About Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi is a nature-rich lake located in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture, and is popular as a tourist destination for its seasonal scenery and diverse activities. It is a caldera lake formed by volcanic activity about 3,000 years ago, and spreads out at an elevation of about 700 meters above sea level. Therefore, combined with the mountains and forests surrounding the lake, it attracts many tourists as a spot where they can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Hakone.
The main attraction of Lake Ashi is its spectacular scenery and lake activities. The lake's surface reflects beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons, and on particularly clear days, it is known as a spectacular spot from which to view Mt. The serene surface of the lake in the morning mist and the fantastic view of the water surface at sunset are well worth seeing. In addition, since the surrounding mountains are colored with autumn leaves in fall, tourists are attracted by the colorful scenery of the lake and the mountains during the fall foliage season. In spring and summer, fresh greenery surrounds the lake, and the contrast between the lush mountains and the lake is so refreshing that visitors feel as if they are looking at a panorama of nature.
One of the best ways to enjoy sightseeing at Lake Ashi is to take a cruise on a sightseeing boat. From a cruise boat that moves gracefully on the lake, you can enjoy the nature of Hakone from various angles, and the view of Mount Fuji and the lakeside scenery from the boat is truly spectacular. Fuji and the lakeside scenery from the boat. In particular, a sightseeing boat modeled after a pirate ship operates on Lake Ashi, which is popular among both children and adults because of its unique design and the enjoyment of a trip on the lake. As the boat cruises slowly along the lake, visitors can feel the nature of the lakeside area and the surface of the water swaying in the wind up close, and enjoy an extraordinary and relaxing time.
There are also a number of sightseeing spots scattered around Lake Ashi. Hakone Shrine is a historic shrine located by the lake, and its “Heiwa no Torii” (Peaceful Gate) stands at the edge of the lake. The contrast between the vermilion-lacquered torii and the lake makes it a popular photographic sight. The Hakone Sekisho (gateway) site is a historical place that served as a strategic point on the Tokaido Highway during the Edo period (1603-1868), and visitors can enjoy the historical atmosphere of the site as well as the lake. The attraction of Lake Ashi is that you can experience both historical and cultural sightseeing and enjoy the beauty of nature at the same time.
Onsen ryokan, cafes, and restaurants are scattered along the lakeside, and a relaxing soak in a hot spring or enjoy a meal while gazing at the lake is a recommended way to spend your time. In particular, spending time at a cafe overlooking the lake is a luxurious way to relax your body and mind in the midst of nature. Also, since the lakeside promenade is well maintained, hiking and strolling in the rich nature surrounding Lake Ashi is also popular. While walking, you can feel the brightness of the lake's surface, the scent of the trees, and the chirping of the birds, and enjoy a moment of being one with nature.
All in all, Lake Ashi is a sightseeing spot where Hakone's natural beauty and history are in harmony, and where you can enjoy the scenery and variety of the four seasons. Whether spending an elegant time on a lake cruise, visiting shrines and historical sites along the lakeside, or relaxing in a hot spring, the lake offers a variety of healing and enjoyable experiences to visitors. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Hakone area, it is a place where visitors can enjoy all that nature, culture, and fun have to offer.