1. What are some must-try local dishes in Hakone?
1. Kurotamago (Black Eggs)2. Unagi (Freshwater Eel)
3. Gora Manju (Steamed Sweet Buns)
4. Yosegi Soba (Buckwheat Noodles with Assorted Toppings)
5. Kintokiyaki (Grilled Sweet Potatoes)
6. Onsen Tamago (Soft-Boiled Eggs cooked in Hot Spring Water)
7. Izu Shamoji Meshi (Rice cooked with Local Mushrooms and Chicken from Izu Peninsula)
8. Soba Mochi (Chewy Mochi Dumplings made with Buckwheat Flour and Served in Broth)
9. Ishimaki Tamago (Scrambled Eggs cooked on a Hot Stone)
10. Fujiyama Roll or Onsen Roll (Hakone-style Sushi Rolls)
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Hakone?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Hakone. Some options include:– Garden Café & Restaurant Kominka: A vegetarian restaurant serving organic, locally-sourced dishes.
– Kissa Cafe Hakone: A cozy café with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, including salads, sandwiches, and plant-based burgers.
– Maple Garden Restaurant: Offers a selection of vegetarian dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
– Asuka: A traditional Japanese restaurant with a separate vegetarian menu available upon request.
– Sengokuhara Shokudo: A casual eatery specializing in homemade soba noodles, including a selection of vegetarian options.
– Fuga Dining: A farm-to-table restaurant offering vegan and vegetarian courses made with locally-grown produce.
3. Are there any halal restaurants in Hakone?
There are a few halal restaurants located near Hakone. Some options include:
– Araiyakushiya Halal-certified Restaurant: Offers various Halal-certified dishes such as ramen, curry rice, sushi and more
– Fatima Indian Curry House: Serves authentic Indian curry dishes that are halal certified
-Gurman Halal Food Court Fuji-Hakone Land Branch: An outdoor food court serving halal dishes such as kebabs, biryani, and doner kebab
Please note that availability of these restaurants may change depending on the season or other factors. It is recommended to check for updated information before visiting.
4. Is it possible to find gluten-free options in Hakone?
Yes, it is possible to find gluten-free options in Hakone at some restaurants. Some places to look for gluten-free options include:
– Garden Café & Restaurant Kominka (mentioned above): They have gluten-free bread available upon request.
– Asuka (mentioned above): They have gluten-free soba noodles available upon request.
– Fuga Dining (mentioned above): They offer gluten-free courses that use locally-grown, gluten-free grains.
It is always best to communicate your dietary restrictions and preferences with the restaurant before ordering to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
3. Where can I find the best views while dining in Hakone?
1. Hakone Ginyu: This luxurious ryokan offers amazing views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the surrounding mountains from its dining room.
2. La Table de Paysage: Located at Hotel Resorpia Hakone, this French restaurant has a unique open-air terrace that provides beautiful views of the Hakone countryside.
3. Fujiya Country Club Restaurant: This restaurant is situated in front of the iconic Hot Spring Resort Course at Fujiya Hotel and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji while you dine.
4. Sengokuhara Cheese Garden Takanoya: This cafe and cheese shop offers a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape while enjoying delicious local cheeses.
5. Matsuzakaya Honten: Located in an old merchant house in Hakone Yumoto, this restaurant overlooks a tranquil river and features traditional Japanese cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
6. Café & Dining Kurotao: Situated on the hillside, this café offers sweeping views of Lake Ashi and has an outdoor terrace perfect for dining on a sunny day.
7. La Foret Restaurant Kodama: With large windows overlooking the mountains, this French restaurant provides a picturesque backdrop for your meal.
8. Palace Hotel Hakone Restaurant Le Trianon: Enjoy elegant French cuisine while taking in stunning panoramic views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains from their floor-to-ceiling windows.
9. Keyakiso: This traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) features a kaiseki menu with dishes made using local ingredients, served in a bright dining room that offers beautiful mountain views.
10. Kominka Onsen Ryokan Yuyado Ichibanchian: This ryokan’s dining room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the lush green hills and valleys of Hakone.
4. Is it common for restaurants in Hakone to have English menus?
It is not uncommon for restaurants in Hakone to have English menus, especially those that cater to tourists. However, some smaller or more traditional restaurants may only have menus in Japanese. It is always a good idea to bring a translation app or a pocket phrasebook to assist with ordering if needed.
5. What are some popular traditional Japanese desserts in Hakone?
Some popular traditional Japanese desserts in Hakone include:1. Yosegi zaiku manju: A traditional treat made from rice flour dough filled with red bean paste and wrapped in a wooden patterned box, known as yosegi zaiku.
