Owakudani

As you approach Owakudani on the Hakone Ropeway, you could almost imagine you were arriving on an alien planet. The crater and it’s various arteries pulse, puffing out great clouds of sulfur.

The arid, rocky landscape would give the Mars Rover a run for its money. But you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that even in this crazy landscape, there is plenty for visitors to do.

First things first, get into the super long queue that is probably snaking it’s way around from the back of one of the souvenir shops. Inside, eggs are being boiled slowly for an hour in water heated by one of Owakudani’s many hot springs. Almost like Darth Vader resurfacing out of the flames, these black eggs are guaranteed Instagram fodder that your followers will lap up. Crank up the geekiness by claiming to be a certain Queen of Dragons; but don’t forget to eat these tasty little morsels before they hatch! (Disclaimer: don’t get your hopes up.)

Owakudani is in a prime position for gorgeous panoramas of Lake Ashinoko and views of Mount Fuji. It is definitely recommended to take a sightseeing tour and hop off at Togendai so you can experience the awe-inspiring approach to Owakudani via the ropeway. The sights don’t end there, though. Getting up close and personal with a crater is possible because of the sightseeing decks but beware that Owakudani is very much an active volcano so make sure to stay well within the designated areas. If your egg didn’t fill you up, enjoy the scenery whilst taking a break in one of the many volcano-side restaurants. How often will you get a chance to do that on the weekend?!