Owakudani (大涌谷) is a volcanic valley located in the Hakone area of Japan. It is known for its unique landscape, which includes bubbling sulfur vents, hot springs, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visitors to Owakudani can take a cable car up the mountain from the town of Sounzan, where they will arrive at the first station. From there, visitors can take a walking trail through the valley, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi.
One of the highlights of Owakudani is its bubbling sulfur vents, which release steam and sulfur gases into the air, creating a distinct and pungent smell. Visitors can also see boiling hot springs, which are used to cook local delicacies such as eggs boiled in the sulfuric waters, resulting in blackened shells.
Another attraction at Owakudani is the views of Mount Fuji, which can be seen on clear days from various points along the trail. The area is also known for its autumn foliage, which attracts many visitors in the fall.
Getting there
From Hakone Yumoto Station to Owakudani:
| Train and Ropeway | Hakone Yumoto Station ↓ Hakone Tozan Railway ↓ 37 minutes (6 stops) Gora Station ↓ Walk about 6 minutes ↓ Koen-shita Station ↓ Ueno-Tokyo Line (Ito) ↓ 15 minutes (6 stops) Sounzan Station ↓ Hakone Ropeway ↓ 15 minutes (Nonstop) Owakudani (Cost 2,390 yen) |