The 26 best parks and gardens in Hakone-machi

We came to Lake Ashi and took the cruise on what looked like a pirate ship. This ship has a lift that made it easy to reach the open deck. It was spring and the wind made it feel very cold on the ship. The lake is pleasant and we could see the Tori of Peace from the deck.

The lake is known for its views of Mount Fuji, its numerous hot springs, historical sites,However, i might visit at the wrong timimg so there is nothing special. Surrounded by mountains and trees ,also a few buildings along the shore. If you visit Hakone, you can take a 30-minute boat cruise excursion from the port at Hakone Sekisho-ato Port or the Moto-hakone Port.

I think it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I wish we could stay longer. So serene and beautiful, in a cloudy and even a bit rainy day. The surroundings are surprisingly not clean but it doesn’t ruin the experience.

The boat ride was over all too quick. It's clear and calm waters make the boats motor totally out of place. I'd gladly hoist up a pirate sail...

Lake Ashi was a highlight of our Hakone trip – absolutely stunning with panoramic views of Mt Fuji on a clear day. Getting there was surprisingly smooth: we boarded the Hakone Ropeway from Sōunzan, transferred at Ōwakudani, and then continued down to Tōgendai, right on the lake’s edge. Just note: the cable car section officially starts at Gōra, so plan your route accordingly. We opted for the first-class cabin on the Hakone Pirate Ship, which was well worth it – more space, better views, and you can enjoy the lake without the crowd. A great tip for those wanting a photo at the famous Heiwa no Torii gate (which often has long queues): hire a paddle boat instead! You’ll get beautiful, uninterrupted shots from the water, and it’s a peaceful way to enjoy the lake without the hustle. Highly recommend spending a half day here – bring snacks, a camera, and soak in the natural beauty!

Beautiful lake and wonderful scenery…the pirate boat tour was short and a good experience

Great place to enjoy the nature and hiking!

A wonderful open air museum. A great experience walking around through the gardens and enjoying the nature , the art works and the weather. Because the museum is in open air you need to choose for a day with good weather ( not a rainy day ). We especially enjoyed the Picasso Pavilion ! A very clean place and we suggest to spend approx 3 hours for the visit. By the way if you guys are a little bit tired there is a nice cozy coffee shop , with great Italian Coffee , ice cream , soft drinks and sandwiches. A huge parking space on the spot which cost 500 yen - we came by car. A highly recommended place if you are in Hakone. Enjoy !

Wow, wow, wow. They shouldn't call this a museum. It is an art gallery extraordinaire. Beautiful environment, many external installations allow for interaction. The Picasso and other indoor galleries are equally impressive. Child friendly. Lovely places to eat and drink as well as a top class shop. A must visit.

The museum was one of my highlights of a visit to Japan, it is a unique experience with many art pieces in beautiful tranquil surrounds as you wander the gardens with the backdrop of the mountains. There are also some kid friendly areas including the climbing net where many children will spend at least an hour, the maze, and then when tired the pockeT area. Make sure to enjoy the foot Onsen that will rest those weary feet. There is a self serve ticket machine at the entrance so no need to wait in line.

Simply stunning. A lot of thought and effort has gone into making this place special. Loved the mini Picasso museum in the middle. Top tip - try to arrive as close to 9am as possible to avoid the hoards of day trippers coming in from Tokyo

One of the most incredible museums I’ve ever visited! The installations are so huge and fun to walk through. Even on a cold rainy and snowy day we walked the entire grounds and saw each exhibit. There’s a sweet hot foot soak area about mid way through where there is also a gift shop and little cafe. Don’t miss going inside the tower with all the stained glass, it’s other worldly.

There are a couple of ticket machines to the left side of the entrance, if you’d like to skip the line. Overall it’s an interesting outdoor museum. It was nice to walk around even in the rain. The gift shops are also very nice

Fantastic art exhibits, the Picasso building houses a rather large collection of several of his art mediums, easily worth the 2000 yen to see the many outdoor sculptures. A wonderful couple of hours.

Enjoy the silence and peacefulness in the Gora Park! Stopped by as part of the Hakone Free Pass and the place didn’t disappoint! Grab a coffee or lemonade and sit down by the fountain, walk in the green house or just wander around - this place is energising and making the hot weather more bearable!

A very well layed out park with French origins. You don’t have to walk miles to see things but there is much to see and enjoy. Like any park or garden it does depend on the seasons as to what you see. The park is in Hakone high up in the hills which creates for a very unique climate and therefore an opportunity to see things which you would not see elsewhere at that time of year. It has a really interesting craft centre, properly organised and run to quite a high level. The shops and restaurants are not tacky in any way or ridiculously expensive. Loved the rose ice cream real value for money especially with the coupon at the entrance! Toilets and other facilities are way up to standard nothing old and just about to break or smelly!! And clean!!! Easy to get to with ample parking areas. Station nearby if needed!

Beautiful , small area. Lovely roses and gymnosperm varieties. Glass house / green house should have more varieties.

Cute little park with free entrance if you have Hakone freepass. Right next to Hakone open air museum. We had a lovely afternoon tea with a rose theme in one of their cafés.

Small but charming park with many pretty flowers. It is within 5 minute walking distance of the cable car station. Has a ‘treasure box’ with a stamp for children to stamp their books. Closes at 5pm

Rustic park with an old charm. Picturesque location worth visiting if you enjoy gardens and greenery.

One of most beautiful parks. And not only for Hakone. It not requires any additional words. Just come and see... Tea ceremony also recommended to visit.

We had an excellent experience at Owakudani. The landscape is incredible—sulfur vents steaming all around, the smell of the volcano in the air, and if you’re lucky with clear weather, amazing Mt. Fuji views. The highlight was trying the famous black eggs—warm, tasty, and fun to share (plus the local legend of adding seven years to your life makes it even better). Shops and facilities were clean, staff were kind, and everything felt organized. Truly a unique stop in Hakone. Pro tips: • Weekdays are calmer → much less crowded and easier to enjoy the views. • Check the weather → Mt. Fuji is visible only on clear days; worth planning around. • Black eggs → sold in 5-packs, perfect for sharing with family/friends. • Bring a jacket → it’s cooler and windy up here compared to Hakone town. • Ropeway check → sometimes it closes due to volcanic gases or strong winds, so confirm before heading up.

This area was originally called the "Valley of Hell" (地獄谷), but was renamed "Owakudani" (大湧谷, literally "Great Boiling Valley") after Emperor Meiji visited. It’s a volcanic landscape with continuous volcanic gas emissions that fill the air with a strong sulfur smell. Give the local specialty, the black eggs, a try, although they taste just like regular boiled eggs.

This is my second time visiting Hakone. Just a simple stroll around the area this time. I took the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Gora Station, then continued on the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Sōzan Station. From there, I bought a one-way Hakone Ropeway ticket (¥2000), which allows unlimited stops along the route. Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t great this time and very misty, so the view from the ropeway wasn’t clear. Still, it was a relaxing ride through the cool mountain air.

