Top Things to Do in Hakone: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Fancy a nature break less than two hours from Tokyo? Hakone is the dream getaway! From its mountain scenery and proximity to Mount Fuji to cruises on Lake Ashi, hot springs and open-air museums, the region brings together everything travellers come to Japan for: tranquillity, traditions and the art of living!
🏞️ Popular Activities in Hakone and Great-value Prices
- 🌊 Lake Ashi ⛴️ – Shore access is free, cruises from £8 – Volcanic lake with views of Mount Fuji
- 🌋 Owakudani 🥚 – Access included with passes/cable car – Steaming volcanic valley and sulphurous black eggs
- 🚡 Hakone Ropeway 🏔️ – From £9.61 – Panoramic cable car over the mountains and the crater
- 🎨 Hakone Open-Air Museum 🖼️ – Prices vary by season – Open-air sculpture park + Picasso Pavilion
- ♨️ Hakone Kowakien Yunessun 💦 – From £10.09 – Fun hot spring water park with themed baths
📅 How to Visit Hakone in 1 or 2 Days?
Smaller than its neighbouring towns, with only 10,000 residents, Hakone can be explored on a day trip from Tokyo or by spending one or two nights. Ideally, to fully enjoy the onsen (the famous Japanese hot springs) and the relaxed mountain rhythm, it’s best to devote at least two days.
Here are some simple, practical itinerary ideas based on your traveller profile and your preferences:
Length of stay | Couples | Family | Friends | Solo |
1 day | Lake Ashi + cruise + Hakone Ropeway + Owakudani + onsen | Lake Ashi + pirate ship + Hakone Open-Air Museum | Lake Ashi + Owakudani + cable car + Hakone-jinja Shrine | Lake Ashi + Owakudani + cable car + onsen |
2 days | Day 1: Lake Ashi tour + Owakudani + ropeway Day 2: open-air museum + onsen in a ryokan | Day 1: pirate ship + ropeway + Owakudani Day 2: Yunessun hot spring water park + stroll around Hakone-Yumoto | Day 1: Lake Ashi + Owakudani + ropeway Day 2: hike + communal onsen | Day 1: classic loop + open-air museum Day 2: temples, cafés, writing or reading in peace and quiet |
👉 How many days should you spend in Hakone?
- In 1 day, you can easily visit Hakone and take the time to stop at the main sights.
- In two days, you’ll have time to take a breather, go to the museum and enjoy the thermal baths as well: it’s most certainly the best compromise!
🎁 Get 5% off & save up to £2 on your first Hakone Attractions & Tours booking! 👇
Hakone's Top Attractions and Tours
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🔥 Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Hakone
You’ll realise it once you’re there: Hakone is still a very small town. Even so, we’ve handpicked a few must-see sights and unmissable activities to do so you can fully enjoy your day or stay.
Lake Ashi: a postcard-perfect view of Mount Fuji
Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) is undoubtedly the symbol of Hakone. Bordered by wooded mountains, it offers, on clear days, a dreamy view of Mount Fuji silhouetted on the horizon.
The best activity near Lake Ashi? Its cruises! Weather permitting, plenty of cruises are on offer around the lake for a soothing experience with dreamy scenery.
Along the lakeshore, don’t miss Hakone-jinja Shrine and its grand red torii planted in the water—one of the region’s most iconic photo spots. The shores also offer several short walks, cafés with a view, and viewpoints perfect for immortalising your stay.
📌 Tips : some boats are shaped like pirate ships, much to the delight of families and children!
Lake Ashi Cruise
4.6/5
36 Reviews
the pirate ship is nicely decorated full of the pirate ship experience haha , the ride is good , although the weather was a bit cloudy€9
Owakudani: the steaming valley of black eggs
Second unmissable spot in Hakone: Owakudani! It’s actually an active volcanic valley, where you’ll almost certainly see sulphurous steam rising from the ground. The scenery is rocky, sometimes shrouded in steam, with the mountains as a backdrop and, on clear days, Mount Fuji (the view is spectacular!).
You’ll notice it straight away: the smell of sulphur is hard to miss as you approach the volcano, a vivid reminder that you’re on a volcanic site that’s very much alive. Specially built observation platforms let you stroll safely while admiring the fumaroles rising from the grey rocks. With a bit of luck and on a clear day, the contrast between Owakudani’s lunar landscape and the majestic Mount Fuji in the background is simply magical!
When you're there, make sure you don't miss the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) cooked in the sulphurous hot springs. Rest assured, their black colour simply comes from the shell, which blackens on contact with the minerals, but the inside remains perfectly normal and delicious.
