RRita BUOur Hakone trip's biggest surprise was definitely staying at the Ashinoko Hanaori ryokan. The entire experience was fantastic, far exceeding our expectations. I especially want to highlight the rooms, the food, and the private onsen!
The rooms were surprisingly spacious, a clever blend of Japanese and Western styles. Even with family, it never felt cramped. The furnishings were exquisite and tidy, and all amenities were well-provided. Sitting by the window, gazing at the beautiful Ashi Lake scenery, was incredibly relaxing.
The food was another huge plus for the ryokan. The buffet breakfast and dinner offered a wide variety, featuring fresh local ingredients. There were both characteristic Japanese dishes and delicate desserts, all with a refined and authentic taste. If you book in advance, you can even dine with a lake view, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
But the private onsen was the absolute highlight – amazing value for money and incredibly private. The bathwater was warm and soothing, and soaking in it completely relaxed my body, washing away all travel fatigue. Taking a dip in the private onsen at night, accompanied by the tranquil night sky and a gentle breeze, created an utterly immersive and therapeutic atmosphere.
The ryokan's convenient location was the icing on the cake. It's directly opposite the Togendai transport hub, making travel incredibly easy. Whether you're heading to Ashi Lake for the pirate ship, or taking the ropeway and buses to various attractions, you don't need to go out of your way – the boarding points are within walking distance, saving a lot of hassle. What was especially convenient was that our plan for the next day was to travel from Hakone to Mount Fuji. We could take a direct bus from Togendai to Gotemba; the schedule was convenient, the journey smooth, and there was no need for extra transfers, which significantly saved travel time and made our trip more worry-free and efficient. The ryokan's service was also very thoughtful. The overall experience was excellent, suitable for both family trips and romantic getaways. It's definitely our top choice for accommodation in Hakone, and we'll certainly stay here again next time!
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