The 15 Best Ryokans in Gora

Curious about the best ryokans in Gora? Look no further!

Perched high in the mountains, Gora feels noticeably different from Hakone’s lower towns. The air is cooler, and the views are absolutely incredible, not to mention the hot springs, which are just a normal part of daily life here! 

It didn’t take long for us to fall in love with Gora’s charm. And trust us, no visit is complete without a night (or two) in a ryokan. 

If you’re looking to stay in a ryokan but aren’t sure where to start, read on for a roundup of our favorites in the area! 

Where to Find the Best Ryokans in Gora

Gora has been welcoming onsen travelers since the early 20th century. Built around the Hakone Tozan Railway and later connected by cable car and ropeway, Gora grew into a hilltop retreat known for its hot springs and stunning mountain views. 

Staying in a ryokan here places you right at the center of Hakone’s onsen culture. If you’re new to Japanese culture, “ryokans” are traditional inns with tatami-matted rooms, multi-course kaiseki dinners, and (of course) natural hot spring onsens. 

If you’re travelling around Gora, you’ll be pleased to learn that the area offers a range of ryokan experiences; some just a few steps from the station, others nestled high up in the hills. 

Here’s a quick look at some of our favorite spots: 

• Gora Station – Best for first-time travelers – Staying near Gora Station offers the perfect balance of accessibility and atmosphere. One of the most popular ryokans, Setsugetsuka, stands out for its private open-air onsens and direct access to the station.

• Gora Park –Best for a quiet retreat – Located just uphill from Gora Station, this area is home to one of Hakone’s oldest Western-style parks. Here, Bettei Koyoi offers a peaceful adults-only atmosphere with modern Japanese design and private onsens.

• Sounzan Station – Best for ropeway access – Sounzan Station is slightly removed from the crowds but still connected via the Hakone Ropeway, making it a great choice for travelers looking for peace without sacrificing access. One of our favorite spots, Golden Pavilion (金閣莊), is known for its calm setting, traditional rooms, and good access to the ropeway.

• Upper Hillside – Best for scenic views and luxury vibes – Accessible by cable car, this area is dotted with upscale ryokans and panoramic views. If you’re up for an adventure, Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika provides spacious rooms, resort-style amenities, and mountain-facing onsens.

The Best Ryokans in Gora

Gora Station

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME TRAVELERS

Pros

• Excellent access via the Hakone Tozan Railway
• Easy connections to the cable car and ropeway
• Walkable to museums, restaurants, and onsens
• Good balance of nature and convenience

Cons

• Can feel busy during peak seasons
• Fewer secluded properties than hillside areas
• Some ryokans book out well in advance

Gora Station sits at the heart of Gora and serves as one of Hakone’s most important transport hubs. As the final stop on the Hakone Tozan Railway, it connects visitors arriving from Hakone-Yumoto with the higher elevations of the region via the Hakone Cable Car and Ropeway. This strategic location makes Gora Station an excellent base for travelers looking to explore multiple sights within a very short timeframe.

The area is especially well-suited for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or anyone navigating Hakone without a car. You’ll find all the essentials like cafés, convenience stores, and souvenir shops nearby, along with easy transfers to key destinations like Owakudani’s volcanic valley and the pirate ships of Lake Ashi. Cultural highlights such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum and historic Gora Park are also within walking distance, offering art, nature, and panoramic views in equal measure.

Even though it’s a busy transit point, the area around Gora Station still feels like a mountain escape. Ryokans near the station offer the best of both worlds: authentic Japanese hospitality paired with modern amenities and unbeatable convenience. And for a lot of travelers, it’s the ideal starting point for a Hakone adventure.

Hakone Gora KARAKU – $$$

Hakone Gora KARAKU offers a more elevated take on the ryokan experience, and the best part about it is that it’s located just a short walk from Gora Station. 

