Hidamari Ichinoyu

The only small snag was that the air conditioning didn’t always work well. Since the weather was mostly comfortable, it didn’t become a big problem. Hidamari Ichinoyu is in a beautiful, quiet part of Hakone, and the ryokan has a very relaxing feel. After exploring the area, it was a great place to wind down. The food was honestly amazing, with a huge range of choices at both dinner and breakfast, which made the stay feel luxurious. Getting around was easy too: Tonosawa Station is nearby for the little mountain train, or you can take the free shuttle to Hakone-Yumoto and travel from there.

I loved our stay at this ryokan. It was easy to manage even for someone new to ryokan stays and with limited Japanese. The food was amazing, fresh, and there was plenty of it. Our room felt spacious for two, and we loved having a private onsen. Such a relaxing experience, and a lovely way to learn about the culture.

The meals were great if you like Japanese food, but there wasn't really anything else to eat, so bring snacks from 711 if you don't. The onsen and free drink bar were nice, though our room near reception was noisy from people using the bar and the vending machine outside. I was hoping for the peaceful quiet that comes to mind with a traditional Japanese room. Our room fit four beds, but barely. There was a small table, and only two beds were set up for us. The rest of the linen was in a cupboard. With four of us, it felt cramped the whole time. Also, when we dropped our bags off early, no one mentioned booking dinner. They only told us after we'd returned from town that it was too late and we'd have to go back. That was frustrating.

The free lobby drink bar, which included alcohol, was a nice touch, and the staff were all very kind. My husband and I stayed one night and chose the vegetarian meals. Dinner in particular was delicious. Our room was spacious and had its own outdoor bath, and the whole stay felt comfortable and relaxing. Tonosawa Station is an easy walk away.