Hakone

During mom's second week, the schools here were having spring break which allowed us to take several day trips during the week. The first place we visited was a mountain resort area called Hakone (pronounced A-cone-ee). I would describe the main tourist area as a Japanese version of Red River.

One of the big attractions in Hakone is the Hakone Ropeway. It is like a tram or ski lift and it takes about 40 minutes for the entire ride. Unfortunately, part of the Ropeway was being worked on, so we ended up on the ride for only about 15 minutes.

 Here is mom and Andrea as we are descending towards Lake Ashi - which was formed by the collapsed caldera of a still active volcano.

 A better view of Lake Ashi.

 At the base of the Ropeway was a restaurant. Although it looked like a typical tourist cafeteria, the food was prepared and presented with extreme attention to detail. These entrees are especially popular in Japan - curry, rice and even an egg to add texture.

Macie and Andrea taking a picture with a replica of the Ropeway and Mount Fuji.

Andrea, Macie, Mona and mom pose at the stream that runs through the town of Hakone.

A video of mom walking and shopping the stores of Hakone's main street.