Hakone travel guide
Best Selfie & Photo Spots in Hakone
The best Mount Fuji views in Hakone are from the Hakone Ropeway between Sounzan and Owakudani, from the Lake Ashi cruise approaching Motohakone, and behind the floating torii of Hakone Shrine. Fuji is most visible on clear winter mornings (October–February); in summer it’s often hidden by haze.
Photographing Hakone
Hakone’s shot is Mount Fuji — over the lake, through the ropeway window, behind the floating torii. Clear winter mornings are your best friend.
The best photo & selfie spots in Hakone
-
Hakone Shrine floating torii
The red gate in Lake Ashi with Fuji behind — the iconic frame.
Best time to shoot: Sunrise for calm water and no queue
Pro tip: Arrive before 8am; the selfie line at the gate gets long by mid-morning
Coordinates: 35.2047, 139.0252
-
Hakone Ropeway
Fuji framed in the gondola window above the valley.
Best time to shoot: Clear morning
Pro tip: Sit on the Fuji side (north) between Sounzan and Owakudani
Coordinates: 35.2444, 139.0360
-
Lake Ashi cruise
Fuji and the torii from the water.
Best time to shoot: First sailing of the day
Pro tip: Stand at the bow as you approach Motohakone
Coordinates: 35.2180, 139.0370
-
Owakudani
Steam rising off the volcanic valley with Fuji beyond.
Best time to shoot: Clear day, any time
Pro tip: Shoot the steam with a black egg in the foreground
Coordinates: 35.2435, 139.0197
Also in kanto
best selfie spots in Hakone — FAQs
Where is the best Mount Fuji view in Hakone?
The best Mount Fuji views in Hakone are from the Hakone Ropeway between Sounzan and Owakudani, from the Lake Ashi cruise approaching Motohakone, and behind the floating torii of Hakone Shrine. Fuji is most visible on clear winter mornings (October–February); in summer it’s often hidden by haze.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.