I stayed at a place in Hakone for one night, and I wanted to share my experience. The price for two people was KRW 326,000 (approximately USD 288). I believe the price may vary depending on the season. We opted for the buffet option for both breakfast and dinner, and it was quite satisfying. Even though I don’t usually eat fish, I enjoyed the seafood dishes, which would likely be even more enjoyable for seafood enthusiasts. The style of dining included grilling one serving of lamb ribs and deep-frying one plate of fried crab per person, which was quite nice. Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures of the food as it was crowded.
I usually book accommodations through Airbnb, so I can’t compare if the price here was expensive or cheap. However, I can say that I was satisfied with the buffet for both breakfast and dinner, and I have no regrets about choosing this place. The hot springs and open-air baths were also a great addition.
However, there were a couple of minor drawbacks. The Wi-Fi was constantly disconnecting, which was a bit frustrating. Additionally, I reserved the accommodation through Agoda, but I was concerned about the recent issues related to Agoda. To ensure everything went smoothly, I sent multiple confirmation emails in both English and Japanese 45 days in advance, but I never received a response. Thankfully, upon arrival, my reservation was in order, and I felt relieved.
I apologize for the lack of detailed information in this review, as this is my first time writing one.
Based on your experience at the accommodation in Hakone, I’m glad to hear that you were satisfied with the buffet options for both breakfast and dinner. The seafood dishes, in particular, seemed enjoyable even for non-seafood enthusiasts. The grilling of lamb ribs and deep-frying of fried crab per person also added a nice touch to the dining experience. Although you didn’t have any pictures, it’s clear that the food quality was good.
In terms of price, as you usually book accommodations through Airbnb, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison. However, you expressed satisfaction with the buffet and overall experience, which indicates that the price was reasonable for the services provided. It’s great to hear that the hot springs and open-air baths were a nice addition to your stay, adding to the relaxation and comfort of the accommodation.
Moving on to the minor drawbacks you experienced, the issue with the Wi-Fi constantly disconnecting was indeed frustrating. It’s unfortunate that this affected your stay, as reliable internet connectivity is important for many travelers. Additionally, your concerns regarding the reservation made through Agoda were reasonable, especially given the lack of response to your confirmation emails. However, it’s reassuring that upon arrival, your reservation was in order, alleviating any anxiety you may have had.
Now, in terms of nearby tourist attractions or activities, Hakone offers a range of options. One popular attraction is the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and appreciate art installations in the open air. The museum also features a unique foot bath where visitors can relax while enjoying the surrounding artwork.
Another recommendation is to visit Lake Ashinoko for a scenic boat ride. This crater lake offers stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days, providing an excellent photo opportunity. You can also explore the Hakone Shrine, located near the lake, which is known for its picturesque red torii gate standing in the water.
If you are interested in history and culture, a visit to the Hakone Checkpoint Museum can be insightful. This reconstructed checkpoint showcases the historical significance of Hakone during the Edo period and provides a glimpse into the past.
For a more relaxing experience, consider visiting one of the many traditional hot springs, known as onsens, in the area. Hakone is famous for its natural hot springs, and soaking in one can be a soothing and rejuvenating experience after a day of exploring.
Overall, Hakone offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, from art and culture to picturesque landscapes and relaxing hot springs. These recommendations should provide you with a good starting point to enhance your stay in the area. Enjoy your time in Hakone!