2025 Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi Maple Leaf Family Trip: A Complete 5-Day, 4-Night Itinerary and Recommended Onsen Hotels!

Planning a family getaway this autumn 2025? Look no further than the stunning maple leaf season in Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi! This 5-day, 4-night itinerary is your go-to guide for a stress-free adventure with the kids. From getting around and where to stay, to fun-filled activities, we’ve got all the tips you need to make unforgettable memories together.

Traveling with kids? Then smooth, hassle-free transportation is your secret weapon for a stress-free trip. Forget the scramble to find coins every time you hop on a bus or train—grab one of the handy transportation passes instead! Not only will you save time and avoid the fuss, but you’ll also have more energy to soak in the stunning sights around Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi.

If you’re planning a family getaway to Hakone, the Hakone Free Pass is your ultimate travel companion. Think of it as a magic ticket that opens the door to unlimited rides across eight different transport options—from the scenic Hakone Mountain Railway to the breathtaking aerial tramway and even the whimsical pirate ship cruising the lake. No more fussing over individual tickets as you hop from one exciting mode of travel to another, making your adventure with the kids smooth, fun, and unforgettable!

If you’re planning a trip from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchi or even starting from Tokyo, hopping on the Fujikyu Line is hands down the best way to go. As the train edges closer to the iconic Mount Fuji, the views outside just keep getting better and better. You’ll often hear the joyful squeals of kids captivated by the scenery — it’s like the perfect soundtrack to your journey. Plus, some of the trains are decked out with adorable cartoon designs that little ones will absolutely love! Families traveling with babies and toddlers will appreciate the priority seating, making the ride comfortable and stress-free.

• Ticket Prices: Expect to pay around 1,770 yen for an adult ticket from Otsuki Station to Kawaguchi Station. If you’re coming from Shinjuku, the fare is roughly 2,510 yen.
• Getting There Directly: From Tokyo’s Shinjuku, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station and then transfer to the Fujikyu Line. For a smoother trip without transfers, some limited express trains offer a more direct route.

Planning a trip to enjoy the stunning autumn leaves and soothing hot springs? The key to a great getaway is picking the right place to stay—half the fun starts there! Whether you’re looking for a cozy hot spring hotel in Hakone or a charming lakeside resort at Lake Kawaguchi, the best spots offer more than just relaxation for adults. They’re designed with families in mind, making sure the little ones have plenty to enjoy too. Keep in mind, popular hotels in Hakone fill up fast during peak season, so booking early is definitely a smart move!

• Hakone Gora Onsen Kizuki no Yuyado Setsugekka: If you’re traveling with kids, this gem is a real winner. Each room comes with its own private outdoor hot spring, so parents can unwind without worrying about little ones disturbing others in public baths. It’s a cozy, highly recommended spot where the whole family can soak and relax together in comfort.
• Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori Ryokan: What makes this ryokan stand out is its open-air hot springs offering breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and vibrant autumn leaves. After a calming soak, slip into a traditional yukata and take a leisurely stroll by the lakeside—perfect for soaking up that serene vacation vibe.
• Hotel Okada: Known for its roomy onsen facilities and a variety of bathing options, Hotel Okada is a fantastic choice for families. Their spacious family rooms offer great comfort without breaking the bank, making it a smart pick for those traveling with kids.
• Fuji Speedway Hotel - Hyatt Regency: Perfect for larger families, this hotel features multi-bedroom suites that provide plenty of space and modern comforts. With amenities designed to cater to everyone’s needs, it’s an excellent base for a hassle-free family getaway.

