JapanTravel Tips

Hotel and Lodging Options around Owakudani, Hakone

1. What are some of the most popular hotels and lodging options near Owakudani, Hakone?


Some of the most popular hotels and lodging options near Owakudani, Hakone include:

1. Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu: This luxury ryokan offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with private outdoor hot springs, as well as a variety of on-site facilities such as a spa, restaurant, and gift shop.

2. Hakone Hotel Kowaki-en: This mid-range hotel features a mix of Western-style and Japanese-style rooms with private hot spring baths. It also has a buffet restaurant, hot spring baths, and a souvenir shop.

3. Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa: Located within walking distance to Owakudani, this upscale hotel offers contemporary rooms with mountain views and access to a hot spring bath and spa facilities.

4. Fujiya Hotel Hakone: This historic hotel offers elegant Western-style rooms and suites, as well as multiple dining options including French cuisine and traditional kaiseki meals. It also has an indoor pool, hot spring bath, and gift shop.

5. Mizunoto ryokan: This small ryokan offers affordable Japanese-style rooms with tatami floors and futon beds. It also has shared hot spring baths for guests to use.

6. Yushintei Ryokan: Situated in the mountains near Owakudani, this intimate ryokan offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with private open-air hot springs overlooking the forest. It also has a communal bath, restaurant, and massage services.

7 . Senri-no-yu Haus Mossberge: This budget-friendly guesthouse features simple Western-style rooms with shared bathrooms and access to an on-site natural hot spring bath.

8 . Hakone Suimeisou: Set in a charming Japanese-style building surrounded by nature, this ryokan offers cozy guestrooms with access to multiple public baths fed by natural hot springs.

2. Are there any budget-friendly hotels or guest houses in the area?


Yes, there are several budget-friendly hotels and guest houses in the area. Some options include:

1. The Magnolia Inn: This affordable guest house offers cozy rooms and complimentary breakfast at a convenient location near restaurants and attractions.

2. Motel 6 Santa Rosa North: This budget hotel chain offers basic yet comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. It is located near the Santa Rosa Plaza Mall and other popular attractions.

3. The Sandman Hotel: This retro-chic motel offers stylish rooms and amenities such as a heated pool, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary coffee in the lobby.

4. Travelodge by Wyndham Santa Rosa Wine Country: This budget hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with amenities like a fitness center, free breakfast, and a hot tub.

5. Country Inn Santa Rosa: Located just off Highway 101, this charming inn offers budget-friendly rooms with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.

It is always recommended to compare prices on booking websites to find the best deal for your specific dates of travel.

3. How far is Owakudani from the nearest hotel or lodge?

Owakudani is approximately 3 kilometers from the nearest hotel or lodge. This distance may vary depending on which hotel or lodge you are staying at, as there are several options in the Hakone area that offer accommodation. It is recommended to check with your specific accommodation for the exact distance to Owakudani. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from your hotel to Owakudani.

4. Can you recommend any traditional Japanese ryokans near Owakudani?


One option is Hakone Ginyu Ryokan, which offers traditional Japanese-style rooms, a hot spring onsen, and views of Mount Fuji. Another option is Yunosato Ikawaso, located near Lake Ashi with mountain views and a public onsen. Both ryokans are within 10-15 minutes drive of Owakudani.

5. Is it possible to rent a private villa or vacation home near Owakudani?


Yes, it is possible to rent a private villa or vacation home near Owakudani. There are several websites and rental agencies that offer vacation home rentals in the Hakone area, including near Owakudani. Some examples include Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to carefully review the rental policies and amenities offered before booking.

6. Are there any accommodations that offer hot spring baths on-site?


Yes, there are many accommodations that offer hot spring baths on-site. Some examples include traditional Ryokans in Japan, resorts and lodges in Iceland, and luxury hotels in areas known for their hot springs such as Tuscany in Italy. It is best to research specific destinations or types of accommodations to find one that offers the type of hot springs experience you are looking for.

