Torii Gates in the Mist: Lake Ashi’s Sacred Shores and Hidden Relics by Hakone’s Waters

Lake Ashi (Ashinoko), Hakone’s shimmering jewel, cradles a spiritual legacy along its shores, where the iconic red torii of Hakone Shrine rises from the water and lesser-known memorials whisper Edo-era tales, just 30 minutes from Hakone-Yumoto by bus. Anchored by Moto-Hakone Port’s Hakone Tozan Bus stops, this tranquil lakeside draws pilgrims and history buffs to its ancient shrines and quiet statues, ideal for contemplation after a pirate ship cruise or a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear days. Cherished by locals for its sacred serenity, Lake Ashi offers English signage, guided shrine tours, and hidden sites tucked in cedar forests, blending the famous with the obscure to unveil Hakone’s soul. As you tread paths once walked by samurai or pause before a weathered Jizo statue, Lake Ashi’s misty relics craft a cultural voyage, where torii gates stand sentinel in the fog, weaving a Kanagawa tapestry of devotion and history that resonates with Japan’s ancient heart.

• Hakone Shrine

  In Moto-Hakone (free entry), this 757 AD shrine features a lakefront torii, a 5-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port bus stop.

  Hakone Shrine on Google

  

  
  

• Kuzuryu Shrine

  Near Hakone Shrine (free entry), this dragon deity shrine hides in a forest, a 10-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port. Open until dusk. Minimal English signage.

  Kuzuryu Shrine on Google

  

  
  

• Hakone Sekisho Checkpoint Museum

  In Moto-Hakone (¥500 entry), this restored Edo-era checkpoint showcases samurai travel passes, a 7-minute walk from Moto-Hakone Port.

  Hakone Sekisho Checkpoint Museum on Google

  

  
  

Location Benefits: Lake Ashi’s bus and pirate ship connect to Hakone-Yumoto (30 minutes) or Sengokuhara (20 minutes). Walkable cedar trails, onsen ryokans, and Mount Fuji views enhance the spiritual experience, with Moto-Hakone’s proximity to the Old Tokaido Road for historical hikes.