📌Fun fact: legend has it that eating a black egg adds seven years to your life… it’s up to you how many you take home!
Owakudani
4.6/5
325 Reviews
Don't leave Hakone without visiting Owakudani
Walk through the smoky sulfur valley and try the famous Black Eggs, boiled in natural volcanic waters. Legend has it that eating one egg adds 7 years to your life so I definitely had to grab some.The Hakone Ropeway: the panoramic cable car
From the moment you arrive, the very first thing you’ll almost certainly want to do is hop aboard these charming traditional little cable cars! The Hakone Ropeway links several key spots in the region, including Lake Ashi, Owakudani and Sounzan. The cabins soar over forests, valleys and volcanic areas to offer one of Hakone’s most beautiful panoramas.
The full ride takes around 30 minutes and lets you soar above the mountain landscapes surrounding Hakone. The modern, all-glass cabins offer 360° views of the surrounding nature. A breathtaking view!
As you gradually ascend towards Owakudani, you’ll see fumaroles appear in the distance. And finally, on clear days, you’ll very likely catch sight of Mount Fuji, the surrounding mountains, and the changing colours of the seasons: delicate spring greens, flamboyant autumn hues, and sometimes a blanket of snow in winter. The journey is an integral part of the Hakone experience—both a way to get around and an activity in its own right!
Hakone Ropeway
4.7/5
30 Reviews
No need to change planes, just scan the code to enter – so convenient!€11
The Hakone Open-Air Museum: art and the mountain
The Hakone Open-Air Museum (musée en plein air de Hakone) is often a delightful surprise for travellers. Relatively little-known, this one-of-a-kind museum will transport you out of time. Set in a large, rolling park, it showcases monumental outdoor sculptures that blend seamlessly into the landscape. You’ll also find indoor galleries, including a pavilion dedicated to Picasso (more than 300 pieces are on display!).
The way the artworks blend into the natural landscape creates a unique, soothing atmosphere. You wander between giant sculptures, artistic fountains and contemporary installations, all set against the backdrop of Hakone’s mountains. Some pieces invite interaction; others encourage contemplation. You’ll indeed see plenty of locals who sometimes come to meditate on site beside these masterpieces.
This visit is delightful in every season, whether you’re with family, travelling solo or as a couple. At the end of the route, you can enjoy a hot spring foot bath with mountain views. An ideal moment to unwind before getting back on the road.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
4.8/5
101 Reviews
great views with great collections! Don’t miss it if you have time.€10
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun: traditional and unique onsens
Fancy trying onsen without having to follow all the strict rules of traditional baths? Hakone Kowakien Yunessun is a hot-spring water park that blends a spa atmosphere with playful fun! You’ll find outdoor pools with mountain views, plus aromatised baths (wine, coffee, green tea…), water slides, and a covered indoor area.
It's the perfect spot for a relaxing day with family or friends, especially if you're travelling with people who are uneasy about the nudity in classic onsen. The complex also includes a more traditional section, separated by gender, so you can enjoy a more authentic Japanese experience.
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun
4.6/5
17 Reviews
Nice place, I liked open bath€7
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Our Top Picks for Hakone Hotels
5 star
Great606 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.6km from city centre
We had an absolutely wonderful stay at this hotel in Gora, Hakone! From the moment we checked in to our departure, the entire experience was flawless. The staff were exceptionally warm, attentive, and always willing to assist with every detail.
Our room was modern, impeccably clean, and spacious, featuring beautiful views and thoughtful amenities. Soaking in the private onsen hot spring was the ultimate relaxation after a long day of sightseeing. The dining experience at the restaurant was also a standout highlight—the wood-grilled local specialties and delicate seasonal dishes exceeded all our culinary expectations.
Transportation was incredibly convenient. The hotel provides a seamless and comfortable shuttle service to and from [强罗])Station, which made traveling with luggage completely stress-free. Furthermore, starting from Gora Station makes exploring Hakone so easy, as you can seamlessly connect via the Hakone Tozan Cable Car and Ropeway directly up to [Owakudani](
and Lake Ashi.
We truly appreciated the genuine hospitality and exceptional comfort provided by the team. We would highly recommend this property to anyone visiting Hakone, and we definitely look forward to returning on our next trip to Japan!From€201
Great856 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.7km from city centre
The moment our car pulled up, a staff member rushed out to help with our luggage, smiling all the while. They guided us through check-in, even offering a warm towel and welcome tea – talk about a fantastic first impression! Just outside the lobby, there's a lush, green mountain view. Lounging on the beanbag chairs there, just chilling out, was incredibly therapeutic 🌿.
