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

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Hakone, Japan? Well, you’ve come to the right place! 

While Hakone isn’t huge, it’s surprisingly spread out, so choosing the right place to stay can make a big difference to your trip. In this blog, we’ll give you a rundown on the top 6 areas in Hakone to stay in. Each one has its own vibe, whether you’re after a central base, a lakeside escape, or something more remote. It’s also worth noting that hotels in Hakone can be a little limited compared to bigger cities, and places book up fast, so it’s worth locking your stay in early.

Ready to find your perfect stay? Let’s go! 

Where To Stay In Hakone Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Hakone

Hakone is pretty spread out, and getting around is actually part of the adventure! Its major attractions are dispersed over the mountainous and volcanic landscape, but everything is well-connected by scenic transport routes. There are buses, but you can also use the Tozan Railway and even an aerial cable car to get around! 

You can either opt for a secluded nature stay or base yourself in one of Hakone’s charming villages and enjoy a few more amenities. There are a lot of vacation homes in the area, but hotels are a bit more limited, and all accommodations book up fast. Thanks to its onsens, lakes, and Mt Fuji views, Hakone is super popular, so once you find a stay you like, we recommend that you lock it in to avoid missing out.

• Yumoto – Best for first-time visitors – This cute town boasts lots of shops and restaurants, and it’s the most convenient place to stay in Hakone, since it’s where the main train station is. Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is a well-located mid-range option right near the station.

• Gora – Best for scenic stays – Not only is Gora central and well-connected by the Tozan Railway and the cable car, but it’s also close to the lake and surrounded by mountains. Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora is a sleek property with a fantastic onsen spa. 

• Miyanoshita – Best for a traditional experience – This is a quieter and more rural area with a small-town charm, so it’s ideal if you want a glimpse of traditional local life. Hakone Nanase offers a serene stay with in-room onsens.

• Motohakone – Best for peaceful escapes – Tucked along Lake Ashi, this is a bit less accessible than other parts of Hakone, which is ideal if you’re seeking a quieter escape. Hakone Hotel is a comfortable lakeside property that looks right out on the water.

• Tōgendai Port Area – Best for lake activities and views – This area is close to the famous pirate ships on Port Ashi, and it makes a great base for lake activities. Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori is a stunning property with a gorgeous onsen and sauna, and beautiful lake views.

• Sengokuhara – Best for secluded nature retreats – A peaceful area that’s a bit out of the way and is connected to the rest of Hakone by bus. It’s an ideal choice if you want a secluded getaway! Hakone Retreat Före is an ultra-relaxing resort tucked away in the trees.

Where to Stay in Hakone

Yumoto

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Extremely convenient for transport and exploring Hakone
• Plenty of food and shopping options
• Charming, historic atmosphere

Cons

• Less natural scenery than other areas in Hakone
• More touristy than other areas

Yumoto is Hakone’s main gateway and easily the most convenient place to stay, especially if it’s your first time visiting the area. The town is home to Hakone-Yumoto Station, the main stop on the Odakyu Line from Tokyo, which makes getting in and out super easy. From here, it’s a breeze to hop on the Hakone Tozan Railway or buses to explore the rest of the region.

But convenience isn’t Yumoto’s only draw. The area itself is a charming hot spring town with a mix of traditional ryokans, local shops, and casual restaurants lining the river. Yumoto has been a hot spring destination for centuries, and many of the hotels here have their own onsen baths. Some even offer views of the surrounding forested hills, so make sure to check out our hotel recommendations below!

You’ll find more life and activity in Yumoto than in other parts of Hakone, but we still find it a relaxing place to stay. If you want to dip into the Hakone experience without needing a rental car or lengthy transfers, Yumoto is your best bet.

Aura Tachibana – $$$

We love Aura Tachibana because it offers the quintessential Japanese ryokan experience, but it’s very sleek and modern at the same time. It’s just a short walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, so exploring the area is an absolute breeze. But the best thing about staying here is definitely the beautiful indoor and outdoor onsens, many of which offer mountains and forest views. 

