Picture this: I’m soaking my feet in a warm, inviting foot bath, sipping on a hot cup of coffee, and nibbling on a heavenly piece of French toast. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, that was my reality one crisp autumn afternoon in Hakone. Honestly, I didn’t expect to find such a quirky little cafe nestled among the mountains!
So, let’s dive into this charming spot. It’s called Aoi Bakery Cafe, and it’s a delightful mix of cozy and indulgent. They’ve got this incredible French toast topped with chestnut cream and homemade gelato. The price? It’s ¥1,800 (around $12 USD), but trust me, it’s worth every yen.
Hakone is a treasure trove of surprises, and this cafe was just the beginning. I stumbled upon another cafe called Switchback Cafe, known for its unique location right next to the train tracks. As I munched on their innovative Ryujin Curry (made with bamboo charcoal!), a train whizzed by, just a few meters away. I literally gasped! The curry is priced at ¥1,600 (around $11 USD), and the thrill of watching the train pass by is absolutely free.
And if you’re more of a lakeside person, you’re in for a treat. Coffee & Vista Hakone offers an unparalleled view of Lake Ashi. I was there on a slightly overcast day, but that didn’t dampen the experience. The cafe is perched perfectly to give you a panoramic view that feels like stepping into a painting. They have an extensive selection of pastries, all freshly baked and utterly delectable. The vibe here? Calm and almost otherworldly.
Now, here’s a fun fact: Hakone is a bread lover’s paradise. With over 20 bakeries, there’s a lot of doughy goodness to explore. But, my absolute favorite has to be Salon de Thé Rosage. It’s like they’ve plucked a piece of France and dropped it by the lake. Their autumn menu features a divine Salmon and Mushroom Galette, and eating it amidst the serene lakeside breeze is an experience I won’t soon forget. The galette costs ¥1,700 (about $11 USD), and it’s a culinary journey in itself.
Honestly, I totally underestimated how much there is to see and do in Hakone. It’s not just about the hot springs, although they are amazing. Whether you’re a fan of mountain views or prefer the tranquility of the lake, Hakone has something special waiting for you. If you’re planning a trip, definitely check out these spots. And hey, if you find something even more amazing, let me know—I’m always up for a return visit!
