Mizunoto Reopening on April 1, 2025
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 765 reviews
Mizunoto reopens on April 1, 2025, as a refreshed hot-spring ryokan set in the wooded slopes of Hakone's Kowakudani district. The property is arranged into two main wings that draw from distinct local sources, offering a mix of contemporary guestrooms and suites with traditional touches such as yukata robes and tatami seating. Public areas include a garden and open-air baths framed by pine and maple, while many rooms provide direct views over the grounds. As a ryokan with onsen in Hakone, the layout balances communal bathing and options for more private, reserved experiences.
The onsen program spans multiple large baths and a selection of reservable outdoor baths — guests can enjoy rotated gender-specified large baths and three types of private open-air tubs that are bookable for individual use. Facilities extend to a sauna and on-site massage treatments, and practical amenities include coin laundry, a small gift shop and vehicle parking. Policies and reservation procedures for private use are managed by the property to ensure staggered access and quiet periods so guests can plan soak times in advance.
Two in-house restaurants serve seasonal Japanese menus focused on local seafood and regional produce, with dinner presented in course formats and breakfast options designed around light Japanese choices. A complimentary shuttle and on-site parking facilitate visits to nearby attractions such as the Open-Air Museum and Gora Park, positioning the ryokan for easy day trips around Hakone while offering evening calm on the premises. The reworked interiors and re-opened facilities aim to provide a measured blend of modern convenience and traditional hot-spring hospitality, reinforcing its position as a ryokan with private onsen in Kanagawa.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Mizunoto Reopening on April 1,…
Positive Reviews
Outstanding onsen (public and private)
Many guests praised the baths—both the large communal onsens and the private in-room/on-balcony baths—calling them relaxing, beautiful and a highlight of the stay. Reviewers also liked that some onsens vary (e.g. changing side) and that facilities feel newly remodeled.
Attentive, friendly staff
Numerous reviews mention very polite, helpful and attentive staff who try to communicate in other languages when needed, contributing to a warm, welcoming experience.
High-quality traditional Japanese meals
Multiple guests highlighted excellent dinners and Japanese breakfasts (well presented and varied), with several noting memorable meals such as grilled dishes or specialty BBQ options.
Spacious, comfortable rooms with pleasant views
Many reviewers enjoyed large, well-decorated rooms (tatami corners in some) with comfortable bedding, good views (bamboo, gardens) and the convenience of in-room private baths for a cosy stay.
Peaceful location and useful shuttle service
Guests appreciated the tranquil setting and calm atmosphere. Several also mentioned a free shuttle to the nearby station as a helpful perk.
Negative Reviews
Limited breakfast options (mostly Japanese)
Several guests wanted a Western-style breakfast alternative; while the Japanese breakfast was high-quality, some visitors found it unfamiliar or would have preferred choice between Japanese and Western options.
Perceived high price / value concerns
A number of reviewers felt the stay was expensive for what they experienced and questioned value for money despite praising many services.
Service inconsistencies and poor handling of special requests
A few guests reported service problems—slow or inattentive responses, long waits for shuttle pick-up, and inability to accommodate dietary requests (notably for vegetarians) which negatively affected some stays.
Cleanliness/maintenance issues in some bathing areas
At least one review reported mold or dark stains on wooden bath areas and inconsistent temperatures in private onsens, suggesting occasional maintenance or cleanliness shortcomings.
Rooms can lack full darkening (early morning light)
One guest noted that rooms did not provide complete darkness, causing very early wake-ups from daylight; this may affect light-sensitive sleepers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms vary from twin to Japanese‑Western styles suitable for couples and small families; children aged 3 and over are treated as adults and cribs or extra beds are not available.
Yes — the property offers large communal hot spring baths and an outdoor (rotenburo) onsen; private baths can also be reserved for exclusive use.
A free shuttle service operates to/from the nearby Kowakudani area (short walk from Kowakudani Station); from Tokyo you can reach Hakone by train and local transfer, while Haneda is roughly a 100‑minute drive.
Staff are primarily Japanese and can assist in basic English; please notify the hotel in advance if you need specific language assistance or arrangements.
Expect a modern ryokan experience with yukata robes provided, Japanese cuisine in onsite restaurants, communal and open‑air hot spring baths, vending machines and a small gift shop.
The Hakone Open‑Air Museum is within walking distance, Hakone Gora Park is a short drive away, and popular sites such as Owakudani and Lake Ashi are easily reached by local transport.
Standard check‑in begins at 15:00 (please advise your arrival time in advance) and check‑out is by 11:00; note the property has restricted entry during late night hours, so confirm your arrival window with reception.
Private onsen reservations are available, but pets are not permitted on the property.
There is no full supermarket on site, but the ryokan has a small shop and vending machines; convenience stores and more shops are available in nearby Hakone‑Yumoto and Gora.
The ryokan has two onsite restaurants serving Japanese kaiseki‑style meals for breakfast and dinner; dietary requests can usually be accommodated if notified in advance.