Hakone is a very popular onsen (hot spring) area that is close to Tokyo. It takes only about one and a half hours by train from central Tokyo. The place is bustling with many visitors from in and out of Japan over weekends. Not just hot springs, Hakone also offers various leisure attractions such as gourmet food and amusement facilities, but none as exciting as Lake Ashi that overlooks Mt. Fuji!
While traditional yuransen (pleasure boats) are a symbol of the lake, a completely new attraction has appeared that offers a level of exhilaration a standard boat cannot match!
A ninja in Hakone !? What is this black vehicle?
A unique attraction has arrived in Hakone: the NINJA BUS Water Spider! Named after the legendary ninja tool used to walk on water, this is an amphibious bus that operates both on land and in the lake.
The bus runs from Motohakone to the shore on land, then dives directly into Lake Ashi near Hakone-en Garden!
You will feel as if you are on an exciting amusement park ride the moment the bus splashes into the water. It is a dynamic and exhilarating experience that provides a perspective of Mt. Fuji you can’t get anywhere else.
NINJA BUS Water Spider
Boarding places: Hakone-en stop / Motohakone stop
Operation: 6 buses a day
Capacity: 42 passengers
For more details, check below! https://www.princehotels.co.jp/amuse/ninjabus/en/
Travel around Hakone in a NINJA BUS Water Spider!
Get on the NINJA BUS and visit the famous spiritual sites around Lake Ashi.
Hakone Shrine This spiritual “power spot” is a site that locals are incredibly proud of. It is considered the source of the Hakone mountain range’s energy. Many visitors from all over the world come here to see its impressive atmosphere and the famous red torii gate standing in the water.
Tabimonogatari-kan where you can have fun in various ways
Tabimonogatari-kan: Fun in Various Ways The Hakone Sekisho Tabimonogatari-kan is definitely worth a visit. You can enjoy a meal while viewing the lake and purchase a variety of local souvenirs.
Old-Time Flavors: Try odango (sweet rice dumplings) and amazake (sweet non-alcoholic fermented rice drink) at Obansho Chaya, a reproduction of an old Japanese café.
Kimono Experience: You can experience getting dressed in a beautiful kimono or yukata. The staff will help you with everything, making it easy to walk around Hakone in style.
Tea Ceremony: You can also opt for a tea ceremony plan to prepare your own matcha. Why not enjoy these quintessential Japanese activities right by the lake?
Your trip to Hakone will be more enjoyable!
Lake Ashi offers so many activities: visiting famous spots, eating delicious local food, and relaxing in an onsen bath. Please get on the NINJA BUS Water Spider, a much-talked-about attraction, and fully enjoy this new amusement on your 2026 Hakone trip!