2. Kogane mochi: A type of rice cake that is dipped in sweet soy sauce, grilled, and then dusted with gold flakes for added flavor and presentation.
3. Ashiyu soft-serve ice cream: Soft-serve ice cream served in a unique way – guests dip their feet in an onsen hot spring while enjoying their ice cream.
4. Warabi mochi: A jelly-like dessert made from bracken-starch and topped with kinako (roasted soybean flour) or kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup).
5. Kuzuyaki: A steamed dumpling made from kudzu root starch and filled with sweet red bean paste or savory ingredients like meat and vegetables.
6. Black sesame pudding: A rich and creamy pudding made from black sesame seeds, milk, cream, sugar, and gelatin.
7. Monaka: A crispy wafer sandwich filled with sweet azuki bean paste or other fillings like matcha cream or fruit preserves.
8. Hanafuda ice cream: A unique dessert that resembles the popular Japanese playing cards called hanafuda. It is made from layers of flavored shaved ice stacked together to create a flower-shaped sweet treat.
9. Yokan: Another type of sweet bean jelly that can be found in many different flavors including green tea, fruit, chestnut, and more.
10. Dorayaki: Two small pancakes sandwiched together with a filling of sweet azuki bean paste or other flavors like chocolate custard or matcha cream.
6. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Hakone?
Yes, there are currently four Michelin-starred restaurants in Hakone:
1. Sushidokoro Renge (One Michelin star)
2. Tsumura Honten (One Michelin star)
3. Narukami (One Michelin star)
4. Kishin (Two Michelin stars)
7. How far is the nearest seafood market from Hakone?
The nearest seafood market from Hakone is located in Odawara City, which is approximately 20 kilometers away.
8. Can I find international cuisine options in Hakone as well?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Hakone that offer international cuisine options such as Italian, French, and Chinese. Some popular international cuisine restaurants in Hakone include Le Don D’Orvieto (Italian), Brasserie L’Ile Sainte James (French), and Wabi Sabi Kitchen (Chinese). Additionally, many hotels and ryokans in Hakone may also offer a mix of Japanese and Western dishes for their guests.
9. Are there any food tours or cooking classes available in Hakone?
Yes, there are several food tours and cooking classes available in Hakone. Some popular options include:1. Hakone Walking Food Tour: This tour takes visitors on a walking food tour of the quaint town of Hakone, where they can try local specialties like Kamaboko fish cake and manju sweets.
2. Cooking Class at a Traditional Japanese Inn: Visitors can learn how to cook traditional Japanese dishes at an authentic ryokan (traditional inn) in Hakone.
3. Soba Noodle Making Experience: Soba (buckwheat) noodles are a popular dish in Japan, and visitors can learn how to make them from scratch at a soba noodle making class in Hakone.
4. Lake Ashi Cruise and Food Tasting Tour: Guests can take a cruise on Lake Ashi and enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji while sampling local snacks and dishes.
5. Tea Ceremony and Kaiseki Dinner Experience: In this experience, visitors can learn about the art of the Japanese tea ceremony before enjoying a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner.
Prices for these tours and classes vary depending on the organizer, but they typically range from around 8,000 yen ($75 USD) to 20,000 yen ($185 USD) per person. It is recommended to book in advance, as some tours may have limited availability.
10. Which hot springs offer dining experiences while soaking in the water?
There are several hot springs that offer dining experiences while soaking in the water, including:
1. The Boiling River Hot Springs in Montana, USA – Here, visitors can have a picnic or enjoy a romantic dinner in the shallow pools along the river.
2. Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa in Costa Rica – This luxury resort has an on-site restaurant offering gourmet meals and drinks while surrounded by natural hot springs.
3. Yachi Onsen in Japan – This traditional hot spring village offers dining options at some of the ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) where guests can enjoy a multi-course kaiseki meal after their soak.
4. Deception Valley Hot Spring in Botswana – Here, visitors can relax in the warm waters of an isolated spring while having lunch or dinner prepared by a private chef.
5. Buena Vista Lodge Hot Springs in Costa Rica – This property offers various dining options, including an outdoor restaurant with panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and numerous natural hot springs pools to choose from.
6. Thermae Bath Spa in England – Located within a World Heritage Site, this spa offers rooftop thermal pools accompanied by a restaurant serving locally-sourced food and drinks.
7. Puritama Hot Springs in Chile – Visitors can dine at an on-site restaurant serving traditional Chilean cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the Andes Mountains and natural hot springs.
8. Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa in Iceland – This popular attraction offers multiple dining options, including a swim-up bar, cave restaurant, and luxurious spa-side dining experiences.
9. Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort in Italy – In addition to its thermal pools, this resort also features an award-winning restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine made with local ingredients.
10. Touristarthof Andeer Hot Springs Hotel & Restaurant in Switzerland – This unique hotel and restaurant is built over natural hot springs and offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps while guests dine in the thermal pools.
11. What is the specialty local food of the region surrounding Hakone?
The specialty local food of the region surrounding Hakone is called “Hakone soba” or “Hakone udon.” This is a type of buckwheat noodles served in a hot broth with toppings such as seasonal vegetables, tempura, or grilled meat. It is often served at traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) and restaurants in the Hakone area. Other popular dishes in the region include grilled black bass (or “mebaru”) from Lake Ashi and steamed dumplings called “manju.”
12. How can I best experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Hakone?
1. Visit a traditional tea house: In Hakone, there are several tea houses that offer traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. These include the Tea House Soba Izumi, Gora Kadan, and Gyokuro no Sato.
2. Book a guided tour: You can book a guided tour specifically focused on experiencing a tea ceremony in Hakone. This ensures that you have a knowledgeable guide to explain the rituals and etiquette involved in the ceremony.
3. Attend a public tea ceremony: There are several events throughout the year where you can attend a public tea ceremony in Hakone. Check with local tourist information centers or websites for upcoming events and schedules.
4. Participate in a hands-on session: Some tea houses offer hands-on sessions where visitors can learn how to prepare and serve matcha (powdered green tea) themselves under the guidance of an instructor.
5. Stay at a ryokan: Many traditional ryokans (Japanese-style inns) in Hakone offer their guests the opportunity to participate in a tea ceremony during their stay. This is often included as part of the overall cultural experience offered by these accommodations.
6. Take part in themed activities: Some popular attractions, such as Hakone Open-Air Museum and Yunessun Spa Resort, also offer special themed activities that include an authentic Japanese tea ceremony experience.
7. Join a class or workshop: For those interested in learning more about the art of Japanese tea ceremonies, there are also classes and workshops available where you can practice making and serving matcha yourself.
8. Visit historical sites: Certain historical sites in Hakone, such as Hoshinoyu Bathhouse, also hold regular tea ceremonies for visitors to enjoy while learning about the history and significance of the ritual.
9. Try different types of teas: While matcha is considered to be the most formal type of Japanese tea used for ceremonies, other varieties like sencha and houjicha are also commonly served in traditional tea houses. Be sure to try different types of teas to fully experience the diversity of Japanese tea culture.
10. Follow proper etiquette: When attending a tea ceremony, follow the instructions and etiquette as guided by the host or instructor. This includes bowing, sitting in a specific manner, and holding and drinking from your tea bowl in a certain way.
11. Wear appropriate clothing: While not mandatory, it is recommended to wear traditional Japanese attire such as kimono or yukata when participating in a tea ceremony for a more authentic experience.
12. Appreciate the atmosphere: Tea ceremonies are not just about drinking tea but also about appreciating the beauty and harmony of the surroundings. Take time to admire the traditional decor, utensils, and garden views while savoring your tea.
13. Is there a specific time of year when certain fruits or vegetables are at their peak and should be tried?
Yes, different fruits and vegetables have different peak seasons depending on the region, climate, and growing conditions. Generally, it is recommended to try seasonal produce when it is at its peak because it will be more flavorful and nutritious. Here are a few examples of fruits and vegetables that are best enjoyed during specific times of the year:
– Strawberries and apricots are at their peak in spring.
– Peaches, nectarines, plums, and cherries are best in summer.
– Apples, pears, and pumpkins are perfect for fall.
– Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, turnips are best in winter.
It’s always a good idea to check with your local farmer’s market or grocery store for the freshest and most flavorful produce available.
14. Are there any recommended dining options with a view of Mount Fuji?
Some recommended dining options with a view of Mount Fuji include:1. Fuji View Hotel Sky Restaurant: Located in the Fuji View Hotel, this restaurant offers stunning views of Mount Fuji from its large windows.
2. Konanso: This traditional Japanese inn has a restaurant that serves a variety of dishes while offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji from their terrace.
3. Kawaguchiko Stellar Village Restaurant: Situated at the base of Mount Fuji, this restaurant offers outdoor seating where guests can enjoy their meals with an unobstructed view of the mountain.
4. Panoramic Lounge and Dining Bar Starlight Terrace: Located in the Lake Kawaguchi area, this restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of Mount Fuji while enjoying their fusion cuisine.
5. Hoto Fudo Restaurant: This authentic Japanese-style restaurant has a balcony where diners can gaze at Mount Fuji while enjoying their regional specialty dish, hoto noodles.
