Deciding where to stay in Hakone can be tricky with so many incredible accommodation options in this hot spring resort town. From traditional ryokans with private onsen baths to luxury hotels near top attractions like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashinoko, I’m here to guide you to the best places to stay. Whether you’re visiting Hakone for the first time or looking for that perfect ryokan experience, these are the top hotels and neighborhoods I recommend.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Hakone
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa
- ✨ 5-Star: Hakone Kowakien Tenyu
- 🏨 4-Star: Centurion Hotel Hakone Bettei
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hakone Mount View
- 💸 Cheap: Sokokurawen Quan Tutayalu Guan
- 🏢 Apartment: Condominium MIRAHAKONE
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Nest Inn Hakone, Qiang Luo Wen Quan Xue Yue Hua Bie Di Cui Yun
- 🏩 For Couples: Fujiya Hotel
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Hakone
- 👀 For the First Time: Hakone-Yumoto
- 👪 For Families: Sengokuhara, Gora Area
- 🛍️ For Shopping & Nightlife: Hakone-Yumoto
- 🎭 For Culture: Miyanoshita
- 💰 For Budget Travelers: Hakone-Yumoto
- ⛲ Volcanic Landscapes: Kowakudani Area
- ⛵ Scenic Lake Cruises: Motohakone (Lake Ashi Area)
1. Hakone-Yumoto: Gateway to Ryokans, Onsens
🚉 Gateway to Hakone: Hakone-Yumoto is the gateway town to the breathtaking Hakone region, situated within the vast Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. As soon as you step off the train at Hakone-Yumoto Station, you’re immediately immersed in the area’s famous onsen culture. The compact town center is lined with traditional ryokans (Japanese inns), restaurants serving local delicacies like soba noodles and grilled river fish, and souvenir shops selling regional specialties. Don’t miss tasting the delicious black eggs cooked in the natural hot springs!
🏯Historic center: Hakone-Yumoto is more than just a pit stop. It’s a destination in itself, with a charming riverside setting framed by forested mountains. Meander along the Haya River’s walking trails to discover small shrines, museums showcasing local crafts, and picturesque spots for admiring the seasonal scenery. One popular stroll is the historic Old Tokaido Highway, an ancient cedar-lined path that connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Shogunate era.
⛲ Onsen Central: In my opinion, no visit to Hakone is complete without experiencing a traditional Japanese ryokan and soaking in the rejuvenating natural baths. Hakone-Yumoto has you covered, with over 20 different onsen sources and a huge selection of ryokans to choose from. Many ryokans have their own gender-segregated bathing facilities, but you can also visit public bathhouses like Yumoto Nukumori-no-Yu. Insider Tip: Arrive early morning for a tranquil soak before the day crowds. No matter when you visit, the scenery in Hakone-Yumoto is stunning.
🚶♀️ Easily Accessible: Getting around is a breeze thanks to Hakone’s efficient transportation network:
- Hakone Tozan Railway connects to Gora for museums and hiking trails
- Buses run frequently to Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and the volcanic Owakudani area
- The Hakone Freepass covers all major routes and attractions
Where to Stay in Hakone-Yumoto?
⭐ Best Hotels
- Yumoto Fujiya Hotel – This elegant 4-star ryokan offers a serene escape with Japanese-style rooms, private indoor/outdoor baths, and beautiful mountain views. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine is exquisite.
- Kinnotake Tonosawa – An adults-only luxury ryokan providing a romantic ambiance. Each room has its own private onsen bath and coffee machine. The traditional architecture and attentive service create an unforgettable experience.
- Xiang Gen Hoteruxiao Yong Yuan – This 5-star resort delivers the ultimate in pampering with large public/private onsens, a sauna, massage services, and refined Japanese cuisine. The tatami rooms have gorgeous views of the river and gardens.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Yumoto Station Hotel MIRAHAKONE – A modern and affordable hotel just steps from Hakone-Yumoto Station. The spacious rooms have a minimalist Japanese style and some include a private open-air bath.
- RoheN Resort & Lounge Hakone – This stylish boutique hotel offers excellent value with its cozy lounge areas and tasty included breakfast. Just a short stroll from the train station.
- Hakone Suimeiso – A traditional inn located along a small river, providing a peaceful respite. Guests can enjoy the public indoor/outdoor baths and beautiful garden views.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- K's House Hakone – This highly-rated hostel has both dormitory and private Japanese-style rooms with mountain views. A real highlight is the outdoor onsen bath.
