Chojuyu Hakone
7,9/10 Very good - Based on 355 reviews
Chojuyu Hakone is a compact, family-run ryokan set among the pine and bamboo of Sengokuhara, offering a straightforward blend of traditional and practical comforts. Rooms are Japanese-style with tatami flooring and futon bedding, and most include modern touches such as air conditioning, bidet-equipped toilets and complimentary Wi‑Fi; several rooms take in mountain and forest views. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, geared toward guests seeking a short nature-centered stay rather than a large resort experience, making it an accessible ryokan with onsen in Hakone.
The property centres on its hot-spring facilities: multiple in-house baths are fed from local springs and guests can reserve some of the baths for private use, including an outdoor option that is frequently mentioned in guest comments. Bathing arrangements include public and bookable private onsen sessions, so visitors preferring solitude or family-only time can arrange a secluded soak; staff manage reservations and there is typically a single-use fee structure for private access. These features position the property as a practical ryokan with private onsen Kanagawa for travellers who prioritise onsen flexibility.
Beyond bathing, the ryokan provides a handful of simple on-site amenities that reinforce its informal, welcoming character: free on-site parking, occasional live piano performances, a communal dining area where local-style meals can be arranged, a small recreation space with table tennis and a pet-friendly policy on request. The setting is convenient for exploring nearby highlights such as cableway viewpoints and volcanic valleys, while the quiet grounds and timbered public spaces make it easy to unwind after day trips into the Hakone area. Practical guest services and attentive hosts keep the focus on comfort, thermal bathing and access to the region’s outdoor attractions.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Chojuyu Hakone
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen offerings
Multiple reviews highlight the baths as a major plus: several indoor/outdoor onsens, options to privatize a bath, and overall very enjoyable hot‑spring facilities.
Warm, helpful hosts and staff
Guests consistently mention friendly, attentive hosts who assist with restaurant reservations, taxis and welcome guidance; some noted staff spoke English and were accommodating.
Peaceful, scenic location
Reviewers praise the tranquil, green setting with fresh mountain air, views (including Mount Fuji from some rooms/drives) and a restful atmosphere ideal for sleeping and relaxation.
Authentic ryokan experience
Many guests appreciated the traditional features: tatami rooms, futons, typical décor and the overall ryokan atmosphere (including cultural touches like kimonos provided).
Clean, spacious rooms and good value
Visitors report large, clean rooms with pleasant views, useful communal facilities (ping‑pong, small food selection) and generally very good value for the price.
Negative Reviews
Remote location and transport limitations
Numerous reviews warn the property is fairly isolated; access is easier by car, buses are infrequent, shuttle service/restaurants operate irregularly, and Google Maps/location can be confusing.
Limited dining options on site
Several guests noted there is no full on‑site restaurant and few nearby eateries or shops, so guests should plan meals in advance or rely on host‑arranged transport to restaurants.
Some facilities feel dated and need refresh
A number of reviewers mentioned ageing décor and areas in need of refurbishment; one specifically described an upstairs onsen as worn.
Futon/mattress comfort and heating control issues
A few guests found the futons or floor mattresses too thin or uncomfortable compared with other ryokan experiences; others reported limited control over heating in rooms.
Occasional operational/check‑in inconveniences
Some stays coincided with owners being busy with renovations or not immediately present, requiring punctual arrival or phone contact; a few guests found limited shower availability during certain midday hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are traditional Japanese-style and typically sleep up to four guests on futons; check the selected room type for exact occupancy.
The ryokan uses natural volcanic onsen with milky/white water; there are communal baths and at least one reservable private outdoor bath—ask reception to book private use.
There is no regular airport shuttle; the easiest route is by train to Hakone and then local bus or taxi, and you can contact the property before arrival to request an arranged pickup.
Togendai and nearby ropeway stations are roughly 1–2 km away; you can walk to local bus stops or take a short bus/taxi ride to the ropeway and Lake Ashi.
Staff can assist in English and Japanese, so English-speaking guests can expect basic support.
Standard check-in is 15:00–21:00 and check-out is 07:00–10:00; notify the ryokan in advance if you will arrive late.
Pets may be accepted on request; contact the property before booking to confirm arrangements.
There is an on-site restaurant offering Japanese-style meals including breakfast and dinner; please inform the ryokan of any dietary requirements when booking.
Convenience stores and small supermarkets are a short walk or brief bus ride from the Sengokuhara/Onsen-so area, typically around 10 minutes on foot.
The ryokan is a convenient base for Owakudani, the Hakone Ropeway, Lake Ashi sightseeing cruises, the Pola Museum and the Sengokuhara pampas grass fields, with hiking and museums close by.