Ichinoyu Honkan
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Ichinoyu Honkan is a historic ryokan set along the Hayakawa river in Hakone, Kanagawa, occupying a timber sukuriya-style building registered as a tangible cultural property and tracing its origins to the early 17th century. The four-storey wooden structure preserves Taisho-era and earlier details while offering modern comforts; most guest rooms face the river and are arranged in traditional Japanese style with tatami, yukata robes and in‑room amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerator and electric kettle. The property’s riverside position and classic architecture define the guest experience, creating a calm base for exploring nearby hot‑spring valleys and local sightseeing routes.
Bath facilities combine communal and private options: two public baths are maintained for general use, while a marble family bath with Taisho-era heritage and a selection of rooms feature attached hot‑spring baths for private bathing. The family/kashikiri bath operates on a mixed reservation policy with daytime reservation windows and early‑morning free access; some room categories explicitly advertise enclosed or open‑air bathing directly off the guest room. For travellers specifically seeking a ryokan with private onsen Hakone, Kanagawa, Ichinoyu Honkan presents a clear option where in‑room bathing and a historic public bathing facility coexist.
Dining concentrates on seasonal, multi‑course Japanese meals served in a dining space renovated from a large Taisho hall, and breakfast follows scheduled morning service slots. Practical details include midday check‑out and late afternoon check‑in windows, on‑site guest services such as multilingual assistance, free Wi‑Fi and limited parking arrangements, and a service style that emphasizes traditional hospitality and local cuisine. Even those searching generically for a ryokan with onsen Hyōgo will find the combination of private bathing, riverside setting and period architecture comparable to well‑known onsen properties elsewhere in Japan.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ichinoyu Honkan
Positive Reviews
Outstanding traditional dining
Multiple guests praised the dinner and breakfast as delicious, plentiful and a highlight of the stay — a memorable culinary experience of Japanese cuisine.
Authentic historic ryokan with scenic riverside setting
Reviewers appreciated the ryokan’s historic charm and location overlooking the river, which creates a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere and a sense of immersion in tradition.
Private onsen and quality bathing experience
Many rooms include a private onsen (hot-spring bath) and the on-site bathing facilities are described as a standout feature—relaxing and authentic.
Very friendly, attentive staff and good service
Staff are frequently described as welcoming, helpful and professional; reviewers mention thoughtful service (early luggage handling, explanations, complimentary drinks, amenities) that enhanced their stay.
Spacious traditional rooms and traditional amenities
Guests liked roomy tatami-style rooms with comfortable futons, availability of yukata and toiletries, and extras such as free beverages and on-site souvenir shop, contributing to strong value.
Negative Reviews
Property is dated and shows its age
Several reviews note visible wear and an overall ‘old’ or slightly tired appearance; guests say parts of the building would benefit from renovation while acknowledging its historical character.
Poor thermal insulation and energy issues
At least one guest specifically mentioned weak thermal insulation and draftiness, indicating rooms can feel cold and the building may be energy-inefficient.
Bathroom / sanitary shortcomings
Comments include aging toilets and sanitary areas, some toilets located on the corridor rather than inside the room, small private outdoor tubs in some rooms, and onsens that could use refurbishment.
Noise, insects and repetitive ambient music
The riverside can be loud at night for noise-sensitive guests (earplugs recommended); other minor nuisances reported include occasional mosquitoes in rooms and looping background music in dining areas.
Access, parking and occasional service/cleanliness inconsistencies
A few reviewers mentioned practical drawbacks: limited parking spaces, uphill luggage transfer to the station, rooms not ideal for very tall guests, and occasional issues with cleaning or uneven service professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are designed for 2 guests on tatami with futons; family and multi-person rooms are available that accommodate up to four people. Confirm exact occupancy for each room type when booking.
The ryokan offers public hot-spring baths and a family (private) bath; some rooms also include a private onsen. Family/private baths typically require reservation at the front desk.
The property operates scheduled shuttle services from the Hakone‑Yumoto area in the mid‑afternoon with multiple departures; the ryokan is also a short taxi or local-bus ride from Hakone‑Yumoto. Guests are advised to request or reserve shuttle space in advance if needed.
From Haneda or Narita, travel to Odawara or Hakone‑Yumoto by train and then take the local bus, shuttle or taxi to Tonosawa; total travel time is typically about 90–120 minutes depending on connections. Allow extra time for transfers during peak periods.
Staff at Ichinoyu Honkan can assist in English, and the ryokan commonly provides multilingual support (English, Chinese, Korean) for international guests. If you need specific language assistance, mention it before arrival.
You can expect traditional Japanese meals—multi-course dinner and breakfast—served in the dining area renovated from a Taisho‑period hall, with opportunities to wear a yukata and experience classic ryokan hospitality. Some meal plans include in-room dining or special requests on request.
The ryokan is well placed for Hakone sightseeing: Hakone Shrine and Lake Ashi, the Hakone Open‑Air Museum, Owakudani and Odawara Castle are all within a short drive or bus ride. Local walks in Tonosawa and riverside views are also accessible from the property.
Standard check‑in is in the afternoon and check‑out is in the morning; the typical hours are check‑in from 15:00 to 18:00 and check‑out by 10:00. If you expect to arrive outside those times, contact the ryokan in advance.
Guests with tattoos may be refused entry to some public bathing areas, and the ryokan does not permit pets on the property. Private/family baths can be a workable option for tattooed guests who request privacy.
Convenience stores and local shops are available in the Hakone‑Yumoto area a short bus or taxi ride away, with small retail options near local stations. If you need specific items, consider picking them up before arriving or asking the front desk for directions.