Fujita Properties in Ashigarashimo District

The room size was pretty good, offering great value for money considering it's in the mountains and part of a well-known chain. We could even access the hot spring park at the sister hotel across the way, though we didn't go in since we weren't with kids. The complimentary dinner was a set menu, not the yakiniku buffet we initially thought, but with an extra dish, it was pretty much enough for two. There's also a big Family Mart convenience store at the sister hotel, perfect for stocking up on supplies. In the evening, it was lovely to relax in our hotel's hot spring. Even though it's a public bath, it's small, cozy, and has outdoor pools. The hotel is conveniently located right by Kowakien Station and Horaiden. I have to say, Japanese gardens are incredibly small and refined; every spot is meticulously kept and elegant. My only regret was slipping on a steep slope after getting off the bus. I scraped my skin a bit before my hot spring soak, which definitely became a memorable part of the trip.

Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu is a truly comfortable and relaxing ryokan that made our stay very enjoyable. The staff were attentive and welcoming from the moment we arrived by car, and they promptly helped unload our luggage and delivered it to the hotel. They also assisted with carrying our luggage back to the car during check-out. The room was well-equipped, clean, and very hygienic, and the high-floor view was wide and beautiful. Breakfast and dinner buffet were both satisfying, with delicious food and a good variety of choices. The onsen was also impressive, with two levels of outdoor baths that are alternated between men and women at different times, allowing guests to enjoy both. The water park-style onsen area was a bit less impressive, but overall, this ryokan deserves a very high rating. The official site highlights its open-air onsen, private baths in all rooms, and well-regarded dining, which matches the strong overall experience here

Expensive, but if you're looking for a luxurious hot springs stay, it's worth it. Includes entrance to the nearby Yunessun, which is a quick walk down the street. Bus stop immediately across the road helps with reaching other parts of Hakone easily. I got one without the in room onsen, but there is a public one inside the hotel itself and the room had a balcony with a gorgeous view of the mountain instead. Very authentic hot springs experience

I originally planned to stay one night in Hakone, but after checking some guides, I realized there were so many attractions. So, I decided to book an extra night. Apparently, booking two separate nights doesn't guarantee you the same room. The front desk lady spent quite a while checking her computer to arrange a single room for me. Next time, I'll remember to book both nights at once. It might have been because of the Chinese New Year period when there are lots of guests checking in. Hakone is perfect for a one-night, two-meal stay. Since the attractions in Hakone are spread out, it's best to spend the day fully immersing yourself in sightseeing. If you get hungry at lunchtime, just grab some snacks to save time, and then enjoy the hot springs and buffet at the hotel in the morning and evening. The rooftop hot spring might use regular hot water, but it wasn't too crowded, and they had some toiletries and skincare products, so I just decided to wash up there instead of in my room.

Great hotel, although the staff speaks no english but they will try all means to communicate with you, using their phone to translate.