The 20 Best Hotels in Hakone with Onsens
Looking for the best hotels in Hakone with an onsen? You’re in exactly the right place.
Hakone is one of Japan’s most famous onsen destinations, and for good reason! It’s known for its hot springs and mountain scenery, and it’s home to a ton of traditional ryokans. But if that’s not what you’re looking for, there’s also a great mix of western-style hotels and modern resorts here with onsen facilities built in. And best of all, it’s about an hour and a half from Tokyo, so it’s a go-to escape from the city for locals and tourists alike.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best hotels in Hakone with onsens, covering different areas, styles, and budgets. Let’s get into it!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
This is the onsen hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Yumoto. It’s Hakone’s lively onsen gateway, just minutes from Hakone-Yumoto Station, where you can arrive from Tokyo and soak almost immediately.
For unbeatable convenience, Yumoto Fujiya Hotel delivers excellent on-site onsens right by the station.

Drinking tea in Hakone
Where to Find the Best Hotels with an Onsen in Hakone


Slipping into a steaming onsen, surrounded by mountain air or riverside scenery, is one of the most relaxing experiences in Japan. These traditional hot spring baths are filled with naturally heated mineral water and are enjoyed for both wellness and pure relaxation.
Hakone is one of the best places in the country to experience this side of Japanese culture. With an abundance of natural hot springs, the area is famous for its ryokan stays, and even many modern hotels feature on-site onsens, making it an easy and rewarding destination for first-time and repeat visitors alike.
Here’s a quick glimpse of some of the best areas and hotels with onsens in Hakone:
- Yumoto – Best for first-time visitors – This is the main gateway to Hakone, and it mixes centuries-old onsen tradition with lively shopping streets and riverside charm. Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is a well-rated hotel with a gorgeous outdoor onsen.
- Miyanoshita / Sokokura – Best for classic onsen charm – These two neighboring villages take you back in time for the most authentic onsen experience! The Fujiya Hotel is a lovely property with Meiji-era architecture and luxurious hot spring baths.
- Gora – Best for a refined mountain stay – Gora is the ideal area for art lovers, and its hillside setting is the perfect spot for a relaxing onsen soak. WPÜ HOTEL HAKONE is a minimalist hotel that delivers a modern onsen experience without losing Hakone’s hot spring charm.
- Sengokuhara – Best for nature and space – The misty fields and pampas fields make this area feel like a serene countryside escape, and Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel really sums up what this district is all about.
- Motohakone – Best for lakeside scenery and views – Motohakone sits on the shores of Lake Ashi and offers an amazing view of Mount Fuji rising behind its red torii gate. Odakyu Hotel de Yama is a refined lakeside stay with excellent onsen views and a peaceful setting right by the water.
Important Tip
Multiple Hakone trips have taught me that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Hakone accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
The Best Hotels in Hakone with an Onsen
Yumoto

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Pros
- Super easy access from Tokyo via the Odakyu Line
- Excellent concentration of ryokans, onsen hotels, and bathhouses
- Lively area with shops, food spots, and sights all close by
Cons
- Can feel busy, especially on weekends and holidays
- Onsen hotels near the station often cost more
- Not as serene as other parts of Hakone
Yumoto is where most Hakone trips begin, and it’s also one of the best places to dive straight into the onsen experience. As the main gateway to Hakone, it’s the final stop on the Odakyu Line from Tokyo. If you stay here, you can go from the neon-lit streets of the capital to soaking in a hot spring bath in under two hours. Not bad, huh?
And onsens are everywhere here. Yumoto has been a hot spring town since the Edo period, and its long history of bathhouses and riverside ryokans gives the area a classic onsen-town feel, but it definitely has more energy than you might expect.
Yumoto has everything from traditional ryokan baths to large public onsens. Many of them are set along the river, so you can onsen-hop and soak your way through the town. Pretty cool, right?
This area works particularly well if you want easy access to onsens without sacrificing atmosphere. Between soaks, you can wander the shopping streets, snack on local treats, or stroll along the river. It’s more lively than serene, sure, but if your priority is onsen access and convenience, Yumoto is hard to beat.
Hakone Suimeisou – $$$