Tourist Tourist Tourist, we were there during the summer and the Japanese school holiday. There place is full to the brim. Restaurants are packed. No place to sit at all. The top there, sulfur smell is quite strong. Got to the try their famous black egg. The was a saying that you eat one black egg, you will be 7 years younger !

We were so excited and hungry on our Klook bus tour after arriving to Hakone Ōwakudani Valley. We ordered 4 black eggs pack for ¥500, they accept cash only. Although they tasted like normal boiled eggs it was still fascinating to eat the famous black eggs. We were told eating a black egg prolongs your life 7 years! My favourite was taking the Hakone Ropeway Ōwakudani cable car to see the views of the volcanic valley. It was very windy day and cool seeing it in person.

Lot of volcanic activity can be seen, from the view point. Main attraction here is the black egg which should give you 7 years of life. Inside of the egg is completely normal, even the taste is close to normal. The souvenir shop accept credit card, but the counter with black eggs which is inside of the shop takes only cash, quite lack of logic.

Stunning view . Landscapes like iv've never seen before and nice view of mount fuji. Make sure to preorder tickets for the tour.

WOW!!! The sparkles here!! You have to go on a sunny day or at least with the sun peaking through the clouds. The way the light hits the outdoor pieces is UNREAL! Loved all the indoor pieces too. Chihuly is always amazing to see in person. We had just been to Venice about a year earlier and it was so lovely to see it replicated so well here in Hakone! You will not regret exploring this museum, absolutely recommend!

Fabulous museum, both indoors and out. A brilliantly varied mix of static glassware indoors, glass sculptures outside, a concert, and an excellent restaurant (ideal for lunch). I was expecting a tourist trap but was very pleasantly surprised. Whether you're looking for entertainment or just shade and relaxation, you mustn't miss this one.

A museum that displays glass art throughout history. The museum has a spectacular garden and a very large souvenir shop. The place is beautiful and highly recommended for a visit.

We went to this place during the Obon holidays and we completely loved the experience. Despite the poor weather, this place was packed and they had so many exhibitions to explore. Since we were on a time crunch to take our little one back home for his bed time, we were not able to explore everything but we know we will be back again to explore the rest. The restaurant offered a very good food; my favorite was the scone tea set. But I was told that they have a great lunch menu so we will want to try that next time. Live music is the best part of this restaurant. This place will be a great place for couples looking for something different but also for families with different interests.

One of the most recommend place when you visiting Hakone sengokuhara. A lot of beautiful glasses here. You can take a lot pic too. Such an aesthetic place. Also, you can find a delicious bread here...

Not for European Tourist. It’s kinda built like Italy/ Venice in particular. But it’s really not impressing if you know Italian countries or have been in in a glas museum in Europe. Best part is the globe inside 😅 and the price is 1800 yen for adults.

March 2021 An interesting venue to visit when you are in hakone. A variety of different display of glasswork to enjoy. This isn’t far from the outdoor sculpture museum so can do both on the same day. There arent many food options around but we had a big breakfast included from our hotel. Suggest not to expect too much for food around this area.

Its important as tourist area before and still famous among locals and foreign tourist till now. Good place for photos, having meals, and shop some local souvenirs. Suitable for any group size or FIT since its open area for everyone to come and enjoy. Promised amazing panoramic view ...Worth visit

A fascinating glimpse into Japan’s history! Hakone Checkpoint is a well-preserved historical site that gives you insight into the Edo period’s travel and security system. The museum and reconstructed buildings are informative and engaging, with displays that bring history to life. The location by Lake Ashi offers beautiful views, making it both educational and scenic. Perfect for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone exploring Hakone’s cultural attractions!

What an amazing place, it was a shame that the weather was not so great, but you can get the atmosphere of the place. Did go on the ferry, but the trip lasted 15 minutes and went 1.5K, would love a longer ride on the lake. But a beautiful and calm place.

One of the best places in my overall Japan trip. The detailed rebuilt checkpoint buildings are amazing. The woodworking detail and the preservation is something to be proud of. The staffs are very helpful in explaining and the view is stunning!

A rebuilt old checkpoint fort. The old buildings have been reconstructed with care for the historical accuracy. It has brief placards talking about life at the fort, roles and responsibilities for staff members, and the construction of the fort. I would recommend walking up the hill to the watchtower for the view.

Visited Hakone Checkpoint and really enjoyed stepping back in time! The reconstructed gates and guardhouses are super well done, and the small museum has lots of interesting historical details. The lookout point offers amazing views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. Easy to walk around and the staff are friendly. A great stop if you’re exploring Hakone—history buffs and casual visitors alike will enjoy it!

The Hakone Checkpoint is a historical site that recreates a major inspection station from the Edo period. Located along the Tokaido Road, it offers a glimpse into feudal Japan with reconstructed buildings and informative exhibits. Ideal for history enthusiasts.

Nice sightseeing destination. After the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, highly recommend visiting Hakone for some peace. Do be warned, this park is in a very mountainous region and thus is quite a hike. Views of the surrounding mountain forests and lake are absolutely worth it.

There's nothing special about this park, it's pretty normal. We didn't stay there long, maybe on a sunny day it would be better to use it as a place to relax and stay longer. In some parts of it there's a really nice view of the lake next to the mountains.

Taking the coastal path was a little challenging but beautiful views! All worth it! Glad we made it last minute before heading home.

The imperial Island gives you an astonishing view over lake ashi. The Parc has some steep stairs when choosing the way by the lake. Some paths were closed because of the deep ground caused by the winter spring weather.

Great spot to see a beautiful view of Mt Fuji. Signs are very helpful throughout the park. The grounds crew does an amazing job to keep the park looking beautiful. Easy to access via public transport with a bus station right outside of it. Glad we stopped here!

It is a very nice park with amazing views and some very beautiful hidden spots. I would love to spend more time there. But be prepared to climb some stairs :(

Generally a very worth going to park! There was multiple parts of the park which showed a different view of Mt Fuji or different scenery. The best part was that this park had minimal people and it was pure scenery! Amazing.

Superb museum of Japanese, Korean and Chinese art and ceramics. We saw a special exhibition on the 53 stations of the old Tōkaidō which had old versions of 55 woodcuts. Quite special. We spent 4 hours there, it's quite large. There's an udon restaurant in a lovely setting, and a footbath cafe. The only problem is that ¥2,800 is quite steep. I think it kept people away, which means it was fairly quiet, even on autumn Sunday. They are also very strict about not bringing in phones or other camera devices, all the way to having a metal detector. There's lots of lockers at the entrance. The building is nice as well but the interior is kept quite dark.

Definitely a top-notch, world-class museum for Japanese, Korean and Chinese ancient works of art worth checking out. No photography allowed inside.

Very good museum. If you want to see the whole exhibition, it is recommended to arrange at least 2 hours to view the exhibition.

This place is special, far exceeded my expectations. It’s rather nondescript from the outside, but the art treasures it holds inside were tremendous. No photography allowed, which makes the experience more enjoyable, you don’t have the masses snapping endless pics.

