Accommodation Name (Rating): Toki no Yu Setsugekka
Location: Hakone Gora Station
Distance from Station: 1-2 minutes on foot
Recommendation Score: ★★★★
Type of Accommodation: Ryokan
Accommodation Cost: $720 per night (Note: This price may be higher due to year-end rates)
Booking Platform: Agoda
Breakfast Included: Yes
Surrounding Atmosphere: Quiet and serene
Overall Satisfaction: I was quite satisfied with my stay at Toki no Yu Setsugekka! After arriving at Narita, I had spent the evening exploring the Shinjuku area, resulting in a late arrival at the accommodation. I was too tired to visit the large communal bath, but I did enjoy using the private open-air bath on the balcony of my room. With a privacy screen and the convenience of soaking in the hot spring within the room, it truly helped me relax and relieve fatigue.
The dinner was included in the reservation, but I mistakenly had dinner at a nearby Okonomiyaki restaurant, so I didn’t get to experience the dinner provided by the ryokan.
For breakfast, I had to go to a designated breakfast dining area and show my room key at the breakfast front desk. They guided guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the room itself was spacious. Due to the original room I booked being fully booked, I unexpectedly received an upgrade! The tatami room with a comfortable bed provided a great night’s sleep.
During check-in, I was given a yukata (a casual, lightweight kimono) to choose from various designs and sizes. Once I found the room location, I could enter the building. Please note that there are two buildings, and you need to go up to the second floor to access the bridge connecting the two buildings. I apologize for not being able to take pictures of the room, as it was a bit pricey, but overall, I was satisfied with my stay at this ryokan.
As for the breakfast, it is shown in the attached image.
If you’re staying at Toki no Yu Setsugekka in Hakone Gora Station, there are several nearby tourist attractions and activities that I would recommend.
Firstly, given the accommodation’s location just a 1-2 minute walk from the station, I suggest taking advantage of this easy access to explore the beautiful Hakone Open Air Museum. This outdoor art park showcases an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures against the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. You can admire the artwork, stroll through the gardens, and even soak in the hot spring foot bath. It is a unique and artistic experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Another must-visit attraction in the area is the Hakone Ropeway. This cable car ride offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashinoko, and the Owakudani volcanic valley. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the entire Hakone region. I highly recommend taking the ropeway all the way to the top and then hiking down through the volcanic valley. It’s a memorable adventure and a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hakone.
For those interested in Japanese history and culture, a visit to the Hakone Shrine is highly recommended. This iconic Shinto shrine, located at the edge of Lake Ashinoko, is known for its picturesque red torii gate standing proudly in the lake. After exploring the shrine, you can take a boat ride on the lake itself, offering another opportunity to admire the surrounding scenery and maybe even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
If you’re a nature lover, be sure to check out the Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands. This peaceful and serene garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including many beautiful water lilies and lotuses. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Additionally, Hakone is famous for its hot springs, and there are several public bathhouses, or “onsens,” in the area that you can visit. These communal bathing facilities offer a traditional Japanese bathing experience, where you can relax in the healing waters and rejuvenate your body and soul.
Finally, if you’re interested in Japanese cuisine, I recommend exploring the local restaurants and trying the regional specialty, Hakone soba. These thin buckwheat noodles are a delicacy in the region, and you can find them served in various ways, including hot in a broth or cold with dipping sauce. It’s a delicious and authentic culinary experience that should not be missed.
In conclusion, staying at Toki no Yu Setsugekka provides a convenient base for exploring the Hakone area. From visiting art museums and shrines to riding cable cars and indulging in local cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or relaxation, Hakone offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that will make your stay memorable.