The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko

Breakfast was a lovely way to start the day: there was a good range of quality food, and eating while looking out at the lake was a treat. Lake Ashi was the highlight of my stay at The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko. I could see it from my room and other spots on the property, and the views were breathtaking. I didn't see Mount Fuji during my visit, but the scenery was still stunning. I came away feeling refreshed. The hotel was calm from the moment I arrived, just right for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. It's a lovely place to relax and take in the area's natural beauty, and I hope to return.

The staff were kind and helpful, and I liked the view from both the room and the onsen. Still, the place felt a little run down and somehow off. We didn't think the higher-end restaurants would be worth the prices, and the buffet definitely wasn't good or worth what it cost.

The rooms had lovely lake views, and the staff around the hotel were generally friendly. But breakfast at Lake Side Grill was embarrassing and handled badly. Our rooms had checked in, and we were already seated at a table for four when another person in our group arrived. Two staff members followed him across the restaurant, calling “excuse me” loudly, as if he were sneaking in for a meal. When the line is long, guests shouldn’t have to queue repeatedly just to confirm they’re checked in. Staff could have checked with us quietly at the table. At a luxury hotel charging $500 a night, making a scene over a $15 buffet felt completely out of proportion. It left a bad impression and took away from an otherwise enjoyable stay. There are better choices at a similar price.

The biggest drawback is getting around. Public transport to and from the hotel is sparse, runs late in the morning, and stops early. One evening we nearly got stranded with no way back. The shuttle service to places along the Hakone trail needs to be better. If you’re planning to rely on buses and shuttles while doing the trail, I’d reconsider. With your own car, or if you mainly want to stay near the hotel, it’s a strong choice. The rooms and Onsen were excellent, and the property is well kept. It sits right beside lake Ashi (Ashinoko), with a peaceful, beautiful view. Better transport would have made this a five-star stay for me.