Owakudani (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Thorough Explanation of Access, Black Eggs, and Attractions
Owakudani (大涌谷), located in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a representative volcanic tourism spot in the Kanto region. Formed by the last eruption of the Hakone volcano approximately 3,000 years ago, this place continues to fascinate many tourists as a mystical location where white volcanic smoke rises and visitors can experience the Earth’s energy up close. This article comprehensively explains the history of Owakudani, attractions, access methods, the famous black eggs, and surrounding spots—information you should know before visiting.
What is Owakudani? The History and Formation of Hakone Volcano
Owakudani is a valuable landform that conveys the volcanic activity of Hakone volcano, spreading across Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigara-Shimo Gun, Kanagawa Prefecture. Located at an elevation of 800 to 1,000 meters on the northern slope of Mt. Kanmuri, the highest peak of the Hakone volcano, it boasts the largest fumarole area among the Hakone volcano’s thermal regions.
A Landscape Born from Volcanic Activity Approximately 3,000 Years Ago
Owakudani was born approximately 3,000 years ago. The eruption occurred when Mt. Kandzan (elevation 1,438 meters), the highest peak of Hakone, underwent a phreatic explosion, and an explosion crater formed as a result of the mountain’s collapse. This eruption is considered the last major volcanic activity in the Hakone volcano, and the desolate terrain of today’s Owakudani conveys traces of that violent volcanic activity.
The collapse topography formed by volcanic debris slides created a landscape with sharply eroded rock faces and almost no vegetation. Until the Edo period, it was called “Hell Valley” and was feared by people, but the name was changed to the current “Owakudani” during the Meiji period.
Continued Active Geothermal Activity
The greatest characteristic of Owakudani is the currently active geothermal activity. Volcanic fumes containing hydrogen sulfide vigorously rise from various points on the ground surface, and white smoke covers the entire valley—a sight that truly represents a “living volcano.” High-temperature water vapor at approximately 100 degrees Celsius is emitted from fumaroles, and the distinctive smell of sulfur drifts through the surrounding area.
In areas with intense geothermal activity, ground surface temperatures are extremely high, and boiling acidic hot mud known as hot springs can be observed. Facilities have been established to safely observe this dynamic volcanic activity, making it a precious experiential spot where visitors can feel the internal energy of the Earth up close.
Attractions and Ways to Enjoy Owakudani
Owakudani offers numerous scenic views and experiences unique to volcanic landscapes. Here we introduce the main attractions and ways to enjoy them in detail.
The Desolate Landscape with Rising Volcanic Smoke
The first sight that greets visitors to Owakudani is the desolate scene of white volcanic smoke rising. Exposed rock faces, withered trees, and white smoke continuously spouting from the ground create a non-everyday experience as if visitors have descended into another world.
Particularly on days blessed with fine weather, Mt. Fuji appears beyond the volcanic smoke, and visitors can enjoy a magnificent landscape woven by the volcano and the sacred mountain. This spectacular view is popular as a photography spot, with many tourists seen holding cameras.
An Aerial Stroll via the Hakone Ropeway
The most popular access method to Owakudani is the Hakone Ropeway. On the route from Gora Station via Souunzan to Owakudani, visitors can view the Hakone mountains, Sagami Bay, and the rugged terrain of Owakudani spreading below from the air.
As the ropeway approaches Owakudani, white smoke covering the entire valley comes into view, creating a dramatic encounter. The view of the fumarole area seen from the gondola has a different impact than what is seen from the ground, and visitors can truly appreciate the scale of the volcanic activity.
Learning About Volcanoes on the Owakudani Nature Study Trail
Owakudani has a “Owakudani Nature Study Trail” that allows safe observation of volcanic activity. By walking on this footpath, visitors can observe fumaroles, sulfur crystals, and volcanic landforms up close.
Explanatory panels are installed along the study trail, allowing visitors to learn about the formation of Owakudani, the mechanisms of volcanic activity, and the surrounding natural environment. However, depending on volcanic activity conditions, some areas may be closed to the public, so it is important to confirm the latest information before visiting.
The Spectacular View from Enma Terrace
Enma Terrace (閻魔台) within the Owakudani grounds is a viewpoint overlooking all of Owakudani. From here, the entire fumarole area can be viewed, and the white smoke rising from multiple fumaroles can be observed.
