Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine?
What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: Older children enjoy the ropeway, fortune slips and Fuji vistas, but summit paths are uneven, winds strong and toilets basic with no kid aids, so close supervision and prep are essential.
Positives:
- Cultural Learning: Kids enjoy hands-on rituals and fortune draws, making culture fun.
- Panoramic Views: Families get clear vistas of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji from the summit.
Challenges:
- Uneven Terrain: Shrine paths use stones and steps; wear sturdy shoes for safety.
- Limited Facilities: No shops or restrooms at the shrine; facilities are at the ropeway station.
What is Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine?
- A mototsumiya ("original shrine") at the 1,356-meter summit of Mount Komagatake, recognized as the foundational site of the Hakone Shrine complex
- A compact Shinto sanctuary featuring a stone torii gate, a classical honden worship hall, and the sacred Umayoriishi rock set within subalpine forest
- A mountaintop shrine accessible via the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, positioned above Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji amid seasonal foliage
What is so special about Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine for with kids?
- Thrill on a glass-window ropeway to a 1,356m mountain-top shrine.
- Hands-on cultural fun with water purification and fortune draws.
- Kids touch the sacred hoof-print rock for good-luck wishes.
- Photo frames capture Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi backdrops perfectly.
- Short, easy walk paths suit young children and first-time shrine-goers.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A short ropeway trip and shrine visit suit young kids without tiring them.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
Ropeway Ride to the Summit:
Ride the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway up to Mototsumiya Shrine at 1,356m.
Tip: Buy tickets at the base station; kids get half fare and clear windows help view Mt. Fuji.
Water Purification Ritual:
Perform the chozuya water ritual by scooping, rinsing, and pouring water.
Tip: Show kids each step slowly and let them taste the fun of a hands-on cultural practice.
Fortune Drawing (Omikuji):
Draw paper fortunes for each family member to compare luck.
Tip: Pay ¥200 at the shrine office; let kids pick slips and share their good or funny fortunes.
Umayoriishi Hoof-Print Rock:
Place hands on the sacred hoof-print rock for a good-luck touch.
Tip: Encourage children to make a wish aloud before touching the imprint.
Summit Photo Frames:
Pose inside the Fuji no GAKU and Ashi no SORA frames with iconic views.
Tip: Use your phone timer or ask staff to capture a full family shot without crowds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
- Go Early: Take the first ropeway to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer views.
- Pack Snacks: Bring water and snacks; there are no food stalls at the shrine.
Reviews of Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
s vivekananda
This shrine on the summit of Mt. Koma honors the deities of nearby Mt. Kami or Kamiyama, the name of which translates to “mountain of the gods.” Local people and pilgrims alike worshiped the peaks of Hakone. You have to take the cable car to the top station and this shrine is a hill climb under a unsealed track. It can be windy and cold up here. Wear proper clothes, comfy shoes, hat, sunscreen, t...
BK
The shrine itself was nothing spectacular. What was spectacular were the views around the area of Ashi-no-ko, and Fujisan if the weather permits. Do note the cable car runs in 20 min intervals.
Tony Sambell
This place is a must see, not just if you're in Hakone but if you're visiting Japan. Honestly a beautiful place to visit and so happy I stumbled across this place.
Shukhrat Usmanov
Old temple,interesting reaching point. Not much you can see in the morning due to fog but it’s changing rapidly,so you might have luck. You can’t go inside
Mkv_James
Have to take the tram car up. 100% worth it. View from the overlook was bad because of the weather. Cloudy and rainy. But still worth it. Small walk with a decent bit of step to climb to get to the shrine. But Definitely worth it
When is the best time to visit Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine (Hakone, Japan)?
Visit in late October to early November for peak red maple leaves around the summit. On clear winter days, children can spot Mt. Fuji against crisp blue skies.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ropeway fare (adult, round-trip) | JPY 2,200 |
| Ropeway fare (child, round-trip) | JPY 1,100 |
| Omikuji draw (per fortune) | JPY 200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,000 |
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 Mototsumiya Shrine
Address: ８０-1 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
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About Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
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
+81 460-83-712310 BEST nearby Activities
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