---
node: spot_hakone_owakudani
type: spot
slug: owakudani
destination: dest_hakone
title: "Ōwakudani"
lead: "Ōwakudani is a valley of sulphur vents and boiling pools created by an eruption of Hakone volcano three thousand years ago. Eggs boiled in the hot springs turn black, and eating one is said to add seven years to your life."
published: 2026-08-12
updated: 2026-08-12
image_file: spot_hakone_owakudani.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hakone_black_egg_dsc05310.jpg"
image_author: "David Monniaux"
image_license: "CC BY-SA 3.0"
---

## Overview

The ground here is still active enough that gas levels are measured continuously; the whole area was closed for two years after volcanic unrest in 2015, and the walking trail beyond the shop reopened only partially. The ropeway from Sōunzan crosses directly over the vents, which is the best view of the valley and takes eight minutes. On clear days Fuji stands behind the steam from the ropeway station.

## Highlights

Check the volcanic alert level before travelling — the ropeway suspends service and buses replace it when gas readings rise, and it is not announced far ahead. Buy the black eggs at the shop; the shell is stained by iron in the sulphur water and the egg inside is ordinary. People with asthma or heart conditions are advised not to linger, and the warnings are meant seriously.