Last updated on November 13, 2026 by Krysti
Hot spring towns, mountain hideaways, and scenic lakeside resorts – Hakone has no shortage of places to stay, but which area is right for you?
Before traveling to Hakone, I had no idea just how spread out the region really is!
It’s not massive by any means (especially compared to the nearby Fuji Five Lakes), but with its winding mountain roads and distinct town hubs there’s definitely more ground to cover here than I initially expected.
And, while the area is still relatively easy to explore thanks to its well-connected public transit, the different neighborhoods aren’t necessarily close to one another – and they’re all quite different.
Some are better suited to sightseeing, with convenient access to popular attractions, while others offer a quieter mountain escape, a wider selection of restaurants and shops, or beautiful lakeside scenery.
Needless to say, where you choose to stay here can have quite an impact on how you spend your time.
That’s why, in this guide, I’m breaking down the best areas to stay in Hakone.
I’ll cover what makes each area unique, the pros and cons of staying there, and my recommendations for hotels and ryokans across different budgets.
Whether you’re hoping to experience Hakone’s famous hot springs, plan to explore the Hakone Loop, or simply want to enjoy a relaxing mountain getaway, this guide will help you find the right base for your trip!
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Where to Stay in Hakone: At a Glance
For this guide, I’ve identified four main areas in Hakone that I recommend for visitors. Here’s a quick breakdown of each:
- ♨️ Gora: Best for hot spring stays, sightseeing, & art museums → Jump to section
- 🚆 Hakone-Yumoto: Best for convenience, traditional charm, & budget-friendly stays → Jump to section
- 🗻 Lake Ashi: Best for waterfront resorts, Mount Fuji views, & romantic getaways → Jump to section
- 🌿 Sengokuhara: Best for quiet retreats, relaxing stays, & nature lovers → Jump to section
My Overall Picks for Hakone
Short on time?
Here’s where I’d stay.
If it’s your first time visiting Hakone, I recommend staying in either Gora or Hakone-Yumoto. Gora is a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter getaway, with plenty of ryokans and nearby attractions. Hakone-Yumoto, on the other hand, is ideal if you prefer a lively hot spring town with easy access to restaurants, shops, and local transit.
For a memorable stay in Gora, Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika is one of my top picks. I stayed here during my visit to Hakone and loved the peaceful setting, modern Japanese decor, and private in-room onsens.
Where to Stay in Hakone Map
To help you visualize each area (and its nearby attractions), I’ve included below a map of the best places to stay in Hakone.
Area Color Guide: Purple = Gora; Red = Hakone-Yumoto; Blue = Lake Ashi; Yellow = Sengokuhara
➡️ Click here to view an interactive version of this map!
The Best Areas to Stay in Hakone Explained
Without further ado, here’s my guide to the best places to stay in Hakone. I’ve also included hotel and ryokan recommendations for each area, taking into account location, views, amenities, traveler reviews, and overall value, with options for a range of budgets.
Gora: Mountain Views & Onsen Escapes
Best For: Hot Spring Stays, Sightseeing, & Art Museums
Gora is a great option if you’re hoping to combine Hakone’s sightseeing with a traditional hot spring getaway.
Nestled in the mountains, this area is known for its ryokans, peaceful surroundings, and beautiful natural scenery.
It’s also home to several popular attractions, including the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Museum of Art, and Gora Park.
One of the biggest advantages, though, is its convenient location, which offers easy access to several key transit routes.
Served by the Hakone Tozan Railway, Souzan Cable Car, and Hakone Ropeway, Gora makes a great base for exploring the region, particularly if you’re planning to follow the Hakone Loop.
I actually stayed in Gora during my visit and really enjoyed it!
Having so many attractions within easy reach was great – and the mountain setting with its small-town vibes was a nice change of pace!
That said, Gora isn’t the liveliest area in Hakone. Restaurants and shops are limited and more spread out here, so that’s definitely something to keep in mind!
Consider Staying in Gora If:
- You want a traditional hot spring getaway surrounded by mountain scenery.
- You’re looking for a convenient base to explore the Hakone Loop.
- You’d prefer a quieter atmosphere away from the busier tourist areas.
Consider Staying Somewhere Else If:
- You’re looking for a livelier atmosphere with traditional local charm.
- You’d prefer to have a wider selection of restaurants and shops within walking distance.
- You’d rather stay somewhere with lakeside scenery and views of Mount Fuji.
Where to Stay in Gora
Looking to base yourself in Gora? Here are some of the area’s most notable hotels and ryokans!
Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 8.6/10 (Booking.com)
A favorite of mine, this lovely mountain hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere, modern Japanese-influenced decor, and a range of hot spring facilities. I stayed here during my visit to Hakone and particularly loved having a private open-air bath right in my room!
➡️ Check rates and availability at Laforet Hakone Gora Yunosumika
Gora Kansuiro
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.0/10 (Booking.com)
A traditional Japanese ryokan surrounded by stunning natural scenery, featuring beautiful tatami rooms, natural hot spring baths, and authentic multi-course kaiseki dining. Just a 6-minute walk from Gora Station.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Gora Kansuiro
WPÜ Hotel Hakone
⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.0/10 (Booking.com)
A modern, budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations, plus an on-site hot spring bath and a restaurant and bar. Just a 1-minute walk from Gora Station.
Hakone-Yumoto: Easy Access & Historic Character
Best For: Convenience, Traditional Charm, & Budget-Friendly Stays
As the gateway to Hakone, Hakone-Yumoto is a lively hot spring town filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes – not to mention easy access to public transit.
The main shopping area here, Hakone-Yumoto Shopping Street, is particularly popular, with rows of souvenir shops, local food stalls, and bakeries to explore.
You’ll also find plenty of traditional ryokans and hotels in the area – many with their own onsen facilities.
The biggest appeal here, however, is the town’s convenient transport connections.
With Hakone-Yumoto Station serving as a major hub for the region, the town is easily accessible from nearby cities, like Tokyo.
Just keep in mind that it is a bit removed from major attractions like Hakone Shrine and Owakudani Valley.
So, even though public transportation is readily available, you’ll still need to factor in extra travel time for sightseeing.
Consider Staying in Hakone-Yumoto If:
- You want to experience a lively hot spring town with plenty of traditional charm.
- You’d prefer easy access to restaurants, shops, and public transportation.
- You’re looking for a convenient base that is easily accessible from Tokyo.
Consider Staying Somewhere Else If:
- You’d prefer a quieter atmosphere with mountain or lakeside views.
- You want to be closer to the attractions around Gora and Lake Ashi.
- You plan to explore the Hakone Loop and would like to minimize your travel time.
Where to Stay in Hakone-Yumoto
Planning to stay in Hakone-Yumoto? Here are some of the area’s most popular hotels and ryokans.
Ryokan Gyokutei
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.4/10 (Booking.com)
A traditional Japanese ryokan set within a peaceful hillside garden, featuring spacious tatami rooms, natural hot spring baths, and multi-course kaiseki dining.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Ryokan Gyokutei
Hakone Yumoto Onsen Hotel Kajikaso
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 8.5/10 (Booking.com)
A spacious onsen hotel offering a variety of Japanese- and Western-style rooms, with private open-air baths, riverside views, and traditional kaiseki dining. Just a 5-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Hakone Yumoto Onsen Hotel Kajikaso
Yumoto Fujiya Hotel
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 8.9/10 (Booking.com)
A full-service hot spring resort offering a wide array of Japanese- and Western-style rooms, with multiple restaurants, indoor and outdoor onsen baths, and riverside views. Just a 3-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Yumoto Fujiya Hotel
Hakonowa Ryokan
⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 8.8/10 (Booking.com)
A small, budget-friendly ryokan offering cozy Japanese-style guest rooms, private hot spring baths, and an on-site restaurant. Just a 7-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station.
Lake Ashi: Iconic Views & Lakeside Retreats
Best For: Waterfront Resorts, Mount Fuji Views, & Romantic Getaways
Lake Ashi is one of Hakone’s most scenic areas, offering a completely different atmosphere from the hot spring towns of Gora and Hakone-Yumoto.
Centered around the lake’s beautiful shores, this area is known for its waterfront hotels, peaceful surroundings, and iconic views of Mount Fuji.
The main hub here is Motohakone, where you’ll find a selection of restaurants, shops, and cafes.
There are even a few notable attractions from the Hakone Loop nearby, including Hakone Shrine, Hakone Checkpoint, and the town’s famous pirate-themed cruises.
That said, Lake Ashi is quite large and spread out – and not every hotel offers easy access to public transportation.
It’s worth checking locations carefully before booking here, particularly if you’re planning to rely on local transit.
Consider Staying Near Lake Ashi If:
- You’re looking for a peaceful lakeside getaway.
- You’d love the chance to see Mount Fuji during your stay.
- You’d prefer to have easy access to the Hakone Loop and attractions along Lake Ashi.
Consider Staying Somewhere Else If:
- You would like a livelier atmosphere with more restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby.