This property is all about quiet comfort. Rooms are spacious (which isn’t always a given in Hakone), and you can expect all the hallmark features of a modern ryokan like tatami flooring, minimalist decor, and private onsens with hillside views. 

Its location also allows easy access to the Hakone Tozan Railway, cable car, and nearby attractions while still providing a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.

Rooms typically range around 77,000 to 110,000+ JPY per night for standard plans (~$550–$780+ USD), with higher rates for rooms with meals included or premium views.

Gora Kansuiro – $$$

One of Gora’s most historic ryokans, Gora Kansuiro, has been welcoming guests for generations and remains a classic choice near the station. 

Rooms feature tatami floors, sliding shoji doors, and garden or mountain views, creating a setting that instantly puts you at ease. The onsens draw from local hot spring sources, offering a restorative soak after exploring the area. 

The location also couldn’t be more convenient: Gora Park, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the Hakone Museum of Art are all just a short walk away. For a stay that combines comfort, tradition, and easy access to everything Gora has to offer, Gora Kansuiro is hard to beat.

Expect standard rooms with meals and onsen access to start around 48,000 to 210,000 JPY per night ($320 to $1,400 USD), with garden or larger rooms costing a bit more during peak times.

Setsugetsuka – $$

Just steps from Gora Station,Setsugetsuka is a favorite for travelers who want hot spring luxury without the hassle. Most rooms come with private onsens, and if it doesn’t, reserving a private onsen is super easy. 

The vibe is also noticeably relaxed and friendly, with Japanese-Western rooms that are great for couples or small groups. You’ll also find seasonal, locally inspired meals served on-site, perfect after a day of exploring. 

With unbeatable access to trains, cable cars, and nearby sights, Setsugetsuka strikes a rare balance: a peaceful onsen retreat with all the convenience of a central location. It’s especially popular during autumn and winter, so make sure to book early as this spot fills up fast!

Typical rates fall in the ballpark of 40,000 to 65,000+ JPY per night ($320 to $520+ USD), depending on whether your room includes a private onsen or not. 

WPÜ HOTEL HAKONE – $

If you’re looking for a clean, stylish, and affordable place to stay, WPÜ HOTEL HAKONE hits the mark. This modern hotel skips the frills of a traditional ryokan but keeps the essentials: comfortable beds, minimalist design, and access to relaxing onsens. Best of all, it’s just a short walk to Gora Station!

Rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed, making it a smart choice for solo travelers, couples, or anyone planning to spend their days out exploring. You’re just minutes from cable cars, museums, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum, so getting around is super easy. It’s low on fuss, high on convenience, and perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Gora without blowing their entire travel budget.

Stays here often start at around 14,000 to 18,000+ JPY per night ($110 to $140+ USD), making it one of the best-value options in the area with onsen access. 

Gora Park

BEST FOR A QUIET RETREAT  

Pros 

• Calm atmosphere near landscaped gardens
• Short walk to museums and cafés
• Still accessible on foot from Gora Station
• Fewer crowds than the station area

Cons 

• Slight uphill walks in places
• Fewer dining options late at night
• Limited nightlife nearby

The Gora Park area offers a quieter, more relaxed side of Gora, perfect for travelers who prefer peaceful walks, cultural gems, and early evenings over busy tourist crowds. Centered around the beautifully maintained Hakone Gora Park, this neighborhood feels a world away from the bustle around the station, even though it’s just a short uphill walk away.

The park itself is a highlight: a French-style garden with fountains, greenhouses, and panoramic views, especially stunning during autumn and cherry blossom season. Just steps away is the Hakone Museum of Art, which only adds to the area’s charm.

Staying in this area gives you a much more relaxed rhythm to your day. Go for a walk, and you’ll find ryokans, garden paths, and traditional tea houses tucked into peaceful side streets – the perfect place to recharge between sightseeing.

