- 2024-11-21
Exploring the Historical Takayama Jinya: A Must-Visit in Hida Takayama
NestledinthebeautifulregionofHidaTakayama,GifuPrefe……
Hakone, surrounded by breathtaking nature, is home to one of its most popular attractions, the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields. This expansive field of susuki (Japanese silver grass) offers an immersive nature experience that draws countless visitors year-round.
Not only is the area rich in natural beauty, but it also features famous art museums, making it a perfect destination for everyone, from families and couples to solo travelers.
Let’s take a closer look at this must-visit spot in Hakone!
The Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields is an absolute must-see when visiting the Sengokuhara area. These vast fields of susuki are so awe-inspiring and mystical that they’ve been selected as one of the “50 Best Scenic Spots of Kanagawa” and one of the “100 Best Flower Spots of Kanagawa.”
The scenery changes with the seasons, offering visitors a unique view each time. Whether you visit during the lush green of summer or the golden hues of autumn, the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields are sure to refresh your mind and spirit.
While the grass fields are beautiful year-round, they truly come to life from September to November. During this period, the susuki plumes turn a brilliant golden hue, shimmering in the sunlight.
In early autumn, the contrast between the green grass and golden susuki is striking. By late autumn, the field transforms into a fluffy, silvery landscape, resembling a plush carpet that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Each March, the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields undergo a traditional grassland burning. Without this annual burn, trees and shrubs would start to overgrow the field, changing its unique landscape.
This controlled burn helps to preserve the grassland’s beauty for future visitors to enjoy.
If you’re visiting by public transportation, the bus from Hakone-Yumoto Station is your best option.
From Hakone-Yumoto Station:
Exit the station’s East Gate and board the Hakone Tozan Bus (Line T) bound for Kojiri/Togendai. After about 28 minutes, get off at Sengokuhara Kogen. The grass fields are right there!
Be careful, as some buses may not stop at Sengokuhara Kogen, so check the route before boarding.
For those driving to the grass fields, parking is available nearby.
From Odawara:
Take National Route 1 towards Miyanoshita and continue to National Route 138 towards Sengokuhara. At the Sengokuhara intersection, turn left and follow the road to the grass fields.
From Gotemba:
Take National Route 138 towards Hakone. Turn right at the Sengokuhara intersection and follow the road to the grass fields.
There are four parking areas available:
The Hakone Glass Museum offers a magical experience reminiscent of medieval Europe.
Inside, you’ll find recreations of aristocratic life and an enchanting garden where glass art pieces are seamlessly blended with the natural beauty of Hakone.
The museum’s shop is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs or gifts.
The Pola Museum of Art is home to an impressive collection of over 10,000 works, including Western paintings, Japanese art, glasswork, and even cosmetics tools from around the world. This museum, founded by the second generation of the Pola cosmetics family, is a must-visit for art lovers.
The museum also has a lovely café and restaurant, making it a great place to relax during your visit.
Ōwakudani is an active volcanic valley where white steam and the smell of sulfur fill the air, offering an awe-inspiring view of nature’s power. A must-try delicacy here is the famous black eggs, which are said to extend your life by seven years if you eat just one!
For those interested in volcanic activity, the Ōwakudani Nature Research Route offers a 40-minute guided tour of the steaming volcanic area. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
The Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields are a natural wonder like no other, offering photo opportunities and an unforgettable experience of Japan’s beauty.
Beyond the nature trails, you can explore nearby museums and take in the unique sights that Hakone has to offer. Be sure to visit this enchanting spot on your next trip to Japan!