The mission of the Hakone Foundation is to preserve, protect and enhance Hakone for the benefit and inspiration of the public and future generations, and to promote a deeper understanding of Asian and Japanese culture.   As a tax-exempt Foundation, established in 1984, Hakone hosts over 40,000 visitors a year, a third of who travel from Asia, Europe, Australia, and Africa. In recent years, the Hakone Foundation hosted the Prime Minister of Japan, Prime Minister Hosokawa, and a number of Japanese Ambassadors, Consul Generals, and a wide array of renowned artists, dancers, performers, and musicians from throughout the world. Hakone also serves as a venue for art and cultural classes to the public and cross-cultural programs and exhibitions for the diverse populations of Northern California. Many Bay Area corporations now view Hakone as the ideal setting for corporate retreats and conferences as Hakone achieves financial independence. The non-profit Hakone Foundation seeks to manage the Gardens toward independence from public financing by encouraging membership contributions, managing rentals of the buildings and Gardens and by sponsoring programs.   Recently, the Hakone Foundation, with the Japanese Foreign Ministry and the Consul General of Japan, hosted the 50th Anniversary of the Peace Treaty between Japan, the United States, and 46 other nations that officially ended World War II. In April of 2004, the Foundation, again working closely with the Japanese Embassy and Consulate, will host the 150th Anniversary of Commodore Perry's visit to Japan and the signing of the Treaty of Peace and Amity that established ties between the United States and Japan.   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.
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