Owakudani (Hakone)

大涌谷

Owakudani is a volcanic area in central Hakone where you can see traces of the area's volcanic past, with steaming vents and views of Mount Fuji. Its present shape was formed by the last eruption about 3,000 years ago. In the Edo period it was called "Ojigoku" (the Great Hell); today the name means "Great Boiling Valley". A popular local item is the black eggs, colored by boiling in the sulfur-rich water.

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Visitor information

Opening hours: Owakudani Park is open 9:00–17:00 and closed at night. (The parking lot is listed as 9:00–16:00.)
Getting there: Usually reached by ropeway from Soun Station or Togendai Station; it can also be reached by bus or car.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Volcanic gases (hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide) are released here and their strength often changes. People with asthma, heart or breathing problems, pregnant women, babies, small children and older people should be especially careful.
If you feel sick or your eyes or nose become irritated, move to an observation area or go back down the mountain. Announcements are made if gas levels become high.
At 1,040 m and very exposed, it can be windy and much colder than other parts of Hakone; bring warm clothes.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Because of volcanic gas, the official tourism site advises extra caution for people with asthma, respiratory or heart problems, pregnant women, babies and small children, and the elderly.
The famous black eggs are ordinary hard-boiled eggs cooked in the hot spring water; only the shell turns black.
Hakone has no restaurants specifically for halal diets, but many restaurants will accommodate dietary needs if asked, and some offer halal options if contacted in advance.
Natural sites may have few facilities. Bring water, a travel prayer mat and a qibla app, and check the weather; mountains and lakes can be much colder than the city.
Restrooms for wudu can be far apart on trails. Many Muslim travellers carry a small water bottle for wudu.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Kanagawa and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.