The room itself was a typical Japanese style, spacious and spotless. The balcony even had an open-air private onsen tub, so if you didn't feel like going to the public baths, you could soak in your own hot spring while enjoying the view – maximum privacy. The hotel also provided yukata robes, and wearing them around the premises really added to the whole experience 👘.
The onsen facilities were definitely the highlight! The public baths on the fifth and sixth floors alternate daily for men and women. The open-air onsen on the sixth floor had an absolutely stunning view – mountains by day, starry skies by night. Soaking in the hot spring with a towel on my head, just zoning out, felt exactly like something out of an anime. The toiletries were POLA, with everything from makeup remover to toner and lotion provided. My skin felt so smooth after the bath, I just went straight back to my room and passed out ♨️✨.
For dinner, we chose the teppanyaki. The chef cooked each dish right in front of us, meticulously explaining every course in English. The ingredients were fresh, the seasoning precise – you could really taste the care put into it. Breakfast was a buffet, and having unlimited sashimi rice bowls was pure bliss. Seafood donburi lovers, rejoice! 🍣
On checkout day, a staff member stood at the entrance, bowing goodbye and waving until our car was far out of sight. That feeling of being genuinely cared for truly makes you want to come back again and again.From€260
Great47 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|2.3km from city centre
Hotels in Hakone are generally expensive, but Kai Hakone offers a pretty good value for money.
Room: We booked a standard room. It was newly renovated, clean, bright, and well-designed with a great view. Very comfortable stay.
Onsen: The public bath isn't large, with one open-air bath for men and one for women, both overlooking the valley. It's small but charming. The baths switch locations between morning and evening. The lemon water is delicious.
Other Activities: There's a tea house in the common area with a beautiful view. They offer complimentary tea and snacks in the afternoon, and local shochu in the evening (though it wasn't great). You can also book a local yosegi woodworking activity. The lobby also provides free tea and water all day.
Food: Breakfast and dinner are provided. Post-pandemic, the quality of dining at Kai is not comparable to pre-pandemic times, especially breakfast. Overall, the food is decent with some thoughtful touches, and their desserts are particularly good. I'd recommend staying for 1-2 nights. Currently, the restaurant only offers two dinner menus plus a vegetarian option, and for breakfast, one Chinese and one Western set. So, for our 3-night stay, the dining experience on the third day felt a bit underwhelming.
Location: It's located halfway up a mountain, so you'll mostly rely on taxis for getting around. It's about 1500 yen from Hakone-Yumoto Station.From€281
Great232 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|4.55km from city centre
Every city's soul resides in a hotel.
The Peace Hotel in Shanghai, the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo, the Ritz Paris.
These masterpieces, born from local spirit, aesthetics, and a unique mission, are irreplaceable classics, forever one-of-a-kind.
They are undeniably the ultimate experiences to explore in these great cities.
In 1871, a 20-year-old Japanese man moved to America for work.
After saving enough money, he returned to Japan during the Meiji Restoration and enrolled at Keio University.
There, he was enlightened by Fukuzawa Yukichi, the father of modern Japan,
and first realized the importance of international tourism.
In the same year (1874), Emperor Guangxu was only 3 years old; the gears of history began to turn.
Fukuzawa's portrait is still on Japan's highest denomination banknote today.
The young man, Yamaguchi, realized that Japan didn't have a true hotel for foreigners.
So he picked up a blank piece of paper and began to draw the blueprint for Japan's future state guesthouse:
1. A place foreigners would love most.
2. Close to Tokyo, with beautiful scenery.
3. Must have natural hot springs.
The intersection of these three coordinates landed in the Miyanoshita area of Hakone.
In 1878, Japan's first resort hotel – Fujiya Hotel – was born.
However, fate was cruel; just 5 years later, a major fire engulfed the hotel,
along with all records since its opening, turning everything to ash.
The once eternal legacy became as thin as a wisp of smoke.
Fortunately, Yamaguchi resolutely chose to rebuild.
In 1891, the new building was completed and has been operating ever since.
The symmetrical facade and main entrance portico emphasize a solemn ”frontality.”
Inside, there are sofas, fireplaces, and radiators.
Even the height of the doorknobs and beds was customized to suit the stature of Westerners.
Yet, at the same time, the graceful curves of the Japanese roof, vermillion railings, and dragon wood carvings
constantly remind you – this is Japan.
No other hotel
can better interpret the four characters ”Wa-Yo setchū” (a blend of Japanese and Western styles) than Fujiya Hotel.
During the war, it interned over 70 European and Central/South American diplomats.
