Hakone HOSTEL1914

Kana-San really seemed to care about making sure each guest had a good time. She helped with everything, from booking onsens and restaurants to directions, maps, and buses. The house is old but charming, while the facilities don't feel old at all. The bathroom was great, the dorms were among the most spacious I've stayed in, and everything was clean. The location is fantastic, about halfway between yumoto and gora.

Kana-san made our December weekend in Hakone special. She manages the place herself, and you can tell she cares. There are useful notes around the hostel explaining appliances and the lock, and when all the guests are polite and keep things clean, it feels like a lovely shared home. We'll definitely return. We were two people and booked one queen-sized bunk in the mixed dorm for two nights. Beds are first come, first served if you want to choose top or bottom. In December the room was cold outside but our bed stayed warm with the duvet and air conditioning. The window looks out at Fujiya Hotel. There isn't much luggage space right in front of the bed, so pack light if you don't get a private room, since those go quickly. There's a toilet and sink upstairs on the second floor, along with the dorm and two private rooms. Kana-san provided one large towel and one face towel, plus guest slippers, and each bed has a privacy screen. The first floor shower stalls were very clean, and the room is decorated warmly. There's a kitchenette, tables and chairs, a sofa with blankets, books, board games, a guitar, space heaters, and tourist brochures. It also has the local switch-back train schedule. Bus stops surround the hostel, and Miyanoshita station is walkable, so getting around is convenient. Just watch the last bus and train times. We didn't shop at the local produce store, but Picot bakery is next to the Fujiya hotel and opens at 8AM JST. There's also a Lawson and 7-11 nearby, though Lawson closes at 11 PM. The wooden building dates from 1914, so you hear some creaking and other noise. Ear plugs are provided. The reviews are right about Kana-san being a gem: she's sweet, kind, and very helpful.

The house is old, so sound and temperature insulation aren't great. They provide free earplugs and lots of blankets, but light sleepers may struggle, especially in the busy season. For solo or duo travelers, I'd highly recommend it. Kana is one of the kindest hosts I've met. Right when I arrived, she sat me down and helped arrange dinner and onsen reservations, pointed out the nearest konbinis, and did everything she could to make me comfortable. When the restaurant and onsen raised problems with my reservations, she pressed them to accept me anyway. I had time before dinner, so we sat together with drinks and snacks and chatted. Staying here feels like visiting your favorite aunt.

The place has a lot of history and a wonderfully cozy feel. Staying here was one of my most enjoyable hostel experiences. It feels like visiting an aunt who's happy to help with any questions. I'll definitely be back!