CityBuddy
Owakudani Valley
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon visits help avoid crowds and offer softer light for photography, while spring and autumn bring milder weather and clearer skies for views.
Budget tips
The cable car has a round-trip ticket costing about 2,000 yen; consider a Hakone Free Pass to save if exploring the area extensively. Walking around the valley area is free, so budget time for that to enjoy the scenery without extra cost.
Recommended for
Nature lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers, Cultural explorers
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: Nestled in a volcanic valley with steaming vents and bubbling pools, this spot is famous for its sulfuric hot springs and black eggs boiled in the natural hot water. A cable car ride grants stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days, adding a breathtaking backdrop to the otherworldly landscape.
Highlights: The area's volcanic activity is so intense that you can see steam rising from crevices all around and smell the sulfur in the air, giving you a genuine sense of nature's raw power. Local legend says eating one of the black eggs, cooked in the hot springs, adds seven years to your life, making the experience both fun and mystical.
Insider tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes as trails can be rocky and slippery around steam vents.
- Bring a camera for unique shots of steam plumes with Mount Fuji in the background.
- Avoid weekends and golden week holidays to skip heavy crowds.
- Try the black eggs at the local stands but skip overpriced souvenirs.
