The Hakone region is a seismically active zone full of hot springs tectonic activity. Lake Ashi (Ashino-ko) was formed in the caldera of Mt. Hakone after its last eruption, 3000 years ago. A tourist boat ride across this beautiful mountain lake is an integral part of the Hakone Round Course. You can find additional information here.
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
We boarded the tourist cruise at Togendai Station, at the terminus of the tram line. I had not expected pirate ships when I learned of the boat trip across Lake Ashi. |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
Above left: If you look closely, you can see the torri gate of the Hakone Shrine at the shore line. That, by the way, is roughly the direction that we would be able to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day. In spite of the foul weather, Lake Ashii was really quite beautiful. There was a certain surreal effect produced by the fall colors and the fog. It seems that getting a good view of Mt Fuji is actually rather unusual, as fog and bad weather often obscure the view. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
An 18th century Man of War is not exactly what I think of when I think of Japan but it made for an interesting ride. We disembarked at Hakone-Machi Port for the bus ride back to Miyanoshita. |
All photos on this page are originals by & copyrighted by Daren Willden, unless otherwise stated. All rights reserved.