Hakone Checkpoint (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone Checkpoint?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enter free on weekends, can stamp faux passports and view weapons and jail cells, yet displays are mostly static and there are no play areas, so plan for a brief, guided visit.
Positives:
- Kids go free on weekends: Elementary and junior-high children enter free on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays.
- Open outdoor grounds: No admission fee to stroll outside—plenty of space for kids to explore under the gates.
Challenges:
- Narrow indoor corridors: Exhibition hall corridors are tight and can be crowded; avoid peak hours if using a stroller.
- No changing or nursing rooms: There are no dedicated baby-care facilities; use the multipurpose toilet for diaper changes.
What is Hakone Checkpoint?
- An Edo-period security post regulating travel and commerce along the historic Tokaido highway
- A meticulously reconstructed complex featuring wooden gates, guardhouses, jails and official notice boards
- A heritage site preserving Tokugawa shogunate military architecture and administrative facilities
What is so special about Hakone Checkpoint for with kids?
- Interactive Edo-period checkpoint with exhibits and video.
- Kids collect a replica wooden passport stamp.
- Wide outdoor grounds under historic wooden gates.
- Free children’s entry on weekends.
- Nearby tea house offers traditional amazake and sweets.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours gives time to explore the exhibition hall, stroll the grounds, and enjoy tea without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone Checkpoint
Hakone Sekisho Exhibition Hall:
See Edo-era passports, armor, weapons and a short history video.
Tip: Pick up a free guide leaflet in English at the entrance to help kids follow the exhibits.
Reconstructed Wooden Gates:
Walk under the restored checkpoint gates and visit the lookout tower.
Tip: Let kids run safely under the gates while you point out the old notice boards (kosatsu).
Replica Passport Stamp:
Collect a wooden pass token and ink stamp at the Tsuko-Tegata display.
Tip: Show children how travelers stamped their passes in Edo times and let them try the replica stamp.
Amasake Chaya Tea House:
Try warm amazake rice drink and light sweets near the checkpoint.
Tip: Order a small amazake for each child to warm up; share local snacks to keep costs low.
Tabimonogatari-kan Souvenir Shop:
Browse crafts, black-egg souvenirs and small snacks.
Tip: Give each child a small budget to pick a snack or toy under ¥500.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone Checkpoint
- Visit early: Arrive at opening (9:00) to avoid crowds and let kids explore more freely.
- Use Hakone Free Pass: Get discounted entry (¥400/adult, ¥150/child) and free transport on local buses and boats.
Reviews of Hakone Checkpoint
j _cstnrs
A fascinating glimpse into Japan’s history! Hakone Checkpoint is a well-preserved historical site that gives you insight into the Edo period’s travel and security system. The museum and reconstructed buildings are informative and engaging, with displays that bring history to life. The location by Lake Ashi offers beautiful views, making it both educational and scenic. Perfect for history enthusias...
M Ortiz (Epicurean Explorer Rater)
Visited Hakone Checkpoint and really enjoyed stepping back in time! The reconstructed gates and guardhouses are super well done, and the small museum has lots of interesting historical details. The lookout point offers amazing views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. Easy to walk around and the staff are friendly. A great stop if you’re exploring Hakone—history buffs and casual visitors a...
Abbott Hsu
A well organized historical fortress to secure this district. You can see lots of heritage stuffs and designated layout and artwork here. Good to take a look at this place after having the pirate boat cruising. Enjoy.
zues lieey
Its important as tourist area before and still famous among locals and foreign tourist till now. Good place for photos, having meals, and shop some local souvenirs. Suitable for any group size or FIT since its open area for everyone to come and enjoy. Promised amazing panoramic view ...Worth visit
Viveqa Satchithananthan
One of the best places in my overall Japan trip. The detailed rebuilt checkpoint buildings are amazing. The woodworking detail and the preservation is something to be proud of. The staffs are very helpful in explaining and the view is stunning!
When is the best time to visit Hakone Checkpoint (Hakone, Japan)?
In spring, cherry blossoms line the path to the gates. In autumn, maple and ginkgo leaves turn vivid around the checkpoint. In winter, the site closes at 16:30—wear layers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (¥500 ×2) | JPY 1,000 |
| Child admission (¥250 ×2) | JPY 500 |
| Souvenirs & snacks | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,500 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Hakone Checkpoint
Address: 1番地 Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0521, Japan
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About Hakone Checkpoint
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 460-83-663510 BEST nearby Activities
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