Spring Blooms in Hakone: Azaleas & Sansho Roses

Azaleas in Full Bloom at Hotel de Yama’s Garden

Around late April to early May, Hakone bursts into vibrant color with the arrival of azalea season. One of the best places to enjoy this floral spectacle is the garden of Hotel de Yama, located by Lake Ashi.

During peak season, the garden is open to the public for a fee and becomes a popular destination for flower lovers. It's more than just a hotel garden—it's a seasonal attraction worth visiting.

The Rare Sansho Rose Along Hakone’s Scenic Roads

A drive from Lake Ashi toward Sengokuhara reveals another hidden gem: the Sansho Rose (Hakone Sanshobara), a rare flower that only grows in the Hakone and Mt. Fuji area.

Known as one of the largest varieties among wild roses, its striking pink and white blooms appear from early to late June—and each flower lasts for just one night.

You'll find these special blooms in various parts of Hakone, including along Route 1 and in places like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Hotel de Yama. Some visitors even plan overnight stays just to witness this fleeting floral moment. The Sansho Rose is also the official flower of Hakone Town.

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