Hakone Suimeisou is a classic ryokan-style hotel located right along the river in Yumoto, and it’s an excellent choice if onsens are your top priority. The hotel uses Hakone’s natural hot spring water and offers both communal baths and private onsen options, which is ideal if you want a more relaxed and intimate soaking experience.
The rooms are traditional, and many overlook the river. But what really stands out here is how seamlessly the onsen experience fits into your stay. You can check in, change into a yukata, and be soaking within minutes!
And thanks to its central location, it’s also just a short walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, so this is a great pick for travelers who want an authentic onsen stay with easy access to public transport. Prices usually start from around 40,000 JPY ($265 USD) per night.
Hakone Onsen Ryokan Yaeikan – $$$


Just a short walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, this traditional onsen ryokan encourages you to slow right down and fully embrace onsen life. Hakone Onsen Ryokan Yaeikan stands out for its open-air baths overlooking the mountains—and even better, two of them can be reserved for private use at no extra cost.
It’s a huge plus if you’re traveling as a couple or simply prefer a quieter, more relaxed soak. Rooms are traditionally styled with tatami flooring and futon bedding, and everything feels very classically Japanese, right down to the green tea waiting when you arrive.
And the meals are another highlight, as you get multi-course dinners and delicate Japanese breakfasts served in your room. Prices usually range from around 39,000 JPY to 150,000+ JPY per night ($260–$1,000+ USD), including breakfast, dinner, and free parking.
Hotel Okada – $$

Hotel Okada is a great option if you want a proper onsen experience without the premium price tag, just a short bus ride away from Hakone-Yumoto Station. The hotel has a mix of indoor and outdoor baths fed by natural hot spring water, and there are also private onsen options available if you’d prefer a more relaxed, personal soak.
Hotel Okada also has a more social, resort-style feel than some of the smaller ryokans in Hakone, with a buffet restaurant, karaoke rooms, and shared spaces to hang out in. During the warmer months, the outdoor pool and communal footbath are a nice bonus, especially with mountain views in the background!
Prices usually range from around 27,000 JPY to 90,000 JPY per night ($180–$600 USD), with breakfast or half-board options available.
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel – $$


Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is certainly one of the most convenient onsen hotels in Hakone! It’s located just steps from Hakone-Yumoto Station. So if you want to arrive, drop your bags, and get straight into a hot spring, staying here makes that super easy to do.
The hotel offers a variety of onsen baths, including spacious indoor and outdoor options fed by Hakone’s natural hot spring water. It’s a great setup if you like having plenty of facilities on site, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
The overall vibe here leans more towards a hotel than a classic ryokan, but the onsen experience still feels very much front and centre. Prices usually range from around 25,000 JPY to 70,000 JPY per night ($165–$470 USD), depending on room type and meal plan.
K’s House Hostels – $


K’s House Hostels is a great budget-friendly option in Hakone-Yumoto that still lets you enjoy the onsen experience. While it’s technically a hostel, it’s clean, comfortable, and far more relaxed than you might expect, so it’s a popular choice with travelers who want value without sacrificing atmosphere.
One of the big perks here is access to onsen-style baths, which are pretty rare at this price point in Hakone. After a day of exploring, you can soak and unwind just like you would at a more traditional ryokan.
The communal spaces also make it easy to meet other travelers, and the overall vibe is friendly and laid-back. Prices usually start from around 8,000 JPY ($55 USD) per night, making it one of the most affordable places to stay in the area.
Japan Rail Pass!
The Easiest Way to Travel Japan By Train
If you’re planning to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is hands down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. It’s a special 7, 14, or 21 day pass for foreign visitors that gives you unlimited rides on Japan’s famous JR trains, including the high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains)!
Why We Love the JR Pass
Pro Tip: If you’re only exploring one region of Japan, consider a Regional Pass instead (like the Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu Pass). They’re cheaper and perfect for smaller trips!
Where to Get Your Pass
We personally recommend buying your pass online in advance through JRPass.com — they’re an official reseller with fast worldwide delivery and English support, making the whole process super simple. They even offer handy add-ons like pocket WIFI and meet & greet services! Still not sure if the JR Pass is right for you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Japan Rail Pass for a full breakdown of costs, inclusions, and when it’s worth it!
Miyanoshita / Sokokura


