Hakone Visitor Center
The Hakone Visitor Center is the ideal starting point to explore the Hakone area, a place of great natural diversity and part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Located in Kojiri, near the Togendai ropeway station, the Center features exhibits on local plants and animals, an interactive diorama of the mountainous, volcano-dotted landscape, and videos that highlight the scenic attractions of Hakone. Visitors can pick up maps and consult the staff to plan hikes and other outings, including kayaking and mountain biking excursions. Seasonal displays indicate which plants, birds, and insects can currently be spotted in the area.
The Center is the starting point for several walking routes. These range from short, family-friendly paths through the nearby Kojiri Enchi Park to more challenging trails, including one that climbs to Owakudani, the epicenter of volcanic activity in Hakone. Guided walking tours, which are free of charge, are also offered at the Center. Two-hour tours of the vicinity take place from 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Friday of the month, while slightly longer tours with a seasonal focus are offered from 10 a.m. every Sunday.