Evangelion × Hakone Complete Guide｜Sacred Sites of the Third Tokyo-3 and How to Enjoy Them
The “Third Tokyo-3,” the stage for the story of Neon Genesis Evangelion, is depicted as a fortress city modeled after Hakone Town in Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture. The series features many real Hakone landscapes, including Hakone-Yumoto Station, the Hakone Tozan Railway, Owakudani, and Lake Ashi, making them important pilgrimage sites for fans.
This article provides comprehensive information to maximize your Evangelion experience in Hakone, from the complete details of the collaboration between Evangelion and Hakone, to the sacred sites you must visit, and store information where you can obtain limited merchandise.
The Background of How Hakone Became “Third Tokyo-3”
Hakone’s Position in Evangelion
In the world setting of Evangelion, Tokyo sinks into the sea due to the Second Impact, and the story is set on a future Earth where the capital functions have been relocated. The Nerv headquarters of the special organization is built deep underground in Hakone, with the area around Senogahara on the northern shore of Lake Ashi depicted as the center of “Third Tokyo-3.”
In the series, when Angels attack, Hakone’s streets become battlefields, with impressive scenes showing buildings rising from underground and the entire town becoming fortified. This is why Hakone has become a “must-visit” sacred site for Evangelion fans.
Official Collaboration Between Hakone Town and Evangelion
Starting in 2015, Hakone Town began full-scale community revitalization projects in collaboration with Evangelion. Led by the Hakone Town Tourism Association, the town has developed regional promotion projects that leverage the world view of the work.
In 2020, a large-scale collaboration project was implemented as “Evangelion × Hakone 2020,” with Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Ropeway, and station facilities being wrapped in Evangelion designs. Furthermore, hot spring facilities and convenience stores were also “Evangelion-fied,” and efforts were made to transform all of Hakone into “Third Tokyo-3.”
Sacred Sites in the Hakone-Yumoto Area
Hakone-Yumoto Station: The Beginning of the Story
Hakone-Yumoto Station is an important location where the protagonist Shinji Ikari first visits Hakone in the series. The scene where Shinji is greeted by Misato Katsuragi is depicted impressively, and many fans visit this station to take photos from the same angle.
Inside the station and in the surrounding area, decorations and panels created through collaboration with Evangelion are installed, making it an ideal starting point for a sacred site pilgrimage. It is recommended to explore the area around the station before boarding the Hakone Tozan Railway to immerse yourself in the world of Evangelion.
Access Information
- Address: Yumoto, Hakone Town, Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Terminus station of the Odakyu Line and Hakone Tozan Railway
- Approximately 85 minutes from Shinjuku via Odakyu Romance Car
Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya: A Treasure Trove of Limited Merchandise
“Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya,” located within walking distance of Hakone-Yumoto Station, is an official merchandise shop that all Evangelion fans must see. The store is located as “Evangelion (Third Tokyo-3)” merchandise specialty shop, specializing in Japanese-style and souvenir items at the site that became the stage for the work.
The store is abundantly stocked with products using original Hakone illustrations found nowhere else, with many rare items for sale. Japanese-style themed merchandise and Hakone-style souvenir items that collaborate with Evangelion are appealing to fans and non-fans alike.
Popular Products
- Hakone-exclusive design T-shirts and towels
- Clear files and postcards using original illustrations
- Collaborative products with traditional Japanese sweets such as hot spring buns
- Eva Soft (soft-serve ice cream) and other food & beverages
- Hakone Yosegi-zaiku (wood inlay) collaborative merchandise with Evangelion
Store Information
- Address: Shiraishi Shita, Yumoto, Hakone Town, Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Business Hours: 10:00–18:00 (varies by season)
- Closed: Irregular
- Official Website: EVANGELION REAL STORE
The store regularly hosts anniversary events and other special projects, with limited merchandise sales and special events. It is recommended to check the latest information on the official SNS account (@hakone_evaya) before visiting.
Sacred Sites in the Goura and Owakudani Area
Goura Station and Goura Park
Goura Station, the terminus of the Hakone Tozan Railway, is also an important location that appears in the series. The landscape around the station and the Hakone Tozan Cable Car are popular places where fans can feel the world view of Evangelion.
Goura Park is a representative tourist spot in Hakone, but for Evangelion fans, it holds special meaning as a place where you can experience the atmosphere of the series. The scenery of the Hakone mountains visible from the hiking trails and observation spots in the park evokes the scenes of Third Tokyo-3.
