Powerful volcanic activity among stunning views of Mt. Fuji
The Hakone volcano continues to be active. At Owakudani, white smoke is rising up even now. The geothermal area of Owakudani is one of the largest of the countless fumarole areas in Mt. Hakone, which continues to be volcanically active. In the Edo period, it was known as Jigokudani, but the name was changed to Owakudani during a visit from Emperor Meiji. Owakudani is also a source of spring water. The hot spring water from Owakudani spreads across the Hakone area. One of the attractions of Owakudani is the stunning viewing point of the beautiful Mt. Fuji. The view of Mt. Fuji, which changes in each season, can be seen throughout the year by ascending to the top of Mt. Kanmuritake at a height of nearly 800 meters using the Hakone Ropeway.
Enmei-jizo and Kurotamago (black eggs)
Enmei-jizo in Owakudani is said to have its origins in a prayer offered to Bodhisattva for suffering people by Koubu Daishi upon seeing the hellish scenery when he visited Owakudani more than 1000 years ago. Today, many people come to Jizo for prayers for long life and raising children. Owakudani is also famous for black eggs. These boiled eggs are steamed after being boiled in the hot springs at Owakudani. They are called black eggs because the shell becomes completely black due to a hydrogen sulfide chemical reaction. Eating one black egg is said to extend one’s lifespan by seven years. Please try them when visiting Owakudani.