The 5 Most Luxurious Onsen Hotels in Hakone

1. Kai Sengokuhara

Hoshino Resorts is known throughout Japan for its high-class, conveniently located and impeccable hotels. Kai Sengokuhara is a prime example of this. This traditional ryokan, a Japanese inn, encompasses a serenity and stillness that is rare to find. Situated on a picturesque mountainside, not far from the bubbling volcanic valley of Owakudani, expect five-star service from the moment you step in. Rooms boast open-air hot springs and lush-green views with an artistic flair evident in the hotel’s decor, nightly tenugui (hand towel) workshop and beautifully plated seasonal dishes. 

On the other side of Hakone, along the banks of the Sukumo River, you’ll also find Hoshino Resorts’ Kai Hakone which offers parquetry workshops and storytelling.

2. Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort And Spa

The Hyatt has become synonymous with luxury hotels around the world. This mammoth hotel chain doesn’t skimp on any of its properties, and this includes the Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort And Spa. Placed in the heart of Hakone, Gora, the hotel is a stone's throw away from popular sights such as The Hakone Open-Air Museum and Owakudani; in fact, the healing water from their onsen spa stems directly from this valley. 

Their spacious rooms (starting from 52m2) and lofty ceilings epitomise class with special areas, such as the Living Room, offering complimentary beverages and a chance to relax beside a roaring fireplace. Marvel at the mountain ranges from your room, catch up on those treatments you’ve been missing, devour their locally sourced dinners or indulge in all of the above. 

3. Hakone Suishoen

Built in the Taisho era (1912-1926) by the Mitsui family and converted into a ryokan some time later, this aristocratic home was made for nobility. Suishoen’s meticulously cared-for garden, including 300-year-old maple trees, and humble sized buildings are part of the charm. 

You won’t find anything less than perfection with all of their 23 suites having access to a private outdoor onsen bath and accompanying terrace, ideal for cooling down a summer's day or warming up a winter’s night. Their on-site restaurant Momiji (meaning red-tinted maple leaves) is exquisitely beautiful in autumn and serves up a mouth-watering array of multi-course meals and teppanyaki (food made using a hot plate) year-round. 

4. Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora lies on the picturesque riverside of Haya River, which comes alive with cherry blossoms in spring and glows with firelight during the Daimonji-yaki festival in summer. The fire theme continues in their Riverside Kitchen & Bar with succulently smoked dishes from juicy steaks to seared tuna and expertly mixed cocktails. Upon check-in, you’ll be offered a cup of tea to decompress and shown to your room, which features an onsen bath and designer embellishments. For something not found on the rest of this list, bask below their one-of-a-kind seasonal light display in the public hot spring. 

5. Hakone Kowakien Tenyu

On a plain of its own, surrounded by nature and away from other hotels, Hakone Kowakien Tenyu offers a sunrise-perfect undisturbed view of Hakone from their one-of-a-kind infinity hot spring ‘pool’. If that’s not enough, all rooms are equipped with their very own onsen bath for ultimate relaxation. The luxury continues throughout the hotel with a host of restaurants from teppanyaki to sushi. All are exquisitely sourced from local ingredients and made with individual pizzazz. 

Ready to Experience Hakone with All Your Senses?

Intriguingly nestled within the embrace of nature's beauty and boasting a collection of enchanting onsen hotels, Hakone beckons with promises of unparalleled serenity and rejuvenation. The allure of Kai Sengokuhara's artistic tranquillity, Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort And Spa's global sophistication, Hakone Suishoen's aristocratic allure, Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora's creative ambience, and Hakone Kowakien Tenyu's exclusive luxury creates a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses.

Imagine unwinding in open-air hot springs, savouring exquisite local cuisines, and immersing yourself in the cultural richness of this Japanese gem. Hakone isn't just a destination; it's an oasis of bliss waiting to exhilarate your spirit and leave you yearning for more. Embark on a journey to Hakone – where nature, luxury, and healing converge in a symphony of unforgettable moments. Your soul awaits the magic of Hakone!