Hakone Ropeway: Viewing Third Tokyo-3 from the Sky
The Hakone Ropeway, which connects Sounzan Station and Togendai Station, is a means of transportation that is depicted impressively in the series. The view of Hakone from the gondola allows you to experience the sensation of viewing Third Tokyo-3 from above.
During collaboration projects, the ropeway gondolas may be wrapped in Evangelion designs, providing a special experience for fans. The route via Owakudani toward Lake Ashi is a standard course for sacred site pilgrimage.
Owakudani: The Battlefield with Angels
Owakudani, a famous tourist attraction representing Hakone, is also an important location depicted in Evangelion. The barren volcanic landscape is effectively used as a background in battle scenes with Angels, making it a touching place for fans.
The unique scenery of Owakudani with volcanic smoke rising creates the atmosphere of Third Tokyo-3 as a fortress city. Enjoying the famous black eggs while recalling scenes from the series is a unique way for Evangelion fans to appreciate the area.
Owakudani Information
- Just below the “Owakudani Station” stop of the Hakone Ropeway
- There may be entry restrictions depending on volcanic activity
- Please check the latest information on the official websites of Hakone Town or Hakone Ropeway before visiting
Senogahara Area: The Center of Third Tokyo-3
Senogahara Susuki Grassland: An Autumn Scenic Spot
Senogahara is set as the center of “Third Tokyo-3” and is especially famous for its susuki (pampas grass) grassland in autumn, one of Hakone’s representative scenic spots. The expanse of golden susuki grass mysteriously matches the world view of Evangelion, attracting many fans.
In the series, this area is depicted as the above-ground section of the Nerv headquarters, making it a “sacred site within sacred sites” for fans. From late September to early November, the susuki reaches its peak bloom, allowing you to enjoy an enchanting landscape.
Lawson Hakone Sengoku-Takahara Store: “Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store”
The Lawone Hakone Sengoku-Takahara Store became particularly notable through its collaboration with Evangelion. This store was renovated as “Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store,” with the exterior and interior redesigned in Evangelion style.
With the Nerv logo displayed on the storefront, the facility recreates a convenience store from the series, becoming a popular spot where many fans visit for commemorative photos. The store also sells Hakone-exclusive Evangelion merchandise and related products.
Store Information
- Address: Senogahara, Hakone Town, Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Open 24 hours
- Evangelion-style exterior and interior
- Limited merchandise sales available
Toki Park Public Restroom ~ Senogahara Advanced Base ~
The public restroom at Toki Park in Senogahara was renovated as “Senogahara Advanced Base” in Evangelion style, creating a unique spot. The exterior is designed to resemble a Nerv facility, and the attention to detail is remarkable for a public restroom.
This collaboration extending to every detail is part of the effort to present all of Hakone as “Third Tokyo-3,” making it a must-see point during sacred site pilgrimage.
Koiji Shrine: Popular as a Power Spot
Koiji Shrine in the Senogahara area is dedicated to Sakata Koiji, known from the legend of Kintaro. While there is no direct connection to Evangelion, an increasing number of fans visit this shrine as it is located within Third Tokyo-3. The shrine is surrounded by Hakone’s natural beauty and is known as a power spot. It is a good idea to visit for safety prayers during your pilgrimage or to purify your Evangelion merchandise.
Lake Ashi and Togendai Area
Togendai Station: The Entrance to Nerv Headquarters
Togendai Station, the terminus of the Hakone Ropeway, is an important location where the entrance to Nerv headquarters is said to be located in the series. Located on the shore of Lake Ashi, the station offers beautiful lake views and, on clear days, views of Mount Fuji.
The Hakone Pirate Ship boarding area is also located near the station, allowing you to enjoy a Lake Ashi cruise. Since Nerv headquarters is set deep underground, imagining the secret base extending beneath this location is a uniquely fan-oriented way to enjoy the area.
Lake Ashi: The Landscape Symbolizing Third Tokyo-3
Lake Ashi is both a representative tourist spot in Hakone and an important location depicted in Evangelion. In the series, Third Tokyo-3 spreads across the northern shore of this lake, and battle scenes with Angels feature Lake Ashi as the background.
Taking the Hakone Pirate Ship and viewing Hakone’s mountains from the lake gives you the sensation of viewing the entire panorama of Third Tokyo-3 from above. On clear days, Mount Fuji is also visible, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of Evangelion while enjoying stunning scenery.
