Hakone always seemed like a big tourist spot to me. Tourists to Japan visit Tokyo and then go on an excursion tour to Hakone. That often is the extent of their Japanese/Tokyo experience. There is a special train from Shinjuku which takes you directly to Hakone. It is located on the foothills of Mt Fuji and the attractions found there has Mt Fuji as its backdrop. There are Amusement parks, the Fuji's Safari Park, Ski Parks, Onsen parks - the Onsen park has different baths from red wine bath, macha bath, to different onsen settings Museums, Lake Ashinoko and the Pirate ship. Too touristy for me. Then a friend went here - and showed off photos of the place. It is wonderful. I would love to take the children here:
