Hakone, Japan
A stunning mountain resort town in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, famous for its hot springs (onsen), art museums, and views of Mount Fuji.
🛡️ Safety Snapshot
Excellent
Excellent, very popular and easy to navigate
The 'Hakone Free Pass' is essential
Relaxed and restorative
🏘️ Neighborhood Breakdown
Where to Stay & Why (Based on Real Solo Travel Advice)
Hakone-Yumoto
Vibe: The main entry point to Hakone, with many souvenir shops, restaurants, and traditional ryokans with onsen.
✨ Pro Tip: A convenient base, especially if you're arriving late or leaving early. It has the most amenities.
Gora
Vibe: A central point in the transport loop, home to the Hakone Open-Air Museum and many high-end ryokans.
✨ Pro Tip: Stay in Gora for easy access to the main sights and a quieter, more elevated atmosphere than Yumoto.
🚨 Cultural Tips Specifically for Women
Buy the Hakone Free Pass. It covers all the different modes of transport in the area (train, cable car, ropeway, boat) and offers discounts on attractions.
Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a stunning outdoor sculpture park with works by Picasso, Rodin, and more, set against a mountain backdrop.
On a clear day, take the ropeway up to Owakudani, a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents, for a chance to see Mount Fuji.
Stay in a 'ryokan' (traditional inn) for the full experience, including a multi-course 'kaiseki' dinner and a dip in an onsen.
💬 Real Reviews
"Hakone was the perfect nature escape from Tokyo. The Open-Air Museum is one of the best museums I've ever visited. Soaking in an onsen with mountain views was pure bliss."
— Hannah, UK
"Navigating Hakone with the Free Pass was so easy and fun—from the scenic railway to the ropeway and the pirate ship on Lake Ashi. I felt completely safe and had a wonderful, peaceful time."
— Isabelle, France