6. Hoshinoya Fuji Resort Dining Room: Set on the shore of Lake Kawaguchi, this luxurious resort’s dining room offers scenic views of both the lake and Mount Fuji from its floor-to-ceiling windows.
7. Tea House Kanaya: This tea house is situated in a prime location for viewing Mount Fuji and serves traditional Japanese tea and sweets while admiring the famous mountain.
8. Kitahamu Grill and Sushi: With an outdoor terrace, this restaurant provides stunning views of both Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji while serving a variety of Japanese and Western dishes.
9. Café Meijiya: This café is known for its mousses made with natural spring water sourced from Mt. Fuji and offers an impressive view of the famous mountain from its windows.
10. Suishoen Ryokan Nonoike Matsuya Main Dining Room: Located within a historic ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), this dining room features large picture windows that overlook picturesque gardens and Mount Fuji in the distance.
15. Do most restaurants accept credit cards or is cash preferred?
Most restaurants in western countries accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. Some smaller, local restaurants may only accept cash, so it’s best to check beforehand.
16. How easy is it to find halal options for dining in Hakone?
It may be difficult to find halal options for dining in Hakone, as it is a small town with limited dining options. However, there are a few restaurants that serve halal food, and more hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) are starting to offer halal meals. It is recommended to do some research beforehand and check with the restaurant or accommodation if they can accommodate dietary restrictions. Additionally, bringing your own snacks or meal ingredients from home may be helpful in case you cannot find suitable options while exploring Hakone.
17. Are there any street food markets or festivals that offer unique local dishes?
Yes, there are many street food markets and festivals that offer unique local dishes. Some popular examples include the annual Night Noodle Markets in Sydney and Melbourne, which showcase Asian street food from various vendors, and the Eat Street Markets in Brisbane, featuring a mix of international cuisines and local delicacies. Other examples include the Bondi Food Hall in Sydney, offering a range of Korean and Japanese street food options, and The Night Quarter on the Gold Coast, with a wide selection of food trucks serving up a variety of dishes.
18. Which restaurants are known for their use of locally sourced ingredients?
Some restaurants known for their use of locally sourced ingredients include:
1. Chez Panisse – Berkeley, California
2. Blue Hill at Stone Barns – Pocantico Hills, New York
3. Husk – Nashville, Tennessee
4. Canlis – Seattle, Washington
5. Atera – New York City, New York
6. Blackbird – Chicago, Illinois
7. Herbsaint – New Orleans, Louisiana
8. Vinland – Portland, Maine
9. Vij’s – Vancouver, British Columbia (Canada)
10. Fäviken Magasinet – Järpen, Sweden
19. Can you recommend any hidden gem eateries that locals frequent?
Yes, here are a few hidden gem eateries that are popular among locals:
1. Lion’s Den: This small and unassuming restaurant in downtown San Diego serves up delicious traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Don’t miss their injera platters and veggie combos.
2. Mister A’s: Located on the 12th floor of a high rise building, this upscale restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline. The food is top-notch and the atmosphere is elegant yet relaxed.
3. Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop: With its colorful decor and luchador theme, this taco shop is a favorite among locals for its tasty tacos and burritos. Make sure to try their Notorious TAC (carne asada with cheese-stuffed chiles).
4. Surfside Deli: Tucked away in Encinitas, this deli serves up some of the best sandwiches in town. They also offer a great selection of craft beers to pair with your sub.
5. The Friendly Cafe: This cozy breakfast spot in Ocean Beach is known for its hearty portions and friendly service. Try their famous stuffed French toast or build-your-own omelette.
6. Communal Coffee: This trendy coffee shop in North Park not only has amazing coffee but also serves up tasty avocado toast, pastries, and other brunch items.
7. Bali Hai Restaurant: Located on Shelter Island, this Polynesian-themed restaurant has been serving up tropical drinks and Asian-inspired dishes since 1954. Enjoy gorgeous waterfront views while sipping on a Mai Tai or Pina Colada.
8. Hamilton’s Tavern: This neighborhood staple in South Park offers a wide selection of local craft beers on tap and delicious pub fare, including their popular burger made with grass-fed beef and topped with bacon jam.
9. Phuong Trang Restaurant: Nestled in an unassuming strip mall in Kearny Mesa, this Vietnamese restaurant is a favorite among locals for its authentic dishes, like the Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepe) and Pho.
10. Urban Solace: This cozy restaurant in North Park is known for its Southern-inspired comfort food and impressive whiskey selection. Their braised short ribs and buttered chardonnay grits are must-tries.