Owakudani in Hakone - the Valley of Hell!?

The Hakone caldera Owakudani (大湧谷) was named the “Valley of Hell” by locals for volcanic sulphur gasses that rise up from underneath. Nonetheless, Owakudani offers a truly unique landscape with stunning views over Hakone from the rope way that reaches the caldera’s highest point. Let’s be honest, if you were to say “I walked across the Valley of Hell,” that would leave quite an impression, wouldn’t it?

Owakudani caldera was formed by the last Mount Hakone eruption, about 3,000 years ago. Since last year the area has become active again so public access has been restricted for the time being. Please check Hakone Portal’s website for the latest information on the situation.

Source: HAKONE ZENZAN

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Brian Kold

Hi! My name is Brian from the Netherlands. Since arriving in Japan about two years ago I have been lucky to have had the opportunity to not only explore this amazing country, but also to practice my beloved hobby, kendo. Every day I have met wonderful people each with their own story and perhaps one day when you come to Japan you too can share your story!