Day trip from Tokyo: Hakone vol.3
The last station of the ropeway is “Togendai”, by Lake Ashi.
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko in Japanese, “あしのこ, 芦ノ湖”) was formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after the volcano’s last eruption 3000 years ago. Today, the lake with Mount Fuji in the background is the symbol of Hakone.
The best views of the lake in combination with Mount Fuji can be enjoyed from the sightseeing boats cruising the lake. but clouds often block the view of Mount Fuji. I hope you can see a nice view!
If you visit “Hakone” in Autumn, I recommend “Sengoku” (せんごく, 仙石). There is a very large silver grass field. you can go there to take a bus from “Hakone-yumoto” or “Togendai”.
“Hakone” is a mountainous area, but close to the sea, “Odawara” or “Izu”, therefore it is quite famous for seafood as well. On the shopping street near “Hakone-yumoto” station, you can see a lot of seafood.
Dried fishes (ひもの, 干物)
Fish cakes (kamaboko, かまぼこ)
Many shops has simples, please try them.
And “Hatsuhana” (はつはな, はつ花) is a popular Japanese needle (Soba) shop. It might be good to eat Soba for lunch there.
Visiting “Hakone” is good for one-day trip, but you have time, please stay one night there. There are nice Ryokan(Japanese hotels), some has a private hot spring in each rooms.
“Odakyu Travel” offers special deals (Hotel stay + train tickets etc.).
Please check the site out.