- You want to prioritize convenient access to public transportation.
- You’d prefer to stay somewhere with a wider selection of ryokans and onsen hotels.
Where to Stay Along Lake Ashi
Hoping to stay along the shores of Lake Ashi? Here are some of the area’s top-rated hotels and resorts.
Hotel Shikinoyakata Hakone Ashinoko
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.3/10 (Booking.com)
An adults-only luxury hotel overlooking Lake Ashi, where every room features a private open-air bath. The property also offers a public onsen and sauna, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Shikinoyakata Hakone Ashinoko
Yoshimatsu Ryokan
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.7/10 (Booking.com)
A traditional Japanese ryokan offering beautiful views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, Japanese- and Western-style rooms, private hot spring baths, and multi-course kaiseki dining. A complimentary shuttle bus is available from Hakone-machi Bus Station.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Yoshimatsu Ryokan
Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.1/10 (Booking.com)
A modern hot spring resort overlooking Lake Ashi, with spacious Western-style rooms, private open-air baths, and an on-site restaurant. Just a 2-minute walk from Togendai Station and the Hakone Ropeway.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori
Hakone Hotel
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 8.9/10 (Booking.com)
A modern lakeside hotel offering beautiful views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, spacious rooms, natural hot spring baths, 3 on-site restaurants, and a bar. A bus stop is conveniently located just outside the hotel.
Sengokuhara: Rural Landscapes & Countryside Charm
Best For: Quiet Retreats, Relaxing Stays, & Nature Lovers
Nestled in Hakone’s highlands, Sengokuhara is known for its open countryside, rolling hills, and scenic natural surroundings.
Because it’s much quieter and more laid-back than Hakone’s main tourist hubs, it’s a great base if you’re looking for a peaceful escape.
Despite this rural setting, there’s still plenty to explore here – including lesser-known gems like the Venetian Glass Museum, Lalique Museum, and Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands.
That said, its secluded location does mean public transportation is much more limited.
If you plan to stay in Sengokuhara, renting a car is definitely the easiest way to get around!
Consider Staying in Sengokuhara If:
- You’re looking for a relaxing escape away from Hakone’s more touristy areas.
- You enjoy nature, art museums, and exploring lesser-known attractions.
- You’re planning to rent a car or don’t mind having limited access to public transit.
Consider Staying Somewhere Else If:
- You want a more central base for exploring Hakone’s main attractions.
- You’d prefer to have easy access to public transportation.
- You’d like a wider selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance.
Where to Stay in Sengokuhara
Thinking Sengokuhara might be the right fit for you? Here are some of the area’s best places to stay!
Hakone Retreat Villa 1/F
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.2/10 (Booking.com)
A secluded adults-only forest retreat offering a mix of stylish villas and spacious suites. Amenities include private onsen baths, spa facilities, a coffee shop, and 2 on-site restaurants.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Hakone Retreat Villa 1/F
Hakone Yuyado Zen
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.7/10 (Booking.com)
A luxury adults-only Japanese inn offering spacious rooms, views of Mount Fuji, private hot spring baths, and traditional kaiseki dining. A complimentary shuttle bus is available from select locations.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Hakone Yuyado Zen
Hotel Morinokaze Hakone Sengokuhara
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rating 9.2/10 (Booking.com)
A modern onsen hotel featuring Japanese- and Western-style rooms, private open-air baths, sauna facilities, complimentary parking, and an on-site restaurant and bar.
➡️ Check rates and availability at Hotel Morinokaze Hakone Sengokuhara
Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Stay in Hakone
While Hakone has plenty of accommodation options to choose from, finding the right stay takes a little planning. From booking early and selecting the right room to planning around your itinerary, here are a few things to keep in mind before making your reservation.
- Book Your Accommodations Early: Hakone is a popular destination, which means its best ryokans and hotels tend to book up well in advance – particularly during peak travel periods, like around fall foliage. If you have a specific property in mind, it’s best to reserve it as early as possible.
- Be Flexible With Your Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, compare prices across different days of the week and travel periods. Staying midweek or outside peak season may help you find better rates, especially at popular ryokans and hotels.
- Be Mindful of Room Types: Traditional ryokans can be quite different from what many Western travelers are used to, with tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, and shared bathroom facilities. While some offer a more modern setup, with Western-style beds and private bathrooms, it’s always best to check the specific room details before booking – so you know exactly what to expect.
- Plan Around Your Itinerary: Think about which attractions you most want to visit before deciding where to stay. Hakone is more spread out than it might appear, so choosing a base near the places you plan to explore can save you quite a bit of travel time.
