Hakone is a hidden gem in Japan. A complete antithesis of the monstrous, buzzing metropolis of the sprawling Japanese city of Tokyo, Hakone is famous for its tranquillity and nature.
The mountainous town of Hakone is famous for its views of the iconic Mount Fuji whose beauty towers over Lake Ashinoko. It’s the ideal place to visit if you want to marvel at Japan’s MESMERIZING natural beauty while relaxing in one of Hakone’s many hot spring (onsen) resorts.
It’s a great base for hiking and outdoor activities year-round. Cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, trees turn golden in the fall, and snow falls in the winter. It’s bucket-list kinda stuff.
While figuring out your itinerary might be easy, deciding where to stay in Hakone is another story. There are a variety of neighborhoods to choose from and each offers something different to its visitors.
The best area to stay in Hakone completely depends on you, your budget and your itinerary. Lucky for you, I’ve made your job a hell of a lot easier! I’ve compiled the top places to stay in Hakone and categorised them by interest and budget.
By the end of this article, you will be an expert in the areas of Hakone and ready to book your trip.
So, without further ado – let’s get into the good stuff!
Photo: @audyscala
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Hakone?
- Hakone Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Hakone
- Hakone’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Hakone
- What To Pack For Hakone
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hakone
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hakone
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Hakone was one of my favorite places I visited when traveling in Japan. Full of authenticity, traditional Japanese cuisine, and incredible views. In this article, I’m going to dive into the best areas to stay in Hakone, the top accommodation in each, PLUS the best things to do in each.
However, if you want the TL;DR version, I’ve summarised my top picks for the BEST hotel, hostel and Airbnb in Hakone below:
Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel | Best Hotel in Sengokuhara
With its spacious rooms, epic views, and incredible location, this is one of the best hotels in Hakone. It’s family-friendly and boasts three on-site restaurants. It’s perfect whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a week of adventure.
GuestHouse Azito | Best Hostel in Hakone
This conveniently located hostel is perfect for budget travelers. Situated in Hakone-Yumoto, it’s close to public transport connections, bars, and shops. The hostel offers private and shared rooms that are traditionally and comfortably furnished.
Centrally Located Home | Best Airbnb in Hakone
This charming two-bedroom apartment can sleep up to 6 guests. It sits in a quiet neighborhood surrounded by mountains but is just a short walk away from Hakone-Yumoto station.
The flat is family-friendly and has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Tonosawa
The area of Tonosawa, with its perfect spot next to the river, is where to stay in Hakone for anyone wanting a more secluded, mountainous holiday.
Hakone-Yumoto
This town is the gateway to Hakone and as a result has also become the area’s tourist centre, featuring a whole plethora of shops, hotels, restaurants, museums, and people dressed in 19th-century Edo period costumes
Motohakone
This is the main section of Hakone proper and one which features the area’s most famous sights, the prime two of which are Mount Fuji (this area arguably has the best views), Lake Ashinoko, and Mount Hakone
Gora
Gora is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, which is great for outdoor onsen and therefore perfect for city-dwellers looking for a slice of countryside. It can be reached via the Hakone Ropeway, which is quite an adventure in itself
Sengokuhara
The large area of Sengokuhara, to the north of Hakone, is a wonderland of natural beauty and outdoor activities. There are hills here that offer amazing views across a romantic and awe-inspiring landscape; long suzuki grass covers the hillsides becoming a spectacle as the seasons change, particularly in the autumn months
Just 100 kilometers to the west of Tokyo lies Hakone, part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Visitors flock to the area to bathe in Hakone’s famous natural outdoor hot spring baths and to gaze across the serene Lake Ashinoko at the ever-impressive Mount Fuji.
Because of its stunning natural setting, Hakone has become one of the most popular destinations in Japan. Tokyoites enjoy weekend breaks in the clean country air away from the rush of the city.
If it’s your first time visiting Hakone, I recommend staying in Tonosawa. Nestled in the arms of a picturesque valley, this area is renowned for its hot spring resorts.
Bordering Tonosawa to the east is the relatively large area of Hakone-Yumoto: the gateway to Hakone. It’s the best place to base yourself if you’re backpacking Japan on a budget, as there are plenty of cheap accommodation options here.