Another great thing about staying in a ryokan is the chance to experience a multi-course kaiseki dinner. This is a must-do while in Japan, so take advantage! Rates for this luxury ryokan typically cost around 50,000 JPY ($350 USD) per night.

Yumoto Fujiya Hotel – $$

Just steps from the station, Yumoto Fujiya Hotel is one of the most convenient stays in Hakone. It offers spacious rooms and a serene outdoor onsen for guests to use. The rooms have a clean, uncluttered, and quintessentially Japanese style. Breakfast is also included each morning, and there are four dining options on site for lunch or dinner!

This hotel is an excellent choice for families or groups visiting Hakone, as you can book rooms that sleep up to five people. Rooms here usually cost between 28,000–43,000 JPY ($200 and $300 USD) per night.

Hakonenomori Okada – $

For a more affordable onsen stay in Yumoto, Hakonenomori Okada is a solid pick. It’s tucked a little higher up the hill, offering peaceful views and a more nature-focused feel, but it’s still just a 10-minute shuttle ride from the station.

The hotel has multiple indoor and outdoor baths, including access to a nearby hot spring complex that’s shared with a few other properties. The rooms are simple and clean, with Japanese or Western-style options available. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want to soak in the onsen experience.

Prices typically range from 17,000–35,000 JPY ($120 to $250 USD) per night.

Gora 

BEST FOR SCENIC STAYS

Pros

• Lots of hot springs, museums, and art to explore
• Well-connected by public transport 
• Lots of ryokans and upscale hotels with great views

Cons 

• Some steep hills and stairs in the area
• Fewer shops and restaurants than Yumoto

Gora is one of the most popular places to stay in Hakone thanks to its natural beauty and easy access to public transport. It’s a scenic hillside area that’s well connected by the Hakone Tozan Railway and the cable car line, which makes it a great base for exploring the rest of the region.

Gora is also known for its traditional ryokans and modern hotels with onsen baths, so if soaking in hot springs is a top priority, this is a fantastic pick.

The area has a more refined, peaceful feel compared to Yumoto, and we think it’s ideal for couples on a romantic trip. The beautiful mountain setting is hard to beat, and I swear the air just feels cleaner here!

Gora also boasts plenty to do. The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-see. It’s a huge outdoor sculpture park with lots of quirky installations. You’ll also be close to Gora Park and the Pola Museum of Art.

There’s not a ton here in the way of restaurants, but we still found some great places to eat dotted around, including Hakone Tent Bar and Gora Brewery & Grill. The latter makes great drinks, just FYI! 

Hakone Honbako – $$$ 

Hakone Honbako is a beautifully designed boutique hotel with a serene, spa-like vibe. This hotel is a must-stay for bookworms because each room is themed around a different literary genre, and there’s a gorgeous library on site with floor-to-ceiling shelves and windows.

There’s a communal onsen for guests on site, but lots of the rooms also boast deep soaking tubs on their balconies so that you can soak in private if you prefer. The atmosphere here is quiet and calming, so we think it’s perfect for couples on a romantic trip to Hakone.

Rooms here cost between 60,000 and 110,000 JPY ($450 and $750 USD) per night. This hotel books up very fast, so secure your stay ASAP!

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora by IHG – $$

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora by IHG is a fantastic mid-range option in Gora. It’s located right on the river and features sleek rooms with a mix of traditional Japanese touches and contemporary design. Most rooms come with their own private onsen bath on the balcony, which is a major bonus if you want a luxe onsen experience without leaving your room.

The hotel also has a fantastic restaurant, which is handy in Gora, where there are fewer dining options around, as well as a cozy bar and a wellness-focused gym and spa. It’s also within walking distance of Gora Station and close to top sights like the Open-Air Museum and Gora Park.

