We came to take photos at the Peace Torii by Lake Ashi next to Hakone Shrine as early as 8 a.m.

After having breakfast at Toyoko Inn Odawara eki Higashi guchi in the morning, our first destination was the Peace Torii by Lake Ashi, located just below Hakone Shrine. Since it’s a popular photo spot, we had to get an early start—otherwise, we’d waste a lot of time waiting in line to take pictures.

It took about 40 minutes to drive from Toyoko Inn Odawara eki Higashi guchi to the parking lot at Hakone Shrine. By the time we arrived, it was already past 8:00 a.m. Fortunately, the parking lot was quite spacious and not very crowded. We walked down the steps toward the lake—it didn’t feel like a long walk.

As we approached the lakeside Peace Torii, there were already 3 to 4 groups of people taking photos. We followed the signs along the path and had to make a turn before reaching the photo spot. There was a barricade ahead blocking direct access.

We finally reached the Peace Torii below Hakone Shrine. The vivid red of the torii against the blue sky was stunning. The torii standing in the water really gave off a different feeling than those on land.

The earlier you come, the fewer people there are. Not long after we arrived, a tour group of around 10 people lined up behind us. If you want to visit this famous spot, it’s best to come early—otherwise, the line just keeps getting longer.

On our walk back to the Hakone Shrine parking lot, we were relieved to see our car parked under the shade of a tree. The summer heat was intense. After using the restroom, we were ready to head off to our next destination.