Hakone-en (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone-en?
What makes it 87% Kids-Friendly: Kids can pet animals, watch seal shows, jump in Fuwafuwa inflatables, join pottery classes and run on the huge lawn; child fares, toilets and level walkways keep supervision practical for parents.
Positives:
- Kid-friendly facilities: Rental strollers and nursing rooms in the plaza make it easy to care for toddlers.
- Variety of activities: Options range from petting animals to boat rides, keeping both younger and older kids engaged.
Challenges:
- Age and height limits: Fuwafuwa Kids Land and some workshops enforce strict age or height rules.
- Weather changes: Summit area can be windy and cold—check forecast and bring extra 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 kids?
- A ropeway ride to Mt. Komagatake offers spectacular Mt. Fuji views
- Hands-on fun at the petting zoo and bouncy-house area
- Interactive marine life exhibits and feeding shows at the aquarium
- Pirate-ship cruises on Lake Ashinoko delight kids of all ages
- Convenient child-care facilities like strollers and nursing rooms
Recommended visit duration: 1 day
Why 1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: A full day lets you enjoy the ropeway, zoo, aquarium, boat cruise and play areas at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone-en
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway:
Take the ropeway to Mt. Komagatake summit for panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashinoko.
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and dress in layers—summit is often cooler.
Petting Zoo “Hug Me!”:
Meet ponies, capybara, cats and dogs in a safe, enclosed space.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance on busy weekends to secure your spot.
Hakone-en Aquarium:
Explore freshwater and marine tanks, plus seal and penguin feeding shows.
Tip: Attend the 11:00 or 13:00 seal show; arrive 10 minutes early for a front row view.
Pirate-style Lake Ashinoko Cruise:
Board a pirate-themed sightseeing boat around Lake Ashinoko with onboard snacks.
Tip: Sit on the deck side for unobstructed lake and mountain views.
Fuwafuwa Kids Land:
Jump and play in a foam-filled bouncy house suited for children.
Tip: Bring socks—some parks require them and rentals may not be available.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone-en
- Buy combo tickets: Save time and money by purchasing ropeway and boat tickets together at the plaza.
- Pack a picnic: Bring snacks or a light lunch to enjoy on the Fuji Ashinoko Panorama Park lawn.
- Arrive early: Beat queues at popular shows and the ropeway by arriving at opening time.
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)?
In autumn, enjoy red leaves on the slopes. In winter, pack warm jackets—summit can be icy.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ropeway tickets (2A+2C) | JPY 5,400 |
| Pirate boat cruise (2A+2C) | JPY 4,440 |
| Aquarium admission (2A+2C) | JPY 4,500 |
| Petting zoo (2A+2C) | JPY 5,600 |
| Kids Land bouncy house | JPY 600 |
| Lunch and snacks | JPY 4,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 24,540 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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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