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Hakone Shrine is said to have been founded in 757 by the monk Mangan, giving it a history of over 1,200 years. The 'Peace Torii' standing at the water's edge of Lake Ashi — appearing to rise from the lake itself — is one of Hakone's defining images, celebrated for blessings of success in competitions and romantic partnerships. Minamoto no Yoritomo visited to pray for victory in battle, and the shrine has drawn pilgrims and travellers ever since. The mist that often lies over the lake at dawn, silhouetting the torii, is one of the most atmospheric sights in the Hakone region.
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この記事で分かること：Hakone Shrine guide: the Peace Torii, shrine grounds and main hall, goshuin stamps and omamori charms, access, and tips for making the most of your visit.
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The "Peace Torii" Rising from Lake Ashi
The vermilion torii gate appears to float on the surface of Lake Ashi, with the Hakone mountains as a backdrop. This is one of the most iconic photo spots in all of Hakone — ethereal in the morning mist.
Over 1,200 Years of History
Founded in the Nara period, this venerable shrine has drawn worshippers seeking good fortune since the days of Minamoto no Yoritomo, who came to pray for victory in battle. It is celebrated for blessings of success in competitions and love.
Early Morning Visits Are the Most Rewarding
Before the crowds arrive (9:00–10:00 a.m.) the torii gate floats in morning mist for an atmospheric, almost otherworldly effect. The stillness of the lakeshore makes for a genuinely refreshing start to the day.
Lakeside Strolling
Walking along the lake from the shrine grounds reveals seasonal wildflowers and waterfowl. The Hakone Pirate Ship pier (Hakonemachi Port) is within easy walking distance, making a natural next stop.
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Basic Information
Time Required
45 min – 1 hour
Admission
Free
Hours
Open 24 hours (Shrine office 9:00–17:00)
Address
80-1 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Kanagawa
Best Time
Early morning 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Nearest Port
Hakonemachi Port (approx. 5 min walk)
What to See
The Peace Torii (Lakeside Torii Gate)
Standing at the shore of Lake Ashi, the vermilion Peace Torii is Hakone's most photographed sight. Built in 1952 to commemorate the signing of the San Francisco Peace Treaty, the gate appears to rise directly from the lake surface, especially when the water is calm and misty in the early morning. The combination of the red gate, blue lake, and surrounding mountains — or the gate half-hidden in morning fog — makes for one of Japan's most striking natural shrine settings.
Main Hall and Grounds
Climbing moss-covered stone steps leads to a solemn main hall surrounded by towering Japanese cedars. The shrine is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime and two other deities, and is revered for blessings of love and victory. Among the sacred treasures on the grounds are a camphor tree said to be 1,200 years old and a pond traditionally associated with a donation by Minamoto no Yoritomo. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried.
Goshuin Stamps and Charms
Goshuin stamps for both the main Hakone Shrine and the Kuzuryu (Nine-Headed Dragon) Shrine within the grounds are available at the shrine office (9:00–17:00). Popular charms include the "Enmusubi no Ito" (matchmaking thread) and the "Kamiya" arrow for good fortune in competitions. The Hakone Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage stamp book is also available and begins here.
Getting There
By Hakone Pirate Ship (Recommended)
Togendai Port → Hakonemachi Port (approx. 25 min by ship)
Approx. 5 min walk from Hakonemachi Port to the torii gate
By Bus
Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station — "Motohakone" stop, approx. 5 min walk
From Gora Station: bus to Togendai direction — "Motohakone" stop, approx. 5 min walk
Tips & Things to Know
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