Is Hakone safe? 🇯🇵

Hakone is one of the world’s safest destinations for travelers. The multi‑database profile gives it a 95/100 safety index, with crime scores in the high 80s and near‑perfect marks for homicide, terrorism and institutional stability. Official advisories from Canada and the UK simply tell visitors to “exercise normal security precautions,” reflecting the area’s low personal‑crime risk. Recent dossier items confirm this: a June 2026 TravelSafe‑Abroad safety rating reiterated the low overall risk, while a Condé Nast Traveller piece on Typhoon Jangmi’s aftermath noted only minor rail and bus delays with no tourist injuries. The July 2026 Lake Ashi fireworks festival drew large crowds but remained incident‑free, underscoring the effectiveness of local safety measures.

Despite the overall safety, the data does flag a few practical concerns that can affect visitors. Pickpocketing, while still rare, has been observed in busy hubs such as Hakone‑Yumoto Station, ropeway terminals and on Lake Ashi cruise boats during peak tourist hours; keeping bags closed and valuables out of sight mitigates this modest risk. More significant are natural hazards: volcanic gas emissions around Owakudani, occasional earthquake tremors (the region experienced 50 quakes ≥M4.5 in the past year) and weather‑related transport disruptions. The dossier repeatedly warns that mountain routes can be delayed by fog, rain or maintenance, and that hot‑spring etiquette must be observed to avoid burns or health issues. Although robbery and armed incidents are virtually nonexistent, isolated petty‑theft cases have been documented near popular attractions.

Scams targeting tourists do exist, though they are limited to a few common patterns. The most frequently cited are fake travel‑pass or voucher scams on third‑party booking sites, overpriced or counterfeit souvenir stalls near major sights, and unlicensed taxi drivers inflating fares. Travelers should verify any pass or discount voucher through official channels, purchase souvenirs from reputable shops, and use only licensed taxis or trusted ride‑share applications. Carrying a copy of your passport, staying aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, and checking real‑time transport alerts before heading to mountain sites are simple actions that keep the experience smooth.

In summary, Hakone offers a remarkably safe environment for visitors, with low crime, robust emergency services and a well‑managed tourism infrastructure. The primary risks are logistical — weather‑induced transport delays, volcanic activity and occasional pickpocketing in dense crowds — rather than violent crime. By using licensed transportation, securing personal belongings, respecting local safety advisories and staying informed of real‑time updates, travelers can enjoy Hakone’s hot springs, scenic vistas and cultural festivals with confidence.