BEST FOR CLASSIC ONSEN CHARM
Pros
- Calm, elegant onsen area with a long hot spring history
- Home to some of Hakone’s most atmospheric and historic onsen hotels
- Easy access to the Hakone Tozan Railway and cable car
Cons
- Fewer shops and dining options compared to Hakone-Yumoto
- Hotels here tend to be pricier thanks to the area’s prestige
- Very quiet in the evenings
Miyanoshita and Sokokura are two neighboring villages where you can slow down and soak things in—both literally and figuratively! This area was one of Hakone’s earliest hot spring resorts, and for a long time, it was where diplomats and artists came to escape the city and spend their days enjoying long onsen baths surrounded by mountain scenery. In fact, that legacy is still very much alive today!
Onsens here feel much more refined and tranquil than in Hakone-Yumoto. Many hotels in this area place a strong emphasis on bathing, with beautifully designed indoor and outdoor onsens that invite you to take your time. The pace is slower, the atmosphere quieter, and everything feels a little more intentional.
You come to Miyanoshita and Sokokura to relax rather than sightsee. But with that said, you’re still well connected, with easy access to Gora, Owakudani, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. So if you want an onsen-focused stay with historic charm and a peaceful setting, Miyanoshita and Sokokura are an excellent choice!
The Fujiya Hotel – $$$


The Fujiya Hotel is one of Hakone’s most iconic properties, and staying here feels like stepping into a grand chapter of the area’s onsen history. Located in the mountain town of Miyanoshita, the hotel is famous for its elegant architecture and old-world charm, but it also offers excellent hot spring baths, so it’s still a true onsen stay, and not just a historic hotel.
The onsen facilities are calm and beautifully maintained, with both indoor and outdoor baths that draw on Hakone’s natural hot spring water. We think that this hotel suits travelers who want a refined, heritage-rich stay with proper onsen access, rather than a modern resort experience. Prices usually start from around 75,000 JPY ($475 USD) per night.
Hakone Nanase – $$


Hakone Nanase is a quieter, ryokan-style hotel that focuses on relaxation and onsen time above all else. Tucked away in a peaceful part of Miyanoshita, it’s a great option if you want to escape the crowds!
The onsen baths here are fantastic, and they offer a calm and intimate setting that’s just what you want after a day of exploring Hakone. The rooms are traditionally styled and comfortable, giving the stay a distinctly Japanese feel without being overly formal.
This hotel works especially well for couples or travelers who want an onsen-focused stay without the higher prices of Hakone’s most famous properties. Prices usually start from around 25,000 JPY ($165 USD) per night, with meal plans available.
Tsukinoya – $$


Tsukinoya is a small and understated ryokan that’s ideal if you’re looking for a classic onsen experience in a peaceful setting. Located in the Sengokuhara area of Hakone, the atmosphere here is chilled out, with a strong focus on hot spring bathing and quiet evenings.
The onsen facilities are simple but inviting, and it’s easy to fall into a rhythm of soaking, resting, and soaking again! The rooms are traditional, and the overall experience feels personal rather than resort-like.
Tsukinoya is a good fit for travelers who value calm surroundings and authentic onsen culture over bells and whistles. Prices usually start from around 22,000 JPY ($145 USD) per night, depending on season and room type.
Onsen Guest House Tsutaya – $$


Onsen Guest House Tsutaya is friendly, affordable, and full of charm. It’s a cozy stay with all of the essentials, and it’s easy on the wallet, too! There are dorm-style options for guests looking to save money, although private rooms are also available if you prefer.
Guests can unwind in the natural hot spring baths, including an open-air bath with mountain views! There’s also a shared kitchen for those who like to cook their own meals, which can be another good money saver.
Plus, the hotel’s location puts top sights like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Okada Museum of Art, and Chisuji Falls within easy reach. Miyanoshita Station is also just a short walk away, so getting around is super easy! Dorm beds start around 6,000 JPY per night ($40 USD), or private rooms start from about 21,000 JPY ($140 USD).
Hakone Miyanoshita Myojokan – $


Hakone Miyanoshita Myojokan is a simple, budget-friendly ryokan that still gives you access to Hakone’s onsen culture without the high price tag. Set near Miyanoshita Station, it’s a low-key place that prioritises comfort and hot spring bathing over luxury, and we think it’s a solid option if you want to keep costs down.
The onsen baths are modest but well-maintained, and the rooms are traditionally styled with tatami flooring and futon bedding. While everything is fairly basic, it feels clean and welcoming, so it works well if you want a quiet base in Miyanoshita and don’t need lots of extras.
Prices usually start from around 15,000 JPY ($100 USD) per night, making it one of the more affordable onsen stays in this part of Hakone.
Related Read: Looking for more onsen hotels as you travel? See our complete list of the best hotels with onsens in Japan, so you can have a relaxing stay no matter where you are!
Gora


