Hakone Shrine main shrine

The Hakone Shrine features a vibrant vermilion torii gate that rises directly from the deep waters of Lake Ashi. This shrine dates back to the eighth century, established by the priest Mangan to tame a fierce nine-headed dragon living in the lake. The beast eventually converted to Buddhism, pledging to protect the local people. To this day, the monks hold an annual ceremony where they offer rice to the dragon at the lake bottom, honoring that ancient pact between the spirit and the residents.