Seriously, what’s not to love? Prices typically range from 43,000–58,000 JPY ($300–$400 USD) per night.

Yutorelo-an – $ 

Yutorelo-an is a great budget-friendly pick in Gora that offers a traditional ryokan experience. It has spacious tatami rooms with futons, a peaceful communal onsen, and a free shuttle from Gora Station, which is super handy since the property is up a hill.

We love the Japanese breakfast and kaiseki-style dinners, which you can add to your booking. It’s definitely worth doing so because kaiseki is a must-do Japanese cultural experience.

The vibe here is relaxed and a bit old-school, but it’s well-maintained and great value for the price. It’s a good option if you want to enjoy a quintessentially Japanese stay in beautiful Gora! Rooms here cost between 20,000–3,000 JPY ($130–$300 USD) per night.

Related Read: Still don’t see a hotel that catches your eye? Our guide on the best ryokans in Gora has stunning hillside retreats with private onsens you HAVE to see!

Miyanoshita

BEST FOR A TRADITIONAL STAY

Pros 

• Beautiful scenery and a tranquil atmosphere
• Rich in history
• Nostalgic feel 

Cons 

• Fewer dining and shopping options
• More remote and less tourist-oriented than other areas

Miyanoshita is one of Hakone’s most historic and atmospheric areas. It’s a charming village set into forested hillsides, so it really takes you back to old Japan! We love exploring its narrow streets and admiring its traditional buildings.

This village is actually where Hakone’s tourism industry really began. In fact, the Fujiya Hotel (which we’ll talk more about below) is so iconic that it has become an attraction in its own right. Yet Miyanoshita is quieter than Gora or Yumoto, so it’s ideal for those looking for a slower pace and a more local feel. 

We like staying here because it means being surrounded by nature, with lots of walking trails to explore. Despite its secluded feel, it’s still on the Tozan Railway, so it’s still relatively easy to get around Hakone on public transport.

We think that this area is great for families and couples who want to escape the crowds and unwind. It’s also a great pick for those who have been to Hakone before and are looking to discover a more nostalgic side of the region. Just keep in mind that it’s a bit more spread out and hilly, so comfy walking shoes are a must!

Fujiya Hotel – $$$

The Fujiya Hotel is a true Hakone legend. It opened in 1878, and everyone from John Lennon to Japanese royalty has stayed here. Talk about a star-studded guest list! 

But although this hotel is well over a century old, it has been lovingly restored and boasts modern amenities like a hot spring indoor pool, an indulgent spa, and some fantastic dining options on site. This is the kind of place where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in the best possible way.

It’s romantic, peaceful, and absolutely soaked in history. Twin or double rooms here typically cost 80,000 JPY ($555 USD) per night.

Hakone Nanase – $$

Hakone Nanase is a peaceful retreat nestled in the mountains. It offers lovely views and relaxing vibes all around, and it’s just an 8-minute walk from Kowakudani Station. There’s even a free shuttle if you don’t feel like walking! But perhaps my favorite thing about this hotel is the in-room onsen tubs, although there’s also a large communal one on site.

I also love the fact that breakfast AND dinner are included in your stay. Not only does that represent amazing value for money, but it’s super convenient because there aren’t many other dining options in Miyanoshita.

And dinner is served in the traditional kaiseki style, which means you get seasonal ingredients and an authentic cultural experience all rolled into one! Rooms here cost between 50,000–85,000 JPY ($350 and $600 USD) per night.

Hakone Miyanoshita Myojokan – $

We love Hakone Miyanoshita Myojokan because it’s wallet-friendly and it offers a very authentic Japanese stay. It’s an adults-only ryokan that’s tucked away on a quiet street, so it offers a peaceful stay in this mountainous area. The rooms feature traditional tatami flooring and sliding doors, as well as thoughtful extras like chocolates and yukata robes.

