Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine, also called Hakone jinja, was constructed in 757. It is located by Lake Ashi at the foot of Mount Hakone- a sacred land since ancient times, and surrounded by dense cedar forest. The Shrine is well known due to the worship from many famous Japanese generals including Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

The Mysterious Atmosphere in Hakone Shrine:

The deep mysterious atmosphere of the Shrine comes from its legends of nine-head dragon, several dragon motifs, as well as animal sculptures in unique shapes. The legend has it that a dragon with nine heads was suppressed under the Ashi Lake and asked to protect people in Hakone. The dragon motifs in hanging scroll of the main hall and the purification basin are both to express the gratitude to its guardian. Apart from that, you can also see one Kirin and a pair of dog-like animal sculptures in the Shrine. Such animal sculptures with distinctive features add myth to Hakone Shrine.

Torii

Shrine Building

Places You Can’t Miss in Hakone Shrine:

The Grate Gate of Peace

The Grate Gate of Peace, a red torii, is a landmark of the Shrine and has always been popular for visitors to take photos due to its excellent geological location. In front of red torii is the Ashi Lake with green water and it is backed by Mount Fuji capped with white snow, all of which form a colorful landscape painting. Also, here you can see a plaque with “Peace”, which was written by the former Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida to commemorate the 1,200 anniversary of Hakone Shrine.

Great Gate of Peace

Path Leading to the Main Building of Hakone Shrine

The walking path leading to the Shrine’ main building is surrounded by the cedar trees on two sides. The tall and dense forests isolate noises outsides, thus giving a sense of peace to people. What’s more, some of these cedar trees have been over 800 years old, witnessing historical changes in Hakone. You can also appreciate traditional Japanese lanterns hanging on the trees.

The climbing way leading to the main building

Treasure House

Treasure House contains various antiques including paintings, weapons, musical instruments, and bronze and wooden sculptures, among which the most important is the sculpture of Mangan- the constructer of Hakone Shrine.

What to Pray for in Hakone Shrine:

Hakone Shrine is worshiped not only by samurai and generals, but also by the public who want to pray for a safe trip for their family members. Also, since the three gods and goodness worshipped are two parents and a child, Japanese believe that the Shrine can bless pregnant women for a safe delivery. Therefore you can come to the Shrine and pray for yourself, you friends or family members.

Top Events in Hakone Shrine:

1. Hakone Summer Matsuri Festivals in August

This festival contains a series of Matsuries-one traditional Japanese festival. It starts from Ashinoko Kosui Matsuri on July 31st and lasts for one week. Nearly every evening, you can watch wonderful firework shows. Below are some other events held during the festival:

2. Monthly Sacrifice - Tsukimisai

If you are interested in Japanese religious culture, come and watch Tsukimisai in the main shrine on the 13th or in the new shrine on the 15th.

Open Time:

Hakone Shrine is open to the public 24/7 throughout the year.

Pease note that Treasure House opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 4:30 p.m. and the last entry time is 4:00 p.m..

Ticket Price:

It’s free to visit Hakone Shrine except for Treasure House.  

Treasure House: 500 yen

How to Get to Hakone Shrine:

Take the Hakone Tozan bus Line H or Line K toward Motohakone or Hakonemachi, get off at Hakone-jinja-iriguchi bus stop, then you can get to Hakone Shrine in 10 minutes’ walk.