Hakone Attractions

Hakone was an important checkpoint to control traffic along the highway which linked Tokyo with Kyoto during the Edo period. The checkpoint guardhouse was built in 1619 and eventually demolished.

Hakone Checkpoint was reconstructed and completed in 2007. It now features gates, fence, housing for officers and foot soldiers, a prison chamber and lookout tower.

Hakone Detached Palace Garden is located near Hakone Checkpoint. The palace served as a summer home for the Imperial Family, and was eventually opened to the public. The small palace building is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Visitors will enjoy the walking trails and scenic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum opened in 1969 and was the first open-air art museum in Japan. Displays include over 100 masterpieces set against a natural background. The collection features over 300 works by Picasso such as pottery, paintings, prints, and sculptures.