How to Enjoy Evangelion × Hakone
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Course
Here is a model course for efficiently visiting Evangelion sacred sites in Hakone in one day.
Morning
- Arrival at Hakone-Yumoto Station (9:00)
- Purchase merchandise at Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya (9:30–10:30)
- Travel to Goura Station via Hakone Tozan Railway (11:00)
- Travel to Sounzan Station via Hakone Tozan Cable Car (11:30)
Afternoon
- Travel to Owakudani via Hakone Ropeway (12:00)
- Lunch and exploration at Owakudani (12:30–14:00)
- Travel to Togendai Station via Hakone Ropeway (14:30)
- Explore the area around Lake Ashi (15:00–16:00)
- Travel to Senogahara area by bus (16:30)
- Visit Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store, Senogahara Advanced Base, etc. (17:00–18:00)
How to Use the Hakone Free Pass
For efficient sacred site pilgrimage, it is recommended to use the “Hakone Free Pass” issued by Odakyu. The pass provides unlimited rides on the Hakone Tozan Railway, Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Ropeway, Hakone Pirate Ship, and other major transportation in the Hakone area.
Two-day and three-day passes are available, and the three-day pass is ideal for fans who want to explore sacred sites thoroughly. The fare varies depending on the starting point, but for departures from Shinjuku, the two-day valid pass costs 6,100 yen (adults).
Information on Limited Merchandise and Souvenirs
Evangelion merchandise available only in Hakone is one of the major delights of sacred site pilgrimage.
Limited Products at Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya
- Merchandise using original Hakone illustrations
- Collaborative products with hot spring buns
- Items with Hakone Yosegi-zaiku design
- Eva Soft (soft-serve ice cream available at the store)
- Original beverages
Merchandise Available at Other Locations
- Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store: Limited collaboration products
- Various tourist facilities: Facility-exclusive Evangelion merchandise
- Souvenir shops around Hakone-Yumoto Station: Hakone × Evangelion collaboration souvenirs
Photography Spots
There are many SNS-friendly photography spots.
Recommended Photography Points
- Hakone-Yumoto Station platform (recreation of the scene where Shinji arrives)
- Exterior of Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya
- Exterior of Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store (with Nerv logo)
- Senogahara Advanced Base (public restroom)
- Owakudani as seen from Hakone Ropeway
- Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji landscape
- Volcanic smoke at Owakudani (evoking Angel battles)
When photographing, be considerate of other tourists and facility users, and follow proper etiquette.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Hakone
Spring (March–May)
Spring in Hakone is a beautiful season for cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Around Hakone-Yumoto Station and Goura Park, cherry blossoms bloom, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere different from the world of Evangelion. The weather is mild, making it an ideal time for sacred site pilgrimage.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is when you can fully appreciate Hakone’s charm as a summer resort destination. Higher elevation areas offer cool temperatures. However, the rainy season has frequent rain, so rain gear should be prepared. Hydrangeas on the Hakone Tozan Railway are in peak bloom from mid-June to mid-July.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is the peak season for Hakone tourism. Senogahara’s susuki grassland, in particular, reaches its best from late September to early November, with golden scenery spread out before you. Autumn foliage is also beautiful, providing a special experience where Evangelion’s world view merges with autumn landscapes.
Winter (December–February)
Winter in Hakone is relatively uncrowded, allowing for leisurely sacred site pilgrimage. Hot springs are particularly appealing in this season, and it is recommended to relax in a hot spring after pilgrimage. However, snow and ice can affect transportation, so prior information confirmation is important.
Access and Transportation Information
Access from the Tokyo Area
By Train
- Approximately 85 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Odakyu Romance Car
- Approximately 100 minutes from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station via Odakyu Express (transfer to Hakone Tozan Railway at Odawara)
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Atsugi IC” on the Tomei Expressway via the Odawara-Atsugi Road
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Gotemba IC” on the Tomei Expressway via National Route 138
Movement Within the Hakone Area
Hakone Tozan Railway
A mountain railway connecting Hakone-Yumoto Station and Goura Station, characterized by repeated switchbacks during operation.
Hakone Tozan Bus
Bus routes covering all of the Hakone area. Convenient for access to the Senogahara area.
Hakone Tozan Cable Car
A cable car connecting Goura Station and Sounzan Station, used to connect with the Hakone Ropeway.
Hakone Ropeway
A ropeway connecting Sounzan Station and Togendai Station, passing through Owakudani.
