Is Owakudani closed or open for visiting?

Hi, has anyone been to Owakudani for the past few days or weeks? I just like to check if it is open or close as I heard they have been closed for a long time already. I will be heading to Hakone on 22 June 2018. If this place is closed, is there any other places worth visiting too?

Also what are some places to go in Hakone to avoid the rain?

Read the Owakudani page on this website: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5203.html

- Japan Guide: Hakone Travel:
Owakudani
　https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5203.html
Hakone Round Course
　https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5210.html

According to the notice in the former article,
"the walking and hiking trails around Owakudani are currently closed to tourists"
and "people with respiratory problems should avoid the area"
both due to volcanic gases.

Until June 20 (Wednesday),
the operation of Hakone Ropeway,
due to the scheduled inspection and maintenance work,
will be partially suspended
between Togendai and Owakudani Stations;
a substitute bus service will be available.

- Hakone Ropeway: Partial Suspension of Service
http://www.hakoneropeway.co.jp/info_img/272_pdf.pdf
: Here you see another notice regarding the volcanic gases.

I will be heading to Hakone on 22 June 2018.

Is that the only day you can visit Hakone?

It sounds good for your outdoor activities
if you can choose a day of a better expected weather.
(Even during the rainy season,
it may not rain all the time every day.)

You can check the latest forecasts on the JMA website.

- Japan Meteorological Agency:
Daily Forecasts: Kanagawa
　http://www.jma.go.jp/en/yoho/320.html
　: Hakone Town is in "Seibu" of Kanagawa Prefecture.
Tropical Cyclone Information
　http://www.jma.go.jp/en/typh/

Hello,

I am looking at 22 June or 23 June as I will reach Tokyo on 21 June. As 23 June is a Saturday, I was thinking if 22 June will be a better idea.

Is there other places to recommend if Owakudani is closed? I bought the Hakone Free Pass already so I am not sure where else can I go.

I will be going to Hakone Shrine, Ancient Cedar Avenue, Hakone Checkpoint Museum too.