With favorable weather, visitors can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, the Hakone outer ridge, Lake Ashi, and other major landscapes in the Hakone area all at once—an excellent viewpoint. There are also rest areas around the terrace where visitors can spend time leisurely while viewing the scenery.
The Charm and Origin of the Famous “Black Eggs”
If you visit Owakudani, you absolutely cannot miss the famous “black eggs.” These hard-boiled eggs with black shells are specialty products made using the acidic hot mud unique to Owakudani, and there is a legend that “eating one will extend your life by seven years.”
How Black Eggs Are Made
Black eggs are made using a unique method utilizing the geothermal heat of Owakudani. By boiling them for approximately 60 minutes in a hot spring pool at about 80 degrees Celsius, the iron contained in the hot spring attaches to the egg shell and reacts with hydrogen sulfide to form iron sulfide, turning the shell black.
The inside is the same as a regular boiled egg, but the influence of hot spring components gives it a unique flavor with a characteristic salty taste. Black eggs are sold in packs of five (500 yen) and can be purchased at Owakudani Kuro-Tamago-kan or the Owakudani Station shop.
How to Eat Black Eggs and Precautions
Black eggs taste best when freshly made, and it is recommended to eat them on the day of purchase. When you remove the shell, a regular white boiled egg appears, but it has a characteristic hint of sulfur aroma.
They are sold only in units of five, with no individual sales. Also, since the expiration date is short, attention to refrigeration is necessary when taking them home as a souvenir. Eating black eggs while enjoying the scenery of Owakudani has become a standard way to enjoy them.
Access Methods to Owakudani
Owakudani is located in the central part of the Hakone area and has multiple access methods. Understand the characteristics of each and choose the optimal route that matches your travel plans.
Access via Hakone Ropeway (Recommended)
The most popular and scenic way is using the Hakone Ropeway.
From Gora direction:
- Hakone Tozan Railway “Gora Station” → Hakone Tozan Cable Car → “Souunzan Station” → Hakone Ropeway → “Owakudani Station” (Approximately 8 minutes from Souunzan)
From Momosodai direction:
- Hakone Ropeway “Momosodai Station” → “Owakudani Station” (Approximately 16 minutes)
From the ropeway, visitors can view the Hakone mountains and the rugged terrain of Owakudani from the air, and the access itself becomes a tourism experience.
Access via Personal Vehicle or Rental Car
When using a personal vehicle or rental car, Owakudani has dedicated parking facilities.
Main routes:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Gotemba IC” on the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Hakone-guchi IC” on the Odawara-Atsugi Road
The parking fee is approximately 500 yen for regular cars. However, during tourism seasons and weekends, it can be crowded, so early arrival is recommended. Also, depending on volcanic activity conditions, roads may be closed, so please check the latest information in advance.
Access via Shuttle Bus
Hakone Tozan Bus is also available as an access method to Owakudani.
Main routes:
- From Hakone Yumoto Station on “Koshiji/Momosodai” bound bus to “Owakudani” stop (Approximately 35 minutes)
- From Gora Station on “Koshiji/Momosodai” bound bus to “Owakudani” stop (Approximately 20 minutes)
Buses have relatively frequent service and tourist passes such as the Hakone Free Pass are also available, making it a cost-effective option.
Basic Information About Owakudani (Business Hours, Admission Fees, and Precautions)
Here is compiled the basic information you should know before visiting Owakudani.
Business Hours and Holidays
Owakudani Grounds:
- Business hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Hours vary by season)
- Closed: None (Temporary closure due to volcanic activity possible)
Hakone Ropeway Owakudani Station:
- Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Hours vary by season)
- Closed: None (Service suspension possible due to bad weather or volcanic activity)
Admission Fees
Admission to the Owakudani grounds itself is free. However, separate fees apply for transportation used for access.
Hakone Ropeway Fare (One-way):
- Souunzan to Owakudani: Adults 450 yen, Children 230 yen
- Owakudani to Momosodai: Adults 450 yen, Children 230 yen
Parking Fee:
- Regular cars: 500 yen
- Motorcycles: 200 yen
Using the Hakone Free Pass allows unlimited rides on the ropeway and shuttle buses, enabling cost-effective tourism.
Address and Contact Information
Address:
〒250-0631 Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigara-Shimo Gun, Kanagawa Prefecture 1251
Contact:
- Hakone Town Tourism Association: 0460-85-5700
- Hakone Ropeway: 0460-84-8439
Precautions When Visiting
Owakudani is an active volcanic area, and the following precautions should be taken when visiting.