BEST FOR A REFINED MOUNTAIN STAY
Pros
- Fantastic onsen hotels with mountain and valley views
- Easy access via the Hakone Tozan Railway and cable car
- Calm, refined atmosphere with excellent cultural sights nearby
Cons
- Hotels here tend to be more expensive than in Hakone-Yumoto
- Very quiet in the evenings, with limited casual dining
- Hilly streets mean a bit of walking between places
Gora is one of Hakone’s best areas if onsens are at the top of your list! It sits high in the mountains, and it’s known for its scenic views and beautifully designed onsen hotels that really encourage you to slow down. We love how the properties here really make the most of the landscape, offering baths that overlook valleys or forested hillsides. It’s the ultimate way to relax!
Despite feeling tucked away, Gora is surprisingly easy to reach thanks to the Hakone Tozan Railway and cable car. That means it’s a convenient base if you want to explore the wider Hakone area without giving up that sense of calm. This is the type of place where mornings start with a long soak, followed by a relaxed wander rather than a packed itinerary.
We think that Gora works especially well for travelers who want a more refined stay with a heavy focus on onsens. Still, between soaks, you can visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Gora Park, and relax at your hotel or ryokan. If your idea of a great Hakone stay involves mountain views, excellent baths, and minimal distractions, Gora is a fantastic choice.
Hotel Indigo – $$$


Hotel Indigo is a sleek, design-led hotel along the Haya River that offers one of the most modern onsen experiences in Hakone. While it’s a Western-style property, onsens are very much at the heart of the stay. In fact, many rooms feature private open-air baths overlooking the river or surrounding greenery.
The communal onsen facilities are beautifully done and feel calm and refined. We think that this hotel is a great fit if you love contemporary spaces but still want a proper hot spring experience. Prices usually start from around 45,000 JPY ($300 USD) per night, depending on room type and season.
Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika – $$


Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika is a sleek hotel that does a great job of balancing modern design with traditional bathing culture. Set in the quiet Gora district, the onsen facilities here are a big highlight, offering both indoor and outdoor baths that are perfect for long, relaxing soaks.
We absolutely love how spacious and airy the rooms here are. Some even include private bath options! We think that this place delivers amazing value for money, because its gorgeous design and amazing views feel worthy of a much pricier property.
Prices usually start from around 28,000 JPY ($185 USD) per night, with meal plans available.
WPÜ HOTEL HAKONE – $$


WPÜ HOTEL HAKONE is a contemporary hotel that feels fresh and minimalist, while still keeping the onsen experience front and centre. It’s a good choice if you like modern design but don’t want to miss out on hot spring bathing!
The onsen facilities are clean and thoughtfully designed, offering a relaxing space to unwind at the end of the day. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the overall vibe is sleek and uncluttered.
This hotel suits travelers who want a stylish, no-fuss base in Gora with easy access to onsens and transport. Prices typically start from around 25,000 JPY ($165 USD) per night.
Hakone Yutowa – $$


Hakone Yutowa is a welcoming onsen hotel that feels social without being loud or overwhelming. It’s actually designed around the idea of slowing down, so you’ll still get to enjoy plenty of peace and quiet! There are lots of comfortable shared spaces, but the onsens are the real standout. We also love the outdoor firepit, which is a fantastic place to chill out in the evening!
This hotel is a fantastic option for groups of friends or solo travelers looking for a social atmosphere. There are plenty of nods to traditional Japanese culture throughout the hotel, but it doesn’t feel as formal as a ryokan stay.
And it’s located close to Gora Station, so it’s also really easy to get around and explore from here. Prices usually start from around 30,000 JPY ($190 USD) per night.
Sengokuhara


