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Owakudani fumaroles

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description Owakudani fumaroles Overview

Owakudani is a volcanic valley in the Hakone region of Japan, formed approximately 3,000 years ago following the last eruption of Mount Hakone. The area features active sulfur vents and hot springs where visitors can observe steam rising from the ground and experience the strong smell of sulfur. One of Owakudani's most famous attractions is kuro-tamago, eggs boiled in the naturally hot pools that turn black from the sulfur content; local tradition holds that consuming one extends life by seven years. The site is accessible via the Hakone Ropeway, though operations are occasionally suspended when volcanic activity increases.

help Owakudani fumaroles FAQ

How was Owakudani in Hakone formed?

Owakudani was formed approximately 3,000 years ago following the last major eruption of Mount Hakone, a volcano in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The volcanic blast created a large crater that remains geothermally active today, with sulfur vents, steam plumes, and hot springs dotting the valley floor.

Can you eat the black eggs at Owakudani?

Yes, Owakudani is famous for kuro-tamago—chicken eggs boiled in the natural geothermal hot springs, which turn black from the sulfur and iron in the water. Local legend says eating one egg adds seven years to your life, and they are sold at shops throughout the valley.

How do you get to Owakudani from Tokyo?

Owakudani is accessible via the Hakone Ropeway, which connects from Togendai on Lake Ashi to Sounzan station, with the Owakudani station situated midway along the route. Travelers from Tokyo typically take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto Station and transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway and then the ropeway.

Is Owakudani safe to visit given the volcanic activity?

Owakudani is monitored by the Japan Meteorological Agency, which maintains a volcanic warning system for the Hakone area. Visitors are restricted to designated walking paths, and the area may be closed during periods of elevated volcanic gas emissions or seismic activity.

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