Hakone Shrine – Complete Guide for 2025 Travelers

08/25/202508/31/2025

Hakone Shrine sits on the shores of Lake Ashi in Kanagawa Prefecture, a destination visited by over 5 million people each year.

Known for its bright red torii gate standing in the lake, the shrine is one of the most photographed spots in Hakone.

Established in 757, it has been a center of worship for military leaders, travelers, and locals seeking safe journeys.

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Contents

Hakone Shrine Overview and Significance

Hakone Shrine was founded in 757 by the monk Mangan during the Nara period.

The shrine gained prominence when Minamoto no Yoritomo prayed here for victory before the Genpei War in the late 12th century.

Today, it is regarded as one of the most important shrines in the Kanto region, together with Kuzuryu Shrine and Hakone Mototsumiya on Mount Komagatake.

History and Spiritual Roots

The shrine originally stood on Mount Komagatake before being moved to its current lakeside location in 1667.

Its connection to the Tokugawa shogunate strengthened its role as a protector of travelers along the Tōkaidō Road.

Shrine Architecture and Symbolism

The honden (main sanctuary) follows the Gongen-zukuri style, a blend of architectural elements from the Heian and Kamakura periods.

Vermilion-lacquered structures contrast with the surrounding cedar forest, a visual motif unique to Hakone Shrine.

Power Spot Traditions

This tradition continues as modern visitors purchase omamori charms for safe travel, academic achievement, or business prosperity.

Samurai including Minamoto no Yoritomo and Tokugawa Ieyasu visited Hakone Shrine to pray for military success

Hakone Shrine Access and Location

Hakone Shrine is located in Moto-Hakone on the south shore of Lake Ashi.

Access routes differ depending on whether you start from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Odawara, or nearby tourist spots like the Hakone Checkpoint.

Below is a breakdown of the most practical transport methods.

Access Options

From Hakone-Yumoto Station: Hakone Tozan Bus (H or K line) to “Hakone Jinja Iriguchi” stop, ~40 minutes, then 10-minute walk.
From Motohakone Port: 10-minute walk from the sightseeing cruise pier.
From Odawara Station: ~50 minutes by Izu Hakone Bus.
By Car: Parking available near the shrine, ~30 minutes from Odawara.

Access Table

Scrollable

Departure Point	Travel Time	Transport Method
Hakone-Yumoto Station	~40 min	Bus + Walk
Motohakone Port	~10 min	Walk
Odawara Station	~50 min	Izu Hakone Bus
Tokyo (Shinjuku)	~2 hours	Odakyu Romancecar + Bus

Hakone Shrine Torii Gate on Lake Ashi

The “Heiwa-no-Torii” (Torii of Peace) was erected in 1952 to celebrate Japan’s postwar peace.

It quickly became a landmark where visitors line up to take photos directly on the lakeshore.

On clear days, the red gate frames Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji in the background.

Photo Opportunity & Symbolism

This lakeside torii stands partially submerged in water, a design rarely seen outside of shrines like Itsukushima in Hiroshima.

It serves as a symbolic gateway between the human and divine realms.

Composition Tips

Best lighting occurs before 9:00 AM or after 4:00 PM.

During peak seasons like Golden Week and autumn foliage, waiting times for a photo at the base of the gate can exceed 30 minutes.

Crowds and Timing

Arrive early morning on weekdays for the shortest lines.

During August’s Ashinoko Summer Festival, access to the torii area can be temporarily restricted for safety.

Hakone Shrine Grounds and Main Hall

Hakone Shrine’s grounds are surrounded by cedar trees some estimated at over 800 years old.

The stone stairway leading up to the honden has become one of Hakone’s signature images.

Several sub-shrines are also located within the complex, each with distinct legends and purposes.

Temple Layout & Design

The honden enshrines three deities: Ninigi-no-Mikoto, Konohanasakuya-hime, and Hoori-no-Mikoto, associated with prosperity and safe journeys.

