![[usxanz] Hakone Hot Springs Spots](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/q_85/c_fill,w_1360/v1724977445/rwqti0tn1izyds8bzmid.jpg)
Soaking in a hot spring (also known as onsen) is a cultural experience you need to try at least once in your life when in Japan. They’re so popular with locals that you might even see some onsens in highly urbanized areas.
But if you’re staying in Tokyo, there’s no better place to go than Hakone, one of the country’s most famous hot springs towns. It’s just a little over an hour away via public transport and you can even combine a visit to Mount Fuji if you’re just going on a day trip.
You can also stay overnight (which we recommend!) at one of the many onsens in the area so you aren’t rushing. Plus, you get the whole experience of a traditional tatami room complete with a dinner set of local delicacies (also known as kaiseki) and your own yukata to wear. Now that’s a trip well spent.🙂↔️
So, if you’re ready, read on to discover the best onsens in Hakone and more!
How to get from Tokyo to Hakone
![[usxanz] Hakone Gora Park](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_1000/v1724978005/sprohynpdrtkyhu15na3.jpg)
Credits to Akira Deng on Pexels.
You can easily reach Hakone via Tokyo to Odawara shinkansen (shinkansen), ordinary express train, highway bus, or private car to Mount Fuji.
Shinkansen is definitely the fastest option as the trip from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station (AKA the nearest shinkansen stop to Hakone) takes just under an hour. If you’re a Whole Japan JR Pass holder, this is the best route for you since your shinkansen ride is covered.
Once you get to Odawara Station, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line. From there, it’s just one scenic train ride to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then it’s time to kick back and relax!
Now, if you’ll be staying overnight in Hakone, consider getting the Hakone Free Pass. You’ll definitely save more than a few dollars since it covers unlimited transit between Shinjuku Station in Tokyo and Hakone-Yumoto Station, plus major highway buses, trains, and cable cars in the area.
For more detailed information, you can check out the article below:
Check out these best onsens in Hakone
With all the Hakone onsens to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one to visit. To help you out, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite and best onsens in Hakone below.
1. Enjoy an open-air bath with scenic views at Hakone Yumoto Onsen Teisen
![[usxanz] Hakone Yumoto Onsen Teisen](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_1000/v1724978488/c2s4hgoouxmktxtkyuyh.jpg)
First on our list is this famous onsen located in the small town of Yumoto. Yumoto serves as a gateway to the overall Hakone area, so you’ll find that many popular onsens are located here!
One of the best onsens in Hakone is Yumoto Onsen Tenseien and it’s well-known even among locals for its incredibly spacious open-air hot spring bath on its top floor.
You get unparalleled views of the surrounding mountain area. It’s especially worth visiting during spring or fall.
Apart from the hot spring, there’s plenty more to do here. Take a stroll along its teahouse garden, where you can find the Tamadare Waterfall, the waters of which are believed to have sacred properties.
In this same area, you’ll find the Tamadare Jinja-Shrine where you can make wishes for good health, a love life, and more. 🥰 If you stay overnight, you can choose your own yukata design so don’t miss this place if you want to snap some photos for the ‘gram.
As a souvenir, you can get a Goshuin! Goshuin are shrine stamps, and the designs are unique to each shrine. To get one, you’ll just need to make a small donation of JPY 300-500 (about $USD 2-3) at the offices on the shrine grounds.
Apart from the waterfall and shrine, the onsen also has a wellness spa and dining facilities. We recommend getting their sashimi here since Hakone is popular for its fresh seafood. Yum!
2. Indulge in a luxurious stay at Hakone Kamon
Hakone Kamon is a 4-star accommodation that lets you vacation in completely traditional Japanese style. You can choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor hot springs with options for private baths! The bento sets here are a must-try, especially since the food served in onsens isn’t the usual ramen and sushi you might find at home.
3. Spend a day to relax and recharge at the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel
The hot springs at the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel are perfect for travelers on the go. It’s located right in front of Hakone-Yumoto Station, just across the Haya River. You can reach the hotel by crossing the Ajisai Bridge.
Talk about major Spirited Away feels! Some onsens only offer their facilities for staying guests, but this hotel is open to daytime visitors. Perfect if you just need a few hours to rest from all the sightseeing.
Indoor and outdoor onsens are available, but we recommend trying the outdoor ones so you have great views as you relax.
If you decide to stay for a night (or two), though, both Japanese and Western-style rooms are available. They even have a combination style room, which features a tatami mat arrangement alongside standard beds we’re all familiar with.
And of course, what’s an onsen visit without a tasty Japanese meal right after? Peek some of Yumoto Fujiya’s dishes below.
Klook Tip: You’ve probably heard that many onsen places do not allow guests with tattoos, and this is true. Don’t forget to check the tattoo policy of the onsen before you go!
Another option for where to stay in Hakone that come with an onsen:
4. Immerse in nature at Yoshiike Ryokan
Photo from Yoshiike Ryokan
What sets apart Yoshiike Ryokan is its meticulously maintained Japanese-style garden that charms in any season. There are indoor and outdoor onsens available, so make sure to try both! You can find local and Western cuisine here, as well as overnight accommodations, a spacious swimming pool, and even conference rooms.
