampas grass, with potential mountain backdrops. It's a very picturesque and romantic setting.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local guidelines for Hakone or the specific area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the fields. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant mountain views. A tripod can help with low-light photography during golden hours.
Yes, even on cloudy days, the texture and color of the pampas grass can be beautiful. The soft, diffused light can create a more serene atmosphere.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main scenic route is a short walk, likely around 30 minutes return if you take your time and stop for photos.
No, the path is gravelly with inclines and uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
The trail is a gravel path with a slight incline. It's generally easy to navigate but requires comfortable footwear.
While the fields themselves are natural, there are often convenience stores and other amenities in the surrounding Sengokuhara area.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in the panoramic views, and capture the beauty through photography. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for relaxation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with other family-friendly attractions in Hakone, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which features interactive sculptures, or a scenic boat ride on Lake Ashi. Many ryokans in the area also offer family rooms and onsen facilities, providing a comfortable and relaxing stay for families.
📸 Photographers' Delight
For those looking to capture unique shots, consider visiting during different seasons to see the grass in its various stages of growth – from lush green in summer to its iconic golden hue in autumn. The relatively easy trail allows photographers to move around and find the best vantage points without strenuous effort. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to incorporate aerial shots.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Many solo travelers in Hakone also enjoy the experience of staying in a traditional ryokan, which can be a great way to immerse oneself in Japanese culture. The area's onsen are also ideal for solo relaxation. Consider exploring other Hakone attractions like museums or taking a scenic cruise to round out your solo adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Pampas Grass Season
While autumn is the peak season, the fields offer a different charm throughout the year. In summer, the grass is a lush green, providing a vibrant backdrop. The fields are also intentionally burned off each March to prevent overgrowth and promote new growth, a practice that helps maintain the health and beauty of the ecosystem. This cycle ensures that the fields remain a dynamic and captivating natural attraction.
For the best experience, timing your visit is crucial. Early mornings and late afternoons, particularly during the autumn months, offer the most dramatic lighting and a more serene atmosphere, away from the midday crowds. The gentle incline of the walking path allows for an enjoyable exploration, making it accessible for most visitors looking to immerse themselves in this unique natural wonder.
Experiencing Hakone Beyond the Grass Fields
For those interested in art and culture, Hakone boasts numerous museums, including the Pola Museum of Art and the Hakone Museum of Art, which showcase a diverse range of Japanese and Western art. The region's natural beauty is further enhanced by its accessibility to Mount Fuji, offering potential views on clear days. This makes Hakone a versatile destination, catering to nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil escape.
When planning your itinerary, consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass. This pass offers unlimited travel on most transportation within Hakone, including buses, trains, cable cars, ropeways, and even the pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi. It's an economical and convenient way to explore the diverse attractions Hakone has to offer, ensuring you can easily reach the pampas grass fields and other points of interest.
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