About us

One of the National Trust for Historic Preservation's premier sites and 100 years old, Hakone Estate and Gardens (referred to as:  Hakone below) is one of the oldest Japanese estate, retreat and gardens in the Western Hemisphere. Hakone has also been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2013. 18 acres of magnificent beauty is nestled in the verdant hills of Saratoga overlooking Silicon Valley.

 

Our Mission: We are dedicated to conserve and enhance Hakone Estate and Gardens for the enjoyment and benefit of the public, to preserve its Japanese authenticity for future generations, to promote a deeper understanding of Asian cultures, and to serve as a global forum for art, music, culture, and ideas.

 

The Hakone Foundation is a nonprofit organization with a goal to manage the Gardens toward independence from public financing by encouraging membership contributions, managing rentals of the buildings and gardens and by sponsoring programs. By serving as a unique multicultural venue for residents and visitors from throughout the Bay Area and the world, Hakone is becoming a true global forum for the arts and culture.

 

As an independent Foundation, launched in 2000, Hakone hosts more than 30,000 visitors a year, including those from Asia, Europe, Australia, and Africa. In recent years, the Foundation has hosted dignitaries from the Consulate-General of Japan and other consulates as well as many leaders in diverse fields.  In addition, the Foundation routinely brings in renowned artists, dancers, performers, and musicians from throughout the world, and hosted one of the location shots for the movie “Memoir of a Geisha”.  Hakone also serves as a venue for art and cultural classes and cross-cultural programs and exhibitions. Many Bay Area corporations and citizens now view Hakone as the ideal setting for corporate retreats, conferences, celebrations and other events.

 

Hakone is emerging as a unique artistic and cultural venue for residents and visitors from throughout the Bay Area. The Hakone Foundation is undergoing careful restoration and upgrading of its historic buildings and gardens. All donations and contributions to the Hakone Foundation are tax deductible under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code and help preserve and protect this cultural jewel.

Please click here to apply or renew membership.

Join the Hakone family! Enjoy unlimited visits to the Estate and Gardens, special members-only pricing on events, and classes and special discounts on gift shops.