Hakone Shrine sits in a cryptomeria forest on the shore of Lake Ashi and is said to have been founded in 757 by the priest Mangan. Its vermilion 'Peace Torii' (Heiwa no Torii), standing in the lake, was erected in 1952 to mark the San Francisco Peace Treaty, with a 'peace' plaque in the calligraphy of Prime Minister Yoshida Shigeru added in 1964. Today it is a beloved photo spot, often with Mt. Fuji behind it, and long photo queues form as a result.
The signature shot in front of the vermilion Peace Torii floating on Lake Ashi
The 89 stone steps and mossy cedar-lined approach behind the torii
Praying at the main hall for travel safety, marriage, luck in competitions and prosperity
Views of Lake Ashi and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji framed beyond the gate
The Kuzuryu (nine-headed dragon) legend and the shrine's Treasure House (paid)
Good to know
SafetyThe lakeside platform and the 89 stone steps get wet and slippery in rain or early morning. Watch your footing while framing photos so you don't slip toward the water.
MannersThere is a queue for photos at the Peace Torii, with signs asking you to keep it short (often around 3 minutes). Take a shot or two and step aside promptly rather than staging a long session in the frame.
SeasonOn weekend and holiday midday, and in spring (Apr–May), summer holidays and autumn foliage (Oct–Nov), the photo queue can reach an hour. Arriving before 8 AM, on weekday evenings, or in the off-season cuts the wait dramatically.
RulesDuring peak periods such as New Year, the area around the torii is temporarily closed to prevent crowd accidents (e.g. 28 Dec 2025 – 10 Feb 2026). Check the shrine's official website for the current closure dates before you go.
SafetyThe summer queue has almost no shade, so heat and sun exposure are real. Bring a hat, sun umbrella and water; the forest approach stays cool even in summer, so a light layer helps.
Practical info
Visiting the shrine and torii is free and outdoors with no fixed hours (the Treasure House is paid and time-limited). By transit, take a bus from Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara to the 'Motohakone-ko' stop, then walk about 10 minutes along the lake. There is no dedicated torii parking; nearby shrine/paid lots fill up quickly on weekends. Confirm fees, hours and any access closures from official sources just before visiting.
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