Hakone (Kanagawa)
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Check Hakone's Temperatures and Clothing

Hakone is located in the southwestern part of Kanagawa Prefecture. Boasting one of Japan's leading numbers of hot spring sources and volume of water, and with good access from the capital, the "Hakone Seven Hot Springs" cure became established during the Edo period. In the Meiji era, it gained popularity as a summer retreat for foreigners, and it remains a popular hot spring resort that boasts one of the highest numbers of visitors in Japan today.
Hakone is formed by the 1,000-meter-high outer rim mountains surrounding the Hakone volcanic caldera, as well as lakes and grassy wetlands within the caldera. The annual temperature in Hakone-Yumoto, located at the foot of the outer rim at an altitude of about 97 meters, is not much different from that of Tokyo, but in Sengokuhara, located at an altitude of 645 meters, the temperature is 3 to 4°C lower. In January, the coldest month, the difference in minimum temperature can be as much as 6°C.
To enjoy Hakone comfortably, with its rich nature and hot springs that can be enjoyed throughout the year, consider the difference in altitude and prepare an extra layer for seasonal cold protection to be ready for temperature fluctuations.

About Hakone's Spring (March–May) Temperature and Clothing
About Hakone's Summer (June–August) Temperature and Clothing
About temperatures and clothing in Hakone in autumn (September to November)
About temperatures and clothing in Hakone in winter (December to February)
Cherry blossoms in Miyagino (Photo courtesy of Hakone Town Planning and Tourism Department, Tourism Division)
Cherry blossoms in Miyagino (Photo courtesy of: Hakone Town Tourism Division)

The average temperature in Hakone-Yumoto in March is 11°C, which is about the same as in Tokyo. The average temperature in Sengokuhara is 7.2°C, so a coat is still necessary. However, during the day, temperatures rise to around 20°C in Sengokuhara and around 24°C in Hakone-Yumoto, so it is best to wear clothes that are easy to take off and put on.
In late March, cherry blossoms begin to bloom in Hakone as well. The cherry blossom front starts blooming from Hakone-Yumoto and Ohiradai, gradually moving to higher altitude areas, and you can enjoy cherry blossoms at Lake Ashi until early May.
April and May, when the fresh green leaves are dazzling, are the best seasons to visit Hakone. Famous spots for azaleas, such as Hakone Gora Park, become vibrant spaces. In both Hakone-Yumoto and Sengokuhara, there are days when the maximum temperature exceeds 25°C, and you can spend time in warm, pleasant weather. During the day, long-sleeved shirts are sufficient, but in higher altitude areas like Sengokuhara, it gets cold in the morning and evening, so we recommend carrying a hoodie or jacket.

Hakone Tozan Railway "Hydrangea Train"
Hakone Tozan Railway "Hydrangea Train"

In June, Hakone has many rainy days, with rain falling on more than half of the month. With an average temperature of 22.2°C in Hakone-Yumoto and 18.9°C in Sengokuhara, it feels colder when it rains. It is useful to have a windbreaker or a slightly thicker jacket ready. From June to early July, the Hakone Tozan Railway's "Hydrangea Train" runs, with hydrangeas glistening in the rain coloring the view from the train windows. Once the rainy season ends, Hakone-Yumoto welcomes a hot summer, with an average temperature of 27.6°C in August. On the other hand, the average temperature in Sengokuhara in August is 24.3°C, which is about 2°C lower. You can spend the day in a T-shirt or similar in both places, but be sure to have a light cardigan when visiting higher altitude areas. Also, since there is a high probability of rain in August, be sure to have rain gear ready.
Summer is also packed with events, such as the Lake Ashi Fireworks Festival and the Gora Daimonji-yaki bonfire.

Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field
Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field

The average temperature in Hakone-Yumoto in September is 24.3°C, and 21.2°C in Sengokuhara. Until mid-September, the lingering summer heat is intense during the day, so you can go out in the same clothing as in summer, but by the end of the month, it starts to feel like autumn all at once in the higher altitude areas. As there are more days when it feels cool not only in the morning and evening but also during the day, a large shawl that you can throw over your jacket will come in handy. The trees start to change color from the peaks of the outer rim mountains in late October. The pampas grass fields of Sengokuhara also begin to shine in golden colors. In November, when the autumn leaves and pampas grass are at their best, the average temperature is 13.7°C in Hakone-Yumoto and 9.8°C in Sengokuhara. It gets even colder at night, and by late November, there are more days when temperatures in Sengokuhara drop below freezing. If you are going out to enjoy the autumn leaves, a coat is essential. You also need to take measures against the cold, such as wearing boots.
Also, since there are many rainy days in Hakone in autumn, carry rain gear with you.

Lake Ashi
Lake Ashi

In winter, the clothing you need in Hakone varies depending on whether you are in a low-altitude or high-altitude area. The average winter temperature in Hakone-Yumoto is about the same as in Tokyo, so you can wear the same outdoor clothing as you would in Tokyo. On the other hand, the average temperature in Sengokuhara often sees lows of -7°C or below, with snow falling several times a month and accumulating on the ground. When going out, cold-weather gear such as a down coat, boots, and a scarf is essential. If you are traveling by car, check the weather forecast in advance and be sure to equip your vehicle with tire chains or winter tires if there is a possibility of snow.
Also, winter days are often clear, and at places like Lake Ashi, you can see the snow-capped Mount Fuji standing out clearly in the crisp air. Hakone, where you can enjoy such superb views, is the perfect destination for a season when you start to crave a warm hot spring.

*The information provided is current as of the date of the article's update. Please check in advance as it may be subject to change.