Okada Museum of Art is a special exhibit of true ancient artifacts and woodblock painting. Many items exhibited are from centuries ago even some artifacts go back to centuries before BC. The museum is a must visit for any Archaeologists and even Historians meanwhile for tourists who aren’t interested in such area/field, I will recommend to prioritize visiting the Hakone Open Air Museum as it is better suited option and will definitely be more interesting… It may be noted that mobile phones, cameras and other items are not allowed in Okada Museum of Art. The museum include an open air foot bath which can be accessed separately for 500¥ or included for free as part of your ticket.

Extensive pottery ware from the Han Dynasty, Joseon era, and Edo period. Pottery lovers would love this place. No pictures allowed inside but it’s okay. After visiting the museum, take a soak outside at the Ashi-yu and enjoy a parfait while you are at it. Very enjoyable!

The purpose I visited here was to see the exhibition, “Utamaro and Hokusai ― Creators of an Era ―”. I have often visited Hokusai’s exhibitions many times but I was satisfied with seeing his famous artwork in this museum, “Under the Wave off Kanagawa , from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. In addition, you can enjoy Asian art and craft in the permanent exhibition area.

Small beautiful place;Not a lotto do. Things that you can do here; take the ropeway to the top station to see Mount Fuji which may or may not be in function due to wind etc,A nice walk to the sea side,visit restaurants or stores for souvenirs or visit museum or aquarium or even take the motor boat with the bus there(another foam of enjoying the sea without the ship)etc. Just bear in mind the last time of the bus or the ferry if you will be using those.

This botanical garden is set by the lake and you can be lots of blooms on trees, and on the ground especially in spring. Mostly level terrain but fair bit of walking. Wear comfy shoes, hat, sunscreen, take water. Great place for photography. No entry fees. Cable car station to go up the hill is nearby.

A great outdoor experience. From the boat tour to the cable car ride up the mountain I'm not sure which was more stunning to experience. I would recommend doing the cable car ride up to explore and hike up a bit. Then do the boat tour as you relax on the lake and enjoy the ride, scenery, and breeze of the waters.

Memorable place! A must place to Visit.. Mt.Fuji 🏔 it’s an unforgettable adventure! Can’t wait to visit again!🇯🇵

Beautiful, but I do *not* recommend the ropeway when its cloudy or raining. You will not be able to see anything.

Life everything about this place!!! Beautiful views, good food, and great for souvenir shopping ♥️

The views are unbeatable. Easily accessible by bus. Would recommend this to anyone. You can also see mount Fuji if it's not too cloudy

Our family of 4 rented a car just to come here for a day. Place was spacious, plenty of lockers and different themed warm pools. Price is relatively cheap. Outside onsen with the view was closed for maintenance which was disappointing. We did the fish nibbling your feet which was fun. Place desperately needed an upgrade though. Everything is so run down, the bottom of the outside cave pool was peeling off as I was walking, scraping my foot. If you are from the US, don’t bother coming here as the water parks are much bigger and newer and kids could actually play like kids. Kids are expected to play quietly here 😂. Place was built in 2001 and seems like they never had an upgrade, just minimal maintenance. I don’t smell any sulfur smell to the pools like a hot spring should though.

Pretty kitschy kind of place for the main waterpark but it was fun to see the different themed areas. Was pretty good for our younger kids but I don’t think teenagers would have as much fun…. The traditional onsen area was much nicer but families have to split up and go by gender , kids are allowed there as well ( younger than 6 can go with either parent I think). Worth half a day if you’re looking for a way to have some fun with younger kids and do a traditional onsen

Gross! We visited the swimsuit pool area as visitors, did not stay at the hotel. It was crammed full of people. Some surfaces were slippery and almost all areas except the rest area upstairs were not clean. Locker rooms were slimy and dirty. If youre from the U.S. and know Great Wolf Lodge, it was like that but worse. The staff at the front were very nice, that was about the only good thing about it. We didnt stay long, even the kids were grossed out.

I felt like the attendant had a bad attitude when I checked in. The first thing they did was rudely tell me I could get towel with my hotel voucher but next time I would need to pay, and understand what she might have been trying to tell me but the way she said it struck me as being unprofessional. I mentioned I didn't have a bathing suit so they said I could just use the onsen which is what I wanted to do anyways, what they didn't tell me is the onsen only opens at 11am, it was 10:15, like why hold back what is contextually valuable information so I don't waste both our times checking-in in the first place.

We came to the water park. It was hideous. For children they can run around and have a good time. It is not for adults at all. So busy and tacky. Not relaxing at all..I did come on a weekend. The staff were very helpful but unless you have small kids don't bother.

It is an amazing experience. Growing up in America I've only ever been to water parks that have giant slides and rides that almost make you vomit. But at "Hakone Kowakien Yunessun" it's completely different. Instead of intense, loud, and chaotic (how an American water park usually feels) it's incredibly relaxing. Being able to chill in pools of coffee, wine, or even MATCHA! It even has its very own hot spring where u can look over into the gorgeous mountains. This place also seems great for the whole family by having easy and cheap dining with delicious meals, and several great areas for kids. It was also incredibly easy access with wrist bands that would let you get food and drinks and some other stuff as well. Once you leave you will pay for your bill, from all the stuff you got with your band, obviously. Overall it was such a peaceful experience I will never forget.

We used a private Onsen room, and it was amazing!!!! Great atmosphere with a view to the mountains full of trees, and privacy! Highly recommended! * Cup of tea would add cherry to the cake! - Location is only convenient if you stay at Hakone, otherwise you will need around 1hr bus ride from Odawara sration.

A relatively small but calming Japanese style moss garden with exhibit halls showing paintings of a Japanese artist and also some ancient Japanese pottery. Parts of the garden were closed off and there was some repair works when I visited at the end of September 2024. There is also a small tea house where you can buy tea and a small snack to sit and admire the moss garden. As it was empty and looked dark inside, it looked closed and I didn’t go in. I took my time at this garden/museum and stayed around 1 hr 45 minutes. I would say if you’re the check-box type of traveller, an hour would be more than sufficient. There is free parking within 3 minutes walking distance of the entrance.

the museum is not for me, but the garden is worth visiting really pretty. they have a small matcha cafe with matcha sweets.

The museum wasn't interesting for me. It's all about portret etc. But the parc is pretty. Nice to escape for a calming stroll however it was quite small.

Don’t miss this! Absolutely breathtaking garden and grounds! Would be even more incredible in late Fall but still magnificent any time of year.

The entry fee is worth it just for the garden! Lots of good photos here of a classical Japanese garden. We've been in Japan for a week now and this one is by far the best maintained. Would recommend to anyone visiting the Hakone region

Beautiful Park, and nice little teahouse plus small museum.

