Seasoning the Seasons

S10 E4: Hakone: Centuries of Hospitality

Hakone is on a major route between Tokyo and Kyoto Prefecture. For centuries, the town was known for its high mountain pass. Hakone has long been popular for its hot springs. Today it is also famous as a tourist resort, attracting around 20 million people a year. However, the coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on the area. Even in difficult times, locals do all they can to keep on welcoming guests. This is the story of how Hakone is keeping up its long-standing traditions of hospitality.