7. What are some of the amenities offered at the hotels in this area?


Some of the amenities commonly offered at hotels in this area include:

– Free Wi-Fi/internet access
– Complimentary breakfast or restaurant on site
– Fitness center/gym
– Swimming pool and/or hot tub
– Business center and meeting rooms
– Concierge services and tour/ticket assistance
– Room service/onsite dining options
– Parking and/or airport shuttle service
– Laundry facilities or dry cleaning services
– Pet-friendly options (varies by hotel)

8. Is it necessary to make reservations in advance for lodging in Hakone during peak tourist seasons?


It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance for lodging in Hakone during peak tourist seasons, as the area can become quite crowded and accommodations can quickly fill up. This is especially true during weekends, public holidays, and peak travel periods such as cherry blossom season and fall foliage season. Making reservations in advance will help ensure you have a place to stay and avoid any last-minute stress or disappointment.

9. Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near Owakudani for those traveling with their furry companions?


Yes, there are a few pet-friendly accommodations near Owakudani:

1. Hakone Hotel Kowaki-en – This hotel accepts up to 2 pets per room and charges a pet fee of 3,000 yen per night.

2. Hotel Green Plaza Hakone – Pets are allowed in select rooms and a pet fee of 3,240 yen per night is charged.

3. Hayakawa Annex Furutoshi – This guesthouse allows pets with prior arrangement and charges a pet fee of 1,080 yen per night.

It is always best to contact the accommodation beforehand to confirm their pet policies and fees.

10. Do any of the lodges offer views of Mount Fuji from their rooms or common areas?


Yes, some lodges offer views of Mount Fuji from their rooms or common areas. Some examples include:

1. Fuji View Hotel – This hotel is located right by Lake Kawaguchiko and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji from its rooms and outdoor hot spring baths.

2. Kozantei Ubuya – This ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) also offers views of Mount Fuji from its rooms and public baths.

3. Asahikan – Another ryokan with views of Mount Fuji, Asahikan has a rooftop terrace and open-air baths where guests can admire the mountain.

4. Hoshinoya Fuji – This unique resort features glamping-style accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of Mount Fuji.

5. Konanso – Located at the foot of Mount Fuji, this traditional ryokan has rooms with private open-air baths that offer breathtaking views of the mountain.

It’s always best to check with individual lodges to confirm their views before booking. Keep in mind that visibility of Mount Fuji can vary depending on weather conditions.

11. Are there any bed and breakfasts or homestays available near Owakudani, Hakone?

There are several bed and breakfasts and homestays available near Owakudani, Hakone. Some options include:

1) Senkyou no Sumika: This traditional Japanese-style bed and breakfast is located in the town of Gora, near Owakudani. It offers spacious rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds.

2) Mouse Nest Cafe & Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse is situated in Sengokuhara, a short distance from Owakudani. It features comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms and a common lounge area for guests to relax in.

3) Imai Lake View Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel offers both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations. It is situated on the shores of Lake Ashi, providing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

4) Hakone Kuranju: Located near Mt. Hakone, this charming homestay offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen for guests to use.

It is recommended to book in advance as these accommodations tend to fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons.

12. Can I book a room with a private balcony or outdoor space at any of the nearby hotels?

Each hotel may have different room options and amenities, so it is best to contact the specific hotel you are interested in to inquire about private balconies or outdoor spaces. Some hotels in the area that offer this option include The Roosevelt Hotel, Warwick New York Hotel, Parker New York, and The San Carlos Hotel.

13. What are some recommended lodges for families with children?

– Great Wolf Lodge
– Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
– Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa
– The Lodge at Glendorn
– Tyler Place Family Resort
– Smugglers’ Notch Resort
– Woodloch Resort
– Mohonk Mountain House.

14. Are there any unique and unconventional lodging options in the area, such as yurts or treehouses?


Yes, there are several unique and unconventional lodging options in the area, such as:

1. Yurts: These are round, tent-like structures that originated in Central Asia. In the area, yurts can be found at places like Moab Under Canvas and Canyonlands Lodging.

2. Treehouses: Several properties, such as The Treehouse Resort and Cabo Verde Treehouse Stay, offer treehouse accommodations for a unique experience.

3. Glamping Tents: These glamorous camping tents provide all the comforts of a hotel room while immersing guests in nature. They can be found at locations like Capitol Reef Resort and KOA Campgrounds.