Over a hundred years, the countless celebrities, dignitaries, and royals it hosted are dazzling:
Charlie Chaplin, John Lennon, Albert Einstein, Yukio Mishima,
The King of Belgium, the Crown Prince of Sweden, the Duke of Windsor,
Emperor Hirohito, the Last Emperor Puyi, Chiang Kai-shek...
For nearly 150 years, Fujiya Hotel has witnessed the collapse of countless colossal powers.
How many kings and generals once stood by its west-facing windows,
witnessing the twilight of their empires?
I checked in during early summer, like pushing open a door to time.
The hustle and bustle had long faded,
but it still retained its former glory,
humbly yet proudly refusing to awaken.
Time stands still here,
leaving amber-like imprints,
as if nothing has ever truly left.From€193
Amazing106 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|6.62km from city centre
The hotel's shuttle service made getting around incredibly easy. We pre-booked it on Ctrip, and the shuttle to/from Odawara was right on schedule. It also offered flexible pickups and drop-offs at several attractions. After returning to the hotel, a soak in the hot spring was the perfect way to unwind and wash away the day's fatigue.From€195
Amazing72 Reviews
Kowakidani/Miyanoshita Hakone|5.43km from city centre
The place was spotless, the environment was beautiful, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Even though English wasn't their strong suit, they used translation apps effectively to communicate. We weren't aware they offered a pick-up service, so we took a taxi there. However, they kindly provided a drop-off service to the station when we left. They also patiently explained which station had luggage lockers, as we were planning to move on to a different location the next day. If we hadn't already made other plans, staying two nights would have been ideal. The dining experience felt like a hotel's set course meal. While dinner was a little slow, the overall experience was excellent, and the dining staff were all wonderful. We also had pleasant encounters with local Japanese people in the public baths; they were very friendly. One even waited outside to recommend some ice cream to us! Overall, I had a fantastic impression of Hakone.From€386
Business travel
Great887 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.19km from city centre
Overall, I was very satisfied with my stay. The hotel is super close to Yumoto Station, just across the road, which was great as I could drop off my luggage and explore the sights without any hassle. The room was spacious with a lovely mountain view outside the window. Waking up to the sound of flowing water and birdsong in the fresh morning air was delightful. The hotel staff were also excellent – very warm and attentive, paying close attention to every detail. If I had one suggestion for improvement, it would be to enhance the breakfast environment and the variety/uniqueness of the dishes.From€136
Great250 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.19km from city centre
Our experience staying in Hakone was perfect! We stayed at the Tensein in Hakone-Yumoto, an easy location to take the bus, car or train to some popular tourist attractions in the area.
The check in itself was rather slow but the staff do their best to speak good English and discuss every detail about your stay with you. The room had everything we needed, the shampoo and conditioners provided was wonderful and there was a variety of products to use.
On check in, the private onsen was given at 50% discount at 1,100 Japanese yen per use, we got 2 vouchers so used it 2 times (as we have tattoos we could not go into the public onsen). On check in you have to collect your towel and your choice of Yukata (traditional Japanese robe) which you’re welcomed and encouraged to wear around the hotel and gardens.
The hotel is strictly no shoes, so upon arrival you leave your shoes in a locked box and keep the key. If you wish to walk around the beautiful gardens, there are slider type shoes available to slip on, as well as umbrellas to use if it’s raining. Outside they have a onsen for your feet to enjoy with a drink.
All of the food and drink (apart from breakfast which was included) was put on our bill at the end. There was a wide selection of drinks, nibbles and food available for dinner and lunches at the dining room and there was a large buffet dining room for buffet breakfast and dinner (if you booked it).
