Hakone-en (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Hakone-en?
What makes it 76% Baby-Friendly: Under-4s ride ropeway and boats free, and plaza provides nursing room, diaper tables and stroller rental; yet steep shrine paths and age limits at zoo or bounce area reduce suitable shared activities.
Positives:
- Free baby entry & facilities: Children under 4 enter ropeway, aquarium, and park free. Nursing rooms and stroller rentals on site.
- Stroller-friendly routes: Flat paths around the lake and to the shrine suit strollers for easy family strolls.
Challenges:
- Limited stroller rentals: Only a few strollers available; arrive early to secure one.
- Weather exposure: Open areas have little shade or windbreaks; pack sun protection and warm layers.
What is Hakone-en?
- A lakeside resort complex operated by Prince Hotels on the shores of Lake Ashinoko in Hakone.
- Hosts Japan’s highest-altitude aquarium, extensive woodland and wetland botanical gardens, and a multi-level shopping plaza.
- Serves as the base station for the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, connecting the resort grounds to the mountain summit.
What is so special about Hakone-en for with baby?
- Free entry for baby under 4 on key attractions
- Stroller-friendly paths and on-site nursing facilities
- Scenic ropeway ride with Mt. Fuji views and complimentary baby access
- Interactive aquarium visit with seals and penguins
- Grassy lawn picnics and lakeside strolls perfect for family breaks
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Covers ropeway, aquarium, lakeside stroll, and breaks for feeding and naps.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Hakone-en
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway:
Ride 7 minutes up Mt. Komagatake for panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashinoko, and the Izu Islands.
Tip: Board early to avoid queues; baby rides free when accompanied by parents.
Hakone-en Aquarium:
See Baikal seals, penguins, and freshwater fish at Japan’s highest-altitude aquarium.
Tip: Ask staff for stroller access and use the on-site nursing room in the aquarium.
Lakeside Path & Mototsumiya Shrine:
Stroll flat, paved paths along Lake Ashinoko to a small mountain shrine.
Tip: Use the stroller-friendly route and plan a feeding break on the window benches by the shore.
Fuji Ashinoko Panorama Park Lawn:
Relax on wide grassy lawns with unobstructed Mt. Fuji views.
Tip: Pick up fresh bread at the hotel bakery and set up a picnic for baby’s nap time.
Shopping Plaza Nursing Room & Stroller Rental:
Find free diaper-changing tables, private nursing booths, and stroller rentals.
Tip: Rent a stroller at the aquarium desk first thing and use the Nursing Room on 2F of the plaza.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone-en
- Early start: Begin at ropeway opening to avoid lines and catch the clearest views of Mt. Fuji.
- Picnic prep: Buy items from the hotel bakery first, then head to the Panorama Park lawn before baby’s nap.
Reviews of Hakone-en
Jasper
Beautiful, but I do *not* recommend the ropeway when its cloudy or raining. You will not be able to see anything.
s vivekananda
This botanical garden is set by the lake and you can be lots of blooms on trees, and on the ground especially in spring. Mostly level terrain but fair bit of walking. Wear comfy shoes, hat, sunscreen, take water. Great place for photography. No entry fees. Cable car station to go up the hill is nearby.
Nikerria Buxton
Life everything about this place!!! Beautiful views, good food, and great for souvenir shopping ♥️
Home Kitchen
Small beautiful place;Not a lotto do. Things that you can do here; take the ropeway to the top station to see Mount Fuji which may or may not be in function due to wind etc,A nice walk to the sea side,visit restaurants or stores for souvenirs or visit museum or aquarium or even take the motor boat with the bus there(another foam of enjoying the sea without the ship)etc. Just bear in mind the last ...
J
A great outdoor experience. From the boat tour to the cable car ride up the mountain I'm not sure which was more stunning to experience. I would recommend doing the cable car ride up to explore and hike up a bit. Then do the boat tour as you relax on the lake and enjoy the ride, scenery, and breeze of the waters.
When is the best time to visit Hakone-en (Hakone, Japan)?
Autumn (late Oct–mid Nov) brings colorful leaves around Lake Ashinoko. Spring offers mild weather and clear views. In summer, use shade and sun protection. Winter can be windy and cold; dress baby in layers.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Komagatake Ropeway (2 adults) | JPY 3,600 |
| Aquarium admission (2 adults) | JPY 3,000 |
| Bakery snacks | JPY 1,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,600 |
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-en
Address: 139 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
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About Hakone-en
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
+81 460-83-115110 BEST nearby Activities
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