Ashigarashimo is a district that encompasses the wild mountains of HakoneOpens in a new window, Yugawara’s famous hot springs and the Manazuru Peninsula. Find a wide selection of enthralling museums, wander through meticulously kept gardens or discover Ashigarashimo’s natural beauty with scenic railways, cable cars and charter boats.
The region’s most famous area is Hakone, known for its majestic mountain ranges, dense forests, scenic lakes and museums. Hakone has a convenient network of scenic transportation options that traverse the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. You’ll see views of awe-inspiring Mount Fuji, vast plumes of steam from the volcanic sulphur pits of Owakudani and beautiful Japanese native forest from your carriage. While in Hakone, don’t miss a trip to the Hakone Open Air MuseumOpens in a new window, the Hakone Art Museum and the serene Hakone ShrineOpens in a new window. Sail around the tranquil Lake AshiOpens in a new window aboard a pirate-themed ship or visit some of the area’s beautifully landscaped gardens.
Yugawara is an ancient onsen (Japanese hot spring) region, with a town of the same name. It’s known for being a health and spa resort with mild weather, stunning Sagami Bay views and soothing waters. Stay in a traditional onsen ryokan (inn) and let the steaming waters relieve any aches. A good time to visit Yugawara is in spring, in order to experience the Yukake Matsuri Festival and celebrate the area’s healing onsen.
In Ashigarashimo’s Manazuru area, you can explore a stunning coastline along the “Japanese Riviera” and take in views of the cape’s iconic headland, Mitsuishi, as well as the islands Oshima and Hatsu-shima. Water sports, including fishing and diving, are popular activities in this seaside region. Explore the wooded reserve of Manazuru Nature Park and find the Nakagawa Kazumasa Art Museum, which showcases artworks by the famous local painter of the same name.
Ashigarashimo is a region for all seasons. In winter, make sure to experience an unforgettable trip to the onsen as snowflakes fall around you. Cherry blossoms bloom throughout early spring and the maple tree leaves become ablaze with color in the fall. Summers can be humid, however. Most destinations can be reached within 3 hours by rail from TokyoOpens in a new window. Try freshly caught sea bream and octopus in Manazuru or tofu made with local springwater in Hakone.