Lakeside Spiritual Retreat: Lake Ashi’s Scenic Shores and Ryokan Spas in Hakone’s Sacred Heart
- Douglas Jay Falcon
- Sep 6, 2025
- 2 min read
Lake Ashi, Hakone’s shimmering volcanic lake, glows with a lakeside spiritual retreat, where scenic shores, historic trails, and ryokan spas offer breathtaking views, rejuvenating onsens, and aromatherapy massages, just 30 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto by Hakone Tozan Bus. Framed by Mount Fuji on clear days and the iconic red Torii gate of Hakone Shrine, this sacred area draws pilgrims and tourists to its tranquil waters, perfect for a rejuvenating escape after cruising the lake or praying at the shrine. Cherished by locals for its spiritual resonance and natural beauty, Lake Ashi offers English-friendly signage at major sites, accessible paths, and lesser-known wellness spots tucked in Moto-Hakone’s ryokan, balancing iconic nature destinations with exclusive self-care experiences. From meditative walks along cedar-lined paths to hot spring soaks at Hakone Lake Hotel, Lake Ashi’s retreat weaves a restorative haven where Hakone’s mystical soul reflects in still waters, inviting you to find peace in a district where ancient cedars and sacred shores embrace the soul.
Lake Ashinoko (Lake Ashi)
In Moto-Hakone (free entry), this volcanic lake offers shoreline walks, Mount Fuji views, and boat rentals (¥1,000–¥2,000), a 5-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port. Open 24 hours. English signage available.
Hakone Lake Hotel Onsen
In Moto-Hakone (¥2,000–¥3,000 day-use entry), this ryokan offers hot springs and massages, a close walk from Moto-Hakone Port.
Cedar Avenue Meditation Spot (Lesser-Known)
Near Hakone Shrine, this quiet cedar-lined path offers serene benches and lake views, a 10-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port.
Location Benefits: Lake Ashi’s Hakone Tozan Bus links to Hakone-Yumoto (30 minutes) or Gora (20 minutes). Walkable Hakone Shrine, local unagi restaurants, and pirate ship cruises offer spiritual and scenic depth, with Moto-Hakone Port’s access ideal for lakeside nature and wellness in Hakone’s sacred heart.
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