This place is traditional but clean and well-maintained. There’s a soothing hot spring bath and hot tub on site, which is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. It’s a 14-minute walk from Kowakudani Station, so you can get to other areas of Hakone with ease. Rooms here typically cost around 26,000 JPY ($180 USD) per night.000 JPY) per night.

Related Read: If a relaxing onsen is a must for your stay, our guide to the top onsen hotels in Hakone has even more options in and outside the city!

Motohakone

BEST FOR PEACEFUL ESCAPES

Pros

• Stunning lake and Mt. Fuji views
• Close to Hakone Shrine, sightseeing cruises, and historical sites

Cons

• Less convenient for public transport
• Lake view hotels can be pricey

Motohakone is one of the most scenic places to stay in Hakone. It’s nestled right along the southern shores of Lake Ashi, and offers postcard-perfect lake views with Mt. Fuji in the background, so if you’re looking for beauty, you’ll definitely find it here. 

We also like this area because it offers easy access to lots of iconic spots, such as the Hakone Shrine, which is beloved for its picture-perfect red torii gate right by the water, and the Edo-period Hakone checkpoint. If you’re after nature, serenity, and views that belong on a travel brochure, this area is hard to beat!

However, it’s not the most convenient area transport-wise. It’s further from the railway, so you’ll need to use buses if you want to explore more of Hakone. However, the tradeoff is total immersion in Hakone’s natural beauty and history.

It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak in an onsen while gazing out at the lake! So if you’ve already seen a lot of what Hakone has to offer or just want a quiet and peaceful escape, Motohakone might just be exactly what you’re looking for.

Hotel Shikinoyakata Hakone Ashinoko – $$$

Hotel Shikinoyakata Hakone Ashinoko offers a boutique ryokan experience with incredible lake views and a serene, secluded setting. The rooms blend traditional Japanese style with modern comfort, and most include private open-air baths with views of Lake Ashi. The property is adults-only, so it’s ideal for a quiet and restful stay. 

Breakfast and a kaiseki dinner are both included with your stay, which is ideal in an area like Motohakone, where there are fewer restaurants around. The hotel also offers indoor and outdoor onsen baths, and the service couldn’t be friendlier. Nightly rates average around 98,000 JPY ($685 USD) for this luxurious hotel.

Hakone Hotel – $$

Perched right on the lake’s edge, Hakone Hotel is a modern but relaxed hotel with panoramic views of Lake Ashi and, on clear days, Mt. Fuji. It offers scenic views and a comfortable stay, without breaking the bank. 

The hotel features spacious Western-style rooms, a lakeside terrace, and a French-Japanese fusion restaurant on site. It definitely has a resort vibe, and Motohakone’s fun pirate cruises and sightseeing boats dock just steps away from the property. Rooms here cost between 43,000–68,000 JPY ($300 and $475 USD) per night, depending on the season.

Odakyu Hotel de Yama – $$

Odakyu Hotel de Yama is a classic hillside hotel with a gorgeous garden that overlooks Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji. Nestled in a peaceful spot above the lake, it feels worlds away from the bustle of daily life. The setting is an absolute dream, and to me, this traditional property feels plucked straight from the pages of a storybook.

The rooms are a mix of Western and Japanese styles, and the on-site facilities include open-air baths, a tea lounge, and a lakeview restaurant. It’s also located just above Hakone Shrine, making it a great base for sightseeing in Motohakone. You can expect to pay between 43,000–57,000 JPY ($300–$400 USD) per night here.

Tōgendai

BEST FOR LAKE ACTIVITIES AND VIEWS

Pros 

• Easy access to sightseeing boats and the Hakone Ropeway
• Beautiful lake and mountain views

Cons

• Fewer dining and shopping options nearby

Tōgendai is a peaceful and scenic spot on the northern edge of Lake Ashi. If you’re excited about sightseeing, this is one of the best places to stay! This is where the iconic Hakone Pirate Ships depart, so it’s easy to enjoy a cruise across the lake with views of Mt Fuji on a clear day.

