Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is a popular tourist destination in Japan, famous for its hot springs, scenic views of Mt. Fuji, and picturesque Lake Ashi. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Hakone attracts millions of visitors every year. When planning a trip to Hakone, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the right place to stay. The right accommodation can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and memorable trip.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay in Hakone
Hakone offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury ryokans to budget-friendly guesthouses, catering to diverse needs and preferences. The best places to stay in Hakone can be broadly classified into three categories: areas with scenic views, areas with easy access to public transportation, and areas with traditional Japanese experiences. In this article, we will explore the top recommendations for each category, helping you make an informed decision for your trip to Hakone.
What to Expect
In the following sections, we will delve into the best places to stay in Hakone, including areas like Yumoto, Gora, and Sengokuhara. We will also cover the top ryokans, hotels, and guesthouses in each area, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and prices. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay in Hakone.
Best Places to Stay in Hakone
Hakone, a picturesque town in Japan, is famous for its hot springs, scenic views of Mt. Fuji, and serene Lake Ashi. When planning a trip to Hakone, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right accommodation. With numerous options available, it can be overwhelming to select the perfect place to stay. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in Hakone, considering factors such as location, amenities, and budget.
Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto Area
The Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto area is a popular choice for visitors, offering easy access to Hakone’s main attractions. This region is well-connected by public transportation, making it convenient to explore the surrounding areas.
- Hakone Kowakien Yunessun: A hot spring resort with a unique wine bath and coffee bath. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji from the outdoor hot spring.
- Hakone Ginyu Ryokan: A traditional Japanese ryokan offering luxurious rooms and a private hot spring bath. Guests can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and kaiseki dinner.
- Hakone Hotel Kowakien: A 4-star hotel with modern rooms and a public hot spring bath. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to nearby attractions.
Sengokuhara and Kowakidani Area
The Sengokuhara and Kowakidani area is a scenic region surrounded by mountains and forests. This area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat and easy access to Hakone’s natural attractions. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Barcelona Spain)
- Ginyu Ryokan: A luxurious ryokan with traditional Japanese rooms and a private hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a kaiseki dinner and relax in the serene surroundings.
- Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel: A 4-star hotel with modern rooms and a public hot spring bath. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to nearby attractions.
- Kowakidani Onsen Ryokan: A traditional Japanese ryokan with hot spring baths and a serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Motohakone and Lake Ashi Area
The Motohakone and Lake Ashi area is a scenic region offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi. This area is ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation.
- Hakone Prince Hotel: A 4-star hotel with modern rooms and a public hot spring bath. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to nearby attractions and stunning views of Lake Ashi.
- Motohakone Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a shared hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- Lake Ashi Hotel: A 3-star hotel with modern rooms and a public hot spring bath. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to nearby attractions and stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
Budget-Friendly Options
For those on a tight budget, Hakone offers a range of affordable accommodations, including guesthouses, hostels, and camping sites.
- Hakone Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with dormitory rooms and a shared hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast and relax in the communal lounge.
- Kowakidani Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a shared hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- Hakone Camping Ground: A camping site with basic facilities and stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
Luxury Options
For those seeking a luxurious getaway, Hakone offers a range of high-end accommodations, including 5-star hotels and luxury ryokans.
- Gora Hanaougi: A 5-star ryokan with luxurious rooms and a private hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a kaiseki dinner and relax in the serene surroundings.
- Hakone Ginyu Ryokan: A luxurious ryokan with traditional Japanese rooms and a private hot spring bath. Guests can enjoy a kaiseki dinner and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- The Prince Hakone Lake Ashi: A 5-star hotel with modern rooms and a public hot spring bath. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to nearby attractions and stunning views of Lake Ashi.
Summary and Recap
In conclusion, Hakone offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From traditional Japanese ryokans to modern hotels, and from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, there is something for everyone in Hakone. When choosing the best place to stay in Hakone, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Honolulu For Families)
| Area | Accommodation | Amenities | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odawara and Hakone-Yumoto | Hakone Kowakien Yunessun | Hot spring bath, wine bath, coffee bath | Mid-range |
| Sengokuhara and Kowakidani | Ginyu Ryokan | Private hot spring bath, kaiseki dinner | Luxury |
| Motohakone and Lake Ashi | Hakone Prince Hotel | Public hot spring bath, shuttle bus service | Mid-range |
| Budget-Friendly | Hakone Hostel | Shared hot spring bath, traditional Japanese breakfast | Budget |
| Luxury | Gora Hanaougi | Private hot spring bath, kaiseki dinner | Luxury |
Remember to research and book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. With this guide, you can find the perfect place to stay in Hakone and enjoy a comfortable and memorable vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Places to Stay in Hakone
What are the most popular areas to stay in Hakone?
Hakone-Yumoto, Sengokuhara, and Gora are the most popular areas to stay in Hakone. Hakone-Yumoto is the main town and has many accommodation options, Sengokuhara is a quieter area with more scenic views, and Gora is a charming town with many ryokans and hotels.
What type of accommodations are available in Hakone?
Hakone offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury ryokans and hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. You can also find traditional Japanese-style ryokans, modern hotels, and even villas and cottages.
Are there any budget-friendly options for staying in Hakone?
Yes, there are many budget-friendly options for staying in Hakone. You can find guesthouses and hostels that offer affordable rates, as well as capsule hotels and dormitories. Additionally, consider staying in a nearby town like Odawara or Atsugi, which may offer more affordable options.
Do I need to book my accommodations in advance in Hakone?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season or Golden Week. Hakone is a popular tourist destination, and many accommodations fill up quickly. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Germany)
What amenities should I look for when choosing a place to stay in Hakone?
When choosing a place to stay in Hakone, consider amenities like onsen (hot spring) access, Wi-Fi, and breakfast options. Some accommodations may also offer shuttle services or have convenient locations near train stations or popular attractions.