Precautions Regarding Volcanic Gas:
- Those with asthma, heart disease, or respiratory diseases should refrain from entering
- On days with high hydrogen sulfide concentrations, access to the grounds is restricted
- If you feel unwell, immediately move upwind
Safety Precautions:
- Entry outside designated walking paths is prohibited
- Access areas may be restricted depending on volcanic activity conditions
- Check the latest volcanic activity information in advance
Clothing and Items to Bring:
- High elevation and strong winds recommend bringing warm clothing
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- For those bothered by the smell of sulfur, bringing a mask is recommended
Recommended Attractions Around Owakudani
By visiting attractive tourist spots around Owakudani when traveling there, you can make your Hakone tourism more fulfilling.
Lake Ashi
By moving from Owakudani to Momosodai via the Hakone Ropeway, you arrive at Lake Ashi, Hakone’s representative tourist destination. Mt. Fuji can be seen from the lake, and cruising by sightseeing boat is popular. Historical spots such as Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Sekisho (barrier station) ruins are scattered around the lakeshore.
Gora Area
About 20 minutes from Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway and cable car is the Gora area, where cultural facilities are concentrated, including Gora Park, Hakone Museum of Art, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Also known as a hot spring resort, it has many day-trip bathing facilities.
Sengokuhara
The Sengokuhara area at the foot of Owakudani is famous as a viewing spot for autumn pampas grass. At Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Plain, a vast golden pampas grass meadow spreads out, allowing visitors to enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty. Cultural facilities such as the Little Prince Museum and the Pola Museum of Art are also scattered throughout the area.
Hakone Wetland Flower Garden
The Hakone Wetland Flower Garden in Sengokuhara is a botanical garden displaying approximately 1,700 types of plants, centering on wetland vegetation. Different flowers bloom each season, and visitors can enjoy nature walks. A world of abundant greenery spreads out, in contrast to Owakudani’s desolate landscape.
Model Courses for Owakudani Tourism
We introduce model courses for Hakone tourism centered on Owakudani.
Day Trip Course (6 hours)
9:00 AM Arrival at Hakone Yumoto Station, travel to Gora on Hakone Tozan Railway
10:00 AM Cable car from Gora Station to Souunzan
10:30 AM Arrival at Owakudani via Hakone Ropeway, explore grounds
11:30 AM Eat black eggs while enjoying the view
12:30 PM Move to Momosodai via ropeway
1:00 PM Lake Ashi sightseeing boat cruise
2:30 PM Visit Hakone Shrine
3:30 PM Return to Hakone Yumoto via shuttle bus
2-Day, 1-Night Course
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrival at Hakone Yumoto, visit Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Afternoon: Explore Gora Park, stay overnight at a hot spring inn in the Gora area
Day 2:
- Morning: Travel to Owakudani via ropeway from Souunzan, explore grounds
- Afternoon: Visit Lake Ashi area, visit Hakone Sekisho ruins
- Evening: Shopping in Hakone Yumoto, depart
This course allows you to efficiently visit Hakone’s major spots while fully enjoying the attractions of Owakudani.
Owakudani’s Volcanic Activity and Safety Measures
Owakudani is an active volcanic area, and volcanic activity conditions may affect tourism. Here is information for safely enjoying tourism.
Volcanic Activity Levels and Tourism Impact
The Japan Meteorological Agency sets five levels of eruption alert for Hakone volcano’s volcanic activity.
Level 1 (Note that this is an active volcano):
Normal tourism is possible. However, attention to volcanic gas is necessary.
Level 2 (Crater area restricted):
Access to Owakudani grounds is restricted. The ropeway often continues operation.
Level 3 or higher:
Entry to the Owakudani area is completely prohibited, and the ropeway is suspended.
In 2015, intensified volcanic activity temporarily prohibited access to the Owakudani area, but tourism has now resumed with strengthened safety measures.
How to Check Latest Information
Before visiting Owakudani, always check the latest volcanic activity information.
Information sources:
- Japan Meteorological Agency “Hakone Volcano Activity Status”
- Hakone Town Official Website
- Hakone Ropeway Official Site
- Hakone Town Tourism Association Official Site
From these official sources, you can confirm the volcanic activity level, access restriction status, and public transportation operating conditions.