- HakoneHOSTEL1914 – A sociable hostel with a warm, friendly vibe. Dorms have pod-style privacy capsules and the common areas are great for meeting fellow travelers. Just a short walk from Miyanoshita Station.
2. Gora Area: Hakone’s Colorful Hot Spring Village
🌲 Iconic Onsen Escape: This charming mountain village comprises some of the top hotels and ryokans in all of Hakone, many offering spectacular views of Mt Fuji.
Gora is also known for its prime location right along the convenient Hakone Tozan Railway line, making it a perfect home base. From Gora Station, you can easily transfer to the iconic cable cars, ropeways and trains to explore Hakone’s top attractions like the renowned Open-Air Museum, take a scenic Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise, or venture to the volcanic Owakudani valley.
🏨 Rejuvenating Onsens: Gora is home to some of Hakone’s most luxurious and historic hot spring resorts. The iconic Fujiya Hotel has welcomed luminaries like Charlie Chaplin since the 1800s, offering guests rejuvenating private indoor/outdoor onsens and incredible views. For a more affordable but still authentic ryokan stay, the Mikawaya Ryokan provides the perfect traditional experience.
🌳 Scenic Highlights: In addition to its incredible ryokans, Gora boasts some of Hakone’s top attractions within its compact center. Don’t miss strolling through the picturesque Hakone Gora Park, a French-style garden filled with roses, fountains and lush greenhouses. The Hakone Museum of Art is another highlight, showcasing ancient Japanese ceramics in a serene moss garden setting.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: After a day of soaking in hot springs and exploring the area’s incredible museums and gardens, you’ll find no shortage of wonderful dining options in Gora. From cozy izakaya pubs to Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants, there’s something for every taste. I loved refueling on fresh soba noodles and grilled river fish at rustic soba-yas tucked along the village’s quiet lanes.
Where to Stay in Gora Area
⭐ Best Hotels
- Hakone Gora Byakudan – This luxury ryokan offers beautifully appointed Japanese-style rooms with private open-air warm spring baths overlooking Mt Fuji and the forests. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine is exquisite.
- Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa – A 5-star resort providing an indulgent escape with large indoor/outdoor baths, a full-service spa, and multiple restaurants. The rooms are incredibly spacious and serene.
- Xiang Gen Qiang Luo Jia Rajiu – A popular ryokan with a prime location offering Japanese-style rooms with private open-air baths. The public onsens and mountain views are highlights.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Centurion Hotel Hakone Bettei – Surrounded by nature, this 4-star hotel features an art museum, outdoor pool, and guest rooms with open-air baths. It’s conveniently located near the Open-Air Museum.
- Gora Kansuiro Moto Hakone – A modern hotel at a reasonable price point, offering both Western and Japanese-style rooms. The public indoor/outdoor baths utilize natural spring waters.
- Gora Hotel Paipu No Kemuri Plus – This affordable hotel is just steps from Gora Station and has its own indoor/outdoor public baths. Rooms are simple but comfortable.
3. Motohakone (Lake Ashi Area) – Lakeside Serenity in Hakone
🏞️ Lakeside Retreat: Motohakone is one of the best places to stay in Hakone, offering fabulous views of Mt Fuji towering over the serene shores of Lake Ashi. This charming lakeshore town comprises a great selection of hotels and traditional ryokans perfect for a rejuvenating onsen getaway.
🚢 Scenic Cruising: A must for any Hakone itinerary is taking one of the iconic sightseeing cruises across Lake Ashi from Motohakone. I highly recommend the “pirate ship” tours aboard replicas of 18th-century vessels – it’s like being transported to another era! As you glide past the “floating” torii gate of Hakone Shrine and lush cedar forests, you may even spot Fuji’s iconic snow-capped peak.
🏯 Historic Highlights: Just steps from the lakeshore, you’ll find fascinating glimpses into Japan’s past at sights like the recreated Hakone Checkpoint, which served as an important gateway along the ancient Tokaido highway. Follow the cedar-lined Old Tokaido trail for fabulous views of the lake.
🌳 Natural Wonders: In addition to its incredible lake scenery, Motohakone offers easy access to other top Hakone attractions like the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands and its vibrant blooms. You can also soar over valleys and mountains aboard the iconic Hakone Ropeway cable cars.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: After a day of cruising and sightseeing, refuel at one of Motohakone’s wonderful lakefront restaurants. I loved indulging in fresh seasonal catches and hearty nabemono hot pot stews while watching the sun dip behind Mount Hakone’s silhouette.
