The Mt. Kintoki Course is one of the most popular in Hakone because of the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji from its peak and views of nature. A roundtrip hike takes 3-4 hours to complete the one-way 6km distance. The difficulty level is considered moderate. Wear comfortable shoes because there are steep parts, rocky sections, and some areas can become slippery. There will be a temperature difference between the base and peak. The closest public transportation point is the Kintoki-jinjya-iriguchi Bus Stop.
There is a 360 degree view of the Hakone area which includes views of Mt. Fuji, the steaming volcanic vents of Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and the Sengokuhara highlands. There are two tea houses at the peak that offer refreshments, noodles, and snacks. Opening times vary. It is recommended to bring water and snacks. Restrooms are available at the start of the trail and there is a toilet at the peak with a charge of ¥100. The views of Mt. Fuji are best in the early morning and colder months of the year.
Mt. Kintoki is also closely connected to the famous Japanese folktale of Kintaro. The tale of Kintaro is known throughout Japan and he is closely associated with Children’s Day on May 5th. The Kintaro story is of a boy who is raised in the mountains with the animals and grows to become a well known samurai. According to legend, Kintaro was raised on this mountain and there are interesting sites to see along the way connected to him. The trail will start at a shrine which commemorates his spirit. Along the trail there is a large rock that is said to have been his home for a short time. Kintaro is often pictured as a young boy with an ax and there is a large ax at the top of Mt. Kintoki in honor of him.
Fuji View Points
Mt. Fuji is located very close to Hakone. There are wonderful views of the famous mountain from the Hakone area. The high peaks surrounding Hakone sometimes block views, but they can also give some of the best. The Mt. Fuji View Course follows the outer volcanic rim that circles Hakone giving you some of the best views of Mt. Fuji. There are different entry and exit points to this course. You can make a personalized hike depending on your time and difficulty levels.
The most famous peak to view Mt. Fuji is from Mt. Kintoki (1212m) in the Sengokuhara highlands of Hakone. You can start this hike from the base of Mt. Kintoki or reach it on the volcanic rim trail. This is a popular route on a mountain closely tied to the famous Japanese folktale, Kintaro. Kintaro is a story known throughout Japan and is featured in many children’s books and songs. Kintaro is the story of a boy, Sakata Kintoki, raised in the mountains with animals that grows to become a loyal and strong samurai. On the path, there are some interesting places.
The shrine at the base of Mt. Kintoki is associated with Kintaro, children, and good health. At the annual shrine festival on May 5th (a national holiday called Children’s Day) a children’s sumo match is held as part of the celebrations.
Along the way there is a large rock that has been split down the center. According to legend this rock was the home to Kintaro and his mother for a short time.
At the top of Mt. Kintoki are a few mountain huts that serve refreshments and light food. The views will include Mt. Fuji, the steaming volcanic vents of Owakudani, and Lake Ashi. It is suggested to wear good shoes as some parts of the trail may become slippery. There is free parking available and the closest public access is the Kintoki-jinja-iriguchi bus stop.