BEST FOR NATURE AND SPACE
Pros
- Peaceful, countryside setting with some of Hakone’s most relaxing onsen hotels
- Spacious ryokans that feel private and unhurried
- Great mix of nature, museums, and scenic walks
Cons
- Less convenient public transport than central Hakone areas
- Fewer dining and shopping options nearby
- Very quiet in the evenings
Sengokuhara is one of the best areas in Hakone if your main goal is to just switch off and soak. It’s set in the northern part of the region, and it feels noticeably more rural than places like Yumoto or Gora. We find that its wide-open landscapes and forested hills suit long onsen sessions perfectly!
Onsen hotels here tend to be more spread out and spacious, so they tend to feel even calmer and relaxed than other areas—and that’s saying something. A lot of the properties boast onsens that overlook the rural scenery. Staying in Sengokuhara makes sense if you plan to soak, rest, and recharge your batteries.
Between baths, you can explore the Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Fields, visit nearby art museums like the Hakone Glass Forest Museum, or take a stroll through the countryside.
But staying in Sengokuhara really isn’t about having a packed itinerary. People come here to rest and unwind, so if you want a deeply relaxing onsen stay in a natural setting, this area is a fantastic choice.
Hakone Retreat Före – $$$


Hakone Retreat Före is a beautifully designed onsen retreat that feels completely immersed in nature. Tucked away in the forests of Sengokuhara, it’s definitely the kind of place you come to properly slow down. The entire experience is centered around rest and relaxation.
The onsen facilities are a major highlight. They’re sleek and spacious with fantastic views, so you really couldn’t ask for anything more! We also love how everything here feels very intentional and well-thought-out.
The rooms are modern and minimalist, which creates a calming contrast to the natural scenery outside, and lots of them have private balconies and wood stoves! Prices usually start from around 45,000 JPY ($300 USD) per night, depending on season and room type.
Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel – $$


Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel is a reliable onsen hotel set among wide-open landscapes. It has a spacious, resort-like feel and golf-course views, plus three restaurants on site. If you like a full-service stay with plenty of amenities, we think this place will suit you down to the ground.
Set in the open Sengokuhara highlands, the onsen baths here are spacious, with excellent views. While the hotel itself feels more modern than traditional, the bathing experience still feels very much in line with Hakone’s onsen culture.
All in all, we think that this is a solid choice for travelers who want comfort, space, and good onsen facilities without splurging on a luxury retreat. Prices usually start from around 25,000 JPY ($165 USD) per night, with meal plans available.
EN RESORT Re’Cove Hakone – $


EN RESORT Re’Cove Hakone is a great budget-friendly option in Sengokuhara that still gives you access to proper onsen facilities. It’s a no-frills hotel that focuses on comfort and bathing rather than luxury or design. Still, we always enjoy a traditional Japanese layout! It’s a great choice if you want an authentic, cultural stay.
The onsen baths are the standout feature here and are well-maintained, making this a good pick if soaking is high on your priority list. You can choose between a Japanese and a Western-style room when booking. All in all, we think this is a great choice if you want to enjoy Hakone’s hot springs in a peaceful setting without paying premium prices.
Prices usually start from around 18,000 JPY ($120 USD) per night, making it one of the more affordable onsen stays in the area.
Related Read: If you’re still weighing up your options, our guides to the best areas to stay in Hakone and the best ryokans in Hakone will help you find the right base for your trip.
Motohakone


BEST FOR LAKESIDE SCENERY AND VIEWS
Pros
- Beautiful lakeside setting with some of Hakone’s most scenic onsen baths
- Peaceful, romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for slowing down
- Close to Hakone Shrine and Lake Ashi cruise routes
Cons
- Very quiet in the evenings, with limited dining options
- Mount Fuji views depend heavily on the weather
- Less convenient for getting around without planning ahead
Motohakone is one of Hakone’s most atmospheric places to stay, especially if a lakeside onsen is high on your wishlist. It’s set right along Lake Ashi and backed by forested hills, so this area feels rural and scenic. Here, the onsen isn’t just part of your stay, it is the stay!
Soaking in hot spring water while looking out over the lake is very much the main event here, and onsen hotels in Motohakone really lean into their surroundings – perhaps more so than in any of the other areas we’ve talked about so far. A lot of properties have baths that overlook the water or open out toward the mountains, and on a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji! That’s very much weather-dependent, though, so we can’t make any promises.
The days here are slow and peaceful. We especially loved starting the day here with cups of green tea as we watched the mist drift across the lake, although kaiseki meals and onsen soaks in the evening were also very special.
Between baths, you can wander over to Hakone Shrine, stroll parts of the old Tokaido Road, or even take a gentle cruise across the lake. Motohakone isn’t the place for nightlife or hopping between restaurants, but if you’re craving scenery and serenity, it’s one of Hakone’s most rewarding areas to stay in.
The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko – $$$


