【Evangelion】Hakone (Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture)
The “Third New Tokyo City,” which serves as the setting for Neon Genesis Evangelion, is depicted as a fortress city modeled after Hakone Town in Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture. Numerous real-world Hakone landscapes appear throughout the series, including Hakone Yumoto Station, the Hakone Tozan Railway, Owakudani, and Lake Ashi, making it an important sacred site pilgrimage spot for fans.
This article provides comprehensive information to maximize your Evangelion experience in Hakone, from the full scope of collaboration between Evangelion and Hakone, to must-visit sacred sites, and store information where you can obtain limited edition merchandise.
The Background Behind Hakone Becoming “Third New Tokyo City”
Hakone’s Position in Evangelion
In Evangelion’s world setting, Tokyo sinks into the sea following the Second Impact, and the story takes place on Earth in a future where the capital’s functions have been transferred. The headquarters of the special organization NERV is built deep underground in Hakone, with the Senipkawara area near the northern shore of Lake Ashi depicted as the central hub of “Third New Tokyo City.”
In the series, numerous striking scenes show Hakone’s streets becoming a battlefield when Angels attack, with buildings rising from underground and the entire city transforming into a fortress. This is why Hakone has become a sacred site for Evangelion fans, as it’s something they “must visit.”
Official Collaboration Between Hakone Town and Evangelion
Beginning in 2015, Hakone Town officially launched town development projects in collaboration with Evangelion. Led by the Hakone Town Tourist Association, the project has developed regional revitalization initiatives that leverage the work’s world view.
In 2020, a large-scale collaboration project called “Evangelion × Hakone 2020” was implemented, with Hakone Tozan buses, Hakone Ropeway, station facilities and more wrapped in Evangelion designs. Furthermore, hot spring facilities and convenience stores were also transformed into Evangelion-themed spaces, with efforts underway to transform all of Hakone into “Third New Tokyo City.”
Sacred Pilgrimage Sites in the Hakone Yumoto Area
Hakone Yumoto Station: Where the Story Begins
Hakone Yumoto Station is an important location where the protagonist Shinji Ikari first arrives in Hakone. The series features an impressive scene of Shinji being greeted by Misato Katsuragi, and many fans visit this station to take photos from the same angle.
Evangelion collaboration decorations and panels are installed throughout the station interior and surrounding area, making it the ideal starting point for a pilgrimage. I recommend taking a stroll around the station and immersing yourself in the Evangelion world view before boarding the Hakone Tozan Railway.
Access Information
- Address: Yumoto, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Starting station for the Odakyu Line and Hakone Tozan Railway
- Approximately 85 minutes from Shinjuku on the Odakyu Romance Car
Hakone Yumoto Evaya: A Treasure Trove of Limited Merchandise
“Hakone Yumoto Evaya,” located within walking distance of Hakone Yumoto Station, is an official merchandise shop that Evangelion fans must visit. As the setting for “Evangelion (Third New Tokyo City),” the store specializes in Japanese-style and souvenir items.
The store is stocked with merchandise featuring newly drawn illustrations exclusively for Hakone, with numerous rare items available that cannot be found elsewhere. Merchandise blending Japanese aesthetic with Evangelion and Hakone-themed souvenirs hold appeal even for non-fans.
Popular Products
- Hakone exclusive design T-shirts and towels
- Clear files and postcards using newly drawn illustrations
- Collaboration products with Japanese sweets like hot spring sponge cakes
- Eva soft (soft-serve ice cream) and other food and drinks
- Collaboration merchandise between Hakone wood marquetry crafts and Evangelion
Store Information
- Address: Shiraishishita, Yumoto, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Business Hours: 10:00～18:00 (hours may vary by season)
- Closed: Irregular
- Official Website: EVANGELION REAL STORE
The store regularly hosts anniversary events and other special projects, including limited merchandise sales and special campaigns. I recommend checking the official SNS account (@hakone_evaya) for the latest information before visiting.
Sacred Sites in the Gora and Owakudani Areas
Gora Station and Gora Park
Gora Station, the terminus of the Hakone Tozan Railway, is also an important location that appears in the series. The station surroundings and Hakone Tozan Cable Car are popular places where fans can feel the Evangelion world view.
Gora Park is a signature tourist attraction in Hakone, but for Evangelion fans it holds special meaning as a place where they can experience the atmosphere of the series. The scenic views of Hakone’s mountains from the park’s walking paths and viewpoints evoke the landscapes of Third New Tokyo City.
