The park occupies the site of the former Hakone Detached Palace, used by the Imperial Family until 1923.
The Great Kanto Earthquake destroyed the original palace structures in 1923.
The park was opened to the public by Kanagawa Prefecture in 1946.
The observation building features an exhibition space detailing the architectural history of the former villa.
The site is designated as one of the '50 Scenic Spots of Kanagawa' for its views of Mount Fuji.
The gardens are designed to frame specific vistas of Lake Ashi and the Hakone mountains.
Hakone Park, known officially as the Hakone Onshi-Hakone Park, occupies the former site of the Hakone Imperial Villa. The grounds are situated on a peninsula extending into Lake Ashi, offering panoramic views of the water and Mount Fuji. Visitors can explore a network of gravel paths winding through manicured gardens and dense forest cover. The site features the 'Kansetsutei' tea house and a two-story observation building known as the Lakeside Observation Building. Originally established as a retreat for the Imperial family in the Meiji period, the area was converted into a prefectural park in 1946. Its elevated position provides a vantage point for viewing the Hakone Checkpoint ruins and the surrounding caldera rim.
The second-floor balcony of the Lakeside Observation Building overlooking the lake with Mount Fuji in the background.
Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes as the park has elevation changes and gravel paths.
Check the cloud cover forecast before arrival to ensure Mount Fuji is visible from the observation deck.
Plan to visit the Lakeside Observation Building for the most expansive elevated views of the lake.
Do not attempt to swim in Lake Ashi from the park shoreline as it is prohibited.
Stay on marked paths to preserve the garden beds; do not remove foliage or rocks from the grounds.