The hotel is just a short 10 minute walk to the town and 15 minute walk to the Hakone-Yumoto station. Visiting Mt Fuji is easy, with a bus ‘H’ running from stand 2 opposite the Hakone -Yumoto station. Get off at ‘Motohakone’. From there, you can take another bus and a train to get you to another town ‘Gora’ and surrounding attractions to enjoy.From€107
Great474 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|9.95km from city centre
The hotel is new and well operated. We have booked with breakfast and dinner buffet. There are various kinds of drinks provided, including whisky, wine, beer, soft drinks and fruit juice, worth for trying, but there are limited choices of food. The view of the room is perfect as you can see the lake and the cable car station without any obstruction from your balcony. The hot spring spa at the hotel is wonderful, with indoor and outdoor portion and outside the hot spring, there are kimono that you could choose to dress during your stay. There is a private spa room but it’s full during my stay so we could not try it.From€199
Very Good212 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1km from city centre
Absolutely fine! We had booked a room “without a view” because it was the only one left, but we actually had plenty of view directly from the bed, so we were pleasantly surprised and very happy. Plenty of space. Sweet and helpful staff. Good breakfast, simple and exactly what you can expect. The pillows were a bit hard and short, but otherwise we had nothing to complain about, and that’s probably a matter of personal preference as well.From€119
Amazing404 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|9.21km from city centre
This hotel is absolutely stunning. The view of Lake Ashi from our room was truly breathtaking. The staff were incredibly helpful throughout our stay, and the buffet dinner was delicious with plenty of variety. The location is excellent — just a short distance from the ropeway and the sightseeing cruise. You can also take the No. 3 bus from Togendai directly to the hotel, which helped us save money on taxi fares. There’s a large shopping complex right next door, and I highly recommend the bakery, the staff were wonderful and the pastries were excellent. We did experience a typhoon during our stay, and a little more advance warning from the hotel would have been appreciated. However, we were able to leave early enough to avoid and arrived safely at our next hotel.From€141
Very Good158 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.51km from city centre
My husband and I stayed at Hotel Okada for 2 nights for our honeymoon, and it was a truly wonderful experience.
• Honeymoon Surprise: The staff provided excellent service and even prepared a thoughtful welcome gift for our honeymoon, which made us feel very special.
• The Room & Amenities: Our room was spacious, spotless, and very quiet. The highlight was definitely the private open-air bath in the room—so relaxing and peaceful. We were also pleasantly surprised to find complimentary skincare sets and facial masks provided in the room. It shows great attention to detail.
• Dining: Both the breakfast and dinner buffets offered a wide variety of delicious options.
• Location: Getting to the train station is easy with the shuttle bus that runs on a reliable schedule. If you prefer to walk, it's a pleasant 19-minute walk.From€139
Family friendly
Very Good291 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.6km from city centre
This hotel is a bit far from the station, but thankfully, they offer a shuttle bus service every 20 minutes. Just make sure to check the schedule. The hotel itself is a bit old but kept very clean. The set dinner was decent, and the breakfast buffet was just average. If you're not too picky, it's a fine place to stay. The outdoor hot springs are fantastic, with five large and very comfortable pools. Next time, I might just come for a day trip to use the onsen, as that would be even better value for money.From€68
Great13 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.61km from city centre
Great hotel! I like the environment and service. Their children's yukatas are very beautiful. I booked one night with two meals. The food was very good, beautiful and delicious. I ate a lot, but the wine and drinks need to be paid separately, but the price is reasonable. The plum wine is delicious. My parents like it very much. They said that staying for one night is too little. The room we stayed in was very large. We had 3 tatami mats for 3 adults and 2 children. There was also a small room with two beds for each of us to sleep separately without affecting each other. There was also a room dedicated to suitcases and yukatas, which was very convenient. There was an indoor hot spring in the room, which could be filled with water by itself like a bathtub. I think I could soak my feet at night, but there was no need. At first, when I booked the hotel, I thought it was a courtyard hot spring where I could take pictures. I was disappointed when I arrived at the hotel. It was actually an indoor bathtub. Fortunately, there was a public hot spring next to it, which was very convenient. It was just like taking a bath in the room. It was just a few steps away, but I couldn't take pictures. There was no scenery. This hot spring hotel is in the Japanese courtyard style. It looks good to take pictures. You can take beautiful pictures in your own room and courtyard. It's very photogenic! Although the language communication is all in Japanese, they will use their mobile phones to translate for you, so you can understand it better.From€412
Very Good166 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.53km from city centre
I took a video showing the private onsen room in one continuous shot, and the hot spring water runs 24/7, so you can always enjoy a soak whenever you want. The room is really spacious, with a large living room, a smaller lounge area, a pantry, and even a double vanity in the bathroom, plus a separate vanity room. When booked in advance for two people, including breakfast and dinner, it ranges from 2500-3200 per night. I hope Trip.com adds more package options, as the hotel actually offers upgraded dining experiences too. I also had a massage at the hotel; with the favorable Japanese exchange rate, the price was quite reasonable in RMB, and the technique was very comfortable.From€86
Very Good211 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|9.3km from city centre
I first stayed at this hotel last year and was very satisfied with the service, environment, and convenient transportation. When I visited Hakone again this year, I chose to stay here a second time. The half-board plan (one night with two meals) was an excellent deal, especially since there aren't many dining options in the immediate area.From€89
Great74 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|8.8km from city centre
The hotel is located in a very secluded mountainous area. I stayed in an open-air hot spring villa with a large courtyard, and soaking in the hot spring was incredibly relaxing and wonderful, whether it was cloudy or sunny, day or night. The courtyard was beautiful on rainy days. The entire villa area was almost completely silent; aside from occasionally seeing people at mealtimes, I barely saw anyone else, which was very pleasant. The hot springs were also excellent, leaving my skin feeling smooth and moisturized. The room had a living room with a fireplace and a Bluetooth speaker, making it spacious and warm. This was the hotel's biggest draw.
