Where to Stay in Hakone
Safe neighborhoods, social hostels, and practical tips for women travelling alone
Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travellers
Ranked by relevance for solo female travellers visiting Hakone
Gora
Mid-rangeA charming mountain resort town known for its art museums and hot springs.
- +Excellent access to museums and galleries
- +Abundant onsen (hot springs) facilities
- +Beautiful mountain scenery
- -Can feel crowded during peak season
- -Limited dining options outside of hotels
🛡️ Generally very safe; stick to well-lit paths at night.
Hakone-Yumoto
BudgetThe bustling gateway to Hakone, offering a mix of souvenir shops, restaurants, and onsen.
- +Most convenient for arrival and departure
- +Wide range of accommodation and dining choices
- +Good starting point for day trips
- -Can be very touristy and crowded
- -Less scenic and tranquil than higher elevations
🛡️ Safe during the day; some areas can be dimly lit and quiet at night, be aware of surroundings.
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko)
LuxuryA picturesque caldera lake offering stunning views of Mount Fuji and iconic pirate ship cruises.
- +Iconic views of Mount Fuji
- +Relaxing lake activities
- +Proximity to Hakone Shrine
- -Accommodation can be pricier
- -Transportation between points of interest can be time-consuming
🛡️ Very safe; well-trafficked areas. Be cautious near the water's edge.
Daily Budget (Budget)
JPY 8000/day
Hidden Gems in Hakone
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Hatsuhana
A beloved local soba noodle restaurant known for its exquisite handmade noodles and delicate dipping broths. It's a perfect spot to savor authentic Japanese cuisine away from the crowds.
Safety in Hakone
SafeSolo Female Travel
Hakone is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas late at night are sufficient.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially around hotels and main streets. Some mountain roads and paths can be dark and deserted.
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced souvenirs in tourist-heavy areas.
- 2Misleading information regarding transport options if not using the Hakone Free Pass.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Hakone