Undoubtedly one of my most memorable visits to a hotel property. I’m partial to escaping the city and heading to the mountains for a quiet retreat amongst the trees and Hakone Retreat Villa proved to be quite charming. If you're dreaming of a peaceful getaway amidst the lush landscapes of Japan, look no further than Hakone.

The BEAUTY OF HAKONE

Hakone is a mountainous town within Japan's Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is famous for its hot springs. You can get there from Tokyo via shinkansen in about 90 minutes. The air is crisp and clean, carrying with it the promise of relaxation. Hakone is a place to slow down and revel in nature.

Embracing MODERNITY and Tradition

At Hakone Retreat Villa, there are 11 separate cottages, each one has a unique floor plan and its own private onsen. One of the highlights of my stay was undoubtedly the private onsen. The mineral-rich waters, sourced from Hakone's natural hot springs, worked wonders on both body and soul, melting away worries. It was nice to simply walk down the stairs of our villa and spend time in the privacy of our own onsen.

The villas are made from wood, with high ceilings and outfitted with a wood-burning fireplace. Large windows framed picturesque views of the bamboo trees just outside, allowing guests to feel connected to the outdoors even while indoors and offering plenty of privacy. Our particular accommodation, Cottage 3, had a separate floor for the onsen and bathroom, which was made mostly of stone.

Wander the rest of the grounds and you'll find that the architecture and interiors celebrate and accentuate the landscape that surrounds the property. It was impossible not to appreciate the hotel's thoughtful integration into its environment. The architecture seemed to emerge organically from the landscape, as if it had always been there. It was a testament to the architects' commitment to preserving and enhancing Hakone's natural beauty, ensuring that guests could experience the serenity of their surroundings from the moment they arrived.

DINING OPTIONS

There’s a couple of on-site dining options if you don’t want to leave the property. There’s Woodside, a restaurant offered to the sister hotel on the property, Hakone Retreat Fore. Guests of Hakone Retreat Villa are able to visit this French-style restaurant as well. Another option is Hyoseki, a kaiseki restaurant, specifically offered to guests of Hakone Retreat Villa.

We were fortunate to have a private room for each meal. Our hostess was kind, welcoming, and even remembered from our first meal that I enjoyed the house hojicha. She intentionally made sure it was always available. The staff, with their genuine hospitality and attention to detail, made me feel welcome from the moment I stepped through the door until we said goodbye.

FINAL THOUGHTS

My time at Hakone Retreat Villa was nothing short of magical. From the peaceful tranquility of the hotel to the rejuvenating waters of the private onsen, every moment was a treasure to be savored. Hakone Retreat Villa remains in my memories as one of the most peaceful accommodations I’ve stayed at.

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Architecture: Tamotsu Yagi

Interior: Tamotsu Yagi

Reserve your room via Expedia.

Closest transportation:

• Bus Stop 243

Nearby suggestions:

• Sengokuhara Field

Further Reading