Wow! If you are in Hakone area do not miss this fabulous gallery / sculpture garden. Exquisite art, gardens, foot spa, playground and more. A Hakone highlight

A fun way to spend a couple of hours. Perfect for teens. The guides were helpful with explaining how everything worked. It felt very safe

A surprisingly adventurous place nestled among the hills. The canopy course is too easy while the adventure course is doable by anyone with a minimal level of fitness. The entire course can be completed in about 2.5 to 3 hours. The sore muscles after workout here can be relaxed in the nearby onsen which also serves some wonderful food. It's a perfect getaway from Tokyo for a day trip.

Very professional. Not too difficult. Few options with varying degrees of difficulty. Overall a good place to spend about 90 minutes with kids

This was a pretty fun place to spend a few hours. This was the first time I went zip lining and it was a very unique experience. It doesn't take long to learn what to do but some of the obstacles you need to get across can be challenging and exhausting if you aren't ready for it. The 4 courses will take you maybe 2 hours to finish, but I think you can do them as many times as you like. bring a change of clothes as well, since you may get a bit dirty depending on how you land on the zip lines.

Its a very good place to visit with family… All the Staff are very polite and one of them speaks in English. Videos of activities are shown in English for those who don’t understand japanese.

You must come here if you visit Hakone! Only a short walk from the main strip up from Hakone-Yumote Station, the forest has been transformed into a playground. The courses are super fun and you can enjoy climbing, swinging, zip-lining, and balancing on a variety of styles of obstacles. It's so fun to be up in the trees and it is such a unique experience. We did the Adventure course for 3600 yen/person. It took us two hours to complete and we had a blast! I recommend taking the opening slot. We had the 9:00 AM reservation and got to be the first on the course. It quickly became busy after 10 AM.

We did the easiest course. It was so much fun and still quite high up in the trees. The briefing was in Japanese but there was an English handout available. You’re all time safely connected to the robe and don’t have to switch from one to the other safety robe like in the more difficult course. Therefore, it is very suitable for children. I would recommend to go to the onsen and relax after the exercise. The fee shuttle buss will bring you there in a three-minute drive.

This place has the best views. You need to pay the entrance fee for the cafe but definitely worth it. The museum istels is small but has some amazing pieces. The glass pieces were a nice surprise and fantastic, I wish they had more. People saying it is not impressive clearly have no appreciation for actual art.

Inspiring and amazing Japanese paintings. I learned so much from just visiting this museum. Came without research and found out this museum also has the best view in hakone, seeing Mount Fuji.

This is a nice museum if you’re interested in modern Japanese art, and want to sit and view the amazing view of the lake and large Torii gate of Moto Hakone. If you only have time for 1 museum in Hakone area I would skip this one though, as the open air museum is much more impressive. The view here is really amazing though!

Tiny, but pretty nice art museum. Beside paintins and scul[ture it has a collection of caleidoscopes, which very attractive for childrens. Whole family can enjoy beautiful cafe-terrace with view to Ashi lwake. And if you are lucky enough - you can see Fuji-san :) Lower terrace park is very compact but nice and decorated with sculptures.

A good art museum to spend time in if you still had time before leaving Hakone. They had some nice painting collections and a cafe with a magnificent view.

A hidden gem in Hakone. This museum offers a stunning view and a tranquil atmosphere—perfect for unwinding. It’s an ideal spot to spend half a day with a good book. Peaceful and not crowded at all.

Nice small museum covering local Japanese art styles. Also has fantastic views of Lake Ashi!

If you’re into plants or nature person, then recommend! Depending on the season, there are different flowers blooming. They have few carnival plants, which was cool. Entrance 700 yen.

Not many brightly colored flowers but so many other species of leaf like plants! Definitely recommend if interested in flowers! 700 yen entrance and scenic walking route. Recommend umbrella if visiting on a sunny day!

Beautiful and unique botanical garden. Well signed, science focused, and very peaceful. I look forward to visiting again in a different season.

Lovely afternoon spent here! I would recommend it if you are nearby, it was so beautiful. We didn't even come in the best season either, so I can only imagine how spectacular spring or autumn could be!

Loved this place! It was so beautiful with lots of birds and lizards. The wildflowers were stunning in the natural scenery. There was a fantastic carnivorous plant exhibit while I was there. You can spend a lot of time exploring the environments. Great if you love nature and plants. The store has some cute merch and good soft serve.

The botanical garden is very nice but not worth it. No actual flowers are growing and for tourists - you can’t really read any of the descriptions. Wouldn’t advise to pay an entry for that. The COFFEE PLACE of the botanical garden however is AMAZING. Food is great. Music is great. And coffee is delicious. Very different from anything we’ve had in Japan. We had the ham & cheese; avocado and butter & jam sandwiches and they were all veryyyyy good. Open until 4pm but would advise to go for a nice breakfast or lunch.

A must experience for this who love to hike / walk thru exquisite gardens . Know that this is built into a mountain side so you do climb gradually upwards in areas

Visited in December 2023 About a month in advance, I contacted Hakone Yuryo through email and made reservation for a 2 hour private onsen session. On that day, I was running late navigating the various modes of transport in Hakone so I sent an email to inform them I’ll be around 15-30 mins late. Their customer service replied to thank me for informing them, I’m so thankful that they were understanding about it. I took the shuttle bus from Hakone Yumoto station and when I arrived (fortunately I was only 10 minutes late), the staff at the front desk was so nice. He spoke to me in English - going through everything I need to know about my 2 hours private onsen session, I also got to pick out the yukata I wanted. The private room was cozy and I enjoyed the onsen very very much. There were some snacks on the table and hair dryer was also provided in the private room. When my session ended, the sky turned dark and I took the shuttle bus back to Hakone Yumoto station. I’ll definitely be back again with my loved ones ❤️

My boyfriend & I loved our trip to Hakone Yuryo. We made a reservation online less then a week before, no problem. The room was clean and cozy, and the bath felt so amazing. It was a great option for me as a tattooed person. Staff was friendly, and we also had cold beer & snacks after. We will come back for sure 🥹💖 Thank you

PROS ➕ Large onsen with nature view ➕ Other amenities ➕ Affordable CONS ➖ None Date visited: 05/06/2024 We arrived at the Hakone Yuryo bathhouse on foot. There were buses running from the train station, but it was already late. According to the staff, we had about an hour to bathe, so we got right to it. For a low price, we were handed a locker key and directed to the men’s section. On the way, I noticed the facility had plenty to offer—souvenirs, snacks, a garden, and a rest area complete with shelves of manga, just to name a few. There were even private baths, which I was glad I hadn’t reserved. It was already dark outside, so I didn’t linger too long. We headed straight to the onsen. After stripping and placing our belongings in a locker, we met a local who explained all the onsen etiquette we needed to know—in fluent English. I’m still grateful for that. I’d recommend looking up the rules before you even consider visiting one of these public bathhouses. Armed with fresh bathing knowledge, we entered the onsen hall. There were several pools with varying temperatures—all hot and steamy, in my opinion. I washed myself at one of the two washing stations before jumping into a pool, which turned out to be the warmest one. I say “pool,” but they were designed to resemble natural hot springs, with rocks and boulders. Fallen leaves from nearby trees floated on the surface, adding beautifully to the ambience. A low fence bordered the onsen. Beyond it was darkness, but I could imagine the view would be stunning in daylight. I soaked for a short while, hopping between pools to find the most comfortable one. I also tried the sauna, which was still running—thankfully. By then, it was just the two of us in there, but I wasn’t about to complain. We spent about half an hour bathing, just as I felt a headache starting to kick in. A variety of vending machines were installed in the locker room, offering snacks and bathing necessities. I bought and drank a small bottle of milk to stay in the spirit of things. We left just as quickly as we arrived. The process was swift and effortless. We returned the key and thanked the staff for their work, then left—but not before picking up some hotspring–boiled eggs. Overall, I highly recommend this bathhouse and any bathhouses if you’re in Hakone. While private services are available, nothing beats bathing butt-naked with strangers in a public pool.