Motohakone sits at the center of Hakone and features the main bulk of sightseeing activities in the area. Attractions include Lake Ashinoko and Mount Hakone itself, making it the best place to come if you’re visiting for nature.
To the northwest of Motohakone is the region’s main town area of Gora. This area features more shops and urban amenities than other areas, including parks, a selection of hotels, and a number of restaurants.
And lastly, there’s Sengokuhara. Located to the north of Gora this large area features its own small mountains, a slew of hotels, restaurants, museums, and more. This is the best place to come if you’re deciding where to stay in Hakone with your family.
All the areas in and around Hakone are beautiful, but some are quieter than others whilst some are better for hiking and tranquillity. Let’s explore them in more detail…
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Hakone’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at each of these areas in more detail. I’ve included my top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. Tonosawa – Where to Stay in Hakone for Your First Time
The area of Tonosawa, with its perfect spot next to the river, is where to stay in Hakone for anyone wanting a more secluded, mountainous holiday.
Here you can dip into one of several onsen, for which Tonosawa is famous, among the stunning views.
Photo: @audyscala
The atmosphere in this small town is exquisitely charming. With its old wooden houses lining the streets and peaceful atmosphere, this is a slice of old traditional Japan. For first-time visitors, this is the best place to get a taste of Hakone.
Senkei | Best Budget Hotel in Tonosawa
In place of a hostel, you can stay in this budget hotel with its very reasonable rooms. Choose from clean Western-style rooms or traditional tatami (Japanese-style straw mat) rooms; both come with private bathrooms and views of the stunning mountainside.
There’s a delicious breakfast served in the rooms every morning. The onsen are well maintained and perfect for relaxation.
Fukuzumiro Ryokan | Best Hotel in Tonosawa
There’s nothing quite like staying in a Japanese Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), especially one that was built over 100 years ago! Treat yourself to a world of Japanese hospitality and comfort; this is the kind of hotel you will never forget.
Hakone Villa with Private Onsen | Best Holiday Home in Tonosawa
This Hakone villa is the perfect opportunity if you’re looking for authentic Japanese-style rooms mixed with modern-day comforts. You can also soak up the beautiful outdoors sitting in the Japanese-style garden. You’re a 25-minute bus ride from Hakone-Yumoto and a two-minute walk from the station. With three spacious rooms and enough space for 6-8 people, this place is perfect if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends. Plus, you’ll have your own private onsen to soak in.
Things to See and Do in Tonosawa
- Eat traditional soba (buckwheat noodles) at Soma.
- Try a bit of ziplining at Forest Adventure Hakone.
- Climb Mount Tonomine…
- … And admire the Buddhist temple of Amidaji halfway up.
- Check out the charming unmanned Tonosawa Station sandwiched between two tunnels.
- Join a day trip to Mt. Fuji and Hakone.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Hakone-Yumoto – Best Place to Stay in Hakone on a Budget
This town is the gateway to Hakone and as a result, has also become the area’s tourist center. It’s got a whole plethora of shops, hotels, restaurants, museums, and people dressed in 19th-century Edo period costumes.
Staying here is convenient for a quick trip to Hakone if you’re visiting Tokyo since it’s the closest area in Hakone to the capital. It’s also loaded with accommodation, meaning you’re more likely to find a cheaper place to stay here.
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel | Best Hotel in Hakone-Yumoto
This hotel sits just across from the main Hakone-Yumoto station. It offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of tree-covered mountains. There’s a swimming pool and hot spring on-site, and the hotel is ideally located for exploring the area.
GuestHouse Azito | Best Hostel in Hakone-Yumoto
Close to the train station and bus stop, this budget hotel and hostel is the perfect place for budget travelers. Everything is very clean – even the shared bathrooms. Guests have the choice of private rooms or well-designed bunk beds in a dorm.
Villa w/ kids room | Best Villa in Hakone-Yumoto
If you’re traveling to Japan with kids and looking for the perfect place to perch up, look no further. This villa sleeps up to eight people and has a fully equipped kitchen. They even have a kid’s room to keep the little ones entertained.
