Sengokubara COCON
9.9/10 (Based on 7 reviews )
250-0631 Kanagawa, Hakone, Sengokuhara 1245-280, Japan
Sengokubara COCON is a small, suite-only hotel in Sengokuhara, Hakone (Kanagawa), set in a quiet highland resort area surrounded by nature and gardens. Bathing is a central feature: the property uses Owakudani Onsen water, with in-room hot-spring baths in the suites, and shared bathing facilities that include semi open-air baths beside a bamboo garden. A separate herbal bath is also offered, blended with multiple traditional herbs. Wellness continues with private saunas and cool-down water baths in the suites. Dining is available on site, with modern French cuisine for dinner (wood-fire grilling and fermentation techniques) and a traditional Japanese breakfast. Common areas include a lounge and shop, plus on-site parking.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Wonderful, hospitality-filled service; guests felt comfortable and relaxed throughout the stay
- Food/meals were very delicious
- Quiet inside despite strong wind and rain thanks to double-glazed windows
- In-room bath with sauna, usable freely at any time
- Bedroom also has a toilet
Negative reviews
- Asked the hotel to stop serving French food for dinner every night (wanted Japanese food)
- Breakfast was very average and the selection was very limited
- Although American or Japanese breakfast was advertised, all guests in the same room had to choose only one option
- Road/access to the property is narrow
Yoshimatsu
9.7/10 (Based on 719 reviews )
250-0521 Kanagawa, Hakone, Hakone 521, Japan
Yoshimatsu (Takuminoyado Yoshimatsu) is a traditional ryokan in Hakone, Kanagawa, set on a hill near Lake Ashi. Its hot-spring facilities include two large public baths, each with an indoor bath and an open-air bath; the ryokan swaps the men’s and women’s sections after dinner so guests can try both. There is also a private, lockable hot-spring bath for personal use without reservations, and selected rooms feature their own open-air hot-spring baths. Dining focuses on seasonal kaiseki cuisine served in-room, in a calm, classic atmosphere shaped by a maintained Japanese garden. Free private parking and Wi‑Fi are available.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Very clean, well-maintained onsen facilities; sulfuric hot spring water felt beneficial; enjoyed cypress and stone baths
- Kaiseki dinner and breakfasts described as extremely delicious/outstanding, beautifully presented; some guests call it among the best food they’ve eaten
- Staff repeatedly praised as exceptionally friendly, warm, caring, attentive and helpful (including despite language barriers); thoughtful touches like birthday gift
- Peaceful, tranquil atmosphere; calming, well-maintained gardens; relaxing setting away from crowds
- Private onsen rooms highly valued (luxury/romantic/relaxing); some mention views of Mt. Fuji and in-room dining as highlights
Negative reviews
- Traditional Japanese breakfast/dinner may not suit everyone (lots of fish, pickled vegetables; some found breakfast too adventurous/heavy for a western palate)
- Lack of vegetarian food options; guests had to pick vegetarian items from what was served and requested vegetarian choices
- Mosquitoes around due to the onsens
- Private baths/onsen in high demand: difficult to access; sometimes no availability/reservations and needed to keep checking back
- Some service/logistics issues noted: checkout felt rushed; one guest felt staff reaction about wearing the wrong sandals was overly severe
Hakone Gora KARAKU
9.3/10 (Based on 656 reviews )
250-0408 Kanagawa, Hakone, Gora 1300-8, Japan
Hakone Gora KARAKU is a modern ryokan with natural hot-spring bathing in the Gora area of Hakone (Kanagawa). The onsen focus is strong: guestrooms are designed with a private open-air hot-spring bath, and the property also offers gender-separated public baths with indoor and open-air areas, plus sauna facilities. For additional privacy, reservable private baths are available, including a hinoki-wood bath. Bathing hours are split between morning and afternoon/evening, with male/female rotation. Tattoos are not permitted in the public baths (private bathing is the alternative). On site, there is a restaurant and lounge-style spaces for relaxing between soaks, and parking is available.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Excellent/attentive staff and service
- Private open-air onsen in the room/balcony is a highlight
- Modern, clean, spacious rooms with high-end amenities and thoughtful details
- Great location close to Gora Station (and nearby attractions like the Open Air Museum)
- Food/dining often described as delicious/exceptional; lounge with complimentary snacks/drinks (including alcohol) appreciated