The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko is one of the most scenic onsen hotels in Hakone. It’s set right on the shores of Lake Ashi and surrounded by forest. The setting alone is reason enough to stay here, and the onsen experience really makes the most of it!
The hot spring baths overlook the lake and surrounding greenery, creating a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere that’s perfect for long, quiet soaks. The hotel itself feels modern and spacious rather than traditional, so we think that this is a great choice if you prefer a more resort-style stay.
Prices usually start from around 45,000 JPY ($300 USD) per night, depending on season and room type.
Odakyu Hotel de Yama – $$


Odakyu Hotel de Yama is a classic lakeside hotel with one of the best onsen views in Hakone. Sitting right by Lake Ashi, it feels refined, with a relaxing color palette and lush greenery all around. The service here is impeccable, so if you want to feel welcomed and well looked after, this is a great place to stay.
The outdoor baths are the highlight here, with views over the lake that are especially beautiful in the early morning or at sunset. We also like the fact that there’s a free shuttle bus into town, so you can enjoy the secluded setting while still being able to explore easily! Prices usually start from around 40,000 JPY ($250 USD) per night.
Hotel Green Plaza Hakone- $$
Hotel Green Plaza Hakone is a well-known onsen hotel thanks to its incredible Mount Fuji views! Seriously, if you’re staying here on a clear day, the view from the onsen alone makes it worth it—and that’s before we even get started on the facilities.
The onsens are lovely, and there are beautiful gardens as well, with lovely seasonal flowers. All stays include a generous buffet breakfast and dinner with tons of delicious options. There’s also live piano music in the lobby, and the location close to the Hakone ropeway station makes it super easy to get up there before the crowds arrive – win!
Prices usually start from around 30,000 JPY ($190 USD) per night, with free cancellation up to a week before your stay.
Related Read: If Mount Fuji views are high on your wishlist, don’t miss our guide to the best Mt Fuji viewpoints in Japan here for the most scenic places to see it.
Top Activities to do in Hakone


Now that you’ve picked out your ideal area and perfect onsen hotel to stay in, you can plan the rest of your itinerary! Hakone is full of fun activities, whether you’re taking in world-class views, enjoying some local cuisine, hiking, or exploring the town. Here are a few of our favorite things we did in Hakone that you can’t miss!
- Go on a sightseeing tour – Getting around Hakone can be a bit tricky if you don’t have a car, and this organized tour made it easy to see the top sights! It’s totally customizable, so you can pick out your top 3-4 sights and the guide will take care of the logistics for you.
- Get great views of Mt Fuji – For our favorite views of the iconic mountain, head to the Chureito Pagoda! This pagoda is historic and beautiful, and perfectly frames Mt Fuji in the distance. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Hakone, but it’s worth the journey!
- Hike Hakone Hachiri – This guided hiking tour took us along a 400-year-old road that was once part of the Old Tokaido Highway. Going with a guide was so meaningful because there was history and hidden tea houses that we would have missed!
- Visit the Hakone Shrine – The Hakone Shrine is a famous (and massive) Torii Gate that sits on the shore of Lake Ashi. It was actually built on a mountain top and moved here centuries ago, so it holds a lot of cultural significance. Plus, it’s stunning!
- Join a tea ceremony – Looking for an authentic way to experience Hakone’s culture? This tea ceremony is a centuries-old tradition, complete with warm green tea and Japanese sweets. It was simply unique and delicious!
Related Read: Looking for more fun activities? See our top things to do in Hakone blog for our complete list!
Renting a Car in Japan

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
Ready to hit the road? Discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Airalo e-sim
Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL10”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Thanks for reading!

Staying at a hotel with an onsen is one of the best ways to experience Hakone, and with so many great options, it’s easy to find a stay that suits your style. From classic ryokans to modern hotels and quiet nature retreats, Hakone offers a relaxing escape just a short trip from Tokyo—making it one of Japan’s most popular onsen destinations.
If you’re still exploring your options, be sure to check out all of our Hakone blogs here! We love helping fellow travelers plan unforgettable adventures—whether it’s your first visit to Japan or your tenth. Or scroll on for a few related reads and start mapping out your perfect getaway right now!
The 15 Best Ryokans Near Mt Fuji
16 Best Things to do in Mt Fuji if You’re Limited on Time!
The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Japan with confidence.
Book Hotels
With Booking.com