This part of Gora is a great match for couples, solo travelers, or anyone crafting a more low-key itinerary. While still well-connected to transit and major sights, the Gora Park area offers a softer, more scenic stay. It’s ideal if you want central access to Hakone’s top attractions with a quiet base to come home to each evening and truly unwind.

Suiun – $$$

Suiun brings a modern twist to the traditional ryokan, perfect for travelers looking for something peaceful and polished. 

Most rooms come with their own open-air onsen, but there are also shared onsens if you want a change of scenery. The general atmosphere leans quiet and cozy, with soft lighting, natural materials, and clean design. Guests also often rave about the breakfast, which is always fresh and always seasonal. 

With its low-key location near the park, Suiun is perfect for slow strolls and quiet evenings. So if you’re after a more refined escape with hot springs and high-end touches, this is the spot.

Rooms typically range from around 65,000 to 105,000 JPY per night ($450 to $750 USD), depending on room type, season, and whether meals are included.

Gora Kadan – $$$

Relax at one of the most luxurious ryokans in Gora: Gora Kadan. Offering villa-style ryokans, you can enjoy the peaceful tranquility of a ryokan, complete with an onsen bath and top-rated meals.

These rooms are more spacious than most, with upmarket amenities that will make you never want to leave the property. Many rooms feature open-air baths, or you can enjoy the public baths, take advantage of the spa and massages, and enjoy mountain views!

Situated close to Gora Park, you’re still very close to Gora Station and the Open-Air Museum.

Prices for a one-night stay start around 115,000 JPY ($750 USD). So while it’s a bit of a splurge, it’s one of the highest-end stays you can find here.

Ryokan Kiritani Hakoneso – $$

Ryokan Kiritani Hakoneso is a friendly, approachable ryokan known for its warm hospitality and convenient location just a short walk from Gora Park. It’s a great choice for travelers who want an authentic Japanese stay without the high price tag. The property features several onsens, including private, reservable options, ideal for a quiet soak after a day of sightseeing.

Rooms are traditional, with tatami flooring, sliding doors, and futon bedding. While not overly luxurious, the atmosphere is cozy and calm, making it easy to relax. With museums, gardens, and cable car access all nearby, it’s a practical, well-rounded base for enjoying Gora at your own pace.

Standard rooms typically range from 30,000 to 48,000 JPY per night ($200 to $320 USD), depending on the season and whether meals are included. 

Bettei Koyoi – $$

Bettei Koyoi is an adults-only ryokan designed for calm, quiet escapes. With only a handful of rooms, it offers a more personalized, boutique experience that’s hard to find in busier spots. 

Here, you can soak in private or shared onsens surrounded by greenery, then enjoy beautifully crafted dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients. The small scale and serene setting make it especially popular with couples and solo travelers looking to slow down and recharge.

The best part about Bettei Koyoi is that it’s located near cultural spots but far from the crowds, making it the ideal base for peaceful exploration without sacrificing convenience.

Nightly rates for this boutique, adults-only ryokan typically range from 30,000 to 55,000 JPY per night (~$240 to $ 430 USD), though pricing can vary by season. 

Merveille Hakone Gora – $

If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly base in Gora, Merveille Hakone Gora fits the bill. Just a short walk from Gora Park, museums, and scenic trails, it’s ideal for travelers who plan to spend their days out and about.

Rooms are clean, functional, and comfortable. Nothing fancy, but everything you need. The on-site onsen offers a relaxing way to wrap up a day of sightseeing, with mineral-rich onsens to ease your tired legs.  

With its relaxed vibe, prime location, and wallet-friendly rates, Merveille Hakone Gora is a smart pick for travelers who want to get the most out of Hakone without the luxury price tag.

This budget‑friendly option often has rooms from around 19,800 to 28,000+ JPY per night (~$150 to $210+ USD), depending on whether or not you want to include breakfast and/or dinner. 

