Tokyo & Hakone: A journey through Japan’s past & present

Neon streets or misty mountains? Ancient shrines or cutting-edge style? In Japan, you don’t have to choose. Visiting Tokyo and Hakone pairs the pulse of one of the world’s greatest cities with the calm of volcanic landscapes and Mt. Fuji views.

Japan has a rare ability to feel both timeless and futuristic at the same time. And nowhere is that contrast more vivid than in Tokyo and Hakone. Together, these two destinations offer a perfectly balanced introduction to the country: the electric pulse of a world-class city closely followed by the serene landscapes that have inspired Japanese art and spirituality for centuries.

Tokyo: Tradition in motion

Section Type: standardWidthImageS

Strolling Yoyogi Park and exploring Meiji Jingu is truly a peaceful experience.

Tokyo is a world in one city, with each neighborhood offering a different perspective on Japan’s many-layered capital. But where to start?

Begin at Meiji Jingu, a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Though it sits in the center of the city, the shrine feels worlds away, hidden within a forest of more than 100,000 trees. Passing through the towering torii gate and along gravel paths, the sounds of Tokyo soften into birdsong and rustling leaves: a striking reminder of Japan’s spiritual traditions and deep respect for nature.

From this tranquil setting, shift straight into Tokyo’s creative pulse in Harajuku and Omotesando. Harajuku is synonymous with youth culture and bold street fashion, where individuality takes center stage and new trends emerge daily. Just steps away, Omotesando offers a more refined contrast, with broad, tree-lined boulevards and eye-catching modern architecture by world-renowned designers. Together, these neighboring districts capture Tokyo’s playful, stylish, and ever-evolving modern identity.

After lunch, slow the pace at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, one of the city’s most beautiful traditional landscape gardens. Dating back to the Edo period, the garden is meticulously designed with ponds, bridges, and miniature landscapes inspired by classical Chinese and Japanese scenery. Strolling its winding paths feels like stepping into a living painting.

Section Type: standardWidthImageS

Stop at a few shops as you stroll down Nakamise Street.

End the day in Asakusa, a neighborhood that preserves the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Here, Senso-ji, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, anchors the district with its incense-filled air and centuries of history. The approach to the temple along Nakamise Street is alive with energy, lined with stalls selling traditional snacks, sweets, and souvenirs. Together, the sacred and the everyday blend effortlessly, capturing the essence of Tokyo as a city where ancient traditions and modern life coexist.

Hakone: Nature, art, and Mt. Fuji

Section Type: standardWidthImageS

Hakone’s iconic torii gate on Lake Ashinoko.

After the urban intensity of Tokyo, Hakone offers a refreshing change of scenery. Located within Hakone National Park, this region is one of Japan’s best places to view Mt. Fuji, the country’s most iconic (and shy) natural symbol.

Your adventure begins with a ropeway ride to Mt. Owakudani, the heart of Hakone’s volcanic activity. The landscape here is dramatic and otherworldly, with steaming vents, sulfurous air, and rugged terrain shaped by volcanic forces. On clear days, this area often offers your first glimpse of Mt. Fuji rising in the distance; an unforgettable sight that feels almost ceremonial. Owakudani is also known for its hot springs and the famous black eggs, boiled in sulfuric waters are said to add years to your life.

Section Type: standardWidthImageS

Take in the stunning views up at Mt. Owakudani.

From there, you can continue by cable car down to Togendai, enjoying panoramic views of forests, valleys, and mountains along the way. At Togendai, we recommend boarding a replica pirate ship for a cruise across Lake Ashi. On clear days, Mt. Fuji appears framed above the lake, its reflection shimmering on the water’s surface. It doesn’t get better than this.

Another attraction well worth checking out is the Hakone Open Air Museum, a unique space where art and nature coexist in perfect harmony. Expansive outdoor sculptures are set against rolling hills and mountain backdrops, inviting you to experience art in motion as you wander the grounds. Indoor galleries add depth to the visit, but it’s the outdoor gallery that will really wow you.