Where to Stay in Motohakone (Lake Ashi Area)?
⭐ Best Hotels
- Odakyu Hotel de Yama – This luxury resort offers incredible views overlooking Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji. The spacious Japanese-style rooms feature private open-air baths and beautiful garden scenery.
- The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko – This luxury resort offers a serene lakeside setting on the shores of Lake Ashinoko in Hakone. Guests can enjoy incredible views of Fuji from the Japanese-style rooms, as well as rejuvenating warm spring baths sourced from the resort’s private springs. With multiple restaurants, a full-service spa, and easy access to sightseeing cruises on the lake, it’s the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Hakone.
- Ryuguden – A traditional Japanese hotel providing an authentic hot spring experience in Hakone. Ryuguden features tatami-mat rooms with gorgeous garden views, as well as both indoor and open-air natural baths for soaking. After unwinding in the therapeutic mineral waters, guests can savor multi-course kaiseki cuisine showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients from the region.
🏨 Best Cheap / Moderate Hotels
- Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori – This traditional hotel is located right on the shores of picturesque Lake Ashi in Hakone. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Fuji and the lake from the tatami-mat rooms, as well as rejuvenating in the natural hot spring baths. After soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters, you can savor multi-course kaiseki meals featuring fresh seasonal ingredients from the region.
- Yoshimatsu Ryokan – A peaceful hotel nestled in the mountains of Hakone, offering an authentic Japanese experience. The property features beautifully manicured gardens and both indoor and outdoor natural mineral baths for soaking. Guests can stay in traditional tatami rooms and dine on exquisite multi-course kaiseki cuisine prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.
- Hananoyado Fukuya – This charming hotel provides a serene hot spring getaway in Hakone. Featuring Japanese-style accommodations with tatami floors and lovely garden views, as well as rejuvenating indoor/outdoor baths fed by natural mineral waters. Guests can indulge in seasonal multi-course kaiseki meals and experience warm hospitality.
4. Sengokuhara Area – A Peaceful Highland Escape in Hakone
🌸 Serene Ryokan Retreat: When deciding where to stay in Hakone, the tranquil Sengokuhara area offers one of the most beautiful and authentic ryokan experiences. This peaceful highland region is home to some of Hakone’s top ryokans and hotels, many featuring spectacular views of Mount Fuji and private hot spring baths fed by natural mineral waters.
🍂 Natural Wonders: One of the biggest draws of Sengokuhara is the incredible Pampas Grass Fields that turn the hillsides into undulating golden waves each autumn. But the beauty isn’t limited to fall – in spring, you can admire vibrant blooms at the Hakone Botanical Garden and take in fabulous views of Mount Fuji via the Hakone Ropeway cable car over Lake Ashi.
🎨 World-Class Museums: While Sengokuhara has a distinctly rural vibe, it’s also home to some of Hakone’s most acclaimed art museums. Don’t miss the impressive works by Impressionist masters at the Pola Museum of Art, or the stunning Venetian glassworks at the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum set in an atmospheric forest. The Okada Museum of Art is another highlight.
🚉 Excellent Access: Getting around Sengokuhara is a breeze thanks to its location along the Tozan Railway line. You can easily transfer between trains, buses, cable cars and ropeways to explore all of Hakone’s top attractions like the Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashi cruises, and the volcanic Owakudani valley.
Where to Stay in Sengokuhara area?
⭐ Best Hotels
- Centurion Hotel Hakone Bettei – Surrounded by nature, this 4-star hotel features an art museum, outdoor pool, and guest rooms with open-air baths overlooking the forests and mountains. It’s conveniently located near Gora Park and the famous Open-Air Museum, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s top attractions.
- Nest Inn Hakone – This highly-rated hostel offers both dormitory rooms and private Japanese-style accommodations with mountain views. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot spring bath after a day of sightseeing. The friendly staff and communal kitchen/lounge areas create a warm, social atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hakone Mount View – Offering stunning views over Lake Ashi, this 3-star hotel features Japanese-style rooms and an outdoor hot spring bath. After soaking in the rejuvenating mineral waters, you can enjoy the beautiful lake vistas from the comfort of your tatami room. Its location is very convenient for sightseeing cruises and exploring Hakone’s natural scenery.
- Recove Hakone – A modern hotel providing a relaxing respite in the heart of Hakone. Guests can unwind in the indoor/outdoor public baths fed by natural hot springs. The contemporary Japanese-style rooms offer tranquil forest or mountain views to complement the peaceful ambiance.
