2026 Autumn Leaves at Lake Ashi: A Full-Day Course

Spend a day enjoying the interplay of autumn leaves and Mt. Fuji at Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖), one of the areas in Hakone where autumn arrives earliest. The broadleaf trees around the lakeshore are typically at their best from early to mid November. The scenery formed by the pirate ship crossing the lake, the autumn leaves, and Mt. Fuji towering beyond is one of the defining views of autumn in Hakone. Strolling the lakeshore is free, and the prefectural Onshi Hakone Park (恩賜箱根公園) on the south shore also has free admission. The hilltop park, with its sweeping view of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, is a perfect spot for a family photo. In the morning, pay your respects at Hakone Shrine (箱根神社), known for its vermilion torii gate, then follow the cedar-lined approach and lakeshore path to Onshi Hakone Park. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely autumn foliage walk along the lakeshore at Moto-Hakone (元箱根). Ride the pirate ship or a sightseeing boat (extra fee) to view the coloring mountains from the water as well. A course for spending a crisp late-autumn day together with the lake.