However, some small details were lacking. Some villas don't have parking, like mine, and walking to the parking lot was quite a trek. The bathroom area wasn't well-heated; the shower and toilet rooms were very cold unless the door was left open. The hotel's toiletries need improvement; the cotton pads were unusable, of very poor quality, falling apart into shreds when I tried to wipe my face. The bedding was also quite mediocre, not comfortable at all, and the mattress felt saggy. However, the linens were very clean and fresh, which was good.
Cleanliness was so-so. Both the hot spring pool and the shower room, being made of wood, are prone to mold, and the hotel should clean them more thoroughly.
The Kaiseki dinner was very ordinary. The taste and ingredients were unremarkable, though the price was also reasonable. There's no need to eat the hotel's Kaiseki if you have other options.
The service was decent. They thoughtfully sent champagne for our anniversary, which was a nice touch. Check-in and check-out were handled in the room, and other services were quite proactive.From€264
Great106 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|10.08km from city centre
I made a reservation for 8 university students.
It was a beautiful house just like the picture and it was great! !
The kitchen was fully equipped with all the utensils, so I didn't have any trouble cooking. I was also surprised that there was a hot plate that you could use to make crepes.
There was only a shower room on the first floor, but there were two bathrooms, so it was okay for a large number of people, and there were 5 beds.
I was very satisfied with the ability to connect the projector to my smartphone and play live footage and my favorite MV.
I would like to stay for another month. Thank you very much for the wonderful accommodation.From€173
Breakfast
Great288 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|8.68km from city centre
This Hakone hotel is a tranquil lakeside retreat. Despite being over 100 years old, it shows no signs of its age. The front desk staff were courteous and welcoming. The bedding and towels in the rooms were clean and tidy. Breakfast was a delightful experience, with fresh ingredients and a wide variety of both Japanese and Western dishes, ensuring a great start to the day. The hot spring bath, though not large, was clean and cozy. Stepping out of the side door of the restaurant, you're greeted by an open lawn, and directly ahead, the shimmering Lake Ashi, with its harbor full of sightseeing boats and small motorboats. Enjoying a rich coffee while sitting by the lake, feeling the cool breeze, was incredibly pleasant and relaxing. This stay left us with wonderful memories, and we've already promised ourselves a return visit.From€162
Great104 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|10.6km from city centre
Hi everyone,
It was very beautiful place to stay, very peaceful, clean and comfortable. Large room, beautiful view and onsen was very good.
To those not travelling by car, you need to get a bus Hakone freepass to get around. You can purchase it online, this is a big help.
One of the biggest problem was when we arrived the bus station at bus stop no. 252 ( Sengoku-kogen), we called the hotel to arrange to be pick up from the bus station no. 252, we have terrible language problems. They don't understand where was bus stop 252. They don't recognise there is a coffee shop, Lawson and little police station. Finally we have to pull our luggageas all the way to the hotel. Majority of the road was uphill and very little lighting ... Near bus stop number 252, you can see Lawson, a coffee shop and little police station.
On the second day, the shuttle bus service took us out to the musuem. We walked back from the museums, it took about 90mins to walk back to the hotel. We were told the bus ticket have to purchase at the counter Tokendai. We were stucked in the hotel for two days, because we really don't know where to apply which bus tickets.
On the third day, the hotel shuttle took us to another musuem, we were very thankful a lady from a musuem inform us we can get the ticket Hakone free pass online.
On the fourth day, we just realised Tokendai ( cruise) very close to the hotel. Luckily we managed to get around for the last day of our stay.
Overall we enjoyed the stay. The receptionists were very polite and tried to help. We have communication breakdown, they were continually apologises.
