Tourists Enjoy Tranquility and Tradition with Floating Tea Ceremony on Hakone’s Lake Ashinoko

Published on December 30, 2025

In the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone, one of east Japan’s most famous hot spring towns, is offering a new and unique experience for tourists. The Daichakai sightseeing boat, now serving as a floating tea ceremony venue, combines traditional Japanese culture with breathtaking views, offering a memorable and serene experience on Lake Ashinoko. This new attraction is just one of the many reasons why Hakone continues to captivate visitors, making it a perfect weekend or overnight getaway from Tokyo.

Hakone: A Timeless Destination for Hot Springs and Scenic Beauty

Hakone, located in the mountains of Kanagawa Prefecture, is renowned for its hot springs, beautiful scenery, and cultural heritage. The town’s close proximity to Tokyo makes it a popular destination for both short day trips and extended stays. Visitors flock to Hakone not only for its luxurious onsens (hot springs) but also for its stunning natural beauty, including the picturesque views of Lake Ashinoko, the iconic Mount Fuji, and the surrounding forests and mountains.

Lake Ashinoko is particularly well-known for its scenic boat tours, offering visitors the chance to take in the region’s stunning landscapes while enjoying the calm waters of the lake. These boat trips provide spectacular views of Hakone’s lush greenery, and on clear days, travelers can catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Fuji looming in the distance. It’s no wonder that a trip across the lake has become a must-do for those visiting Hakone.

Daichakai: A Floating Tea Ceremony on Lake Ashinoko

The newly introduced Daichakai sightseeing boat offers a unique twist on the typical boat tour of Lake Ashinoko. Combining the beauty of nature with the tranquility of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, this boat experience allows guests to enjoy a peaceful and immersive cultural activity while taking in Hakone’s spectacular surroundings.

The Daichakai boat sets sail daily, offering tourists the chance to participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony on board, surrounded by breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. The tea ceremony, known for its intricate rituals and meditative atmosphere, is a perfect way to relax and appreciate Japanese culture. Guests can enjoy the soothing process of preparing and drinking matcha tea while floating on the calm waters of Lake Ashinoko.

The boat itself is designed to reflect the elegance of Japanese culture, with traditional wooden interiors and beautiful attention to detail. The experience allows visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Hakone’s natural landscapes, all while partaking in one of Japan’s most cherished cultural traditions.

The Best Hot Springs in Japan

Hakone has long been known for its hot springs, and many of the town’s ryokan (traditional inns) offer private baths with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. These onsens are considered some of the best in Japan, providing both relaxation and therapeutic benefits. After a long day of sightseeing or participating in the boat tea ceremony, visitors can unwind in the rejuvenating hot spring waters, a quintessential part of the Hakone experience.

In addition to the famous onsens, Hakone is home to other attractions, including the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Hakone Shrine, and Owakudani Valley. The region is also known for its hiking trails, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, including the majestic Hakone mountains and valleys.

Easy Access from Tokyo

One of the reasons Hakone remains a favorite weekend destination for Tokyoites is its accessibility. Located just an hour and a half from Tokyo by train, Hakone offers a quick escape from the busy city life. The town is well-connected to Tokyo by the Odakyu Electric Railway, which runs the popular Romancecar, a comfortable and scenic train route that travels directly from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto Station in the heart of Hakone.

For those looking to explore more of the region, the Hakone Free Pass offers tourists unlimited access to trains, buses, boats, and cable cars within Hakone, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel around the area and visit top attractions.

The Perfect Place for a Relaxing Getaway

With its mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere, Hakone remains an ideal destination for tourists seeking a relaxing getaway from the urban sprawl of Tokyo. Whether visitors are soaking in the hot springs, exploring the lush landscapes, or enjoying the unique experience of a floating tea ceremony on Lake Ashinoko, Hakone provides an experience that allows them to truly unwind.

The addition of the Daichakai boat offering a floating tea ceremony adds a new and immersive layer to the Hakone experience. As visitors continue to flock to this scenic town, Hakone’s ability to blend traditional Japanese culture with natural beauty will undoubtedly remain one of its biggest attractions in 2025 and beyond.

Conclusion

Hakone, a timeless and serene destination in Japan, continues to draw tourists with its natural beauty, luxurious hot springs, and rich cultural offerings. The introduction of the Daichakai boat, offering a floating tea ceremony experience on Lake Ashinoko, adds to the charm and allure of this popular tourist destination. Whether visiting for the hot springs, the cultural experiences, or simply to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Hakone provides the perfect retreat for those looking to relax and immerse themselves in Japan’s cultural and natural heritage.