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Japan/Things to Do in Hakone, with kids

Owakudani (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Owakudani?

63%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy the ‘flying’ ropeway and GeoMuseum, but strong sulfur smell, warning signs for asthma, and lack of playground or stroller-smooth trails reduce overall family ease.

Google
Reviews4.2/ 5
(from 19,953 reviews)

Positives:

  • Panoramic Mt Fuji Views: On clear days the ropeway and viewing platforms show Mt Fuji towering above the valley.
  • Quick, Child-Friendly Walks: The paved promenade and short distances suit young children’s pace.
  • Unique Local Snack: Kids enjoy the novelty of the black eggs and the fun life-extension legend.

Challenges:

  • Strong Sulfur Smell: Some children find the vent-area odor unpleasant; masks can help.
  • High Altitude Chills: Temperatures drop on the ridge; bring extra layers for the kids.
  • Possible Ropeway Closures: The ropeway may pause during volcanic alerts or high winds. Check live updates in advance.
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🏖️ Explore Owakudani with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Owakudani. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Owakudani?

  • A volcanic valley in Hakone formed over 3,000 years ago by a massive eruption, now characterized by steaming sulphur vents
  • A geothermic source that feeds Hakone’s hot-spring network and transforms eggs into the region’s iconic black eggs
  • A high-altitude volcanic landscape with direct views of Mount Fuji and the broader Hakone caldera

What is so special about Owakudani for with kids?

  1. Soar above volcanic vents on the Hakone Ropeway with kids.
  2. Share the fun of tasting legendary black eggs.
  3. Take a short, safe walk to steaming vents and a Jizo statue.
  4. Visit the interactive GeoMuseum for hands-on learning.
  5. Plan for quick breaks with indoor and outdoor options.

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours

Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Short ropeway ride, black egg tasting and a quick steam vent walk fit well into a family outing.

(View Owakudani on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Owakudani

Hakone Ropeway Family Ride:

Board the ropeway from Sounzan to Owakudani for aerial views of the volcanic valley and, on clear days, Mt Fuji.

Tip: Arrive at opening time to secure a window seat and avoid lineups with the kids.

Kuro-Tamago (Black Egg) Tasting:

Try eggs boiled in sulfur springs that turn black outside and are said to add years to your life.

Tip: Buy eggs at Kurotamago-kan near the station to skip the vent-area queue.

Steam Vents Walk:

Follow the Owakudani promenade to Yanming Jizo statue and the white-smoke vents in a 15-minute easy walk.

Tip: Keep children on marked paths and bring masks if kids are sensitive to the sulfur smell.

Hakone GeoMuseum:

Explore hands-on exhibits about Hakone’s volcanic history in the indoor Information Zone and GEO Hall.

Tip: Let kids try the multimedia displays; children under 6 enter the exhibits free.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Owakudani

  1. Use a Hakone Freepass: The Freepass covers the ropeway and can save on fares for all family members.
  2. Early Arrival: Arrive at opening to avoid queues for the ropeway and black eggs.
  3. Combine Indoor and Outdoor: If weather turns, head to the GeoMuseum before or after lunch to stay dry.
🏖️ Tour Owakudani like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Owakudani. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Owakudani

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Nader Hasawi

Nader Hasawi

Aug 2025

Beautiful mining place on the top Of the mountain. You get to it through the ropeway. Do not go back the way you came up and rather continue to the lake and take the pirate ship back. This is the best way to do the circle.

then yue wong

then yue wong

Aug 2025

Tourist Tourist Tourist, we were there during the summer and the Japanese school holiday. There place is full to the brim. Restaurants are packed. No place to sit at all. The top there, sulfur smell is quite strong. Got to the try their famous black egg. The was a saying that you eat one black egg, you will be 7 years younger !

Alvin Li

Alvin Li

Jul 2025

The visitor centre comprises of much needed amenities as well as a souvenir shop. Everyone and their mother is buying black eggs (4 for ¥500). If you are wondering where do people get the black soft cream from, it's from a shop (極楽茶屋) further south from the visitor centre, so don't waste time here.

I-Hsiang Chen

I-Hsiang Chen

Jul 2025

This area was originally called the "Valley of Hell" (地獄谷), but was renamed "Owakudani" (大湧谷, literally "Great Boiling Valley") after Emperor Meiji visited. It’s a volcanic landscape with continuous volcanic gas emissions that fill the air with a strong sulfur smell. Give the local specialty, the black eggs, a try, although they taste just like regular boiled eggs.

Home Kitchen

Home Kitchen

Apr 2025

Beautiful views of views of Mt. Fuji and Hakone's mountains. In case you did not read it or planning to visit note: * If the concentrations of volcanic gas exceed specified level, or occur eruptions suddenly, please take refuge to the following evacuation shelters, listening out for instructions and announcements. As of the day we visited on March 21st and 22nd ,2025 there are about 7 shelters and...

When is the best time to visit Owakudani (Hakone, Japan)?

Spring brings fresh blooms along the trail. Summer mornings stay cool but pack sun protection. Autumn offers crisp air and clear views. In winter, dress warmly and check ropeway status for fog or volcanic alerts.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Hakone on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Hakone Ropeway round-trip fare (2 adults + 2 children)JPY 7,500
Black eggs (5 pcs)JPY 500
Station café lunch for familyJPY 4,800
GeoMuseum special exhibit ticketsJPY 100
Total EstimatedJPY 12,900

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 Owakudani

Address: 1251 Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Owakudani (Hakone)?

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About Owakudani

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 460-84-5201

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