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STORIES

See & DoWinter in Hakone

Update:2019.12.17

During the winter months there is a “Winter Illumination Project” being held throughout the Hakone area. This is the second year this even will be held at different locations throughout the Hakone area. The them for this year`s festivities is “lanterns”. Winter light displays can be found at museums, hotels, parks, and other open spaces in the area until February 29, 2020.

Here is a list of locations to enjoy the wonderful winter lights to add a bit or warmth and brightness to your stay in the Hakone area during the winter months.

Hakone Floating Illuminations

The pirate ships on Lake Ashi will be brightly decorated and anchored off the Moto-Hakone pier close to the shore for a floating illuminated treat on the water. The calm waters and crisp winter nights make this a wonderful and rare experience.

Hakone Pirate Ship
Dates: 12/14, 12/22
Times:17:00~18:00

Hakone Leisure Boat
Dates:12/14, 12/21
Times:17:00~18:00

Hakone Outdoor Musuem

During the winter months the famed Hakone Outdoor Sculpture Museum holds it`s “Night Museum” event. Enjoy the changing perspectives and atmosphere of the outdoor sculptures at night. This is the third time this winter evening event will be held. During this special event the recently renewed Picasso Pavilion will also be open until
18:00.
Dates: 11/29 ~ 1/5
Times: 16:45~18:00 (last entrance 17:15)

Hakone Venetian Glass Art Museum

The Crystal Christmas Tree displayed at the Hakone Glass Art Museum in Sengokuhara is something that we hope everyone can see once in their lives. This is the only crystal christmas tree in the world and named “La Coppia”. Over 150,000 crystal glass beads make up these two Christmas trees and the brilliant and dazzling lights and colors get you in the winter spirit. During the day the sunshine dances off the tree and in the evening the tree is lit up in all its glory. This is a highlight of the Hakone area during the winter months!

Dates:11/1 ~ 12/25
Times:10:00~17:30 (last entrance 17:00)
12/12 &12/24 open until 19:30

Hakone Lalique Museum

A special exhibit of 5 chandeliers designed by the famous French glass artist Rene Lalique with be on display at this Sengokuhara museum. Enjoy the works of art throughout the rooms, but don`t forget to look up to enjoy some of the winter spirit.
Dates:
Times: 9:00~17:00 (last entrance 16:30)

Okada Museum

The light up of Raijin and Fuujin, the gods of lightning and wind is being held at the Okada Art Museum in Kowakidani. This impressive and massive work of art is lit up in the evening for dramatic effect and awe inspiring beauty. The gold highlights and dark contrasts are an amazing sight. Enjoy the art while warming your feet in a foot bath full of 100% flowing Hakone hot spring water. Admission is included with a purchase of the museum ticket, but if you would just like to visit the cafe, outdoor art display, and foot bath it is ¥500.

Dates: All Year Round
Times: 9:00 ~ 17:00

Komagatake Ropeway

At the peak of Komagatake Mountain is the the winter event called “Soratabi,” a “Journey through the Skies”. The winter months give visitors clear and crisp evening air to see the stars and the heavens. Take the Komagatake Ropeway up for this special event

Dates: 12/1 ~ 2/29 only on Saturdays
Times: 18:00~19:00

Ashinoko Terrace Italian Restaurant

This restaurant is on the shores of Lake Ashi with views of the lake, mountains, and passing ships. Enjoy the illumination by the lakeside from the warm fire of their new stove from the restaurant. Enjoy the beauty of winter from the warmth of the Terrace Restaurant while slow dining on delicious Italian food. Dinner is served from 17:00 and reservations can be made.
Dates:11/1~1/31
Times:10:30~20:00 (last order 19:30)

Little Prince Museum

With the theme of a “Romantic Starry Winter” the Little Prince Museum in Sengokuhara decorates their recreated French streets of the early 1900`s with lights and illuminations. This is a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit. At the center of the museum`s garden is a Christmas Tree display designed by a famous Japanese garden designer, Keiko Yoshiya. The theme for this year is “Flower”and the centerpiece is the 7 meter tall Flower Christmas Tree called “Flower Grand Tree”.

Dates:11/1~1/6
Times:9:00~18:00 (last entry 17:00)

Relax in the museum lounge as you overlook Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji in the background. Find a seat at the tea lounge and watch the colors of the sunset by candlelight. The museum is in Moto-Hakone and located across the street from the main bus stop.

Times: 9:00~17:00

Hakone Travel Ideas