Manten-no-Hoshi
7,8/10 Very good - Based on 572 reviews
Manten-no-Hoshi is a small, traditionally styled ryokan set on the slopes of Hakone, offering an intimate base for exploring the hot-spring region. The property keeps a low-rise layout and a compact common area where guests can relax wearing the provided colourful yukata; interiors lean on tatami flooring and low tables that reinforce a straightforward, authentic atmosphere. Public areas provide free Wi‑Fi and luggage storage, and the ryokan is an easy walk from local rail services, making it convenient for day trips across the Hakone circuit.
Rooms are presented in a Japanese format with futon bedding, air conditioning, a small fridge and flat-screen TV, and bathrooms stocked with standard toiletries. The accommodation is notable for its bathing options: there are several hot-spring facilities on site including multiple private baths, with a mix of indoor and outdoor options that guests can book for exclusive use. This setup positions the property as a ryokan with private onsen in Hakone, particularly suited to travellers who value privacy and a hands-on onsen experience without a large resort footprint.
Practical details favour independent visitors: on‑site parking is available and the ryokan operates a condensed reception and check‑in window, which helps preserve the tranquil rhythm of the place. Nearby attractions such as the open-air museum and the lakeside routes are within short drives, so the property also serves as a practical base for exploring the wider area. For guests searching by region, this small-scale option functions well as a ryokan with private onsen in Kanagawa for those wanting an authentic, accessibly located hot-spring stay.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Manten-no-Hoshi
Positive Reviews
Outstanding onsen (private & outdoor)
Multiple guests praised the hot spring baths—especially the two outdoor onsen and private onsen—describing them as very pleasant, atmospheric at night and a highlight of the stay.
Authentic Japanese ryokan experience
Reviewers enjoyed the traditional features such as tatami floors, futons, yukata/kimonos, low tables and the overall immersive, local atmosphere that feels like a true ryokan stay.
Friendly, attentive staff and helpful extras
Staff were frequently described as kind and responsive; the property provides thoughtful touches (toiletries, yukata, tea, adapters, chargers, microwave, basic kitchenware) and sometimes offered goodwill gestures when problems occurred.
Very convenient location near transport
Many comments noted the hotel is just steps from the train station and bus stop, making it easy to explore the area, with quick access for day trips.
Spacious rooms and useful amenities
Several guests appreciated larger-than-average Japanese-style rooms, comfortable/traditional tatami spaces and helpful room amenities that made group or family stays easier.
Negative Reviews
Poor soundproofing / thin walls
A recurring complaint: walls are thin and noise from neighboring rooms and corridors can be heard easily, sometimes disrupting sleep or quiet evenings.
Sleeping comfort—thin or firm futons
Multiple guests found the futons too thin or somewhat hard and suggested that extra futon layers may be needed for more comfortable sleep.
Limited nearby dining options
Several reviewers warned there are few restaurants open nearby; guests recommended going out early to find places to eat and noted reliance on one or two nearby eateries.
Signs of age, dampness or cleanliness issues
Some guests mentioned a musty/damp smell (especially on ground-floor carpets), an overall somewhat dated appearance and less-than-ideal cleanliness in certain communal areas or indoor baths.
Onsen access and temperature issues when busy
A few guests reported the outdoor onsen could be uncomfortably hot, and that busy periods can make access to the shared/private onsen and showers inconvenient (since showers are only in the onsen areas).
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese style with tatami and futons; capacities vary by room type, typically from 2 up to 6 guests (examples listed include rooms with 2, 3, 5 or 6 futons).
Yes — the property offers a public outdoor hot-spring bath plus several private hot-spring baths (both indoor and outdoor).
Private onsen are available free of charge; please ask reception on arrival to use or reserve a private bath.
Tattoos can result in refusal of access to public baths at this ryokan; using a private onsen is the recommended option if you have visible tattoos.
The ryokan does not advertise an airport shuttle; it is best reached by public transport or taxi from nearby Hakone stations.
Take Odakyu services (including the Romancecar) or other trains toward Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara, then use local trains or buses to Ohiradai (the ryokan is about a 2‑minute walk from Ohiradai Station).
Staff are primarily Japanese; some English is usually available but proficiency can be limited, so simple Japanese phrases or a translation app can be helpful.
The ryokan offers breakfast and dinner; note that guests must usually check in by about 18:00 if they plan to dine on-site in the evening.
Pets are not permitted; the property welcomes children and provides family-style rooms but does not offer extra beds or baby cots.
Standard check-in is around 15:00–18:30 and check-out around 07:00–10:00, and reception offers luggage storage for guests.