Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine – Spiritual Sanctuary on Mt. Komagatake
Overview: History, Nature, and Panoramic Views
Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine perched atop Mt. Komagatake in the scenic Hakone region. Founded in the 8th century, it is revered for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji. The shrine offers a tranquil escape, blending ancient tradition with the beauty of nature.
How to Access Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine (Last updated: May 9, 2025)
Route 1:
From Hakone Shrine, travel along Lake Ashi to Hakone-en (7 minutes by car or 30 minutes
on foot). From Hakone-en, take the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit station (8 minutes
one way). From the summit station, it's about an 8-minute walk to Hakone Mototsumiya
Shrine.
Route 2:
From Hakone Shrine, go to Moto-Hakone Port and board the Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise to
Hakone-en (20 minutes). From Hakone-en, take the Komagatake Ropeway to the summit
station (8 minutes one way). From the summit station, walk about 8 minutes to the
shrine.
Both routes offer scenic views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, making the journey itself a
memorable part of your visit.
| Departure Point | Route | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hakone-en | Take the Komagatake Ropeway from Hakone-en to the summit station (8 min), then walk about 8 minutes to Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine | About 16 min | ¥2,200 (round trip ropeway fare) |
| Hakone-en (Walking Route) | Hakone-en → Bougasawa → Mt.Komagatake | About 140 min | ¥0 |
Connection with Hakone Shrine
Hakone Mototsumiya Shrine is considered the original and inner sanctuary of Hakone Shrine. Historically, pilgrims would first ascend to Mototsumiya at the summit of Mt. Komagatake before visiting the main Hakone Shrine by Lake Ashi. This tradition represents a spiritual journey connecting the mountain (heaven) and the lake (earth), symbolizing the deep relationship between the two shrines. Together, they embody the harmonious link between nature, spirituality, and the cultural heritage of the Hakone region.
Recommended For (Walking Route)
This walking route is recommended for those who want to try hiking as beginners, explore lesser-known trails, enjoy both hiking and hot springs, experience Hakone’s historical culture, or combine hiking with other activities by using transportation for one way.
Activity Information
- Location: Hakone, Kanagawa, Japan
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms, Autumn for fall foliage
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the shrine grounds and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
- Budget: Around ¥2,500–¥3,000 per person (including ropeway fare)