Hakone Ashinoko Bikeikan 箱根芦ノ湖 美景館
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 330 reviews
Hakone Ashinoko Bikeikan sits on a hillside overlooking Lake Ashi and frames seasonal views of Mount Fuji and surrounding forest. The property's concept emphasizes a picture-like panorama and quiet, restorative time; rooms are arranged to maximize the lake and mountain outlooks. As a ryokan with onsen in Hakone, it blends traditional tatami-room layouts with contemporary comforts, offering a selection of rooms that include lake-view family layouts and Japanese-style accommodations designed for relaxed, self-contained stays.
Guest units are equipped with kettles, refrigerators, microwaves and safes, and some room types share bathroom facilities while others provide private bathing areas. The property maintains a kakenagashi (continuous-flow) onsen for guest use, presented as a communal spa rather than an in-room hot spring; access is organised so occupants can enjoy the water and views. Practical amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi, self-service check-in and on-site parking, and the operator provides responsive 24/7 guest support and written arrival instructions for streamlined stays.
Located within easy reach of popular Hakone trails, sightseeing cruises and nearby scenic routes, the villa makes a practical base for day trips around the lake, the volcanic valley and several nearby art museums. The accommodation supports self-catering and workation plans alongside optional meal offers, making it suitable for couples, families and small groups seeking a calm retreat. For travellers prioritising thermal bathing, this ryokan with onsen in Kanagawa delivers a straightforward onsen experience combined with framed views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hakone Ashinoko Bikeikan 箱根芦ノ湖…
Positive Reviews
Exceptional views (Mount Fuji / lake / nature)
Many guests highlight a stunning, often Mt. Fuji–framed view and beautiful natural surroundings from the room and common areas, praised as a major attraction.
Relaxing onsen (mineral baths)
The onsen is frequently described as very pleasant and restorative (some note 24/7 availability), and guests enjoyed bathing both at night and in the morning.
Clean, spacious and well‑decorated rooms in Japanese style
Visitors report that rooms are clean, spacious, nicely renovated or decorated in a pleasant Japanese style, providing comfort and good amenities for families.
Peaceful, quiet retreat
Multiple reviews commend the property as a calm, tranquil getaway—ideal for a relaxing night or a break from city life.
Helpful communication and useful equipment
Although often unmanned, hosts/manager are described as responsive by message; rooms are generally well equipped (kitchenware, toys for children, etc.) and well maintained.
Negative Reviews
No on‑site staff / impersonal check‑in
Several guests noted the absence of on‑site personnel, relying on self check‑in and messages; some missed human contact and found initial access confusing.
Remote location and difficult access
The property is remote and up a steep hill; many reviews say you need a car, public transport is impractical, stairs are steep and carrying luggage is hard.
Limited nearby dining and shops
Reviewers warn there are few or no restaurants and shops nearby, especially in the evening; options may be limited to a small vending machine or a tiny daytime shop.
No private in‑room bathroom / limited facilities
Multiple guests mention there is no private bathroom in some rooms (showers are in the onsen area) and some communal or kitchen facilities are minimal (no sink/bin for washing, limited setup).
Sleeping comfort issues
A number of visitors found the futons/mattresses too firm or thin, and noted futons may need to be set up by guests on arrival—this can be uncomfortable for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
The property has four guest rooms and can be rented as a whole for groups up to 29 people; individual room occupancies vary, with some family rooms accepting up to eight futons.
Yes — the ryokan has a natural-flow (kakenagashi) hot spring with gender-separated public baths open 24 hours; exclusive use is possible when the entire property or all rooms are booked.
There is no regular shuttle; the closest station is Togendai (about 1.9 km) and guests are normally advised to take a taxi, though staff can assist with arranging transfers on request.
From Haneda or Narita take trains toward Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto, transfer to local services toward Togendai, and then take a short taxi up to the property (walking from Togendai involves many steps).
Staff and the online/remote concierge can communicate in English, Japanese, Korean and Chinese.
Rooms are tatami-style with futon bedding and large windows overlooking Lake Ashi and the mountains; if you select a meal plan at booking, dinner ingredients for sukiyaki and breakfast items are provided in the room fridge for self-preparation.
Major nearby sights include Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, the Owakudani Valley and the Togendai ropeway; scenic drives like the Ashinoko Skyline are also within easy reach by car or taxi.
Private parking is available onsite; by public transport use services to Togendai then a taxi to the property because the route up includes over 60 steps and no elevators.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 23:00 and check-out is between 07:00 and 10:00; all guests are required to present identification such as a passport during online check-in.
Pets are not permitted; convenience stores are a short drive away but supermarkets are farther out, so guests planning to cook should buy supplies in advance or ask the ryokan for local shopping advice.