Things to See and Do in Hakone-Yumoto
- Choose from a selection of outdoor pools in the beautiful and traditional Tenzan Onsen.
- Learn about the area at the Hakone Town History Museum.
- Check out the antique toys and models on show at the Antique Toy Museum.
- Try out glass-blowing at the Glass Art Experience Workshop, close to the train station.
- Pay your respects at Kumano Shrine, one of the oldest in the area.
- Walk a section of the Old Tokaido Road – the ancient walking route between Tokyo and Kyoto.
- Join a hiking trip to the Hakone Hachiri Japan Heritage Area.
3. Motohakone – Where to Stay in Hakone for Nature
This is the main section of Hakone and one that features the area’s most famous sights: Mount Fuji (this area arguably has the best views), Lake Ashinoko, and Mount Hakone. As a result, this area is often full of tourists – especially during the holidays.
This area can be quite pricey – especially by the lakeside onsen, which is of course stunning. But the beauty of the area – the lake’s shores, volcanic valleys, and hiking trails – makes everything, including the price, very much worth it.
Lake Side Inn | Best Hakone Hotel in Motohakone
The location of this place is tough to beat, with Lake Ashi on your doorstep. The rooms are comfy, I would highly recommend getting yourself a room with a balcony as you can wake up to views of Lake Ashi, it’s not a bad view as you sip your morning coffee
Moto-Hakone Guest House | Best Affordable Hotel in Motohakone
If you’re looking for a Ryokan in Hakone that doesn’t break the bank, try out the Ryokan-style accommodation on a budget. You can dive into the Japanese lifestyle here, soaking in the onsen and sleeping in yukata on tatami mats.
Centrally Located Home | Best Airbnb in Motohakone
This Japanese-style wooden building sits right on the shore of Lake Biwa. This large house is perfect for groups and families wanting to stay a stone’s throw from restaurants and natural attractions. The house offers all the comforts of home, including a full kitchen, wifi, and laundry facilities.
Things to See and Do in Motohakone
- Ride the Hakone Ropeway and marvel at the incredible vistas it affords.
- Take a pirate ship (yep, really) sightseeing cruise on the lake for great views of Fuji.
- Check out the recreation of an Edo-period Tokaido Highway Checkpoint.
- Visit the former Imperial Summer Palace.
- Take the funitel up to the awesome volcanic valley of Owakudani…
- … And try a kuro-tamago, an egg with a black shell boiled in the volcanic water!
- Take a stroll around Hakone-en, a lakeside wetland garden with woodland plants.
- Go to the Peace torii (shrine gate).
- Visit the less-touristed Hakone Shrine.
- Admire the beautiful Japanese paintings on show at Narukawa Art Museum.
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Specifically created to be an onsen town – hot springs were discovered here as the railroad was being built in the early 20th century – Gora is very popular for where to stay in Hakone. Hotels in Gora get very busy (so book in advance), but this also means that the town has quite a bustling energy to it. Even if you don’t end up staying here, a visit to Gora should definitely feature on your Hakone itinerary.
Gora is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, which is great for city-dwellers looking for a slice of countryside. It can be reached via the Hakone Ropeway, which is quite an adventure in itself.
Hakone Guest House Gaku | Affordable Hakone Hotel in Gora
Experience Japanese culture and meet new people in this fun guesthouse. Rooms are large, neat, and feature soft futon beds. The shared living room provides space to relax and have a chat with fellow travelers, while the rooftop terrace boasts incredible panoramic views of the area.
Studio Apartment | Best Hakone hotel in Gora
If you’re searching for a snazzy apartment in Gora, look no further my friend. Not only is this place in a great location but it’s comfortable, clean, and has everything you need to make your stay one to remember. This place gets booked out fast so to avoid missing out I’d grab yourself a bed before they go.
Tent Twin Room for 2 | Best Guesthouse in Gora
This is a private room for two with a shared bathroom. And for those who like the real Japanese experience, the place has a Japanese-style room with a mattress on a tatami floor! They have shared bathrooms on the 1st and 2nd floors. There is a bar and lounge area on the 1st floor where you can order food and drinks from the menu. Two hot springs are located inside the main building and are free to use 24-7, until check-out. They also provide an option for breakfast which can be ordered when you check in.
