Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū?
What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy the dragon fountain and heart ema, but the uneven 30-minute trail, lack of stroller access, and no play zones mean parents must supervise closely and plan breaks.
Positives:
- Short Trail Suits Kids: The 20–30 minute path feels adventurous without tiring young children.
- Combine Nearby Stops: Pair the shrine walk with Hakone Shrine, lake cruises, and ropeway rides.
Challenges:
- Uneven Forest Path: Tree roots and narrow sections may slow little walkers; use sturdy shoes.
- No Stroller Access: The trail is too rough for strollers; carry younger kids in a soft carrier.
What is Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū?
- A compact Shinto shrine dedicated to the dragon god Kuzuryū, distinguished by a vermilion torii gate rising from the forested shores of Lake Ashi
- A subordinate branch (hongū) of Hakone Shrine established in the early Nara period as a sacred site for Mount Hakone mountain worship
- A tranquil religious precinct nestled within the cedar forests of Hakone Kuzuryu no Mori, featuring traditional wooden halls and ancient sacred trees
What is so special about Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū for with kids?
- Short woodland hike to a dragon god shrine
- Kids enjoy the floating torii gate and dragon fountain
- Hands-on omikuji and ema activities engage children
- Unique snacks available at the forest entrance stall
- Easy to combine with other Hakone attractions
Recommended visit duration: 15-30 minutes
Why 15-30 minutes visit duration is ideal for with kids: Short forest path and shrine visit suit young kids before fatigue.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū
Forest Path Walk:
Follow the 20–30-minute cedar-lined trail to the shrine entrance.
Tip: Have kids wear sturdy shoes and carry water for the uneven trail.
Floating Torii Photo:
Snap photos of the red torii gate that appears to float on Lake Ashi.
Tip: Visit early morning for calm water reflections and fewer visitors.
Dragon Fountain Wash:
Let kids rinse hands at the dragon-shaped water fountain before praying.
Tip: Bring a small towel or pack wet wipes for quick clean-up.
Omikuji & Ema:
Have children draw fortune slips and write wishes on small ema plaques.
Tip: Encourage kids to draw pictures or simple English phrases.
Forest Snacks:
Taste heart-shaped rice crackers and warm bean-jam buns at the entrance stall.
Tip: Buy snacks before the hike starts to enjoy on the return.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū
- Early Start: Arrive at opening to enjoy reflections at the torii and avoid midday crowds.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit to minimize breaks.
Reviews of Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū
佑実
Walk through the tree and moss covered path to the shrine while listening to bush warblers singing along the way. When we went there, the entire.Hakobe was draped in dense fog, adding to the already mystical and ethereal atmosphere of the shrine. Because of the rain and fog, it was not crowded- just us and respectful group of French-speaking visitors
Shinra
Small Shrine but cozy. It has nice trails to walk around and enjoy the lake view. The price of an Adult ticket is 600 yen.
Maggie Locke
It's kind of a long walk from Togendai for a small park with shrine and the admission costs money. People were using leaf blowers right at the shrine when I went so it was not very peaceful. Very pretty but wouldn't go out of my way for this otherwise. The hike up is somewhat scenic though if you have the time.
Joe Minuti
Cute, right by the lake shore. Even got to see some deer in the woods close by. Get ready for a walk to visit. It's about a half hour walk and it can be hilly.
valerie x
The shrine is small itself however the tori gate in the water was pretty cool. This area has lots of walking paths and nature. It’s 600yen per person to enter.
When is the best time to visit Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū (Hakone, Japan)?
In autumn (Oct-Nov), colorful leaves line the path. On the 13th join the shrine boat for a festival and free forest entry before noon. Summer can be buggy—pack repellent. Winter dawns bring misty reflections—dress in layers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Forest entry (2 adults) | JPY 1,000 |
| Forest entry (1 child 4-12) | JPY 300 |
| Heart-shaped rice crackers | JPY 300 |
| Kuzuryu bean-jam buns | JPY 200 |
| Omikuji fortune slips | JPY 400 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,200 |
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 Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū
Address: Japan, 〒250-0522 Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Motohakone, 防ケ沢 箱根九頭龍の森 内
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū (Hakone)?
About Kuzuryū Shrine Hongū
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
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities