Top 10 most beautiful temples and shrines in Hakone

Are you in Tokyo and want to escape the bustling crowds for just a day? Then look no further than Hakone, one of the most accessible place for beautiful scenery, spectacular onsens and historical sites. If you're looking for a place to relax then perhaps visiting Hakone's peaceful temples and shrines might be for you. Below, we have listed the top 10 most beautiful temples and shrines to help you plan your next trip!

Kintoki Shrine

Kintoki Shrine, located atop of Kinshi-Yama, was named after a legend about Kintaro. Kintaro was said to be a child of the forest, raised by its animals and considered them his friends, stories of him battling wild animals and cleaving trees with his legendary axe, Masakari. At Kintoki Shrine, you can see this famous axe that was said to have been used to decorate the shrine.

Address: 1181 Sengokuhara, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0631, Kanagawa Prefecture

Choan-ji Temple

Choan-ji Temple is unique due to its location, just before sunset, its statues become spookily charming structures and you can even view upon a live volcano. There are also koi ponds, and staircases that can look almost mesmerising if you find the right angles! You can also have a taste of an egg boiled in the nearby hot spring that is said to add seven years of life to the one who eats it! 

*Note: Travellers are requested to carry own coats to avoid cold wind. As you walk,  the pungent smoky weather can be intolerable.

Address: 82 Sengokuhara, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0631, Kanagawa Prefecture

Address: 405 Yumoto, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0311, Kanagawa Prefecture 

Shogenji Temple

This is a recommended temple to stop by during your itinerary in Hakone, Kanagawa. It is the place for historical site lovers, it is said that the temple is interconnected with the legendary Soga brothers- Juro and Goro.  

Address: 562 Yumoto, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0311, Kanagawa Prefecture

Fukazawa Zeni Araibenzaiten

Although small in size, Fuzakawa Zeni Araibenzaiten is a welcoming place for those who enjoy simpleness combined with nature. The shrine is surrounded by a charming yet small garden that cannot be found anywhere else. The blends of shades and sunlight creates for an immersive experience, both during day and night.

Address: Tonosawa, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0315, Kanagawa Prefecture

Amidaji Temple

Historical records showed that the temple was build in 1610 by a training priest named Tansei. The temple is famous for its beautiful hydrangea flowers. Locals even nicknamed the temple as the "hydrangea" temple. Location-wise, it is a challenge to reach, a 30 minutes mountain climb is needed and is not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Address: 24 Tonosawa, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0315, Kanagawa Prefecture

Owakudani Enmei Jizo

Enmei Jizo is a must simply because of its gorgeous view. Although the shrine itself is not huge or grand, it does not take away any of its beautiful, simple charms.

Address: Sengokuhara, Ashigarashimo-gun, Hakone-machi 250-0631, Kanagawa Prefecture