Owakudani's Legendary Black Eggs and More

A Taste of Magic in the Mountains

If you're planning a trip to Hakone, there's one place you simply can’t miss: Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley that steams and hisses with geothermal energy. The view is straight out of a science fiction movie—billowing white clouds, rugged hills, and the unmistakable scent of sulfur hanging in the air. 

But among all the geological wonders, there’s a culinary curiosity that steals the show: the Kuro Tamago, or black egg.

At first glance, it might look like a Halloween prank—an egg with a pitch-black shell. But this is no ordinary boiled egg. The Kuro Tamago is cooked in the sulfuric hot springs of Owakudani, where a natural chemical reaction causes the shell to turn black. Crack it open, though, and you’ll find a perfectly normal (and delicious) boiled egg inside.

Why eat one? 

Legend has it that each egg you eat adds seven years to your life. It’s a bold claim, but even if you don’t walk away with extra time, you’ll definitely leave with a great story and a full stomach. Locals will tell you not to eat more than two or three in one sitting… just in case you end up immortal!

And More

But black eggs aren't the only treat waiting for you in Owakudani. The visitor center and surrounding shops offer an array of unique sweets and snacks. One standout is the soft serve ice cream, often flavored with regional ingredients like matcha (green tea), topped with crispy wafers. And for those who love a bit of drama with their dessert, you’ll find beverages and sweets served with mystical clouds of dry ice—perfect for an Instagram-worthy moment.

After enjoying your egg and dessert, take a moment to soak in the view. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance, adding one more layer of magic to the experience.

Access

Getting to Owakudani is part of the fun! Here’s how you can make your way there:

• From Tokyo: Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 85 minutes).
• Transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway and ride up to Gōra Station.
• From Gōra, hop on the Hakone Ropeway—you'll glide over volcanic vents and bubbling springs before arriving at Owakudani Station.
   

Make sure to check local updates, as access may vary depending on volcanic activity.

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