Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: The ropeway ride, hiking trail and panoramic decks let one adult explore freely, photograph Mt Fuji and collect goshuin; missing child facilities do not affect a solo visitor.
Positives:
- Quiet Summit: Few visitors make the trek, so you can enjoy the shrine in peace.
- Easy Access: The ropeway removes the need for a long hike to reach the summit.
Challenges:
- Limited Facilities: No shops or restrooms near the shrine; nearest toilets are 8 minutes downhill at the ropeway station.
- Unpredictable Weather: Fog or strong winds can roll in quickly—carry a light windbreaker.
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 solo trip?
- Panoramic 360° views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji
- Quick ropeway ride for easy mountain access
- Chance to collect a unique shrine seal (goshuin)
- Three distinct observation decks on the summit
- Peaceful atmosphere with few visitors
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: This timeframe covers the ropeway ride, shrine visit, and summit viewpoints at a relaxed pace for one adult.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway Ride:
Take the 7-minute ropeway from Lake Ashi to the shrine summit.
Tip: Catch the first ride for clearer views and fewer crowds.
Collect the Goshuin Seal:
Obtain the red shrine stamp as a keepsake.
Tip: Bring ¥500 in small bills and wait times can be under 5 minutes.
Explore Summit Observation Decks:
Visit Ashi no SORA, Fuji no GAKU, and Umi no NIWA for 360° panoramas.
Tip: Walk each deck at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine
- Start Early: Book the first ropeway to avoid midday haze and crowds.
- Pack Snacks: Bring water and a snack to enjoy at the viewpoint since no food stalls are available.
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 from late October to early November for vibrant autumn foliage. Winter mornings often reveal clear views of Mt. Fuji. Summer can be misty—check the forecast before you go.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ropeway round-trip fare | JPY 2,200 |
| Goshuin seal | JPY 500 |
| Omikuji draw | JPY 300 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,000 |
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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