Yet despite its relaxed vibe, Tōgendai is a key transport hub in Hakone. It’s connected by the ropeway, buses, and boats, so even though it’s a bit quieter than other areas, it’s super easy to explore from here. That’s what I call the best of both worlds!

I think that this area is ideal if you’re looking for a chilled-out lakeside escape but still want to be able to explore the rest of Hakone. The transport network can get you to several of Hakone’s big-ticket sites. For example, the Hakone Ropeway can take you straight up to Owakudani, and from there you can explore Gora or head down to Yumoto. 

There aren’t as many shops and restaurants in this area, but that’s kind of the point. It’s all about views, lake cruises, and hot springs around here.

Hakone Yuyado Zen – $$$ 

Hakone Yuyado Zen offers an upscale retreat just a short walk from Tōgendai Port. We love this stylish ryokan because it blends modern Japanese design with traditional hospitality. The rooms are minimalist but luxurious, and many of them offer private open-air onsens, which are perfect for a hot soak after some sightseeing. 

The atmosphere is peaceful and adults-only, so it’s a perfect pick for couples or anyone seeking a restful escape. And like any good ryokan, it offers traditional kaiseki dinners.

You can even opt to include breakfast and dinner with your stay. Meanwhile, the ropeway and sightseeing boats are just steps away, so it’s a convenient base for exploring without compromising on calmness. Rooms here start at 80,000 JPY ($555 USD) per night.

Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori – $$ 

Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori feels much more luxe than the price tag suggests. Seriously, this place has an open-air onsen to rival the fanciest of spas and an infinity pool with a sunken seating area that overlooks the lake. It’s incredible! 

Breakfast and dinner are included with your stay, and there’s even an open bar at dinner time! That’s certainly not something you come across often. 

And as for the rooms, they’re big and modern with private onsens on the balconies. This really is a bucket list Japanese stay as far as I’m concerned. Rooms here cost between 50,000–71,000 JPY ($350–$500 USD) per night.

YuYu Hakone – $ 

If you’re after a budget-friendly place to stay near Tōgendai, YuYu Hakone is a great pick. This low-key but cheerful guesthouse is about a 10-minute walk from the port. It offers both private and dorm-style rooms, and a nice outdoor onsen. It’s simple but clean and cozy, with friendly staff and a laid-back vibe.

While you won’t find any fancy extras here, it’s a great choice for solo travelers, backpackers, or big groups who want a social, affordable base close to the lake and ropeway. Double Japanese-style rooms here cost between 24,000–38,000 JPY ($175 and $275 USD) per night.

Sengokuhara 

BEST FOR SECLUDED NATURE RETREATS

Pros 

• Peaceful atmosphere with beautiful mountain views
• Great access to museums and nature walks

Cons

• Less central and requires bus travel to reach
• Few restaurants and nightlife options nearby

If you’re seeking a secluded getaway, Sengokuhara is a great pick. It’s a highland area that’s known for its open skies and rolling grasslands. It’s a bit more spread out than other parts of Hakone, but it’s still well-connected by bus. 

Sengokuhara is a pretty big area compared to the other parts of Hakone we’ve talked about. There are quite a few accommodation options here, which mostly consist of traditional ryokans and wellness-focused retreats. 

Even though Sengokuhara is quiet, there are still some cool things to see around here. You can use the bus here to get to the Pampas Grass Fields, the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum, and the Polta Museum of Art. There are also a few walking trails that take you through scenic wetlands and woodlands, and these are especially beautiful in autumn when the fall foliage is in full swing.

We think that this is the best area for travelers who really want to slow down and get off the grid. It’s also a good choice if you’ve been to Hakone before and want to stay somewhere more off the beaten path. Just keep in mind that dining options are limited, so it’s best to stay somewhere with meals included or plan ahead!