Hakone Ropeway: Viewing Third New Tokyo City from the Sky
The Hakone Ropeway connecting Sounzan Station and Togendai Station is a means of transportation depicted memorably in the series. The view of Hakone from the gondola provides the sensation of viewing Third New Tokyo City from above.
During collaboration periods, the ropeway gondolas are sometimes wrapped in Evangelion designs, creating a special experience for fans. The route via Owakudani toward Lake Ashi has become a standard pilgrimage course.
Owakudani: The Battlefield for Angel Battles
Owakudani, a famous tourist attraction representing Hakone, is an important location featured in Evangelion. The desolate landscape of this volcanic area is effectively used as the backdrop for Angel battle scenes, making it a poignant place for fans.
The distinctive scenery of Owakudani with its rising volcanic steam creates the atmosphere of Third New Tokyo City as a fortress city. Enjoying the famous black eggs while recalling scenes from the series is a unique way for Evangelion fans to experience the area.
Owakudani Information
- Directly below Hakone Ropeway “Owakudani Station”
- Access restrictions may be imposed depending on volcanic activity
- Check the official websites of Hakone Town or Hakone Ropeway for the latest information before visiting
Sengokuhara Area: The Center of Third New Tokyo City
Sengokuhara Susuki Grassland: An Autumn Scenic Hotspot
Sengokuhara is designated as the center of “Third New Tokyo City” and is especially famous for its autumn pampas grass, a signature scenic spot in Hakone. The golden expanse of susuki grass mysteriously complements the Evangelion world view, attracting numerous fans.
In the series, this area is depicted as the above-ground section of NERV headquarters, making it a place fans consider the “holy of holies.” The pampas grass is at its best from late September through early November, offering a fantastical landscape.
Lawson Hakone Sengokutakata Store: “Third New Tokyo City West Store”
The Lawone Hakone Sengokutakata Store became particularly famous through its Evangelion collaboration. This store was renovated as “Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store,” with its exterior and interior redesigned in Evangelion style.
The store with NERV logos displayed has become a popular photo spot, attracting numerous fans for commemorative pictures. The store also sells Hakone-exclusive Evangelion merchandise and related products.
Store Information
- Address: Sengokuhara, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- 24-hour operation
- Evangelion-style exterior and interior
- Limited merchandise sales available
Tokikoen Public Restroom: “Sengokuhara Forward Base”
The public restroom at Tokikoen Park in Sengokuhara was renovated as the “Sengokuhara Forward Base,” a unique spot in Evangelion style. Its exterior is designed to resemble NERV facilities, and the attention to detail is remarkable for a public restroom.
This meticulous collaboration extending to such details is part of the overall effort to present all of Hakone as “Third New Tokyo City,” making it a must-see point on pilgrimage visits.
Kutoki Shrine: Popular as a Power Spot
Kutoki Shrine in the Sengokuhara area is dedicated to Sakata Kintoki of the gold boy legend. While there is no direct connection to Evangelion, an increasing number of fans visit this shrine within the Third New Tokyo City area as part of their pilgrimage.
Located in a quiet shrine surrounded by Hakone’s natural scenery, it is also known as a power spot. Visiting to pray for safe travels during your pilgrimage or to purify Evangelion merchandise is an option worth considering.
Lake Ashi and Togendai Area
Togendai Station: The Gateway to NERV Headquarters
Togendai Station, the terminus of the Hakone Ropeway, is an important location where NERV headquarters is said to have its entrance in the series. Located on the shore of Lake Ashi, the station offers beautiful lake views and, on clear days, views of Mt. Fuji.
The Hakone pirate ship boarding area is also nearby, allowing you to enjoy a Lake Ashi cruise. Since NERV headquarters is supposedly built deep underground, imagining the secret base spreading beneath this location is a distinctive fan experience.
Lake Ashi: A Landscape Symbolizing Third New Tokyo City
Lake Ashi is both a signature Hakone tourist attraction and an important location depicted in Evangelion. In the series, Third New Tokyo City spreads along the northern shore of this lake, and Lake Ashi appears as a background in Angel battle scenes.
Taking a Hakone pirate ship ride and viewing Hakone’s mountains from the water creates the sensation of surveying the entire Third New Tokyo City from above. On clear days when Mt. Fuji is visible, you can enjoy stunning scenery while immersing yourself in the Evangelion world view.
