Hakone Detached Palace Garden

Overview

The Hakone Detached Palace Garden is the beautifully maintained grounds of the former imperial summer villa on the shores of Lake Ashi. Though the palace buildings no longer exist, the waterfront gardens offer serene lake views and elegant landscaping.

Highlights

• Lake Frontage: The garden's manicured lawns slope down to a scenic lakeshore with views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
• Mature Trees: Grand old pines and deciduous trees frame the lake views, with autumn colors particularly stunning.
• Peaceful Retreat: One of the quieter spots on the Lake Ashi shore, with far fewer visitors than nearby Hakone Shrine or Moto-Hakone.

History

The site was established as a summer palace for the Imperial Household in 1886, taking advantage of the cool mountain climate and lakeside setting. The buildings were destroyed by the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. The grounds were later opened to the public as the Onshi-Hakone-Koen park.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: The garden is completely free to enter, making it a no-cost lakeside escape.
• Benches: Well-placed benches on the lake side make this an ideal spot for a quiet lakeside lunch.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.