Onshi Hakone Park

Overview

Onshi Hakone Park is a Kanagawa Prefectural urban park (scenic park) located in Moto-Hakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture. It's also designated as a registered national monument. It was once the Hakone Imperial Villa, used as a summer retreat for the imperial family and for entertaining foreign guests. In 1884 (Meiji 17), the Imperial Household Agency purchased land in the Togashi-jima area and began construction of the villa. Completed in July 1886 (Meiji 19), the Hakone Imperial Villa consisted of a two-story Western-style building and a Japanese-style building, surrounded by government and military offices, creating a magnificent scene reflected in Lake Ashi. However, the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 (Taisho 12) and the Kita-Izu Earthquake of 1930 (Showa 5) destroyed the villa. While there were plans for reconstruction, the war halted them. After the war, the site was donated to Kanagawa Prefecture and opened to the public on May 5, 1946 (Showa 21). In April 1959 (Showa 34), it was designated as a prefectural urban park, and further development of the park commenced. Onshi Hakone Park is situated on a peninsula called Togashi-jima, extending into Lake Ashi. The park features an observation deck modeled after the former imperial villa and walking paths. From the observation deck, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Hakone outer ring mountains and Mount Fuji. The walking paths offer a relaxing way to connect with nature, surrounded by seasonal flowers. Enjoy beautiful scenery year-round, with azaleas in spring, mountain lilies in summer, and autumn foliage in fall. Onshi Hakone Park is a beautiful space where history and nature harmoniously blend, making it a must-visit when exploring Hakone.