THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS SENGOKUHARA HAKONE
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 68 reviews
Set in the highlands of Sengokuhara in Hakone, this boutique Hiramatsu property presents a calm, carefully appointed stay that blends contemporary comfort with traditional onsen culture. Framed by pampas grass plains and mountain views, the hotel emphasizes thermal bathing sourced from Shin-Ubako Onsen: each guest room is equipped with a hot-spring bath and several accommodations offer private open-air tubs, making it a ryokan with private onsen in Hakone for travelers who value solitude and direct access to mineral-rich waters. Public relaxation spaces include a terrace and garden that extend the sense of privacy into the landscape.
Rooms are arranged to prioritize quiet and ease, with in-room bathing, modest living areas and attention to material detail; some suites feature outdoor bathing decks fed continuously with fresh spring water. Dining leans on European techniques applied to local produce, with kitchens that present tasting-style meals, paired selections of regional sake and the option for in-room service. Complementary guest facilities reported at the property include a spa and basic fitness amenities, while staff services cover concierge assistance, luggage handling and 24-hour reception to facilitate excursions in the Hakone area.
Practical comforts such as on-site parking, Wi‑Fi and laundry services accompany the understated hospitality, making this a discrete base for exploring nearby museums, gardens and mountain trails without sacrificing restorative bathing rituals. Designed for travellers seeking a calm retreat rather than a large resort environment, the hotel positions itself as a ryokan with private onsen in Kanagawa where measured, service-led stays and seasonal cuisine are the focus. Advance planning is recommended for dining and spa bookings to ensure a seamless experience during quieter, more private visits.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RE…
Positive Reviews
Exceptional, attentive staff
Multiple guests praised highly trained, friendly staff who went above and beyond — from personalised attention and dedicated support during the stay to helpful assistance with dietary and mobility needs; service was described as caring, discreet and pampering.
Outstanding cuisine (breakfast & dinner)
Food repeatedly highlighted as a major strength: masterful, beautifully presented meals with daily-changing menus, fine-dining quality (Michelin recognition mentioned), and exceptional flavor — guests called dinner and breakfast superb.
Private onsen and excellent bathing facilities
Every-room private in‑room onsen and an outdoor/private onsen were noted as major delights — well maintained, clean and thoughtfully equipped, adding significantly to the relaxation experience.
Immaculate, thoughtfully equipped rooms
Rooms described as immaculate, comfortable and spacious with many thoughtful touches and amenities (privacy-enhancing glass walls, good in-room setup), creating a very comfortable stay.
Tranquil location and scenic views
Guests appreciated the peaceful mountain/forest setting and small, intimate property (about 20 rooms), with several reporting clear views of Mount Fuji on good days and a sense of being away from crowds.
Negative Reviews
High price / value concerns
A number of guests felt the hotel was expensive or overpriced for what they expected, mentioning price as a drawback despite service and quality.
Limited dining hours and rigid billing/policy issues
Some reviewers noted limited food service between mid-afternoon and early evening, confusion over menu choices (Western vs Japanese), and at least one guest being charged for a planned dinner when a family member was unwell.
Remote location and transport difficulties
Property is somewhat isolated: reaching nearby tourist spots is difficult without a car, and arranging return transport can require phone calls and Japanese-speaking assistance (no easy app-based taxi booking), which some guests found inconvenient.
Minimal facilities / poor gym
A few guests mentioned limited on-site facilities overall and specifically poor gym offerings compared with expectations for a premium property.
Service can sometimes feel hurried or overly formal
While service quality is generally praised, some visitors felt rushed (early check‑out questioning and repeated taxi offers) or would have preferred a warmer, more relaxed approach rather than a formal, time-pressured interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room capacity varies by type; most rooms are designed for two guests while some junior suites and larger room types can accommodate up to four—check the room details or contact the hotel to confirm your chosen room.
Yes; every guest room has its own hot spring bath fed from the Shin‑Ubako spring, allowing private bathing whenever you like.
Yes; the property has two open‑air hot spring baths that can be reserved privately at no extra charge—ask at check‑in to make a reservation; note there are a few steps on the path from the main building.
The hotel does not advertise a regular airport shuttle; typical access is by train plus bus or taxi (Odawara or Hakone Yumoto routes) or by highway bus to Hakone Country Iriguchi, and the hotel can advise or assist with transfers.
Common routes are Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone Yumoto (then bus/taxi) or JR Shinkansen to Odawara followed by bus or taxi; from airports combine the airport train to Shinagawa/Tokyo with the Shinkansen to Odawara, then bus or taxi to the property.
Yes; the hotel provides English information and staff can assist with sightseeing, transport and reservations—contact them in advance for specific language needs or special requests.
The hotel has one on‑site restaurant serving Italian cuisine for breakfast and dinner, and room service is available; inform the hotel in advance for dietary requirements.
Private uses such as reserving the open‑air baths are possible; for private dining or events the hotel asks guests to contact the concierge in advance to discuss arrangements and availability.
For pet policy please contact the hotel directly as policies vary; there is no large supermarket on the hotel grounds—convenience stores and shopping are available in central Hakone areas and the front desk can advise the nearest options.
Check‑in is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM and check‑out is until 11:00 AM; the property requests that you inform them of your expected arrival time in advance so they can prepare for your arrival.