A hot spring bath is a must do experience in Japan and there is no better place than in Hakone. Famous for its onsens and Hakone Yuryo is no exception. It was actually the last thing I did on my holiday before heading for the airport and the best way to wind down and relax after 3 weeks of non stop exploring. Check-in was simple and a breeze. Staff welcoming and friendly. Hands down, one of my favourite visits in Japan

Everything about this place I really love! True traditional onsen with possibility of booking a private bath session. It’s great if you’re traveling with your partner. It was easy to make phone reservation because they have staff that speaks English! In the room we found everything that you need, you have option to buy a champagne or other drinks to your room while enjoying onsen. I truly recommend renting traditional kimono for 100yen.

Beautifully done Onsen right in the forest. It's not the biggest establishment but it never felt overly full when inside. Not the cheapest either but then you're paying for the views. Bring your own towels otherwise you'll need to buy from reception.

Great Onsen. The location is very good, close to the main roads of Hakone but feels isolated and quiet. The onsen is very big and offers plenty of spaces to enjoy the hot springs, in pools of different sizes and different temperatures. The pools are built on the edge of the hill So that you feel you’re surrounded by nature. Also the price is fair and reasonable. Highly recommended.

The best hotel room I've ever stayed in. It is beyond spacious by American standards, to have this much space within your room and to have a balcony in Japan is unheard of. Much less, lake side balcony, S tier beyond above Japanese in-room and restaurant service. I hope to visit again.

The hospitality of staff in Ryuguden is truly heartwarming, they greet you by heart even though not all of them talk English ,Their attention to detail and thoughtful service make you feel completely at home. From welcoming to perfectly arranged meals and help, the care they show creates an unforgettable experience, and of course onsen in hear has stunning views

Very nice hotel. Room is very spacious. Separate bath and toilet. We sleep on tatami and the hotel staff comes to make the bed for us during dinner time. There is a little living room space facing the lake and has a view of Mount Fuji. There are two hot springs. One is indoor on the side-house where all the hotel rooms are. The other hot spring is located in the main building and has a view of the lake and Mount Fuji. You will need to take off your shoes when entering the main building. There are other facilities in the main building, but we didn’t use it. Meals are at dining room area. Our package has dinner and breakfast. The food is pretty good. Everywhere is well maintained. I feel relaxed and would love to come back in the future

Overall a great experience staying in this hotel. Highly recommended. Rooms - Room a bit dated but have some modern items in the room to enhance the stay. Some smell in the room, but not as bad as what others mentioned. Will recommend to add air freshener for guests if needed. Room view is great, with Lake Ashinoko and mountainous views. If lucky, is able to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Service - Staff service is great. Help to carry my luggage into my room as it arrived before I reached. Staffs are able to converse in English and are very helpful and friendly. Location - Ryuguden is located at a quiet place which allow piece of mind and also able to walk along side the lake if needed. Close to a mini bus stop which can transport to several places. Ryuguden also does provide shuttle service if required.

Really spacious tradition room if you like traditional style it for you. A bit of room odour of damp smell. Unfortunately it a let down due to hot water system not working both onsen and in room during the stay. The onsen open at 6-7 am but was dead cold until we notify staff which is around 8 am but the shower hot water system still not fix. The onsen inside hotel was fixed but very luke warm not hot at all. The highlight onsen on the main building unfortunately not fixed so don’t get to enjoy :( not a good experience this time.

Staff are attentive, caring and really super Room smelt like damp and fish, and are very dated Food , whilst pretty, was unfortunately our worst tasting in Japan

We had a splendid time. Food was great, location was great, and the view was great. Not "charming," but clear and very pleasant. The view is terrific.

The room is great and the general setting is pretty modern. The food is delicious. Surprised with the wide range of choices available despite it being an omakase style dinner. Though quite a few choices needed additional charges which is not common (considering the already high cost of the hotel) Service was alright. Most staff were friendly though communication was a bit difficult at the restaurant at night. It was a bit awkward to be instructed to take out the menu for each dish and then the waiter points at the item and then points (almost touches) the food. All in all it is a good stay but may have expected a little bit more at that price level

My wife and i had a great time here. The staff were extremely nice, the rooms were clean and spacious and food was great. The private onsen in the room was my favourite part, i loved going in every morning and night. The breakfast was fantastic and plentiful, was enough to keep you going throughout the day. We tried both the Kaiseki and Teppanyaki for dinner with the preference being the Kaiseki. Gore is a beautiful town too. We would love to come back again one day.

This hotel is truly special and our stay was nothing short of spectacular. The property is gorgeous and the private onsens in room provide a spa-like and relaxing experience. The hotel restaurant was easily the best meal had on our 2 week trip to Japan - the food presentation and unique Japanese cuisine courses were unmatched. The service at this hotel was above and beyond. Our group had the pleasure of meeting Yoko, who upon arrival ensured that we felt welcome and comfortable. She immediately catered to our group, ensuring we were satisfied with our meal selections, reservation times, and room accommodations. Yoko not only has the kindest heart but is an expert in hospitality and made our stay unforgettable. A heartfelt thank you to FuFu Hakone and especially to Yoko Michikawa for making our stay so memorable!

This place was magical and my first time in Hakone. The hotel was pristine as you would expect, and the service, food, room, amenities world class. The onsen in the room, as well as the general one open to guests were stunning. The food also consisted of carefully curated courses. Breakfast was an event, and the dinner options exceptional. We also did the teppanyaki dinner option one night which was theatrical but incredible. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Japan, not far from Tokyo, so a wonderful retreat from the city and high up in the mountains.

My wife and I went on our honeymoon to Fufu, and were blown away by the service, food, and cohesiveness of their staff. From getting picked up by their shuttle, to leaving, every second was amazing. They knew our schedule, made sure we were on time, and made sure everything was smooth and satisfactory. The dining was amazing as well. The rooms were clean and modern with a unique style. They took a picture and framed it for us for breakfast from supper the night before knowing it was a special occasion. Attention to detail was spot on and more. The private Onsen is what sold us on Fufu. We are already looking into booking a second trip to their other locations to experience.