4. Airstreams: Vintage airstream trailers are available for rent at various RV parks and campgrounds in the area, such as Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground and Dead Horse Point State Park.

5. Tiny Houses: For a tiny but cozy lodging experience, check out Escape Pods at Zion River Resort or Tiny House Village at Mt Hood Village RV Resort.

6. Earthships: These self-sustaining homes made of recycled materials can be rented for overnight stays at Earthship Biotecture in Taos, New Mexico.

7. Converted Conestoga Wagons: Located near Mesa Verde National Park, Far View Lodge offers accommodation in traditional Native American-style Conestoga wagons with modern amenities.

8. Safari Tents: Experience safari-style luxury tents at Conestoga Ranch on Bear Lake or under the stars at Escalante Yurts in Escalante National Monument.

9. Underground Dwellings: Kokopelli’s Cave Bed & Breakfast allows guests to stay in an underground dwelling carved out of sandstone cliffs overlooking La Plata River Valley.

15. Is complimentary breakfast included with most hotels, or are there restaurants nearby to grab a morning meal?


It depends on the individual hotel. Some hotels may include complimentary breakfast with the room rate, while others may not. If a complimentary breakfast is not included, there may be restaurants nearby that offer breakfast options. It is best to check with the specific hotel for their policies regarding breakfast.

16. How accessible is public transportation from Owakudani to these lodging options?

This depends on the specific lodging option you choose, as well as the time of day and day of the week. Generally speaking, some lodging options may be within walking distance to public transportation options in Owakudani, while others may require a short bus or train ride to reach. It is best to research the specific location and transportation options for each lodging option before making a booking.

17. Which hotel has the best overall ratings and customer reviews among travelers who have stayed nearby Owakudani before?


According to TripAdvisor, the hotel with the best overall ratings and customer reviews among travelers who have stayed near Owakudani is KAI Hakone. It has a 4.5 star rating and many positive reviews from guests who enjoyed its location, service, and amenities.

18.Are there any all-inclusive resort-style accommodations available near Owakudani?


Yes, there are a few all-inclusive resort-style accommodations available near Owakudani. These include the Hakone Kowaki-en Yunessun, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, and The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko. These accommodations offer full-board meals, spa facilities, and on-site activities for guests to enjoy during their stay.

19.What types of outdoor activities can be arranged by these lodges or through local tour companies?


The types of outdoor activities that can be arranged by these lodges or through local tour companies may vary, but some common options include:

1. Hiking and trekking: Many lodges are located near scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and trekking. Local tour companies may also offer guided hikes to popular destinations.

2. Wildlife viewing: These lodges often have knowledgeable guides who can lead visitors on wildlife viewing excursions in the surrounding natural areas.

3. Safari tours: Some lodges may offer safari tours, either on foot, by vehicle, or even by boat, to see a range of different wildlife in their natural habitats.

4. Water activities: Depending on the location of the lodge, water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or snorkeling may be available through package deals with local tour companies.

5. Cultural experiences: Many lodges work closely with nearby communities and may arrange cultural experiences such as visits to local villages or traditional dance performances.

6. Horseback riding: In some areas, horseback riding tours may be available through local tour companies to explore the surrounding wilderness.

7. Mountain biking: Some lodges may have mountain bikes available for rent or partner with local tour companies to offer guided mountain biking excursions.

8. Bird watching: Lodges situated near forests or wetlands can be great places for birdwatchers to spot a variety of species. Some places even offer guided bird-watching walks or trips.

9. Climbing and rappelling: Depending on the landscape and amenities available at the lodge, climbing walls and rappelling tours might be offered as well.

10. Winter activities: In colder climates, lodges may offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, or other winter activities through local tour companies.

20.Is it recommended to stay closer to Owakudani for convenience, or are there better lodging options in other parts of Hakone?


It ultimately depends on your personal preference and travel plans. Staying closer to Owakudani can be more convenient if you plan on visiting the area multiple times during your stay in Hakone. However, there are many great lodging options in other parts of Hakone such as Gora, Motohakone, and Lake Ashi that offer a more serene atmosphere and proximity to other popular attractions like the Hakone Open Air Museum and Lake Ashi cruise boats. It is recommended to research and compare different lodging options to find the best fit for your needs.