Negative reviews
- Property layout can be confusing/requires a lot of walking between buildings/areas
- Restaurant capacity and rigid meal time slots; reception not proactive about restaurant reservations
- Limited shuttle service/time slots
- Meals/breakfast reported as repetitive or not to some guests’ taste; limited choice (set menus)
- Service issues mentioned by some: long check-in/queues, staff not attentive/helpful in some situations (e.g., breakfast reservation errors, luggage help, communication/English)
Hakone Retreat villa 1/f
9.3/10 (Based on 620 reviews )
250-0631 Kanagawa, Hakone, Sengokuhara 1286-116, Japan
Hakone Retreat villa 1/f is a villa-style ryokan retreat in Sengokuhara, Hakone (Kanagawa), set in a quiet, wooded area. The key focus is on hot springs: many villas include a private hot-spring bath, with some offering a private open-air onsen and a small garden or courtyard. Guests can also use the shared baths at the nearby Hakone Retreat före, including an indoor hot-spring bath and an outdoor bath (with separate operating hours). Dining is available on site, including WOODSIDE dining and the Hyoseki Japanese restaurant (kaiseki in a sukiya-style setting), plus a café & lounge. The property also offers a spa and free on-site parking.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Beautiful, thoughtfully designed villas/rooms; spacious and comfortable beds
- Private in-room/outdoor onsen described as incredible/relaxing; public onsen also appreciated
- Staff frequently praised as welcoming, attentive, friendly and helpful (some mention multilingual)
- Food often praised (breakfast and Japanese/French dinners), beautifully presented; also café mentioned positively
- Peaceful, serene forest setting with privacy; convenient bus stop access mentioned
Negative reviews
- Room temperature/heating issues (slow temperature control; some rooms felt cold)
- Noise and privacy concerns due to on-site/road building work; some private baths not fully private because of positioning
- Communication/language barriers with some staff; directions/check-in (especially at night/private check-in) could be confusing
- Food criticisms from some guests (dinner not worth the extra charge; limited set-menu options; limited snack/room service menu)
- Cleanliness/pest issues mentioned (old/dark-marked wooden tub looked unhygienic; cockroach bite; mosquitoes/insects)
THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS SENGOKUHARA HAKONE
9.3/10 (Based on 65 reviews )
250-0631 Kanagawa, Hakone, Sengokuhara 1245-337, Japan
THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS SENGOKUHARA HAKONE is a small onsen-focused retreat in Sengokuhara, Hakone (Kanagawa). Hot-spring bathing is central here: every guest room has its own hot spring bath supplied continuously from the nearby Shin-Ubako source, with different bathing layouts between the Main Building and the Annex. The property also offers two reservable private open-air hot spring baths on the grounds, designed for quiet soaking in a natural setting. For wellness beyond the baths, there is a dedicated spa room and massage options. Dining is offered on site with an Italian dinner service and breakfast, alongside hotel facilities such as a fitness area, garden/terrace spaces, and on-site parking.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Magnificent rooms; clean, quiet, spacious and well equipped
- Very attentive, kind, professional staff; exceptional customer service and detailed explanations
- Fabulous/exceptional food (dinner & breakfast); Michelin-level fine dining taste and presentation
- In-room private onsen and outdoor private onsen praised as delightful, well-kept and clean
- Great location/views, including Mt. Fuji views; peaceful and intimate (small, ~20 rooms)
Negative reviews
- Some guests felt rushed (asked about checkout early; repeatedly asked about taxi) and said service lacked warmth
- No food service in the restaurant between 2:00 pm and 5:30 pm
- Minimal facilities / poor gym facilities
- Breakfast time considered late by one guest
- Pricing/value issues: overpriced/too expensive; one guest was charged for dinner although their daughter was unwell and couldn’t attend
The Fujiya Hotel
9.2/10 (Based on 2122 reviews )
250-0404 Kanagawa, Hakone, Miyanoshita 359, Japan
