Lake Ashi (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Lake Ashi?
What makes it 91% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy pirate-ship deck views, cedar path to floating torii, and sunset benches in Onshi-Hakone Park; limited nightlife and early boat finish shave a few points off a romantic day.
Positives:
- Photographer's Paradise: Low afternoon sun creates warm light on the lake and Torii gate for couple portraits.
- Easy Transport: Hakone Free Pass covers the cruise and ropeway, reducing ticket lines and costs.
Challenges:
- View Visibility: Mount Fuji may be hidden by clouds on humid summer days; aim for early mornings.
- Weekend Crowds: Pirate ship and park trails get busy on weekends; start before 9 AM to avoid lines.
What is Lake Ashi?
- A volcanic crater lake formed over 3,000 years ago at the foot of Mount Komagatake in Hakone
- Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, set within a scenic basin framed by cedar and pine forests
- Sits at 723 meters above sea level, encompassing seven square kilometers with a maximum depth of 43 meters
What is so special about Lake Ashi for couple trip?
- Themed pirate-ship cruise with Mt. Fuji backdrop
- Romantic lakeside sunset stroll at Onshi-Hakone Park
- Cedar path walk to Hakone Shrine’s floating torii gate
- Panoramic views from Komagatake ropeway summit
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: A 2–3 hour visit lets couples enjoy a boat cruise, lakeside stroll, and shrine visit without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Lake Ashi
Pirate-Ship Cruise:
Board the themed pirate ship for a round-trip across Lake Ashi.
Tip: Use a Hakone Free Pass to cover the base fare and save on round-trip tickets.
Sunset Stroll at Onshi-Hakone Park:
Walk the former imperial villa grounds to the Lakeside Panorama Pavilion at sunset.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for unobstructed views of the lake and Fuji.
Visit Hakone Shrine & Floating Torii Gate:
Follow the cedar-lined path to the vermilion torii rising from the water.
Tip: Visit at dawn or dusk for soft light and fewer visitors.
Komagatake Ropeway to Summit Viewpoint:
Take the ropeway to Komagatake peak for panoramic lake and mountain vistas.
Tip: Buy tickets at Togendai and catch the first ropeway for clear air.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lake Ashi
- Buy Free Pass in Advance: Purchase your Hakone Free Pass at Odawara or Shinjuku stations for transport savings.
- Pre-book Cabin Seats: Reserve the pirate ship’s front cabin online for quiet, unobstructed views.
Reviews of Lake Ashi
Chak Hong
The boat ride was over all too quick. It's clear and calm waters make the boats motor totally out of place. I'd gladly hoist up a pirate sail...
Oreste Gaspari
Lake Ashi in Hakone is a scenic crater lake surrounded by mountains, often seen with Mount Fuji in the background. The area offers boat cruises, lakeside trails, and hot springs. A peaceful destination ideal for day trips or weekend escapes from Tokyo.
Edward Orrego Ruiz
Lake Ashi was a highlight of our Hakone trip – absolutely stunning with panoramic views of Mt Fuji on a clear day. Getting there was surprisingly smooth: we boarded the Hakone Ropeway from Sōunzan, transferred at Ōwakudani, and then continued down to Tōgendai, right on the lake’s edge. Just note: the cable car section officially starts at Gōra, so plan your route accordingly. We opted for the fir...
S L Chong
We came to Lake Ashi and took the cruise on what looked like a pirate ship. This ship has a lift that made it easy to reach the open deck. It was spring and the wind made it feel very cold on the ship. The lake is pleasant and we could see the Tori of Peace from the deck.
Janis Ng
Lovely experience. Weather was great and sunny. Managed to do the Lake Ashi pirate shop tpu, paddling in a swan boat and paddled past the famous toji gate
When is the best time to visit Lake Ashi (Hakone, Japan)?
Cherry blossoms line the shore in late March to early April. Mid-November brings red maple reflections on the water. Winter mornings often offer the clearest views of Mount Fuji against the lake.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pirate ship cruise (round-trip, 2 adults) | JPY 3,680 |
| Komagatake Ropeway (round-trip, 2 adults) | JPY 3,600 |
| Café snacks for two | JPY 800 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 8,080 |
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 Lake Ashi
Address: Lake Ashi, Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
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