Can You Live for Less Than $1000 in Hakone?

Hakone is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Japan, located in the southwestern part of Kanagawa prefecture. It’s a mountainous town with volcanic hot springs, lush greenery, and stunning natural scenery. With its rich cultural history and impressive attractions, it’s no wonder why tourists flock to this place every year. But the question is, can you live in Hakone for less than $1000?

Cost of Living in Hakone

Before we answer that question, let’s discuss the cost of living in Hakone. The cost of living in Hakone is relatively high compared to other regions in Japan. However, it’s more affordable than other major cities such as Tokyo or Kyoto. The cost of living largely depends on your lifestyle and habits. Let’s take a look at the cost of essentials in Hakone.

Housing

Housing is generally expensive in Japan, and Hakone is no exception. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $600 to $700 per month. If you’re willing to live outside of the city center, you can find more affordable housing options.

Food

The cost of food in Hakone is also relatively high. A typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $9 to $11, while a cup of coffee costs around $3 to $4. If you prefer to cook your meals, groceries are relatively expensive as well. A liter of milk costs around $1.80, while a kilogram of chicken costs around $8 to $10.

Transportation

The transportation system in Hakone is reliable and efficient. A one-way ticket on local transport costs around $1.50. A taxi ride costs around $10 per kilometer. If you prefer to drive, renting a car costs around $300 to $500 for a week.

Can You Live in Hakone for Less Than $1000?

It’s possible to live in Hakone for less than $1000, but it largely depends on your lifestyle and habits. Rent would take up a significant portion of your budget, leaving you with limited funds for food, transportation, and entertainment.

If you’re willing to live outside of the city center and opt for more modest living arrangements, such as shared apartments, you can lower your living expenses. You can also save money by cooking your meals at home and opting for local transportation instead of renting a car or taking taxis.

Additionally, there are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Hakone, such as hiking in the mountains, visiting historical temples and shrines, and exploring local parks and gardens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living in Hakone for less than $1000 is possible, but it requires minimalism and budgeting skills. The cost of living in Hakone is relatively high, but with careful planning and mindful choices, you can enjoy a fulfilling life in this beautiful city without breaking the bank. So, go ahead and make your dream of living in Hakone a reality!

An Insider’s Guide to Hakone: Can You Live for Less Than $1000?

Hakone is a beautiful mountain town located in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture, known primarily for its hot springs, stunning natural scenery, and charming historic landmarks. For those looking to save money while traveling, this city is an excellent option, with plenty of affordable accommodation, street food, and free attractions. Here’s a comprehensive insider’s guide on how to live in Hakone on a budget while still seeing everything this incredible city has to offer.

Local Attractions

1. Hakone Shrine – This stunning Shinto shrine is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, located at the top of a staircase that offers breathtaking views of Lake Ashinoko. Entrance to the shrine is free, but visitors can also purchase good-luck charms to take home.

2. Hakone Open-Air Museum – Although it isn’t free, this museum is a must-visit attraction that offers an array of outdoor sculptures, indoor galleries, and even a hot spring foot bath. Admission is only around 1800 yen (about $16 USD), making it an affordable day trip for budget-minded travelers.

3. Lake Ashinoko – Boating on Lake Ashinoko is a fun and inexpensive way to see the city’s beautiful mountain views. Visitors can also take a walk along the waterfront for free.

Dining Spots

1. Sobadokorohanabi – This cozy restaurant is known for its handmade soba noodles and offers a variety of delicious lunch sets starting at under 1000 yen (about $9 USD).

2. Suzuhiro Kamaboko Museum – While the museum itself is free, the attached restaurant offers affordable and tasty traditional Japanese dishes, including grilled fish and kamaboko fish cake.

3. Hakone-en Aquarium – Not only is this aquarium’s admission fee inexpensive, but it also houses a small food court with affordable and tasty options like Japanese-style curry and fried chicken.

Cultural Experiences

1. Traditional Japanese Inns – Ryokans offer a unique, authentic Japanese experience for travelers, complete with tatami floors, futon beds, and traditional onsen hot springs. With many options for less than 10,000 yen (about $90 USD) a night, it’s an affordable way to experience Japanese culture.

2. Hakone Tozan Railway – One of Japan’s most scenic train rides is the Hakone Tozan Railway, which boasts stunning views of the mountains and valleys surrounding Hakone. A one-way trip costs around 400 yen (about $3.50 USD), making it an affordable and fun experience.

Local History

1. Hakone Checkpoint – This historic site was once a crucial checkpoint for travelers on the Tokaido Road during the Edo period, and visitors can still see the checkpoint’s gates and guardhouse. Entrance is only 500 yen (about $4.50 USD).

2. Hakone Jinja Sengen Taisha – This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Shinto shrine that was founded over a thousand years ago and offers beautiful architecture, sacred trees, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s free to enter and explore.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Hakone Yuryo – This hot spring resort is a bit off the beaten path but offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a beautiful natural setting. Prices for day trips start at around 1500 yen (about $14 USD).

2. Hakone Shrine Cedar Avenue – Take a stroll down this scenic path lined with soaring cedar trees, leading straight to the entrance of Hakone Shrine. It’s a peaceful and beautiful experience that’s completely free.

3. Outdoor Adventures – Hakone’s natural scenery is perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Many of the area’s parks and green spaces are free to explore, and there are plenty of affordable adventure tours available for those looking for a bit more excitement.

In summary, visiting Hakone on a budget is absolutely possible, and with this insider’s guide in hand, you’re sure to have a memorable and affordable time exploring this incredible mountain town in Japan.