This hotel has a nice facility, and there was one particularly kind staff member BUT the operation as a whole suffers from a serious problem with rigidity and lack of understanding of what hospitality means for guests. There is no flexibility with this hotel. Do not expect to have any request accommodated if it does not fit into the rigidly defined and pre planned system that they demand you comply with. There is zero flexibility around meals, you must indicate every meal in advance and you cannot change your mind. If you make a request the day before for something different it will not be honored at all if it deviates from what they want to do. They will not help you with anything if it’s not on their list already. There is the veneer of warmth in the service but no actual hospitality on offer. This was a disappointing experience overall and I will not consider this brand for future travel.

Fufu Hakone is one of the best hidden gems we have come across during our travels. We were completely impressed with the high quality of the rooms, pubic onsen, meals and service. This was our favorite hotel we stayed in during our trip the Japan. We stayed at a Forbes five star hotel in Kyoto and the service at Fufu was significantly better. Our favorite meal was dinner with the chef, would not recommend it more! We are already planning our next trip to visit another Fufu hotel.

Roses bloom in a small area, but there are many types, and each type has a written description, which is a good device to stimulate our interest. It is a pity that there is no English description,though. The park is also easily accessible from the neighboring Suwanohara Park, making it a great place for lunch, a walk, or a jog on a sunny day. There are also many kinds of plum trees, and I am already looking forward to the next coming season ❗️ 17 Feb, 2023 : There is still time until all plum tree will be in full bloom. I would especially like to introduce you to Kayoikomachi plum trees. How deceptively beautiful Kayoikomachi are! Ikina na de, koikini shiroi hana sakasu. Kayoikomachi wa haru wo shirasete. It is a neat, single-petaled flower of wild plum nature. The flowers are medium sized (about 2.5 cm in diameter) and have a faint crimson tint. Plum blossoms with a faint crimson color like this give a sense of profundity and fragility. The tips of the petals are lightly wavy, the stamens are yellowish, and the bottom of the flower is yellowish brown. Is the name derived from the song "Kayoi Komachi"? When I look at the flower again with this in mind, it seems to be filled with an ethereal atmosphere. 24 May, 2023 : Lovely roses are in full bloom, dazzling in contrast with the fresh greenery. It is the best time to see them! Also, don't miss the tuberous fruits on each of the plum trees. Moreover, if you sit still for a while along the creek, you will be able to enjoy Orthetrum albistylum speciosum(Shioka Tombo), Cercion hieroglyphicum(Ito Tombo) and Butterflies. Another must-see is Hydrangea(Ajisai), although there are only a few plants, which seem to be eagerly waiting for their season to arrive. Furthermore, in the early morning, Irises and Lotus flowers are also blooming beautifully.

not easy to find the car park. the road signages are poor. there are plenty of car park lots. the garden is pretty and there is a good view to the city below. Quite a good place to spend an hour.

Plum blossoms were very nice. Be careful to check the bus schedule, as it runs only twice an hour.

What a treasure Free botanical garden. Near top of a mountain beauty tranquil views

Nice garden with tonda of different breeds of rose from different countries. The nest thing is that you can bring your dog.

Nice for walking, looking beautiful rose. Wide park, and ume garden.

Beautiful garden that is usually quiet and has something special to see in each season

Nice garden. Perfect place to stroll and unwind.

(Translated by Google) I went there at the end of May, and I could see glowing fireflies at night! It was raining heavily so I hid under the grass. You can rent out flashlights and lanterns for free. (Limited to Miyama Furin guests?) (Original) 5月末に行きましたが夜、光ってる蛍見えました！大雨だったのではっぱのしたに隠れてました。無料で懐中電灯や足元てらすようのランタンの貸し出しがあります。(美山楓林宿泊者限定？)

Our visit to the Kowakidani Horaien Gardens was an incredibly peaceful and refreshing experience. The chilly, beautiful weather added to the tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature. The gardens were immaculate—every path, tree, and stone seemed thoughtfully placed and perfectly maintained. The gentle stream and small waterfall, filled with vibrant koi fish gliding gracefully through the water, created a soothing soundtrack that made the entire visit feel almost magical. We were pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was, with only a few other visitors wandering the grounds. It felt like we had the garden nearly to ourselves, allowing us to fully appreciate its serene beauty. Although we didn’t see any fireflies during our visit, we read that they appear at certain times of the year, giving us yet another reason to return. Kowakidani Horaien Gardens is a hidden gem that captures the essence of calm and natural elegance.

(Translated by Google) <Visited on July 1, 2023> It was the season when the greenery was thicker, but half of the square on the hillside had been turned into a campsite, so the garden feeling had faded considerably. However, there are more than 700 Nejibana trees growing in the square, which is a sight to behold. I am anxious and hopeful about what will happen to the half of the park that is closed due to the opening of the Kowakien Hotel. ---------- This azalea garden was opened in the early Taisho era by the founder of Mikawaya Ryokan, transplanting azaleas from Okubo, Tokyo. More than 40 varieties have been planted, and when they are in full bloom, it is a spectacular sight. Admission is free, but there is no parking lot, so parking at Mikawaya Ryokan or Yunessun (2 hours free) is convenient. Please note that Kowakien is currently under construction, so entry to half of the park is prohibited. (Original) 〈2023年7月1日訪問〉 緑の濃い時期になりましたが、中腹にある広場半分がキャンプ場になってしまい、庭園感がかなり薄れてしまいました。しかしそこの広場にネジバナが700本以上群生しており、圧巻です。小涌園ホテル開業に伴い閉鎖されている園半分がどうなるか不安と期待です。 ---------- 大正時代はじめに、三河屋旅館の創業者が東京の大久保からツツジを移植して開いたツツジ園です。40種以上の品種が植えられており、満開時は圧巻です。 入園無料ですが駐車場はないため、三河屋旅館かユネッサン（2時間無料）の駐車場が便利です。なお小涌園が工事中のため、園の半分は入場禁止になっています。

(Translated by Google) Just in time for autumn leaves You can enjoy it with less people. secret spot (Original) ちょうど紅葉の時期 人も少なく楽しめる。穴場

(Translated by Google) The azaleas in spring are beautiful, but the autumn leaves are also worth seeing.It's not well known, so I liked that there weren't many people around. (Original) 春のツツジが綺麗らしいが紅葉も見応えが在ります あまり知られていないので人も居ないのが良かった。

(Translated by Google) I went there while going to Senjo Falls. I went there a little before the autumn leaves, so there wasn't much to see, but it was still a bit spacious so it was fun to walk around! Even though it was out of season, I was impressed to see just one cherry blossom blooming! There are spring, summer, fall and winter corners, so you can enjoy it no matter what season you go. There were a lot of azaleas planted there, so I'd like to go there next time. (Original) 千条の滝行くついでにいきました。 紅葉より少し前にいったので何もありませんでしたが、それでも少し広いので散歩して楽しかったです！季節外なのに桜が一輪だけ咲いていて感動しました！ 春夏秋冬コーナーがあるのでどの季節にいっても楽しめると思います。ツツジが沢山植えられていたので、次はその時期に行ってみたいです。

