2026 Full-Day Course: Autumn Leaves in Moto-Hakone

Spend a day taking in both autumn leaves and Mt. Fuji at Moto-Hakone (元箱根), on the southern shore of Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖). The best viewing period is usually from early to mid November. Moto-Hakone is recommended by the Hakone Town Tourist Association as the best spot to see autumn foliage and Mt. Fuji together, besides strolling the lakeshore, you can also admire the fall colors from the water aboard a pirate ship or swan boat. Access is by bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station (箱根湯本駅), about 30 to 38 minutes to the 'Moto-Hakone-ko' stop. Along the way is Hakone Shrine (箱根神社), which stands on the shore of Lake Ashi, where the vermilion shrine buildings, cedar grove, and colorful trees create a stunning contrast. The flexibility to decide as a family whether to ride a boat or relax by the lake is another appeal. This course covers Hakone's quintessential autumn scenery at a relaxed, easy pace.