Hakone Shrine: The Red Torii Standing in Lake Ashi
How to visit Hakone Shrine and its famous lakeside torii: the cedar-lined approach, the photo queue, Lake Ashi cruises and getting there.
Quick answer
- What it is: an ancient Shinto shrine on the shore of Lake Ashi in Hakone.
- Famous for: the Torii of Peace, a red gate standing in the lake.
- Entry: free.
- Time needed: 1 hour, or a full day with the rest of the Hakone loop.
- Best time: early morning, before the photo queue grows.
At the edge of Lake Ashi, a bright red torii stands in the water, framed by green forest and, on clear days, Mount Fuji beyond the lake. It has become one of the most photographed sights near Tokyo.
Why Hakone Shrine is a wonder
By tradition, Hakone Shrine was founded in the 8th century, and samurai leaders, including Minamoto no Yoritomo, came here to pray for victory.
Its main buildings sit in a forest of huge cedars, reached by stone steps lined with lanterns. The atmosphere is calm and mossy, even when the lakeshore is busy.
The Torii of Peace
The lakeside gate, the Heiwa no Torii, was built in 1952. Visitors queue to stand beneath it for a photo with the lake behind.
For a different view, take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi. The boats pass close to the shore, and you can see the torii from the water.
Around Lake Ashi
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Torii of Peace | The red gate in the lake | 20 minutes plus the queue |
| Main shrine | Halls among giant cedars | 30 minutes |
| Lake Ashi cruise | Lake and mountain views, sometimes Mount Fuji | 25 minutes |
| Owakudani | A volcanic valley with steaming vents | 1 hour |
| Hakone Ropeway | A cable car over the volcanic slopes | 30 minutes |
When to go
- Early morning: the shortest queue at the lakeside torii.
- Winter: the clearest views of Mount Fuji.
- Autumn: red leaves around the lake in November.
- Weekdays: far quieter than weekends.
Our tip: Arrive before 8am if you want a photo under the torii without a long wait. Then walk up to the main shrine through the cedars before the crowds arrive.
Getting there
- From Tokyo: take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, about 1.5 hours.
- To the shrine: buses run from Hakone-Yumoto to Moto-Hakone in about 40 minutes, then it is a 10 minute walk.
- Hakone loop: combine trains, cable cars, the ropeway and the lake cruise with a Hakone Free Pass.
Shrine etiquette
- Wait your turn in the photo queue and keep photos short.
- Bow before passing through the torii.
- Do not climb on the torii or wade into the lake.
- Keep your voice down near the main shrine.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hakone Shrine free?
Yes. There is no fee to visit the shrine or the lakeside torii.
How long is the queue for the Hakone Shrine torii?
It can be over an hour at busy times. Arrive early in the morning for a shorter wait.
Can you see Mount Fuji from Hakone Shrine?
On clear days you can see Mount Fuji from the lake, especially in winter.
How do you get to Hakone Shrine from Tokyo?
Take the Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto, then a bus to Moto-Hakone.
Gion
Lantern-lit wooden teahouses where geiko and maiko still hurry to evening appointments.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.