(Translated by Google) This visit will be on June 20, 2024. A green park next to Hakone Yumoto Station and along the Hayakawa River! ? They even put up a signboard to emphasize it! ? Oh, ok...then it's a park. Here, the fireflies are protected, and there are blackout boards along the Hayakawa River. In addition, there is a waterway running below, separate from the Hayakawa River. Fireflies must be pretty clean water. Due to thorough protection, you can see many fireflies in the summer. Why am I not here until night...? (Original) こちらは2024年06月20日の訪問となります。箱根湯本駅そば、早川沿いにある緑ど……こ、公園！？　看板まで出して強調しておられる！？　お、おう……じゃあ、公園って事で。 こちら、ほたるを保護しており、遮光板が早川沿いに立ってたりします。また、早川とは別に下を水路が流れています。ほたるって事はかなり綺麗な水なのでしょう。 徹底した保護によって夏は多数のホタルが拝めるらしいです。何故、俺は夜までいないの……。

(Translated by Google) I went on May 24, 2024. Although it is called a park, it is a place where fireflies grow naturally, so there are no special facilities, and there are gravel roads and no lighting, so you will need comfortable shoes and non-dazzling lighting. Use the red bridge in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station to cross the Hayakawa River, turn right, and as soon as you pass the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel elevator, a sign will appear. The park is about 150 meters from there. Fireflies start appearing one by one from around 7pm and can be seen until around 8:30pm. I was able to see around 50 fireflies. When I put my hand out near a flying firefly, it landed on my hand and glowed gently, soothing me. There were a few people there, but it wasn't crowded, but I did wish they wouldn't turn on the lights so that people could see them. It's about a 3 minute walk from the station, so I think it would be a good idea to visit. P.S. Please note that many of the shops in front of Hakone Yumoto Station close at 6pm. (Original) 2024/5/24に行ってきました。 公園と言っても、ホタルが自生しているところなので特に設備はなく、砂利道&無照明なので歩きやすい靴と眩しくない照明が必要です。 箱根湯本駅前の赤い橋を使い早川を渡り右に行き湯本富士屋ホテルのエレベーターの前を通り過ぎるとすぐに看板が現れます。 そこから150メートルほどが「公園」と思われます。 19時頃からぽつりぽつりとホタルが出てきて20時半頃まで見ることができます。 ざっと50くらいのホタルを見ることができました。 飛んでいるホタルの近くに手を差し出したら手にとまって優しく光ってくれて癒やされました。 数名が来ていましたが混んではいませんが、目をつくライトを点灯させるのはやめてほしいと思ったくらいです。 駅から徒歩3分くらいなので訪れてみたらよろしいかと思います。 追伸 箱根湯本駅前の商店の多くは18時に閉店しますのでご注意を

(Translated by Google) Firefly viewing event from 8pm to 10pm. When I got there just before 8 o'clock, the lights were already down and fireflies were flying everywhere. It was fairly crowded, but everyone was watching quietly. There were a few people who didn't know where to go. It seems better to refrain from using strong light. (Original) 午後8時から10時までホタル鑑賞会。 8時少し前に行きましたら、もうライトダウンされていて、ほたるがあちらこちらに飛んでいました。 そこそこの混み具合でしたが、皆さん静かに鑑賞なさっていました。場をわきまえない方がわずかにおられました。強い光はお控えになった方がよろしいようで。

(Translated by Google) The walking route to Firefly Park, the vermilion-painted bridge that spans the Hayakawa River, and the water surface reflecting the sky in the evening are magical. (Original) ほたる公園へ行くまでの徒歩ルート、早川に掛かる朱塗りの橋、夕刻に水面が空を映して、幻想的です。

(Translated by Google) I wanted to see fireflies. It was around 7:30 pm and the sky wasn't completely dark, but I was happy to see fireflies! (Original) ほたる見たくてきました。19:30くらいで空は真っ暗ではなかったですがほたるが見れて満足でした！

(Translated by Google) The path is surrounded by slightly elevated trees and grass along the Hayakawa River, and there is also a thin stream of water flowing along the side, giving it an elegant feel. When I visited last year, it was late so unfortunately there were no fireflies flying... Revenge a year later. Just after 7pm, I saw a glimpse of small and beautiful fireflies, and the world of Pillow Book... This time it was at the end of May, and we went from the world of ``Darkness Monaho'' to ``Okashi that faintly shines inside.'' I sat there for a while, admiring it. (Original) 早川沿いの少し高くなった木々や草に囲まれた小道で、脇にも細い水が流れており、風情がある。昨年訪れた時は時期が遅くてホタルは残念ながら飛ばなかったが… 一年後リベンジ。 19時過ぎくらいにチラホラと小さくて美しい螢の光、枕草子の世界…。今回は5月末でしたが『闇もなほ』の世界から『ほのかにうち光りて行くもをかし』へ。暫く見とれて座り込んでいました。

(Translated by Google) We started walking along the path and it was all very pretty, but as soon as we saw ourselves surrounded by some pieces of giant fuchsia spiders, we were scared shitless and turned around. (Original) Empezamos a caminar por el sendero y era todo muy bonito, pero en cuanto nos vimos rodeados de unas pedazo de arañas fucsia gigantes, nos cagamos vivos y nos dimos la vuelta

A Unique Step Back in Time—But Not Without Its Flaws Staying at this ryokan truly felt like stepping into 1800s Japan. The traditional atmosphere and architecture were immersive—almost like historical glamping. The tatami rooms, sliding doors, and garden views created a peaceful, nostalgic charm that I genuinely appreciated. Service was absolutely impeccable. The staff were gracious, attentive, and clearly take pride in maintaining the spirit of omotenashi (Japanese hospitality). Every interaction felt thoughtful and warm. However, the onsen was a disappointment. While I understand and even value preserving original character, cleanliness should never be sacrificed for authenticity. Moss growing on the walls and an overall lack of hygiene made it difficult to enjoy what should have been a relaxing experience. There’s a fine line between rustic charm and neglect, and unfortunately, the onsen crossed it. With some attention to cleanliness, this ryokan could be truly exceptional. It's worth trying once but not again

My wife treated me to a night in this fantastic ryokan for my birthday. If you’re looking for a conventional hotel stay, you will be disappointed. If you’re looking for an authentic experience following in the footsteps of travellers from a bygone era, you will have an incredible time here. Convenient location, a short walk to the bus stop (which had space for our luggage). Outstanding hospitality & an unforgettable kaiseki dinner. I recommend trying different onsens at night & in the morning so you can compare them (much more exotic than a boring shower in your room). Restorative, restful, relaxing.

Wow! We went way above our daily accommodation budget but it was so worth it! The place is incredibly beautiful, quiet and offers an amazing Japanese experience. They have beautiful rooms overlooking the river, the onsen (hot baths, 3 private and 2 shared) are open 24h and are a great way to start/finish the day. I could write 2 pages about the food! They prepared us a delicious kaiseki dinner and breakfast with lots of different things and every single one was delicious. The food gets served in your room so you have a very private and cozy experience. 6 stars to the lady (sorry, forgot the name) that looked after us serving the food and preparing the room. She was friendly, kind and very patient in explaining all the food and the way to properly enjoy it. Without a doubt one of the best hotel experiences I’ve ever had. Thanks!

