Onsen Guest House Tsutaya
--- The property is not yet rated
Onsen Guest House Tsutaya sits tucked into the Jakotsu‑gawa valley above a riverside slope in Hakone, blending a history-steeped ryokan aesthetic with a relaxed, communal guesthouse rhythm. The property occupies a multi-level wooden building whose interiors combine tatami seating, abstract artwork and retro tableware; shared spaces are designed to encourage conversation while offering clear sightlines to the surrounding forest. Framed by the sound of flowing water and seasonal foliage, the house presents itself as a compact ryokan with onsen in Hakone that foregrounds natural hot‑spring bathing and low‑key social spaces rather than formal hotel service.
Bathing facilities are fundamental to the experience: the spring is operated as Gensen‑kakenagashi, delivering continuously flowing natural water to a large indoor bath and an open‑air section, and amenities include communal shower booths and onsen lounge seating with a traditional kotatsu. Room types range from Tatami Superior and Standard Japanese‑Western rooms to compact KAGODOKO cabin units; some rooms offer private bathrooms, while others rely on the house baths and shared showers. Practical services include a communal kitchen with oven, a coffee corner, coin laundry available around the clock, and a small number of parking spaces that should be reserved in advance, reflecting the property’s compact, guest‑focused layout as a ryokan with onsen in Kanagawa.
The guesthouse functions well as a base for short hikes and local sights: Kowakudani transit access and the Hakone Open‑Air Museum lie within easy reach, and nearby trails and waterfall viewpoints are within walking distance. The tone of the place favors travelers who value unpretentious traditional atmosphere, communal dining or self‑catering, and repeated access to thermal baths; staff facilitate stays with luggage storage and a small reception footprint, making the house suited to solo travelers, couples and families seeking an authentic hot‑spring stay with straightforward, clearly signposted facilities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Onsen Guest House Tsutaya
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsens (indoor and outdoor)
Multiple guests praised the onsen facilities — both indoor and outdoor — as very relaxing, well maintained and a highlight of the stay; some reviews note extra toiletries/skin care amenities provided in the bath areas.
Friendly, attentive staff
Staff are repeatedly described as kind, welcoming and helpful, giving clear explanations and contributing to a homely, reassuring atmosphere for guests.
Charming traditional ryokan and scenic setting
Reviewers enjoyed the ryokan’s traditional character, multi-level layout and tasteful decor, often noting peaceful river/forest views and a very relaxing, zen-like environment.
Clean, comfortable accommodations
Cleanliness is frequently mentioned; guests found rooms, capsules and communal areas tidy and comfortable, with several comments about spacious rooms and generally comfortable bedding (though see negatives on mattress firmness).
Great communal spaces and well-equipped kitchen
The lounge, shared living/dining areas and kitchen received praise for being attractive, well furnished and well equipped (tea/coffee, cookware, books and decorative touches), making communal time enjoyable.
Negative Reviews
Thin mattresses in some beds/capsules
Several guests noted that mattresses or capsules feel thin and can be uncomfortable for those not used to them.
Showers only located inside onsens (privacy concerns)
Multiple reviews point out that showers are only available in the onsen areas, which may be uncomfortable for more modest guests because of communal nudity and limited private shower options.
Dorm curtains and capsule privacy
A few guests mentioned that the curtains closing capsules or cabins are not very blackout/opaque, offering limited privacy and light blocking.
Small private bathrooms and limited pre-booking information
Some private rooms have small bathrooms, and at least one guest felt there was insufficient information about the shared kitchen setup before booking.
Location/access and language/communication
A number of guests said the property is somewhat remote or a walk from the train station (though bus stops are nearby); others noted that not many staff speak English, which can make obtaining detailed information harder for non-Japanese speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Private rooms are suitable for couples and families while dormitories and capsule-style beds serve solo travellers; check the specific room type for its maximum occupancy and note that guests under 18 are not allowed in shared dormitories.
The property offers both indoor and open-air hot spring baths supplied by the Sokokura spring (gensen kakenagashi), with separate bathing areas and extended evening hours; please follow standard onsen etiquette when using them.
Guest reports indicate tattoos are accepted at this property, but policies can change, so contact the ryokan ahead of your stay if this is important to you.
There is no regular airport shuttle; access is easiest from Kowakudani Station (about a 10–15 minute walk) or via bus and taxi from Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara, and the property can be contacted about private transfers.
Staff can communicate in English and Japanese and are accustomed to assisting international guests.
The building features traditional Japanese architecture, a communal tatami lounge with kotatsu, shared kitchen facilities, and an onsen-centred communal atmosphere; loungewear or yukata rentals are commonly available.
The ryokan is a convenient base for Hakone sights such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Owakudani, with many attractions reachable by short bus, train or taxi rides.
Kowakudani Station is the closest and is roughly a 10–15 minute walk; buses run from Hakone-Yumoto and Odawara and taxis are an easy alternative for shorter transfers.
Typical check-in is from mid-afternoon until around 22:00 and check-out is by late morning (usually by 11:00); confirm the exact times on your reservation or with the property.
Private onsen use may be arranged on request—contact the ryokan to confirm availability; pets are not permitted on the premises; there is a convenience store (7‑Eleven) within a short walk, a few local restaurants nearby, and a shared kitchen for self-catering.