5. Take a day trip to Hakone Yuryo
Hakone Yuryo is also a popular day trip spot since it’s pretty close to Hakone-Yuryo Station. There’s even a shuttle bus from the train station to the onsen! Private and communal baths are available in this rustic getaway. There are also massage and sauna services for a full-service wellness treatment.
If you book a private room, you can choose between three sizes. The largest accommodates up to four people, so it’s perfect for those traveling in a group.
6. Have fun with the whole family at the onsen-amusement park fusion Kowaki-en Yunessun
The best onsens in Hakone that we’ve listed so far are peaceful nature getaways, but Kowaki-en Yunessun is built differently. Literally. You’ll find water slides and aquatic jungle gyms where kids can play, as well as unique twists on the traditional hot spring baths.
You can bathe in real drip coffee, green tea, and even wine — strictly no drinking of course! You can also wear swimsuits in the hot springs here, which is great for people who are a little bit shy.
And if you’re still looking for the classic open-air bath experience surrounded by nature, no problem. Kowaki-en Yunessun has a special section called “Mori no Yu” where you can enjoy just that.
7. Unwind with a mountain view at Mikawaya Ryokan
Mikawaya Ryokan is located in the famous Owakudani district of Hakone, which means it’s a little closer to the base of the Hakone mountains. The open-air baths are spacious and surrounded by nature, and you can book a private room if you want to recharge more comfortably. This onsen is also home to Horaien, a sprawling garden famous in all seasons.
You can get a bird’s eye view of Owakudani aboard the Hakone Ropeway, so if you’re planning to explore Hakone’s mountain area, we recommend staying in this district instead of Yumoto.
8. Relax in style at Gora Hana Ougi
Gora Hana Ougi is a 4-star accommodation for those who want to indulge in comfort. This is also a more private space since the onsens are only open to staying guests and are divided into men only and women only.
Suite and semi-suite rooms are available alongside standard bedrooms, which is great if you’re traveling in a big group.
Located higher up in the Hakone area (you can take a cable car to get here!), a private car is the most comfortable way to reach this onsen. You can book a private car charter on Klook for the most fuss-free experience. You can also try a car rental!
9. Vacation like royalty at the Gora Kadan
One of the most popular Hakone hot springs spots, Gora Kadan is a luxury experience like no other. This onsen is housed in a villa formerly owned by the Japanese imperial family, so you can feel the rich history of Old Japan as you get some well-deserved R&R. It has a spa, a spacious indoor pool, dining facilities, and more.
Have limited time to explore Hakone? No problem. Gora Kadan is open for day trips, so you can definitely spoil yourself with an afternoon or evening here.
10. Stay in the heart of Hakone at Senkyoro
Senkyoro is located in the Ashigarashimo District of Hakone, so we recommend a stay here if you want to explore other scenic spots like the Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields and the Pola Museum of Art. You can book a private wooden villa, perfect for a family trip or a romantic getaway.
Your stay here also comes with a full complimentary breakfast. Plus, you can complete your day with a drink at the bar/lounge in the evening.
11. Get the most bang for your buck at HAKONE Setsugetsuka
Our last recommendation, Hakone Gora Onsen Tonoyu Setsugekka, is a crowd favorite even among locals since you get premium services at pretty reasonable prices.
This is best for visitors looking to stay overnight! It’s easy to access via train since it’s just walking distance from Gora Station. Nearby attractions include Hakone Gora Park and the Hakone Open Air Museum.
There is a wide variety of rooms available, including Japanese and Western fusion types. Some rooms already come with a private open-air bath.
You’re now more than ready to explore some of the best onsens in Hakone! Book your tickets, secure your hotel, and pack your bags for an unforgettable, relaxing trip.
FAQs
1. What are the seven onsen of Hakone?
The seven traditional onsen of Hakone, known as Hakone Nanayu, are Yumoto, Tonosawa, Dogashima, Miyanoshita, Sokokura, Kiga, and Ashinoyu.
2. Is Hakone a good onsen town?
Yes, Hakone is a great and popular onsen town, often called an “onsen theme park” because of its 17 hot spring sources.
3. Which onsen is best for first-time visitors in Japan?
For first-time visitors, Kinosaki Onsen (near Kyoto or Osaka) is considered the best for its traditional town atmosphere, while Hakone (near Tokyo) is the best for convenience.
4. What to know before going to a Japanese onsen?
Before going to a Japanese onsen, please take note of the following: full nudity is required, tattoos are often restricted, and you must wash thoroughly before entering the shared hot water. Baths are usually separated by gender (男/blue for men, 女/red for women), and make sure your hair or small towel doesn’t touch the water.
5. Which Hakone Onsen allows bathing suits?
Kowaki-en Yunessun is an onsen amusement park where visitors can wear bathing suits.
6. Are there public onsens in Hakone?
Yes, Hakone has several public onsens, including traditional public bathhouses (sento-style) and day-use facilities at ryokans (inns). Some public onsens include Tenzan Tohji-kyo, Hakone Yuryo, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, and Hakone Kamon.
7. How many onsens are there in Hakone?
Hakone is home to 17 hot spring sources, commonly known as the "Hakone Ju-nana-yu" (Hakone's Seventeen Hot Spring Sources), spread across the town.
More Travel Inspo to Explore!
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📌Mobile Data & Metro Passes
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