The buildings are painted in vivid vermilion, a color symbolizing protection from evil spirits.

Nature Surroundings

The Yatate-no-Sugi cedar tree, over 1,200 years old, is linked to samurai archery practices.

Pilgrims historically shot arrows here as a ritual of prayer for victory.

Sub-Shrines & Sacred Spots

Ryujin Sui-sha offers sacred spring water that visitors often collect in bottles.

Kuzuryu Shrine New Hall, located within Hakone Shrine grounds, is dedicated to the nine-headed dragon deity of Lake Ashi.

Hakone Shrine Festivals and Rituals

Hakone Shrine hosts major festivals that highlight its long history and connection with Lake Ashi.

Visitors can witness fire festivals, processions, and rituals that are unique to the region. Planning your trip during these events provides rare cultural experiences.

Grand Festival – August 1

This annual ritual includes a Shinto ceremony, kagura dance, and offerings presented to the deities. It commemorates the founding of the shrine.

Ashinoko Summer Festival Week

Held in late July and early August, the festival features fireworks displays over Lake Ashi, with as many as 2,500 fireworks launched.

Lantern-lit boats and lakeside ceremonies attract thousands of spectators.

Daimyō Procession – November 3

Known as the Hakone Daimyō Gyoretsu, this reenactment features over 170 participants in Edo-period costumes walking along the Tōkaidō road.

Hakone Shrine Visitor Information

Before visiting Hakone Shrine, it is helpful to know its hours, fees, and facilities.

The shrine is open year-round, but certain buildings and offices follow specific schedules. Below is a practical guide for 2025 travelers.

Key Visitor Details

Shrine Grounds: Free entry, open daily.
Prayer Hours: 8:30–16:00.
Pilgrimage Office & Goshuin: 8:15–17:00, goshuin fee ~¥500.
Treasure Hall (Homotsuden): 9:00–16:00, admission ¥500 adults / ¥300 children.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths available near the main hall.

Bullet List: At-a-Glance Info

Opening Hours: Grounds accessible daily; offices close by 17:00.
Admission: Free (grounds); Homotsuden ~¥500.
Facilities: Restrooms, omamori shops, and goshuin stamp office.

Hakone Shrine Nearby Attractions

The location of Hakone Shrine makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Travelers often pair a visit with cultural sites, cruises, and museums. This allows for a full-day itinerary without long transfers.

Hakone Checkpoint (Sekisho): Restored Edo-period checkpoint with exhibitions on travel regulations.
Lake Ashi Cruise: Pirate ship-style sightseeing boats depart from Motohakone, offering views of the torii gate.
Hakone Ropeway & Ōwakudani: Cable car ride with panoramic views of volcanic steam vents.
Hakone Open-Air Museum: Japan’s first outdoor museum featuring works by Picasso, Henry Moore, and Taro Okamoto.

FAQ About Hakone Shrine

What time does Hakone Shrine open?: The shrine grounds are open at all times, while the offices are open daily from 8:15 am to 5:00 pm.
Is there an entrance fee?: There is no fee to enter the shrine grounds, but admission to the Treasure Hall costs 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children.
How long does a visit take?: A typical visit to the shrine takes about one to one and a half hours, and if you include the Treasure Hall and nearby attractions, it can take over two hours.
Can I walk from Hakone Checkpoint?: Yes, Hakone Shrine is about a 15-minute walk from Hakone Checkpoint.
Is the shrine stroller-friendly?: The main approach has several steps, but strollers can be used more easily if you enter through the side entrance.
Are wedding photos allowed?: Yes, wedding photography is permitted, but you need to get prior permission from the shrine office.
Does the shrine sell omamori for travel safety?: Yes, the shrine offers omamori (protective charms) for travel safety, as well as for love, business, and other purposes.
Are English guides available?: The shrine has limited English signage, but several local tour companies provide guided visits in English.