Mount Kintoki is situated in Hakone which is a part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and a member of the Japanese Geo-parks network. Well-known for legendary Kintaro, this hike is full of folklore and nature in abundance. The summit of Mt.Kintoki offers spectacular views of surrounding scenery and Mt.Fuji.
Legend says Mt.Kintoki is the birthplace of Kintaro, a boy known for his superhuman strength. A great ax similar to the one he used, is placed in a shrine, Kintoki-jinjya, near the beginning of the trek. You reach Yatori-Ishi after walking through rich vegetation and moss-covered trees. This huge boulder split in two, is said to be the work and dwelling of Kintaro. One truly senses stepping into the world of folklore.
This hike is a 5km roundtrip with an elevation variance of 1,000m. Although not over-demanding, the trail becomes steep before reaching the summit of 1,213m above sea level. At the top are teahouses for well-deserved refreshments, and where travelers and locals exchange experiences. A panoramic view of Mt.Fuji, Lake Ashi and Owakudani Valley with its volcanic smoke unfold in front of you. From deep forest to the open mountain top, this is a varied and unique hike, easily accessible from the cities.
This hike covers about 5 km round trip with a total elevation change of around 1,000 meters — roughly 4 hours of hiking, plus about 1 hour resting and enjoying a light meal at the summit, for a total of about 5 hours. It's not a technical route, but the trail becomes steep near the summit, so proper hiking gear and clothing are required. At the top, a mountain hut offers a well-deserved rest with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the Owakudani Valley.
Please come prepared with:
- a backpack (20-30 litres) to keep your hands free
- waterproof, windproof, breathable outerwear for layering
- separate-style rain gear; hiking boots (sneakers are not recommended)
- a water bottle of at least 0.5 litres per person (there are water refill spots along the route)
- a hat and sunglasse
- sunscreen
- energy snacks such as nuts, candy, or jelly
- any personal medication you may need
We'll meet at Hakone-Yumoto Station at 9:00 AM, and take a local bus to the start of the trail. The tour takes about 5 hours in total.
This tour runs as scheduled even in rain, so please come prepared with proper rain gear (see our packing list). However, if a severe weather warning is issued that would disrupt public transportation, we'll make the call around noon the day before your tour. In that case, we can offer to switch the tour to a general sightseeing tour. If you'd prefer not to switch, you'll receive a full refund.
Cancellations made 30 or more days before the tour are fully refunded.
- 14-29 days before incur a 30% fee
- 7-13 days before incur a 50% fee
- within 6 days of the tour (or no-shows) are non-refundable.