The Fujiya Hotel is a historic hotel in Miyanoshita (Hakone, Kanagawa), known for its classic architecture across several buildings and a long-standing resort atmosphere. For onsen, the property uses Miyanoshita Hot Spring: guest rooms feature bathtubs supplied with natural hot-spring water, and hotel guests can also use the on-site public bathing facilities in the Forest Wing. The spa area includes separate men’s and women’s baths with indoor and semi open-air baths, plus a sauna. An indoor pool is also filled with natural hot-spring water. Dining is a core part of the stay, with on-site French, Japanese (including kaiseki), and Western options, alongside a bar, lounge, and bakery. Free parking is available on site.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Beautiful historic/old-world charm and unique architecture; feels like a museum/Meiji-era property
- Staff described as outstanding, friendly, professional and very helpful; excellent service
- Rooms are spacious/large, comfortable and very clean/spotless
- Onsen/hot springs and spa facilities praised (including mineral water, indoor/outdoor baths, great views); relaxing pool/spa
- Beautiful, well-kept gardens/grounds (waterfalls, koi pond, foliage); peaceful/tranquil atmosphere
Negative reviews
- Food and drinks often described as very expensive/overpriced (restaurants, bar, room service; wine prices)
- Restaurant issues: strict meal timing/no food available at certain times; slow service/long waits; reservations difficult or fully booked; some meals described as just OK/poor
- Location/access: far from station, tough to get to, or isolated/not near anything; bus ride from train station
- Room/amenities issues: stiff beds; mould in shower; curtains not blocking light; worn-out pajamas with holes; fewer/ hard-to-access power outlets; no skincare/body cream amenities; rooms less luxurious than expected
- Facilities/other issues: small/poor gym (no weights); confusing layout/maze-like; spa pool glass blocks scenic view; onsen policy issues (not tattoo friendly; complaint about a woman working in the men's onsen); staff sometimes focused on rules or limited English in restaurants
Gora Kadan
9.2/10 (Based on 679 reviews )
250-0408 Kanagawa, Hakone, Gora 1300, Japan
Gora Kadan is a traditional ryokan with onsen in Gora, Hakone (Kanagawa), set on the former grounds of the Kan’in-no-miya Villa. The property offers hot spring bathing with water flowing directly from its own sources on site. Guests have access to gender-separated large public baths, with the bath areas rotated at night so you can experience both. A reservable family onsen includes an open-air bath and an attached steam sauna, offered in 40-minute sessions at no additional charge. Dining centers on seasonal kaiseki served in dedicated restaurants, and there is also an on-site spa for relaxation treatments. Additional facilities include a warm-water pool with an outdoor jacuzzi, a bedrock bath, and a fitness gym. It is a short walk from Gora Station, with pickup available on request.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Very helpful, friendly, attentive staff; world-class/impeccable service
- Food/meals frequently praised (kaiseki dinner and breakfasts described as delicious/exquisite/incredible)
- Onsen/baths highly appreciated (public and private/open-air baths described as beautiful/relaxing)
- Beautiful, serene/traditional property with great atmosphere; rooms described as clean, spacious and comfortable
- Good location/scenery/views; some mention convenient access and even free rides/pickups
Negative reviews
- Room temperature/AC controls confusing; room sometimes too hot or aircon blowy with limited fine control
- Some rooms/facilities feel tired/shabby/run down; renovation needed; damp smell/mould noted (e.g., bathroom, hot tub); public onsen described as dingy/not entirely clean by some
- Rules/rigidity and scheduling issues (too many rules, rigid dinner times; needing reservations/extra fees for sauna; feeling like in a regiment)
- Food criticized by some as awful/flavorless/not good value; dining room had no atmosphere/depressing
- High price/overpriced; expectation not met for luxury/value; some complaints about limited access to grounds/gardens and limited amenities/variety (e.g., coffee shop options)
Hakone Kowakien Tenyu
9.1/10 (Based on 2394 reviews )
250-0407 Kanagawa, Hakone, Ninotaira 1297, Japan
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu is an onsen ryokan-style hotel in Ninotaira, Hakone (Kanagawa), surrounded by mountains and close to the Kowakien resort area. The main public bath is set on the top floor, combining indoor and open-air bathing with wide views, plus a dry sauna. For more privacy, book one of the reservable private baths (60-minute slots). Guest rooms are designed around an open-air onsen bath, typically facing forested valley or mountain scenery. Dining includes Ten-yu’s kaiseki-style course options and a premium dinner buffet, with breakfast served buffet-style. A separate annex hosts teppanyaki and shabu-shabu in a historic building, and a covered passage connects to the nearby Yunessun and Mori no Yu facilities.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Large, spacious and clean rooms; some mention comfortable beds/futon and tatami mats