How to Enjoy Evangelion × Hakone
Sacred Pilgrimage Model Course
Here is an efficient one-day model course for Evangelion sacred pilgrimage in Hakone.
Morning
- Arrival at Hakone Yumoto Station (9:00)
- Purchase merchandise at Hakone Yumoto Evaya (9:30～10:30)
- Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora Station (11:00)
- Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sounzan Station (11:30)
Afternoon
- Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani (12:00)
- Lunch and exploration at Owakudani (12:30～14:00)
- Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station (14:30)
- Stroll around Lake Ashi (15:00～16:00)
- Bus to Sengokuhara area (16:30)
- Visit Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store and Sengokuhara Forward Base (17:00～18:00)
Utilizing the Hakone Free Pass
To conduct your pilgrimage efficiently, I recommend using the “Hakone Free Pass” issued by Odakyu. Major Hakone area transportation including the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan buses, Hakone Ropeway, and Hakone pirate ship offer unlimited rides.
Two-day and three-day passes are available, with the three-day pass being ideal for fans wanting to explore every corner of sacred sites. Pricing varies depending on your starting point, but from Shinjuku, a two-day pass costs 6,100 yen (adult).
Limited Merchandise and Souvenir Information
Evangelion merchandise available only in Hakone is one of the major pleasures of pilgrimage.
Limited Products at Hakone Yumoto Evaya
- Merchandise using newly drawn Hakone illustrations
- Collaboration products with hot spring buns
- Items featuring Hakone wood marquetry designs
- Eva soft (soft-serve ice cream available at the store)
- Original drinks
Merchandise Available at Other Locations
- Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store: Limited collaboration products
- Various tourist facilities: Facility-exclusive Evangelion merchandise
- Hakone Yumoto Station area souvenir shops: Hakone × Evangelion collaboration souvenirs
Photo Spots
Multiple Instagram-worthy photo locations are available.
Recommended Photo Points
- Hakone Yumoto Station platform (recreating Shinji’s arrival scene)
- Hakone Yumoto Evaya store exterior
- Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store exterior (with NERV logo)
- Sengokuhara forward base (public restroom)
- Owakudani as viewed from Hakone Ropeway
- Lake Ashi landscape with Mt. Fuji
- Owakudani volcanic steam (Angel battle atmosphere)
When taking photos, be considerate of other tourists and facility users, maintaining proper etiquette.
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (March～May)
Spring in Hakone is beautiful with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Cherry blossoms bloom around Hakone Yumoto Station and Gora Park, offering a calm atmosphere distinct from the Evangelion world view. The pleasant weather makes this an ideal pilgrimage season.
Summer (June～August)
Summer allows you to enjoy Hakone’s appeal as a summer retreat. Higher elevation areas remain cool. However, the rainy season brings frequent precipitation, requiring rain gear. Hydrangeas along the Hakone Tozan Railway are at their best from mid-June through mid-July.
Autumn (September～November)
Autumn is the peak season for Hakone tourism. The Sengokuhara pampas grass is particularly stunning from late September through early November, creating a golden landscape. The autumn leaves are also beautiful, allowing a special experience where the Evangelion world view merges with autumn scenery.
Winter (December～February)
Winter Hakone is relatively quiet, allowing leisurely pilgrimage visits. Hot springs are especially appealing this season, with soaking in hot springs after pilgrimage being highly recommended. However, snow and ice may affect transportation, making pre-visit information checking essential.
Access and Transportation Information
Access from Tokyo Area
Train
- Approximately 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone Yumoto Station on Odakyu Romance Car
- Approximately 100 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone Yumoto Station on Odakyu express (transfer to Hakone Tozan Railway at Odawara)
Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from Tomei Expressway “Atsugi IC” via Odawara-Atsugi Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from Tomei Expressway “Gotemba IC” via National Route 138
Movement Within Hakone Area
Hakone Tozan Railway
A mountain railway connecting Hakone Yumoto Station and Gora Station, featuring distinctive switchback operations as it climbs.
Hakone Tozan Bus
Bus routes covering the entire Hakone area. Convenient for accessing the Sengokuhara area.
Hakone Tozan Cable Car
Cable car connecting Gora Station and Sounzan Station. Used to connect to Hakone Ropeway.
Hakone Ropeway
Ropeway connecting Sounzan Station and Togendai Station via Owakudani.