If you’re heading to Lake Kawaguchi, you’re in for a treat. Many onsen hotels here offer jaw-dropping views of the famous "Reverse Fuji" and feature irresistible "Hakone One Night, Two Meals" packages. Imagine waking up to stunning landscapes and ending your day with a mouthwatering kaiseki dinner—pure bliss! Here are some top picks perfect for families:

• Shuhokaku Kogetsu: If your dream is to soak in uninterrupted views of Mount Fuji, Shuhokaku Kogetsu should be at the top of your list. From your room’s balcony to the outdoor onsen, the panoramic vistas of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi are simply unforgettable. Pro tip: book early through their official website to secure your spot.
• Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotel: This gem not only offers fantastic views of the lake and mountains but also has a rooftop foot bath that’s a hidden favorite. It’s the perfect cozy spot to admire Mount Fuji, making it a hit with families looking for a relaxing retreat.
• Kawaguchi Lake New Century Hotel: Another crowd-pleaser, this hotel treats guests to spectacular Mount Fuji views right from their room windows. It’s the kind of scenery you’ll want to wake up to again and again.

Our adventure kicked off with a refreshing break from Tokyo’s nonstop pace as we hopped on a train bound for the serene beauty of Hakone. After dropping off our bags, the highlight of the afternoon awaited—a playground made just for the kids at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun. But this isn’t your typical hot spring experience; think of it as a vibrant water park where swimwear is the dress code. We zoomed down warm water slides and soaked in quirky baths infused with red wine and coffee. Even a light, drizzly day couldn’t dampen the excitement—our little ones had a blast, letting loose and enjoying every splash!

Start your morning surrounded by creativity at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where the hillside becomes a wonderland for all ages. Here, kids and adults alike can climb towering soft block castles, play with light and shadows inside the dazzling rainbow glass tower, or even lounge on the quirky fried egg art installation. This isn’t your typical museum—art here is playful, hands-on, and utterly inviting! Come afternoon, head over to the peaceful shores of Lake Ashi. Hop aboard a grand pirate ship and sail while soaking in the stunning sight of maple leaves mirrored on the lake’s surface, painting a vivid, ever-changing masterpiece right before your eyes.

Craving a quiet escape from the usual tourist spots? Take a leisurely walk along the Suwa River, where the gentle babble of water perfectly complements the fiery reds and oranges of autumn leaves draping the riverbanks—truly a scene straight out of a poem. If you’re after something even more tranquil, make your way to Hakone Yumura in Takanosawa. This tucked-away valley bursts with fall colors, offering a serene spot to soak in nature’s seasonal beauty. As the day winds down, head back to your ryokan and sink into the comforting embrace of a hot spring bath—perfect for melting away any travel weariness and gearing up for another day of exploration.

Leaving Hakone behind, we set off with excitement toward the iconic Mount Fuji. Arriving at Lake Kawaguchi, the crisp, fresh air was instantly refreshing. That afternoon, we made a beeline for the highlight of the "Kawaguchi Lake Autumn Leaves Festival" — the enchanting Maple Corridor. During daylight, sunlight danced through the vibrant maple leaves, sprinkling golden hues everywhere. As dusk fell, the corridor transformed, bathed in warm lights that wrapped the entire maple tunnel in a cozy glow. With Mount Fuji’s silhouette gracing the background, the scene felt utterly magical — and we couldn’t stop snapping photos!

Our final day is all about fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories! At Fuji-Q Highland, we dive into the whimsical world of Thomas Land—a paradise for young train lovers. Kids get to hop aboard a real-life Thomas the Tank Engine, chugging through delightful scenes that light up their faces with pure joy. Later in the afternoon, we make our way to Oishi Park, the perfect spot for a family photo with the stunning Mount Fuji and serene Lake Kawaguchi as our backdrop—a beautiful way to wrap up our adventure.

Autumn in Hakone and around Lake Kawaguchi brings chilly mornings and evenings, so packing layers that are easy to add or shed is key for the whole family’s comfort. November is also prime time for autumn foliage, making it a busy season for accommodations. Whether you’re eyeing the popular hotels favored by visitors from Hong Kong or the cozy hot spring inns loved by travelers from Taiwan, spots fill up fast. If you’re aiming for favorites like Hakone Lake Ashi Khaori Inn or Shuhokaku Kogetsu, both known for their attractive one-night, two-meal deals, booking early is the secret to a smooth and memorable family getaway!