Things to See and Do in Gora
- Chill out at the Hakone Gora Park with its pretty rose garden, tropical greenhouse, and fountain.
- Stop for traditional tea at the tea house here.
- Go to the Hakone Art Museum and admire its beautiful moss gardens.
- Take a look at the Hakone Museum of Photography celebrating the natural beauty of the area.
- Grab a coffee whilst you’re there!
- Glimpse into the past at Hakone Meissen Antique Museum.
- Join a Fuji spring water and alcohol distillery tour – sip on local water, coffee, and whiskey!
5. Sengokuhara – Best Neighborhood in Hakone for Families to Stay In
Sengokuhara is a wonderland of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The hills here offer amazing views across a romantic and awe-inspiring landscape.
There are also golf courses for those interested in a game, as well as many Japanese cottages and hotels set away from the more touristy places further south.
The area is a lot quieter as a result, making it the best place to stay if you’re traveling with the whole clan.
Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel | Best Hotel in Sengokuhara
Want a hotel with scenic views? Gotcha.
Look out over the vibrant mountains and lush green scenery. These views can be enjoyed from your room, the onsen, and pretty much everywhere else in the hotel. Rooms are modern and cozy, and there are three restaurants on-site to choose from.
Emblem Flow Hakone | Best Hostel in Sengokuhara
If you’re searching for a traditional Japanese experience with modern-day comforts and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers you’re in the right place. Emblem Flow is right across from Gora station making exploring a breeze. Emblem Flow has chill-out spaces ideal for relaxing after a busy day exploring and you can choose shared dorm and private rooms if you’re feeling fancy.
Centrally located home with 4 beds | Best Airbnb in Sengokuhara
This charming Japanese apartment is located in a quiet neighborhood surrounded by mountains. It’s baby and child-friendly and provides a crib, children’s toys, and children’s tableware. It’s got all the comforts of home, so you’ll have a solid base for exploring Hakone.
Things to See and Do in Sengokuhara
- Visit the subterranean Pola Museum of Art – which also offers a serene forest trail.
- Gaze upon the Susuki Grass Fields, which are particularly known for their beauty in autumn.
- Browse the jewelry and glassworks at Lalique Museum Hakone.
- Go to the Little Prince Museum honoring 100 years of the book and its author.
- Stroll around Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands.
- Play a spot of golf at Hakone Country Club.
- Visit the Hakone Open Air Museum and marvel at the incredible sculptures.
- Chill out at the parkland of Sengokuhara Plateau.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Hakone
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Hakone and where to stay.
What To Pack For Hakone
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What is the best area to stay on a budget in Hakone?
Hakone-Yumoto is my top pick for the best area to stay on a budget. It is the tourist hub of Hakone and there is a plethora of available places to stay – from high-end to budget-friendly.
Which is the best budget hotel in Hakone?
Senkei is the best budget hotel in Hakone. Offering up an authentic Japanese stay for a fraction of the cost of others.
What is the best area for families visiting Hakone?
Sengokuhara is my top pick for families heading to Hakone. It’s a more peaceful area surrounded by lush views. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options here too – including this Centrally located home with 4 beds.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hakone
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Hakone.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hakone
Nestled among some of Japan’s most beautiful places and settings, Hakone is one of the most beautiful and relaxing stops on any Japan trip. It’s the ideal place to stay near Mount Fuji for anyone keen on visiting this incredible pilgrimage site, as well as those looking for a quieter escape from Tokyo.
If you’re still not sure where to stay, I highly recommend Gora. This stunning destination has a bit of everything and isn’t as touristy as other areas.
GuestHouse Azito is my top recommendation for accommodation in Hakone, offering traditional accommodation for a budget-friendly rate.
For something more upmarket, check out the Sengokuhara Prince Hotel. It’s got cozy rooms, epic views, and a host of activities to keep you entertained.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments!
Photo: @audyscala
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Japan.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Japan.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Japan instead.
- Planning out an itinerary for Hakone is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Japan.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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