Hakone Pirate Ship
A sightseeing boat cruising Lake Ashi, connecting Togendai Port, Hakone-machi Port, and Motohakone Port.
Accommodation Information and Recommended Plans
Accommodation Areas Recommended for Evangelion Fans
Hakone-Yumoto Area
Good transportation access and proximity to Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya. Many hot spring inns, making it an ideal base for sacred site pilgrimage.
Goura Area
Many high-end inns where you can fully enjoy Hakone’s hot springs. Good access to the Hakone Ropeway.
Senogahara Area
You can stay at the center of Third Tokyo-3. The natural, quiet environment is appealing.
One-Night, Two-Day Model Plan
Day 1
- Morning: Arrival at Hakone-Yumoto Station, merchandise purchase at Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya
- Afternoon: Travel to Goura via Hakone Tozan Railway, sightseeing at Owakudani via Hakone Ropeway
- Evening: Check-in at accommodation, relax in hot springs
Day 2
- Morning: Sacred site pilgrimage in Senogahara area (Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store, Senogahara Advanced Base, etc.)
- Afternoon: Exploration around Lake Ashi, sightseeing near Togendai Station
- Evening: Return to Hakone-Yumoto, purchase souvenirs, then depart
Latest Event and Collaboration Information Sources
Official Information Sources
Information about collaboration between Evangelion and Hakone can be found at the following official websites and SNS.
Hakone Town Tourism Association Official Website
Shares information about collaboration between Hakone Town and Evangelion.
Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya Official Twitter (@hakone_evaya)
Provides early access to new product information and event information. Changes in business hours are also announced.
EVANGELION REAL STORE Official Website
Contains information about Eva stores throughout the country, including Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya.
Anniversary Events
Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya holds special events and limited merchandise sales on opening anniversaries. During such events, rare merchandise that is not usually available may be sold, making it an opportunity not to be missed by fans.
Notes and Manners for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Tourism Etiquette
Hakone is a popular tourist destination visited by many tourists. When enjoying Evangelion sacred site pilgrimage as a fan, do not forget to be considerate to other tourists.
- Be mindful not to disturb others when taking photos
- Do not enter private property without permission
- Always take your trash with you
- Avoid loud conversations or commotion
- Follow traffic rules
Notes on Facility Use
Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya
- Business hours vary by season, so confirm before visiting
- Popular items may sell out, so early arrival is recommended
- Photography inside the store is permitted within appropriate boundaries
Lawson Third Tokyo-3 West Store
- Operates as a regular convenience store, so be considerate of shoppers
- Avoid prolonged stays
- Be mindful not to disturb other users when photographing in the parking lot
Notes on Volcanic Activity
Hakone is located in the area of Hakone-yama, an active volcano. Volcanic gas is generated in the area around Owakudani, and entry restrictions may be imposed depending on the level of volcanic activity.
- Check the latest information on the official websites of Hakone Town or Hakone Ropeway before visiting
- Those with asthma or heart conditions should be cautious about entering Owakudani
- Do not force yourself if volcanic gas concentration is high
Conclusion: Experiencing Third Tokyo-3 in Hakone
Hakone Town in Kanagawa Prefecture holds special meaning for fans as the sacred site of “Third Tokyo-3,” the stage for Evangelion. There are various ways to enjoy the experience: purchasing limited merchandise at Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya, exploring the Nerv headquarters area in Senogahara, and experiencing scenes from the series at Owakudani and Lake Ashi.
The “Third Tokyo-3” presentation through official collaboration with Hakone Town offers a special experience that goes beyond mere sacred site pilgrimage. The original charm of Hakone—including the Hakone Tozan Railway and ropeway, hot springs, and natural scenery—merges beautifully with the world view of Evangelion.
Like the protagonist Shinji’s line “I have to do it,” Evangelion fans should visit Hakone at least once. Beautiful nature in all seasons and excellent collaboration facilities will welcome you to Third Tokyo-3. By utilizing the Hakone Free Pass to efficiently visit sacred sites, obtaining limited merchandise available only in Hakone, and relaxing in hot springs to ease the fatigue of your journey—experience a fulfilling Evangelion sacred site pilgrimage in Hakone.
The latest collaboration and event information is continuously updated on the official SNS of Hakone Town Tourism Association and Hakone-Yumoto Eva-ya. Check the latest information before your visit to realize the ultimate sacred site pilgrimage experience.
