Hakone, located in southwest Kanagawa Prefecture, is a hot spring town conveniently accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area that has been cherished as an onsen destination for centuries. The area, formed from volcanic activity that began around 400,000 years ago, is blessed with what is known as the “Hakone Jushichito (Seventeen Hot Springs),” featuring a rich variety of 20 hot spring qualities. Notable natural and historical sites include the ever-smoking volcanic valley of Owakudani, the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields that turn golden in autumn, and the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which includes an old stone-paved path once used as a major route to Edo (modern-day Tokyo). With its rich nature and history, alongside the exquisite craftmanship of traditional Hakone woodwork, Hakone is a place where one can experience the diverse charms of Japan. Also blessed with an abundance of seafood gathered at the nearby Odawara Port, Hakone truly combines the blessings of mountains and sea – captivating both its domestic and international visitors.