Sounzan Station

BEST FOR ROPEWAY ACCESS

Pros 

• Quick access to the Hakone Ropeway
• Fewer crowds than central Gora
• Scenic, elevated setting

Cons

• Fewer dining options on foot
• Less lively nightlife
• Some ryokans are up steep paths

Sounzan Station is best described as a hidden hillside hub that’s peaceful, scenic, and conveniently located near the Hakone Ropeway. It sits above the buzz of central Gora, offering quick access to the gondola rides over Owakudani’s volcanic valley and, on clear days, views of Mount Fuji.

But there’s more to Sounzan than its ropeway convenience. This area is relatively quiet, uncrowded, and perfect for travelers who want nature (not nightlife). That’s why it’s a favorite among photographers, hikers, and anyone looking for a slower, more immersive Hakone experience. 

Before booking in this area, it’s important to know that you won’t find a ton of restaurants or shops here, so it’s best-suited to those who don’t mind dining at their ryokan or bringing snacks up the hill. What you will find, though, are peaceful stays with private onsens, forest views, and that unplugged feeling that makes Hakone so special.

It’s a bit of a climb, but the sense of calm (and of course, the scenery) at the top makes Sounzan well worth the trek. 

Gen Hakone Gora – $$$

Gen Hakone Gora is everything you’d want from a luxury Hakone stay: clean, modern rooms, tons of natural light, and big mountain views that remind you why you came to Hakone in the first place. Located just a 5-minute drive from the Hakone Open-Air Museum, you’re still close to top sights while enjoying a secluded stay.

If you book a room with a private onsen (highly recommended), you can expect a deeply relaxing experience with fantastic views over Hakone. The food here is also on point, with Kaiseki-style meals served in-room or in the dining area. 

You can typically expect to pay around 55,000 to 90,000+ JPY per night at this spot (roughly $380 to $620+ USD), depending on the season and whether your room includes a private onsen. It is a splurge, but one that delivers serious views and onsen bliss.  

Shirayunoyado Yamadaya Hakone Gora – $$

For travelers looking for a traditional Hakone stay that’s easy on the wallet, Shirayunoyado Yamadaya Hakone Gora is a wonderful find. Located just a four-minute walk from Sounzan Station, it offers easy access to Gora’s hot springs, the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the Owakudani volcanic valley, all just a short ride away.

This ryokan features five soothing onsen baths, including indoor, outdoor, and private options (available for a small fee). After a relaxing soak, guests can enjoy in-room Japanese breakfasts and dinners prepared with care, making it feel like a true home-away-from-home experience.

Rooms are simple but comfortable, with tatami flooring, futon beds, and mountain views with thoughtful touches like green tea, yukata robes, and free Wi-Fi. Prices typically range from 24,000 to 67,500 JPY per night ($160–$450 USD), including meals.

Gran Terrace Le Lien Hakone – $$ 

Gran Terrace Le Lien Hakone puts a fresh spin on the traditional ryokan, blending Japan’s timeless traditions with boutique-style comfort. Expect minimalist-style rooms with cozy futons on tatami floors, perfect for travelers looking for more modern comforts without the luxury price tag. 

The property’s terrace is a lovely spot to sip your morning coffee or wind down with tea while taking in the peaceful forest views. It’s a short drive from both the ropeway and Gora Station, making it ideal for a more relaxed, secluded stay.

Rates usually fall between 28,000 and 45,000 JPY per night (around $200 to $310 USD), solid value considering the location. 

Golden Pavilion (金閣莊) – $$

Golden Pavilion (金閣莊) is a standout choice for travelers craving a truly traditional experience. The rooms feel like you’re stepping back in time to classic Japan: tatami mats, sliding shoji, and views that feel like you’re in a postcard. It’s quiet, calming, and the warm hospitality makes it all feel incredibly personal.

This ryokan is especially magical in spring and autumn, watching the leaves change color. Despite the incline to reach some parts of the property, the payoff is an immersive stay that feels authentic and deeply relaxing. 

This ryokan is about a 15-minute walk from Gora Park, so it’s far enough out of the way to feel relaxed but still accessible.