Big thank you for the trip.com to solve the problem.From€128
Very Good105 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|6.44km from city centre
The location was out of town so not so many shop around the hotel and you have to take a tram to town to get groceries etc. Buffet breakfast was nice so dont hae to stress. Private Onsen was great but need more instructions especially english. There was a shuttle service but no way to communicate with them unless you have a local sim. It was great stay but you need to be prepared for some logistics and walking or plan ahead with food/snacks etc.From€117
Great1111 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.68km from city centre
Fantastic location next to Gora Station with easy access to Gotemba premium outlets via bus& Cablecar to Lake Ashi. Kaiseki breakfast and dinners were thoughtfully planned and different each meal. So many free snacks and food at different timings. Private outdoor onsen was wonderful as well. Note: you have to queue for any of the 3 huts. Only thing we didn’t like was having to shower outdoors and the dated toto bidet. Other than that, perfect 2 night stay at Hakone.From€190
Great116 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.35km from city centre
The biggest advantage is probably its proximity to Yumoto Station. You don't even need to go upstairs from the second floor; just walk to the end, turn left, take the elevator down, walk forward, turn left, and you're there in two minutes.
1. I planned to explore Hakone during the day and knew I'd miss dinner, so I only booked breakfast instead of the half-board option. That turned out to be a great decision. I definitely got back to Yumoto after dinner service had ended. The breakfast looked beautiful in photos, but it was hard to eat. There wasn't really anything appealing; just a bunch of miscellaneous small dishes and pickles.
2. The private onsen needs to be booked in advance, but it was just okay.
3. If you have a lot of luggage, staying in Yumoto is more convenient for check-in, and there are other restaurants open at night. If you're traveling light in Hakone, I'd probably choose Gora, book dinner at the hotel, and explore the various museums around Gora. For a day trip, you don't need to see everything; just pick one or two places you like.From€225
Great458 Reviews
Lake Ashi Hakone|8.33km from city centre
I stumbled upon Odakyu Hotel de Yama through a Hakone travel guide on Xiaohongshu. After planning my Hakone itinerary, I decided to book a two-day, one-night stay with breakfast and dinner. The hotel itself is a resort destination.
My stay coincided with the Emperor's birthday three-day weekend in Japan. By evening, I noticed all the room keys were out (picture 6), indicating a high occupancy rate. I barely encountered any fellow Chinese travelers, just one ********* couple; most other guests were Japanese on vacation or Caucasians.
Most of the hotel staff's English was quite basic. I'd recommend using a translator if you're not fluent in Japanese. For instance, the staff member asked me about 'dinnertime' five times before I understood what they were saying. (⦁֊⦁꧞)
The two meals included in the package require you to reserve your dinner times. One evening, I had a reservation for 7:45 PM, but I still had to wait. I was a bit annoyed, wondering why I had to wait when I had a reservation. I ended up waiting an extra 10 minutes, which is why I can't give a full five-star rating.
Everything else was excellent. There's an ice machine and a washing machine on the first floor. The onsen (hot spring) layout was also very well-designed. While it's not sourced directly from Owakudani, it uses water from Lake Ashi, leaving your skin feeling smooth after a soak. The open-air bath even has a cherry tree—I can only imagine how beautiful Hakone would be during cherry blossom season!
Oh, one more thing to complain about: there's no hairdryer in the room. As someone with bangs, this was inconvenient. Every morning after putting on makeup, I had to go to the large public bath to dry my bangs. The hairdryers there are Refa Pro, which are a bit heavy. The toiletries in the public bath are DHC, but the ones in the bedroom are from the French sea salt series, which are also very good.
Other than that, there's really nothing else to complain about. (⌯'ㅅ'⌯) Honestly, I would definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Hakone.