Absolutely amazing and a highlight of our trip to Japan. Traditional style rooms, waking up to a river view, excellent service, they are willing to cater to dietary requirements and made me feel the safest I've felt in Japan with food. The onsens were beautiful, and everyone gets at least 50 + 25 mins in the private onsens, with extra time bookable if available. The attention to detail is fantastic - right down to asking for your height at check in so that you get a yukata of perfect length - a treat for 4'11 me and my 6' partner who can struggle with such things.... Did it blow out accommodation budget? Yes. Is it good value for money? Also yes. Once you've factored in the multi course dinner and breakfast, and onsen, it's really very reasonable. One thing to note though - it's a traditional style roll up mattress. If you like a very firm mattress you'll like it, but I did struggle a bit. Not the hotel's fault I have a bad back of course! Also worth knowing that if you come by train then it's a 5 minute walk up a hill and steps back to the train station - no fun with big bags. Either leave them in a coin locker and bring an overnight bag, or use Yamato to get your luggage delivered to your next hotel, or come by bus which drops you right outside.

This was such an amazing place to stay! The ryokan is gorgeous, the staff were all very kind and helpful, and the food was delicious. Our room came with a private bath, which was incredible. A wonderful experience!

What an incredible place! We were looked after the moment we stepped into the Ryokan and all the staff were very kind and patient as we tried to speak to them in Japanese. The room was absolutely incredible, such a quiet and beautiful place to rest place in the middle of our trip. Our private onsen bath with all the amenities was just what we needed and it was wonderful to be able to go in whenever we wanted. The private garden which came with the room was beautiful and had a fantastic view of the river. The food we were served in our room was delicious and we ate everything! It was the best place we stayed on our trip. I'm so glad we booked this immersive traditional Japanese experience. どうもありがとうございます!

Food is delicious - very good options for vegetarians. Onsen fantastic - public (gender separated) and private family baths available (which you reserve a time slot for). Staff are very polite and attentive, with good English skills.

We enjoyed our stay at Tsukinoya!! The ryokan is ran by a husband and wife who were so friendly and welcoming. English friendly but left wishing I knew more Japanese because of how warm and willing to help us they were! The weather on check in day was very hot and humid, and the wife immediately greeted us with cold water bottles. The room was beautiful, and we enjoyed the onsens! Please note that while this ryokan doesn’t serve meals, there are lots of walkable restaurants and convenience stores nearby. For even further restaurants, the owners even offered to drive us there. They were even able to get us seats in a place that was reservation-only! Truly so kind, and enough to have us return someday (with more Japanese learned). I recommend for anyone staying in the hakone area and want an authentic experience and friendly, welcoming hosts.

Tsukinoya is easily the most magical place we’ve ever stayed. We stayed three nights, but wish that we’d stayed longer. The couple who own Tsukinoya are the sweetest, most helpful people. The gentleman carried our luggage up three flights of stairs to our room, and insisted on driving us to our destination multiple times. The onsen honestly was a life-changer. We used the one on the first floor and never had to wait for it. I wish we had facilities like this in the US. The individual rooms at Tsukinoya don’t have showers, but I promise, it’s for the best. My partner and I loved our nightly and morning trips down to the Tsukinoya onsen. It gave us privacy together to talk, to plan our day or to reminisce about the day, to refresh and relax. We had made plans at another onsen in Hakone to go spend a couple of hours, but traffic caused us to miss our reservation. Honestly, we weren’t even upset. We just went back to Tsukinoya and enjoyed their onsen. Our room was beautiful (we were in the Matsengu, or “full moon” room), and the AC unit kept us cool in the late summer heat. Even just the walk up the stairs to our room was always enjoyable because they’ve done a fantastic job decorating the ryokan. The view from our windows of Hakone’s roofs and the mountains was absolutely gorgeous. We loved sitting at our table on the tatami and enjoying snacks from the nearby 7-11. The room included a refrigerator so we could store our many 7-11 snacks, and also very cute little sake glasses. Of note, the 7-11 is within easy downhill walking distance, but ask about the shortcut up the stairs and through the shrine to get back - we took the hill the first night and it was rough, but after the gentleman showed us the stairs it was much easier! The owners also supplied us with hot water multiple times daily, so we could enjoy cup noodles in our room (my partner also enjoyed the tea they supplied). They also supply yukata for the onsen! Tsukinoya is a really special place. This is easily one of my favorite places I’ve ever stayed in my life. If you’re considering it, don’t pass it up. And if you’re Western and not used to an onsen-style bath, just keep an open mind and try it! Don’t let the lack of showers in each room put you off. Take the time to go with your travel companions down to the onsen and really enjoy it. It is SO worth it.

A lovely, historic ryokan that surrounds you with the smell of wood, and makes you feel that time has gone still. Tatami floors and the most comfortable futon beds I have experienced during my trip in Japan. Two beautiful private onsen that you can use any time of the day, and as many times as you want. The hospitality of the owners is exceptional. They are very kind and friendly, and went out of their way to help us send a key to another hotel that we misplaced with our belongings. They also stored our luggage after check out, and delivered it to the restaurant we were having lunch next to the train station. I hope to visit them again!

First time in Hakone for my 35th year on this earth, quietly booked my my loving wife of almost ten years. The owners practically jumped out of their skin to give us the skinny on everything from the world "welcome." Others have mentioned it, but I will as well: something about their futons is a steal for the price. Easily one of the better night's sleeps I've had. This would be my second traditional hotel stay after a trip to Ikoma last year, and I may just have a bias towards this kind of experience. While everything around you in Hakone may have you feeling like you're paying the tourist tax, Tsukinoya is a warm and welcome place to land.

We arrived in a picturesque, fairytale-like sleepy little town and were welcomed with a level of hospitality unlike anything we had experienced on previous trips. The couple greeted us with open arms, took our luggage, gave us an introduction to the customs of the ryokan, and led us on a tour of the traditional accommodation. The room was exactly how we had imagined it – our dream of staying in a traditional Japanese inn had come true. The private onsens were incredible, especially the large, lushly green one — the most beautiful we encountered on our trip — perfect for couples and also ideal for people with tattoos. Our host even drove us to the open-air museum without us asking and handed us coins for the lockers – just like a caring father would. We are deeply grateful for this unforgettable stay. I can hardly put into words how highly I recommend this accommodation to anyone traveling to Japan!

Beautiful place! the owners are super friendly, they helped us a lot and took care of us. Large and comfortable rooms with a nice view, very quite and peaceful. The onsen is amazing. We had a great experience, thank you so much!

This is the greatest place to stay in Hakone. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful. For example, he gave my friends and I a lift to Gora station, greeted us with cold water bottles on arrival and booked us a tasty restaurant! The private onsen is absolutely awesome, the room is epic and the staff are the best. Could not recommend more, we loved our time here.