- Excellent onsen experience (public baths with mountain/waterfall views; alternating floors; private balcony onsen praised)
- Buffet breakfast and dinner widely described as delicious, high quality, plentiful and varied; kaiseki/teppanyaki meals praised
- Friendly, helpful, accommodating staff and good service attitude
- Nice extras and amenities mentioned: free ice cream/tea/coffee/drinks/snacks, live music, foot bath, shuttle bus, beautiful surroundings/gardens
Negative reviews
- Check-in process described as strict/slow with waiting and some disorganisation
- Food issues: dinner advertised as kaiseki but was buffet; buffet dinner seen as overpriced/underwhelming or not special; buffet can be repetitive over multiple nights; limited vegetarian options
- Cleanliness/maintenance issues mentioned: hair in closet; old/low-quality private bathtub with mineral deposits; dated/tired room furniture and lack of USB charging points
- Operational/service issues: breakfast required waiting ticket; restaurant staff not clearing plates/too busy; some maintenance requests and dinner reservation emails not followed up
- Access/transport and logistics issues: far from train station or shuttle station not convenient; bus packed; access hard with public transport; private onsen booking only via QR/website and booking failures; only two washer-dryer machines; some reports of sulfur smell
Hakone Suishoen
9.1/10 (Based on 205 reviews )
250-0406 Kanagawa, Hakone, Kowakidani 519-9, Japan
Hakone Suishoen is a ryokan-style retreat in Kowakidani, Hakone (Kanagawa), set in a forested area with a large Japanese garden and Taisho-era heritage architecture. Hot spring bathing is central: every guest room includes a private open-air bath supplied by the property’s own spring (free-flowing), while the communal bath area offers indoor and outdoor baths plus a dry sauna. Dining is centered on Restaurant Momiji, where seasonal Japanese cuisine is served, with options including kaiseki and teppanyaki. On site, you’ll also find a Sisley-branded spa, a bar, and a small souvenir shop. Access is supported by free parking and a shuttle from nearby Kowakidani Station.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Immaculate facilities; beautiful location and rooms; very relaxing; wonderful staff.
- Food/kaiseki and teppanyaki meals frequently described as exceptional, delicious, and a highlight of the trip.
- Spacious rooms (often like a mini-house/2-story unit); comfortable beds; tatami setup appreciated.
- Private in-room/balcony onsen praised as cozy/peaceful and enjoyed by families/couples.
- Service described as attentive, accommodating, professional; good pre-stay communication; many English-speaking staff.
Negative reviews
- Traditional Japanese dinner/breakfast could be too traditional or “derouting” for some tastes; guests wished they’d been told about alternatives (e.g., teppanyaki) or had simpler options.
- Booking/communication issues: hotel site not accepting non-Japanese credit cards; Booking.com listing not clear enough (e.g., kids meals); hotel phone number not working for some.
- Room layout drawbacks in maisonettes: bathroom/toilet location (upstairs or separated from bedroom) inconvenient; requests for a toilet downstairs.
- Wi‑Fi issues (didn’t work on second floor; required management attention/reboot).
- Cleanliness/maintenance issues mentioned by some: shower could be cleaner; hairs found in bath; ants around onsen; window marks/floor wear; bar counter left with used glasses; breakfast seating guided incorrectly.
Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori
9/10 (Based on 3133 reviews )
250-0522 Kanagawa, Hakone, Motohakone Togendai 160, Japan
Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori is an onsen resort-style ryokan/hotel in Togendai, on the natural shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone (Kanagawa). The bathing area focuses on two spacious public hot-spring baths: one with Lake Ashi views and one facing a seasonal Japanese garden, with male/female areas rotating so guests can experience both settings. The hot spring uses Moto-Hakone Onsen water (heated and adjusted), and bathing hours are typically 15:00–24:00 and 5:00–10:00. For added privacy, two semi open-air private baths are available by reservation (paid). Dining is buffet-based for dinner and breakfast, with an open, view-oriented atmosphere. On-site relaxation services include aroma oil treatments and body care, offered in the evening. Parking is available.