- Xiang Gen Wen Quan Tang Su Shan Nosheng – This traditional inn is nestled in a serene mountain setting. Featuring simple tatami-mat rooms, indoor/outdoor public mineral baths, and beautiful garden views, it provides an authentic hot spring experience at an affordable price point.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Fuji Hakone Guest House – A top-rated hostel offering both dormitory beds and private Japanese-style rooms at budget prices. Guests can cook their own meals in the shared kitchen, socialize in the common lounge, or simply admire the views of Fuji from the property’s peaceful gardens.
5. Miyanoshita Area – Nostalgic Charm in the Heart of Hakone
🏞️ Nostalgic Onsen Town: When deciding where to stay in Hakone, the historic Miyanoshita area offers a charming home base steeped in Japanese tradition. This iconic hot spring resort town comprises some of Hakone’s oldest and most atmospheric ryokans and hotels, like the famous Fujiya Hotel that has welcomed luminaries since the 1800s.
Miyanoshita is one of the most popular areas for experiencing an authentic ryokan stay. Top ryokans here include the elegant Hatsuhana Ryokan, where you can indulge in rejuvenating private hot spring baths and savor exquisite multi-course kaiseki cuisine after exploring Hakone’s top sights.
🛤️ Central Location: Situated right along the convenient Tozan Railway line, Miyanoshita makes the perfect base for your Hakone itinerary. You can easily hop on the iconic cable cars, ropeways and trains to visit nearby attractions like the incredible Open-Air Museum, take a scenic Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise, or venture to the volcanic Owakudani valley.
🌳 Historic Ambiance: As you stroll Miyanoshita’s quiet lanes, you’ll be transported back in time. The area is home to centuries-old shrines like Kumanojo nestled along forest paths, as well as some of Japan’s oldest Western-style buildings. Be sure to stop for matcha and sweets at traditional teahouses like Seikien, housed in a beautifully preserved 150-year-old machiya townhouse.
🍽️ Cozy Culinary Scene: While Miyanoshita may have a peaceful vibe, it offers some wonderful mom-and-pop eateries perfect for refueling after a day of sightseeing. I loved the fresh soba noodles and hearty sukiyaki hot pots at cozy ryokans like Fukudaya. The area’s ryokans are also renowned for their incredible multi-course kaiseki feasts.
Where to Stay in Miyanoshita Area?
⭐ Best Hotels
- Fujiya Hotel – This iconic luxury hotel has welcomed luminaries like Charlie Chaplin and Helen Keller since the 1800s. Guests can experience classic Japanese hospitality while enjoying beautiful views of Fuji and the Hakone mountains from the traditional tatami-mat rooms. The property also features rejuvenating natural hot spring baths and refined multi-course kaiseki cuisine.
- Hakone Tokinoshizuku – A tranquil 4-star ryokan nestled in the forests of Hakone, offering an authentic Japanese hot spring experience. In addition to indoor/outdoor mineral baths, the property has tatami rooms with private open-air baths overlooking the natural scenery. Guests can savor seasonal kaiseki cuisine and experience warm hospitality.
- Manatei Hakone – This charming hotel provides a serene retreat surrounded by the mountains and forests of Hakone. Featuring Japanese-style accommodations with lovely garden views, as well as indoor/outdoor natural hot spring baths for soaking.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Myojokan – A traditional inn located in a peaceful setting in Hakone. Guests can stay in simple tatami-mat rooms and enjoy the indoor/outdoor public mineral baths as well as beautiful garden views.
- Zi Jia Yuan Quan Kakeliu Sinosu Xiang Gen Cui Quan – This budget hotel offers Japanese-style accommodations with futon bedding and shared indoor/outdoor public hot spring baths. Its serene mountain location provides beautiful views while still being convenient for sightseeing in Hakone.
- Tsukinoya – A charming family-run inn providing an affordable stay in Hakone. In addition to simple tatami rooms, the property has indoor/outdoor public mineral baths where guests can soak while admiring the lovely garden scenery.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Sokokurawen Quan Tutayalu Guan – This Japanese inn offers affordable shared room accommodations with futon bedding and shared baths, making it a budget-friendly option for solo travelers and groups visiting Hakone.
- Hakone Toi – A top-rated hostel located in the heart of Hakone, featuring both dormitory beds and private Japanese-style rooms at very reasonable prices. Guests can cook meals in the shared kitchen or relax in the common lounge areas.