Photography Spots at Owakudani
Owakudani has numerous Instagram-worthy scenic spots.
Collaboration of Volcanic Smoke and Mt. Fuji
On days with favorable weather, it is possible to capture both the white smoke of Owakudani and Mt. Fuji in the same frame. Mt. Fuji is particularly visible in the morning, and volcanic smoke illuminated by morning light creates a mystical atmosphere.
Aerial View from the Ropeway
The panoramic view of Owakudani photographed from the gondola window becomes an impressive shot. Particularly, there is a point on the way from Souunzan to Owakudani where the entire valley comes into view, making photography from there recommended.
Combination of Black Eggs and Scenery
A photograph of holding the famous black eggs of Owakudani with volcanic smoke or Mt. Fuji in the background is a standard shot of Owakudani tourism. The contrast between the black shell of the black egg and the white volcanic smoke creates an impressive photograph.
Accommodation Near Owakudani
As a base for Owakudani tourism, the surrounding area has diverse accommodation options.
Hotels and Inns in the Gora Area
Gora, the hot spring resort closest to Owakudani, offers a wide range of options from luxury inns to affordable hotels. As the terminal station of the Hakone Tozan Railway, it is also conveniently accessible.
Representative facilities include Gora Kasen, Kino-Yu Setsugetsuka, and Gora Kansuiro, all offering hot spring waters from private sources and cuisine made with Hakone ingredients.
Hotels in the Sengokuhara Area
In the Sengokuhara area at the foot of Owakudani, resort hotels and pensions are scattered. In a quiet environment surrounded by nature, visitors can enjoy relaxed stays.
Hakone Highland Hotel and Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel are popular among large resort facilities with extensive grounds.
Hotels Around Lake Ashi
Around Lake Ashi, approximately 15 minutes from Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway, there are many accommodation facilities. Many have rooms with lakeside views and outdoor baths overlooking Mt. Fuji, making them ideal bases for Hakone tourism.
Best Season for Owakudani Tourism
Owakudani can be visited throughout the year, but each season offers different attractions.
Spring (March-May)
Snow melts and temperatures gradually rise. The air is clear, so there is a high probability of seeing Mt. Fuji, making it suitable for photography. However, mornings and evenings are cold, so bringing warm clothing is recommended.
Summer (June-August)
High elevation allows for cooler comfort compared to lower areas. However, during the rainy season, fog tends to develop, reducing visibility. The summer vacation season is crowded, so early morning visits are recommended.
Autumn (September-November)
The most suitable season for tourism. The air is clear, Mt. Fuji is beautifully visible, and autumn foliage in the surrounding area can also be enjoyed. Particularly from October through early November, combined tourism with pampas grass at Sengokuhara is popular.
Winter (December-February)
Snow accumulation makes the season beautiful with white snow and white volcanic smoke in contrast. The air is clearest, so the view of Mt. Fuji is best. However, caution is needed regarding frozen surfaces, and full cold-weather preparations are necessary.
Shopping and Souvenirs at Owakudani
Owakudani has unique souvenirs related to volcanoes.
Black Egg Related Products
Besides the famous black eggs, many products featuring black eggs as a motif are sold. Black egg straps, black egg cookies, black egg crackers, and more offer a variety of products.
Sulfur Products
Soap and bath salts made from Owakudani’s sulfur are popular souvenirs. Products containing hot spring components are said to have beauty benefits and are particularly popular with women.
Hakone Yosegi Marquetry
Yosegi marquetry, a traditional Hakone craft, can also be purchased at Owakudani shops. Intricate geometric patterns create beautiful small items and coasters—practical craft products.
Summary: Experience the Earth’s Energy at Owakudani
Owakudani in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a living volcano formed by volcanic activity approximately 3,000 years ago that continues its activity today. Full of unique attractions unavailable elsewhere, including a desolate landscape, rising white smoke, the scent of sulfur, and the famous black eggs.
Access via the Hakone Ropeway is itself a tourism experience, and the panoramic view of Owakudani from above is spectacular. With favorable weather, you can also enjoy the collaboration with Mt. Fuji.
When visiting, confirm volcanic activity conditions in advance and enjoy tourism with attention to safety. Owakudani is Hakone’s representative tourist spot where you can feel the breath of the Earth up close. Combined with nearby hot spring resorts and Lake Ashi, enjoy fulfilling Hakone tourism.