Detailed Ratings
ComparePositive reviews
- Delicious and generous breakfast/dinner buffets with varied options
- Onsen experience praised (public/private; clean and well maintained; room open-air baths)
- Beautiful views and relaxing atmosphere; modern Japanese aesthetic; very clean facilities
- Great location near Togendai station, Hakone Ropeway and pirate ship/lake cruise
- Helpful/professional staff and convenient shuttle service (e.g., to/from Odawara station)
Negative reviews
- Onsen requires being naked
- Remote/long trip from Odawara or Hakone Yumoto; shuttle info/booking not always clearly communicated and seats can fill up quickly
- Dining can be crowded/noisy or time-limited; buffet/menu can feel repetitive; limited Western/vegetarian/non-seafood options for some
- Some rooms involve long walks to reception/restaurant; rooms can feel small or have limited luggage space
- Operational/service issues mentioned: clumsy automatic check-in, unstable/slow Wi‑Fi, some staff slow/less helpful (e.g., luggage assistance), difficulty booking spa/onsen or limited lounge space at peak times
Summary Table
| Position | Hotel | Rating | #Reviews | Stars | Staff | Cleanliness | Comfort | Location | Value for money | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sengokubara COCON | 9.9▲ | 7▼ | 5▲ | 9.9▲ | 9.9▲ | 9.9▲ | 9.4 | 9.4▲ | 9.9▲ |
| 2 | Yoshimatsu | 9.7 | 719 | 4▼ | 9.9▲ | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.6▲ | 9.3 | 9.7 |
| 3 | Hakone Gora KARAKU | 9.3 | 656 | 5▲ | 9.4 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.4 | 8.6 | 9.6 |
| 4 | Hakone Retreat villa 1/f | 9.3 | 620 | 5▲ | 9.4 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.0 | 8.5 | 9.5 |
| 5 | THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS SENGOKUHARA HAKONE | 9.3 | 65 | 5▲ | 9.5 | 9.6 | 9.8 | 8.9▼ | 8.7 | 9.6 |
| 6 | The Fujiya Hotel | 9.2 | 2122 | 5▲ | 9.4 | 9.6 | 9.6 | 9.1 | 8.4 | 9.4 |
| 7 | Gora Kadan | 9.2 | 679 | 5▲ | 9.7 | 9.4▼ | 9.4▼ | 9.4 | 8.5 | 9.3▼ |
| 8 | Hakone Kowakien Tenyu | 9.1 | 2394 | 5▲ | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8.9▼ | 8.5 | 9.5 |
| 9 | Hakone Suishoen | 9.1 | 205 | 5▲ | 9.5 | 9.4▼ | 9.5 | 9.0 | 8.3▼ | 9.4 |
| 10 | Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori | 9▼ | 3133▲ | 4▼ | 9.3▼ | 9.5 | 9.4▼ | 9.3 | 8.5 | 9.3▼ |
FAQ
Sengokubara COCON is a suite-only hideaway in Sengokuhara, designed around bathing and wellness. Each suite has its own hot-spring bath using Owakudani Onsen water, plus a private sauna and a cool-down water bath. You can also use shared semi open-air baths beside a bamboo garden and try the herbal bath.
Yoshimatsu is a traditional hilltop ryokan near Lake Ashi with a serene garden setting. It offers spacious public onsen baths with both indoor and open-air areas, and the bathing sections rotate so guests can experience different baths. Seasonal kaiseki is typically served in-room for a calm, classic ryokan experience.
Hakone Gora KARAKU is a modern ryokan in Gora where guestrooms are designed with private open-air hot-spring baths. There are also gender-separated public baths with indoor and open-air areas, plus sauna facilities, and reservable private baths such as a hinoki-wood bath. Note that tattoos are not permitted in the public baths, so private bathing is the alternative.
Hakone Retreat villa 1/f is a villa-style retreat set in a peaceful wooded area of Sengokuhara. Many villas include a private hot-spring bath, and some add a private open-air onsen with a small garden or courtyard. Guests can also use the shared hot-spring baths at the nearby Hakone Retreat före and dine on site at the Japanese restaurant Hyoseki or at WOODSIDE.
THE HIRAMATSU HOTELS & RESORTS SENGOKUHARA HAKONE is an intimate retreat where every room has its own hot spring bath supplied continuously from the Shin-Ubako source. For extra seclusion, the property also offers reservable private open-air onsen baths on the grounds. Dining is a highlight with an on-site Italian dinner service, and wellness can be extended with spa and massage options.