- Consider How You’ll Get Around: Public transportation is available throughout much of Hakone, but accessibility varies between areas. Check how close your accommodation is to the nearest train or bus stop, particularly if you won’t have a rental car. Taxis can also be limited in some parts of the region.
- Allow Extra Time for Mt. Fuji Views: If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji during your stay, consider allowing an extra night or two. Visibility can be unpredictable, and clouds often obscure the mountain. Staying longer gives you more opportunities to see it, although clear views are never a guarantee.
🌟 Need More Help Planning Your Hakone Trip? Check out my 2-day Hakone itinerary for ideas and inspiration on what to do during your stay!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Hakone
Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about planning a trip to Hakone!
How Many Days Should I Spend in Hakone?
Ideally, I’d recommend spending at least two days in Hakone. This will give you ample time to visit the main attractions, enjoy the hot springs, and explore the region without feeling too rushed. If you have the time, though, staying for two or three nights is even better, particularly if you’d like to have more flexibility when it comes to the weather and views of Mt. Fuji.
Is It Better to Stay in Gora or Hakone-Yumoto?
It really depends on what you’re looking for and what you’d like to prioritize during your stay. While both areas provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy Hakone’s famous hot springs, they do offer quite different atmospheres. Gora, for example, is a quieter mountain town with convenient access to nearby attractions. Hakone-Yumoto, on the other hand, is a livelier town with a wider selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Ultimately, neither is necessarily better – it just comes down to the kind of experience you’re hoping to have!
Is Lake Ashi Too Inconvenient for First-Time Visitors?
Not at all! Lake Ashi can be a great base for first-time visitors, particularly if you’re hoping to enjoy the area’s beautiful scenery and lakeside attractions. The main thing to keep in mind is that accommodations are spread out, and public transportation isn’t equally accessible everywhere. Staying near Motohakone or Togendai makes it easier to explore the area, while some of the more secluded hotels may require a little extra planning. If you’d like to explore the wider Hakone region, it’s worth checking how close your hotel is to the nearest bus stop – and researching how long it will take to reach the attractions on your itinerary. With a little planning, Lake Ashi can be a lovely place to stay, even on your first visit!
Are Ryokans Worth the Price in Hakone?
Absolutely! If you have room in your budget, I think staying at a ryokan is well worth the splurge. Beyond the hot spring baths, many traditional ryokans offer a more immersive cultural experience, with tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, and multi-course kaiseki meals. While I didn’t stay at a traditional ryokan in Hakone, I have in other parts of Japan, and it’s such a unique experience! It’s a wonderful way to get a feel for traditional Japanese hospitality and enjoy a side of Japan you might not otherwise see.
Can You Visit Hakone as a Day Trip from Tokyo?
Yes, you can! Hakone is located just a couple of hours from Tokyo, making it a popular day trip destination. If you’d like to explore on your own, it’s entirely possible to follow the Hakone Loop using the region’s public transportation. Or, if you’d prefer to have everything arranged for you, there are plenty of guided day tours from Tokyo that you can join. Some stick to the main Hakone attractions, while others add on stops around the Fuji Five Lakes. Just keep in mind, you won’t be able to see everything Hakone has to offer in a single day. If you have the time, I’d recommend staying overnight so you can explore at a more relaxed pace and enjoy some of the region’s hot springs, too.
Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Hakone, Japan
Ultimately, the best place to stay in Hakone really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of your trip.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional hot spring getaway, a convenient base for sightseeing, or a peaceful lakeside retreat, each area offers something a little different.
Personally, I really enjoyed staying in Gora during my visit.
Having several attractions nearby while still being able to enjoy a peaceful mountain setting made it a great base for my trip.
For that reason, I’d generally recommend Gora or Hakone-Yumoto for first-time visitors, as both offer a good balance of accommodation options, attractions, and transport connections.
However, if you’re looking for a more secluded stay with scenic views, Sengokuhara or Lake Ashi might be more your style.
Wherever you decide to stay, just be sure to consider how you’ll get around and which attractions you’d most like to visit.
Hakone is more spread out than many first-time visitors expect, so choosing the right base can make a big difference!
Still not sure where to stay in Hakone? Or have a favorite area you’d recommend? Let me know in the comments below!
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KRYSTI ATKINSON
Krysti is a travel writer currently based in Okinawa, Japan. Over the past 4 years, she has explored Japan extensively while traveling throughout Asia – from iconic cities to quiet, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Through Wanderful Horizons, Krysti shares detailed itineraries, practical travel tips, and firsthand recommendations to help travelers plan unforgettable adventures.
