Mt. Taikan Observation Deck (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mt. Taikan Observation Deck?
What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: Children can ride the giant swing and collect gashapon, railings keep them safe, and toilets are nearby, but there is no play area or shade and you must watch them near steep slopes.
Positives:
- Free Entry to Deck: No admission fee; you only pay the road toll.
- On-site Parking: The Sky Lounge parking lot has 120 spaces and is free to use.
- Restroom Access: Public restrooms inside the Sky Lounge are free and child-friendly.
Challenges:
- Wind Exposure: The open deck can become very windy; bring jackets and secure hats.
- Limited Seating: Indoor seats in the cafe fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
- Weather-Dependent Views: Mt. Fuji can be hidden by clouds; check the forecast before you go.
What is Mt. Taikan Observation Deck?
- A 1,074 m-high mountain-top observation deck on the Anest Iwata Turnpike in Hakone, also known as Daikanzan Observation Deck
- A panoramic stone-and-timber platform commanding 360° sightlines over Mount Fuji, Sagami Bay and the volcanic Hakone caldera
- A facility integrated with the Anest Iwata Sky Lounge café and restaurant, combining lookout infrastructure with on-site dining
What is so special about Mt. Taikan Observation Deck for with kids?
- Free observation deck with 360° views of Mt. Fuji and Hakone valley
- Kids enjoy the wooden swing and capsule-toy machines
- Café offers child-size drinks and simple meals near indoor seating
- Easy parking and flat deck make it stroller-friendly with some wind
- Seasonal drives on the turnpike add cherry blossoms or autumn colors
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to drive up, enjoy views, use the swing and have a snack without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mt. Taikan Observation Deck
Swing Over the Valley:
Sit on the 'Hakone no Buranko' wooden swing with a view of Mt. Fuji behind you.
Tip: Let each child have a turn and take photos during golden hour for soft light.
Gashapon Toy Machines:
Play capsule-toy machines to collect car-themed souvenirs.
Tip: Bring coins (¥300 each) so kids can choose their own surprise toy.
Sky Lounge Snack Break:
Order child-size drinks and noodles or ice cream in the cafe.
Tip: Grab indoor seating to warm up if it's windy outside.
Panoramic Photo Spot:
Walk the 360° deck for valley and Mt. Fuji views.
Tip: Visit on a clear day and split up so one adult watches kids while the other photographs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mt. Taikan Observation Deck
- Arrive Early: Visit soon after the road opens to enjoy quieter views and open cafe seating.
- Use a Baby Carrier: Choose a carrier over a stroller on windy days for easier movement.
- Bring Snack Supplies: Pack your own sandwiches to save time if the cafe line is long.
Reviews of Mt. Taikan Observation Deck
Craig Muller
First time here, perfect view of Mt Fuji and lots of room to park. Has food, drinks, toilets, and 3 flavours of ice cream.
Kee Lam Ho
Lovely drive from Chiba towards Izu we pass by the observation deck to catch a glimpse of Mt Fuji. The rest area has restaurants and toilets
Frederick
Few tourists and great view of Fuji-san (Mount Fuji). We were lucky to visit this place with good weather. You can see Fuji-san from the parking lot, and even better when you walk into the Sky Lounge. There is a giant swing what reminds me of “Heidi of the Alps” anime. The Sky Lounge contains a food court (snacks to light meal) and restroom. Very much a Showa period building.
boon suan Tan
Awesome view of Mt Fuji without the crowds. This place can only be reached if you drive so that means absolutely few tourists compared to Hakone area. Much better than Owakudani. We went twice on sunrise and sunset in decemeber. Careful slippery carpark with ice
Wannachai Burke
Really cool spot to see both Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji, would recommend coming here if you have a car. There is also places to buy food and drinks and toilets, and a swing photo spot.
When is the best time to visit Mt. Taikan Observation Deck (Hakone, Japan)?
In spring drive for cherry blossoms along the turnpike. Summer brings hydrangeas near Shirahata Park. Enjoy autumn foliage in October–November. Winter mornings offer snowy Fuji vistas but dress warmly.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Turnpike toll (round-trip) | JPY 1,800 |
| Noodle dishes (4×¥1,000) | JPY 4,000 |
| Drinks (2 adults ¥250, 2 kids ¥100) | JPY 700 |
| Capsule toys (2×¥300) | JPY 600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 7,100 |
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 Mt. Taikan Observation Deck
Address: 955 Kajiya, Yugawara, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 259-0313, Japan
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About Mt. Taikan Observation Deck
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
+81 465-23-038110 BEST nearby Activities
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