🗺️ Owakudani大涌谷

On the main route around Hakone, you can transfer from the mountain cable car to the aerial tramway at Souunzan Station, enjoying a moment of walking in the sky as the scenery changes dramatically before your eyes. The dense greenery suddenly disappears, and white steam slowly rises from the exposed rocks that have crumbled. This is Owakudani, a volcanic crater created by recent volcanic activity in Hakone. The white gas that erupts year-round from numerous vents contains sulfur and emits a unique odor. When you get off at the Owakudani station of the aerial tramway, you can observe the steam vents up close. The yellowish parts of the rocks are sulfur crystals. At the hot spring outlets, you can also cook the locally famous "black eggs." By soaking the eggs in the high-temperature, acidic hot springs, they turn into black-shelled boiled eggs, and it is said that eating one can extend your life by seven years. Many local shops sell these eggs. Additionally, in the southeastern area known as Hell Valley (Jigokudani), there are stone chambers filled with rocks at the sulfur gas emission vents. The hot spring water produced here is supplied to the Sengokuhara and Gora areas.

Experience the vibrant and powerful activities of the Earth up close. This area, once the sacred domain of Hakone Gongen, also features the energy spot of the longevity-boosting black eggs. Access will be regulated during periods of frequent volcanic activity. Please check the official website for the latest information. Due to the toxic sulfur steam from the vents, individuals with respiratory or heart conditions are prohibited from entering. Pregnant women, those with allergies, and the elderly should also exercise special caution. Additionally, when the concentration of sulfur steam increases, all tourists will be subject to entry restrictions.