There's a shuttle bus to Moto-Hakone Port Bus Stop 6 every 20 minutes. There's also an Odakyu bus that departs from the hotel entrance at 12:00 PM, heading to Shinjuku. Hotel de Yama is the first stop, but it takes at least 3 hours to get to Shinjuku after making all the rounds.From€122
Gym
Great50 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|9.88km from city centre
The service was excellent, professional, and very attentive. The in-room amenities were premium and had a luxurious feel. The towels and hot spring attire were made from high-quality material and felt wonderful. It's an excellent choice for a hot spring inn.From€239
Great62 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.2km from city centre
Very good service for an affordable price. I stayed two nights in female dormitory, the bed is spacious even the top one,I was provided with towels and a kimono-style robe, which was very comfortable. There are two private onsens in the inn, you can reserve any of them the day before. Also, there is a small kitchen with cooks, you can order a breakfast and a dinnir a la carte, which is very convenient. The only downside is that you have to bring the luggage uphill when checking in, but it is not a problem when checking out because there is a free transfer provided each morning to the Gora station.From€33
Amazing80 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|1.64km from city centre
The room is clean and the facilities are excellent. You must choose the double-board package. The breakfast is amazing and the dinner is pretty normal. In addition, this hotel is quite primitive and there will be some noise when you sleep at night.From€619
Amazing0 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|7.26km from city centre
Experience an abundance of unparalleled facilities and features at hakonegora guamdog honten. For visitors traveling by automobile, complimentary parking is available.Kindly note that smoking is prohibited in the ryokan to ensure fresher air for all visitors. At hakonegora guamdog honten, every guestroom is provided with convenient amenities and fittings to ensure a comfortable stay. Enhance your experience at ryokan with the knowledge that certain rooms are equipped with linen service and air conditioning for your convenience. At hakonegora guamdog honten, each visit offers an array of intriguing room configurations, featuring accommodations with separate living room and balcony or terrace, ensuring a distinct experience every time. Certain rooms boast in-room amusement features such as television, in-room video streaming and cable TV, offering guests an enjoyable stay. In select rooms within the ryokan, a refrigerator, a coffee or tea maker, bottled water and mini bar is available to cater to your requirements when desired. In the ryokan, certain guest bathrooms come equipped with essential bathroom amenities, such as a hair dryer, toiletries and bathrobes, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests. At the ryokan, an assortment of easily accessible and delicious meal choices are available to satisfy your appetite whenever it strikes. During your stay at ryokan, an array of engaging activities and amenities guarantees a delightful experience.Discover the fitness amenities at ryokan to maintain your health and strength during your getaway.Great123 Reviews
Hakone yumoto Hakone|0.86km from city centre
I was so surprised that I could stay in such a nice hotel for this price! My friend and I went together, and it even included an all-you-can-drink alcohol and soft drink option, which we really enjoyed! I'd love to stay here again the next time I visit Hakone!From€177
Great79 Reviews
Gora/Sengokuhara Hakone|5.76km from city centre
Very clean and comfort for our stay!!
Comes with Japanese style tatami bed, sleep super well. Just cross an underground stair will get to Gora station which is super convenient for us to hang out during daytime. Night time have lots of star in the sky, look up!
They deserve more than 5 stars.From€27
🌸 Best Time to Visit Hakone
Hakone can be explored all year round, but the experiences vary greatly depending on the season:
Season | Weather | Highlights |
Spring (March–May) | Mild, pleasant | Cherry blossoms, rhododendrons in Gora Park, lush landscapes |
Summer (June–August) | Hot, but less stifling than in Tokyo. | Mountain hikes, refreshing Lake Ashi, summer festivals |
Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Pleasant temperatures, vibrant colours | Spectacular autumn foliage, excellent visibility of Mount Fuji |
Winter (Dec.–Feb.) | Cold, with occasional snow at higher altitudes | Onsen in the snow, often clear skies, crystal-clear views of Mount Fuji, |
Whatever time of year you visit, remember to pack a warm extra layer: evenings can be chilly at altitude, especially near the lake or at the top of the Ropeway!
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🍱 Hakone’s Culinary Specialities
Who said a small town couldn’t have its own traditions and culinary specialities? Yes, Hakone can also be discovered through your taste buds, especially after a day spent between the lake, the mountains and the onsens!
Among the unmissable specialities, there are of course the kuro-tamago, Owakudani’s black eggs cooked in sulphur-rich hot springs. You’ll also find excellent soba, buckwheat noodles made with the local spring water, often served chilled with soy sauce or in a steaming soup.
At ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), kaiseki dinners showcase local produce such as:
- Fish from Lake Ashi (tempura or grilled),
- Tofu and yuba (soya skin),
- Vegetables from the mountains,
- Slow-cooked small dishes served in lovely ceramics.
Tamura Ginkatsu-tei
4.8/542 Reviews
📍1300-739 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
Average spend
€15
Finally, for a sweet snack, let yourself be tempted by onsen manju—little buns steamed by the vapour from the hot springs and filled with red bean paste—which you can buy still warm in the streets of Hakone-Yumoto. An absolute delight!
💡 Practical Tips: Transport and Travel Passes in Hakone
Getting around Hakone is quite straightforward once you understand the idea of the tourist “loop”. From Tokyo (usually from Shinjuku Station), you arrive at Hakone-Yumoto. Then, for each activity, you’ll need to take:
- A mountain train up to Gora,
- A funicular from Gora to Sounzan,
- The Hakone Ropeway to Lake Ashi via Owakudani,
- A boat on Lake Ashi to reach another port,
- A return bus to Hakone-Yumoto or your accommodation
To make life easier, opt for the Hakone Free Pass, which bundles most of the transport for this loop and includes a return journey from Tokyo (depending on the option you choose). It’s a practical and often cost-effective choice if you’re staying for at least a full day!
Have a wonderful trip! ✨
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Hakone
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