Hakone Pirate Ship
Sightseeing boat cruising Lake Ashi, connecting Togendai Port, Hakone Town Port, and Motohakone Port.
Accommodation Information and Recommended Plans
Recommended Accommodation Areas for Evangelion Fans
Hakone Yumoto Area
Excellent transportation access and proximity to Hakone Yumoto Evaya. With numerous hot spring inns, it’s ideal as a pilgrimage base.
Gora Area
Features luxury inns and excellent hot spring experiences. Good access to Hakone Ropeway.
Sengokuhara Area
Stay in the center of Third New Tokyo City. Charming for its natural surroundings and quiet environment.
1-Night, 2-Day Model Plan
Day 1
- Morning: Arrival at Hakone Yumoto Station, merchandise shopping at Hakone Yumoto Evaya
- Afternoon: Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora, Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani sightseeing
- Evening: Accommodation check-in, relax in hot spring
Day 2
- Morning: Sengokuhara area pilgrimage (Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store, Sengokuhara Forward Base, etc.)
- Afternoon: Lake Ashi sightseeing, Togendai Station area exploration
- Evening: Return to Hakone Yumoto for souvenir shopping before departure
Obtaining Latest Event and Collaboration Information
Official Information Sources
Evangelion and Hakone collaboration information can be found on the following official sites and SNS.
Hakone Town Tourist Association Official Website
Distributes collaboration information between Hakone Town and Evangelion.
Hakone Yumoto Evaya Official Twitter (@hakone_evaya)
Get the latest information on merchandise arrivals and events. Updates on operational hour changes are also announced.
EVANGELION REAL STORE Official Website
Information on Eva Stores nationwide including Hakone Yumoto Evaya is posted.
Anniversary Events
Hakone Yumoto Evaya hosts special events and limited merchandise sales on store anniversaries. Rare merchandise unavailable during normal times may be sold during such events, making them unmissable opportunities for fans.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Precautions
Tourism Etiquette
Hakone is a popular tourist destination visited by many. When enjoying pilgrimage as an Evangelion fan, remember to be considerate of other tourists.
- Be mindful of surroundings when photographing
- Never trespass on private property
- Always take trash with you
- Avoid loud conversations and noise
- Follow traffic rules
Facility Usage Precautions
Hakone Yumoto Evaya
- Business hours vary by season, confirm before visiting
- Popular items may sell out, early visits are recommended
- Photography within the store is permitted within designated areas
Lawson Third New Tokyo City West Store
- Operates as a regular convenience store, be considerate of shoppers
- Avoid lengthy stays
- Exercise caution when taking photos in parking areas to avoid bothering other users
Volcanic Activity Precautions
Hakone is located in the volcanic zone of Mt. Hakone, an active volcano. Volcanic gas is released in the Owakudani area, with access restrictions potentially implemented depending on volcanic activity levels.
- Check the latest information on Hakone Town and Hakone Ropeway official websites before visiting
- Those with asthma or heart conditions should exercise caution regarding Owakudani access
- Do not push yourself if volcanic gas concentration is high
Conclusion: Experiencing Third New Tokyo City in Hakone
Hakone Town in Kanagawa Prefecture holds special significance for fans as the setting of “Third New Tokyo City” in Evangelion. Numerous experiences await: purchasing limited merchandise at Hakone Yumoto Evaya, exploring the NERV headquarters surroundings in the Sengokuhara area, and recreating scenes from the series at Owakudani and Lake Ashi.
The official collaboration presentation of “Third New Tokyo City” in Hakone Town offers experiences transcending simple pilgrimage. Hakone’s charm as an attraction—the Hakone Tozan Railway, ropeway, hot springs, and natural scenery—perfectly fuses with the Evangelion world view.
Like protagonist Shinji’s words “I have to do this,” every Evangelion fan should visit Hakone at least once. Beautiful seasonal nature and fulfilling collaboration facilities invite you to Third New Tokyo City. Taking advantage of the Hakone Free Pass for efficient sacred site visits, acquiring exclusive merchandise only available in Hakone, and soothing travel fatigue in hot springs—experience this fulfilling Evangelion pilgrimage journey in Hakone.
The latest collaboration and event information is regularly updated on the official SNS accounts of Hakone Town Tourist Association and Hakone Yumoto Evaya. Be sure to check the latest information before visiting to realize the ultimate pilgrimage experience.
