Hakone, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Hakone, Japan? If you're planning to go to Hakone, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Hakone
- Important essentials for Hakone
- Activities for Hakone
- Hakone in January: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in February: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in March: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in April: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in May: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in June: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in July: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in August: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in September: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in October: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in November: weather and what to pack
- Hakone in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Hakone, Japan
Based on the climate and weather in Hakone, Japan, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Hakone, Japan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Hakone, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Hakone, Japan by month
January
January in Hakone is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
February in Hakone is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March here is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you go to Hakone in April, you will notice that it can be chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
Traveling to Hakone in May, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you visit Hakone during June, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
Traveling to Hakone in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
August in this region is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Rain poncho
A durable rain poncho to wear over your coat will avoid travel headaches by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.
So your things remain dry. The best suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Hakone is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you are traveling to Hakone in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
If you visit Hakone during November, you are likely to notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Hakone is crisp. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Hakone. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you check out a temple, such as Hakone Jinja Shrine, wear:
Trousers
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Dresses that cover your knees
If you see the Hakone Open Air Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Hakone, Japan
Hakone is a picturesque town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. It is a well-known tourist destination that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Hakone is situated in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, offering visitors a stunning view of Mount Fuji and panoramic views of Lake Ashi. This small town is also known for its hot springs, unparalleled museums and art galleries, and stunning natural surroundings. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top tourist attractions in Hakone, Japan.
Mount Fuji:
Hakone is one of the best places to view the iconic Mount Fuji. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the majestic peak from Lake Ashi or elevated spots like Owakudani, which is a volcanic zone.
Lake Ashi:
Lake Ashi is a scenic crater lake that is surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. It is a popular spot for boating and boat tours, cruise and yachting. You can explore the red "torii" gates in the water of the shrine and travel around by a pirate ship.
Owakudani:
Owakudani is a popular active volcanic zone in Hakone. Visitors can explore the steam vents and hot springs and sample local cuisine such as eggs boiled in the natural hot springs. You can also enjoy an amazing ropeway ride that boasts fantastic views of the valley and lake below.
Hakone Open-Air Museum:
Hakone Open-Air Museum is a unique outdoor art museum that features a vast collection of sculptures and artwork by renowned artists. The museum is spacious and beautifully landscaped, providing an exceptional environment to appreciate the artwork without feeling crowded.
Hakone Shrine:
Hakone Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine that is famous for its iconic red gate (torii) that stands at the edge of Lake Ashi. Visitors can take a stroll around the serene shrine and appreciate the peace and tranquillity offered in this natural setting.
Hakone Ropeway:
The Hakone Ropeway is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The cable car ride offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area, including Lake Ashi and the Owakudani volcano.
Hakone Checkpoint:
Hakone Checkpoint is a historical site that was part of the old Tokaido road, which was used during the Edo period. Visitors can explore the old checkpoint and learn about the history of the road and the people who traveled it.
Conclusion:
Hakone is a great place to experience some of Japan’s most stunning natural scenery and learn about its culture and history. Its numerous tourist attractions offer something for everyone, from couples looking for a romantic getaway to families in search of adventure. Whether it’s soaking in hot springs or taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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