THE ASAHI SHIMBUN
November 15, 2019 at 17:45 JST
Visitors take in the view from an observation deck at Owakudani in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, where entry was permitted for the first time in six months, on Nov. 15. (Yasuhiro Sugimoto)
HAKONE, Kanagawa Prefecture--A restriction on entry to the popular Owakudani valley here during daytime has been lifted for the first time in about six months.
The volcanic valley, which reopened Nov. 15, is known for its magnificent views, sulfur vents and black eggs boiled in hot spring water.
The area has been off limits since May due to increased volcanic activity at Mount Hakoneyama.
Tourists flocked to a wide observation deck and souvenir shops on the day, having reached the valley by Hakone Ropeway, vehicles and other means.
White steam could be seen from the observation area rising from the slopes.
A train line operated by Hakone Tozan Railway Co. and National Road No. 138 were still cut off due to damage by Typhoon No. 19, which made landfall in eastern Japan on Oct. 12.
With the popular tourist spot accepting visitors again and autumn leaves looking their best, the Hakone area is expected to see an uptick in the number of visitors.
(This article was written by Yuji Endo and Eiichi Murano.)
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