Centurion Hakone Bettei – $$$

Centurion Hakone Bettei is a luxurious retreat. It’s nestled in the forest and features private onsens right on the balconies of the plush rooms, so it’s the ideal place to treat yourself in Sengokuhara. Some suites even offer a view of Mount Fuji on clear days! 

In addition to the upscale amenities, what really makes this feel special is the attention to detail. The kaiseki dinners are wonderful, and the service here is absolutely impeccable. The staff couldn’t do enough for us! 

Prices here range from 86,000–100,000 JPY ($600–$700 USD) per night, but trust me, it’s worth the splurge.

Hakone Retreat Före – $$ 

Hakone Retreat Före strikes the perfect balance between style and comfort. It’s a sleek and minimalist hotel, which mixes Scandinavian and Japanese decor. And yes, it’s just as relaxing as you’re imagining! 

Along with the gorgeous on-site onsen, there’s a café serving freshly baked pastries throughout the day and a fantastic restaurant serving both Japanese and Western cuisine. All in all, I think that this is a great mid-range option for travelers who want something stylish but unpretentious.

Rooms here cost between 43,000 and 65,000 JPY ($300 and $450 USD) per night.

Sengokuhara Hisanoha – $ 

Sengokuhara Hisanoha is a welcoming and affordable spot with clean, comfy rooms and warm hospitality. It’s a small guesthouse-style stay, which is perfect for travelers who want a quiet home base without the high-end price tag. The rooms feature tatami mats, futons, and mountain views, so it offers a traditional and atmospheric day with some nice modern touches. 

There’s a shared lounge, a coin laundry, and even a little garden. It’s located near a bus stop, so getting around is still easy despite being in a quieter area. We think that this guest house is a great choice for solo travelers or couples on a budget. Rooms here cost between 29,000–36,000 JPY ($200–$255 USD) per night.

Related Read: Want the full ryokan experience? Don’t miss our top picks for the best ryokans in Hakone here!

Top Activities to do in Hakone

With your Hakone stay sorted, it’s time to dive into the experiences that make this mountain town unforgettable. From tea ceremonies and forest hikes to epic sightseeing and skywalking, these tours helped us slow down, connect, and see a whole new side of Hakone.

• Savor matcha the traditional way – This sencha tea ceremony felt like stepping into another world. Our host explained every detail with care, from the tea’s aroma to the exact water temperature. We even whisked our own blend—and sipped it in a serene tatami room overlooking a peaceful Hakone garden.

• Hike the historic Hakone Hachiri trail – This old Tokaido route walking tour through forested paths and mountain villages was like time-travel. Our guide shared stories about samurai, ancient checkpoints, and Edo-era travelers, making the journey come alive. It was peaceful, scenic, and packed with fascinating history we’d never have found alone.

• Explore Hakone with a private guide – From Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine to the ropeway and art museums, this 6-hour tour hits all the highlights. Our guide handled all the logistics and gave real insight into every stop. We saw more, learned more, and felt totally taken care of the entire time.

• Cross Japan’s longest pedestrian skywalk – We didn’t expect to love this Mishima Skywalk experience so much! Floating above the trees with views of Mt. Fuji in the distance was pure thrill. Our guide added fun context, and we even stopped at food stands and quirky shops tucked along the way.

• Soak up the views at Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station – This private tour took us from Hakone to the slopes of Mt. Fuji. The scenery shifted from lakes to forests to volcanic terrain, and the 5th Station views were wild. We finished with a relaxing stop at a lakeside hot spring—perfection.

Thanks for reading!

With its scenic hot springs, lakeside views, and traditional ryokans, Hakone is one of Japan’s most memorable getaway spots—and where you stay can really shape your experience. Whether you want a convenient base, a remote retreat, or something with a view of Mt. Fuji, there’s a perfect place for you here.

Before wrapping up your plans, don’t forget to explore our other Hakone travel blogs here for more tips and inspiration. We’ve got plenty of ideas to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful region. Or check out some of our most popular guides below!

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