6. Kowakudani Area – Where Volcanic Landscapes Meet Therapeutic Mineral Baths
🌋 Volcanic Wonderland: Kowakudani is one of the must-visit areas when staying in Hakone. This volcanic valley offers a rare glimpse into the earth’s powerful geothermal forces, with steaming vents, bubbling pools, and sulfurous hot springs. It’s the perfect base for exploring Hakone’s volcanic landscapes up close.
A top highlight is the Owakudani geothermal area, where you can witness billowing clouds of volcanic steam and even try the region’s famous black eggs – boiled in the natural hot springs and said to extend your lifespan!
🚉 Prime Location: Despite its remote, off-the-beaten-path vibe, Kowakudani is surprisingly accessible thanks to its convenient stop along the iconic Tozan Railway line. From here, you can easily transfer to the cable cars, ropeways and buses to visit other top Hakone attractions.
⛲ Onsen Rejuvenation: After a day of hiking the volcanic trails, there’s no better way to rejuvenate than with a relaxing soak in Kowakudani’s natural hot spring baths. Many of the traditional ryokans in this area feature indoor and outdoor mineral-rich onsens with spectacular views.
I loved indulging in the multi-course kaiseki feasts and unwinding in the private open-air baths during my stay at Tenzan Tohji-in Ryokan, gazing out over Mount Hakone’s iconic silhouette.
🍽 Hearty Mountain Cuisine: While off the typical tourist trail, Kowakudani offers some wonderful mom-and-pop eateries serving up delicious regional specialties. Don’t miss trying the area’s famed yuba (fresh tofu skin) dishes like the crispy tempura at Yubatei. Or cozy up at an izakaya tavern like Kowakudani for grilled meats, hot pots and ice-cold mugs of local craft beer.
Where to Stay in Kowakudani Area?
⭐ Best Hotels
- Hakone Kowakien Tenyu – This 5-star resort delivers the ultimate in pampering with large public/private onsens, a sauna, massage services, and refined Japanese cuisine. The tatami rooms have gorgeous views of the river and gardens.
- Xiang Gen Hoteruxiao Yong Yuan – A luxury hotel offering beautifully appointed Japanese-style rooms with private open-air hot spring baths overlooking the Mount and the forests. The multi-course kaiseki cuisine is exquisite.
- Hakone Suishoen – This tranquil hotel provides an authentic hot spring experience with tatami rooms, indoor/outdoor mineral baths, and seasonal multi-course kaiseki meals using fresh local ingredients.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Xiang Gen Xiao Yong Yuan Tian You – A modern hotel at a reasonable price, offering both Western and Japanese-style rooms with public indoor/outdoor natural hot spring baths.
- Hakone Kowakudani Onsen Mizunoto – This budget accomodation is located in the volcanic Kowakudani valley area of Hakone. It features simple Japanese-style accommodations and indoor/outdoor public mineral baths.
FAQs About Trip To Hakone
Where is it better to stay in Hakone?
The best areas to stay in Hakone depend on your interests and travel style. Hakone-Yumoto is a convenient base near transportation hubs and shopping. Gora is great for families with its museums and parks. Motohakone (Lake Ashi area) offers scenic lake views and cruises. Sengokuhara provides a peaceful mountain retreat with luxury ryokans.
Where to base in Hakone?
For first-time visitors, Hakone-Yumoto is often recommended as the best area to stay. If you’re looking for a more nature-focused stay, Sengokuhara or the Lake Ashi (Motohakone) area could be good options. For museum lovers, the Gora area is home to the famous Hakone Open-Air Museum as well as other art museums, in addition to being a transportation hub. Miyanoshita has a more historic, traditional ambiance.
Is it worth staying in Hakone, Japan?
Yes, Hakone is absolutely worth an overnight stay rather than just a day trip. With its spread-out attractions, scenic transportation, and incredible ryokans with natural hot spring baths, Hakone deserves at least 1-2 nights to fully experience its charms at a relaxed pace. An overnight stay allows you to soak in the onsen culture.
How many days should you stay in Hakone?
Most travelers recommend spending 2-3 days in Hakone to comfortably see all the major sights without feeling rushed. Two days allows enough time to ride the iconic transportation loops, visit museums like the Open-Air Museum, take a lake cruise, and experience the volcanic areas like Owakudani. Three days gives you more flexibility to also enjoy hiking, high-end ryokans, and just unwinding in the natural scenery.