Nightly rates generally sit between 35,000 and 60,000 JPY (~$240–$420 USD), depending on the room, meal choices, and season. 

Upper Hillside

BEST FOR SCENIC VIEWS AND LUXURY VIBES

Pros 

• Fantastic views over Hakone
• Upscale ryokan options

Cons

• Higher price points
• Limited nearby dining without a short taxi or cable ride
• Steeper terrain around some inns

The Upper Hillside is where Gora trades convenience for calm, and it does it with serious style. Located high above the town’s transit lines and crowds, this area feels like a private retreat in the clouds. It’s quiet, elevated, and home to some of the most scenic and refined ryokans in all of Hakone. 

This area is best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful place to recharge after a full day taking in all of Hakone’s natural highlights. While reaching shops and restaurants might involve a short cable car ride or taxi, the setting more than makes up for the extra effort. 

Evenings here are pure magic. Picture soaking in your own open-air onsen as the sun sets, then sitting down to a multi-course kaiseki dinner that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful. Mornings also have their own kind of calm, think tea on the terrace with Mt. Fuji peeking through in the distance. 

If you appreciate stillness, scenery, and a touch of luxury, Upper Hillside offers a distinctly elevated take on the Gora experience.

Ajisai Onsen Ryokan – $$$

High above the town, Ajisai Onsen Ryokan delivers serene luxury with panoramic views and a design that feels both elevated and grounded. Rooms are spacious, minimalist, and made for relaxation, with many offering private open-air onsens that overlook the mountains. The shared onsen also feels like a hidden retreat among the trees, offering deep, calm onsens that melt away any trace of travel stress.

Dining here is just as special. Seasonal kaiseki dinners highlight local ingredients with dishes that are simply stunning. 

Even though it’s located in the hills, it’s still just a 10-minute walk to Gora Station.

Rates in this area are a bit higher on average, with rooms for this particular ryokan ranging from 75,000 to 120,000+ JPY per night (~$520 to $830+ USD). 

Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika – $$

If you’re after comfort without sacrificing style, Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika delivers. The vibe is more resort than traditional ryokan with spacious rooms and wide-open views. Many rooms overlook the hills, and both indoor and outdoor onsens make it easy to unwind, rain or shine.

This particular spot is a great pick for families, couples, or small groups, with flexible room options and easy access to the cable car and ropeway just down the slope. Meals are generous and comforting, with both Japanese and Western choices that make everyone feel at home. 

Rates usually land between 40,000 and 75,000 JPY per night (roughly $280 to $520 USD), depending on the season and meal plan. 

Top Activities to do in Hakone

If you can manage to pull yourself away from the onsen for a bit, there is plenty to do in Hakone! Gora is one of the best areas to base yourself in, as it’s centrally located and stunning, so you won’t have to go far to enjoy views and activities. Here are a few of our favoite things we did in Hakone!

• Visit the Hakone Open Air Museum – Gora is famous for its artistic and natural vibe, so the Hakone Open Air Museum blends both elements perfectly! This outdoor art museum is stunning, home to incredible sculptures, botanicals, and even a few of Picasso’s pieces. It’s truly a gem!

• 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.

• 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!

• 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!

• 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!

Thanks for reading!

Exploring Gora is a highlight of any Hakone itinerary, but staying in a ryokan here takes it to a whole new level. There’s just something so special about ending your day with a hot spring bath and waking up to some of the most incredible mountain views. 

If you remember anything from this article, make it this: book as early as possible. The best spots fill up fast, especially during autumn and spring. And if you’re already looking to book a trip through Hakone (or beyond!), be sure to check out our other Japan travel guides so you don’t miss a thing!

Where to Stay in Hakone, Japan: 6 Best Areas and Hotels

The 15 Best Ryokans in Kyoto with an Onsen

Our 20 Favorite Things We Did in Hakone, Japan