Nagomi No Yado Hanagokoro

“Tranqil Japanese Onsen experience”

The hotel is a 2 minute walk from Sounzan station, and if needed, they provide a shuttle to Gora station. Currently the cable car and rail system was down so we got there via the shuttle buses from the Yamoto- Hakone station. (Tip: take the bus to Sounzan.) We stayed in the twin room with tatami… more

The hotel is a 2 minute walk from Sounzan station, and if needed, they provide a shuttle to Gora station. Currently the cable car and rail system was down so we got there via the shuttle buses from the Yamoto- Hakone station. (Tip: take the bus to Sounzan.) We stayed in the twin room with tatami area and elected for sukiyaki beef dinner for 2 nights. Each room had its own theme, and has its own private, dedicated onsen. The onsen is not in the room, however one has to walk a few stairs outside the main building proper which may be slippery in rain/ snow. Its worth it! We tried out 2 different onsens - one twin circular cedar tubs, the other a rectangular tub, both with an adjoining room with hot bed to lie down. Each cubicle has its sink, wash, bathrobes, towels BUT no toilets. Settle that first :) Windows open and you can gaze out the forests of snow as you soak in tranquility. Food was superb. The food was scrumptious. It was just too good: I am describing 2 nights dinner here - where can you have spiny lobster, abalone, snow crab legs, sashimi, tempura, fish, beef, - decadent ingredients! Breakfast was also very filling, the constant "more rice?" "more miso?" made sure you were never hungry. The room price includes beer / soda, water in the fridge. Try their sake! The quaintness, quietness, & authentic Japanese experience made this onsen worth a definite repeat in the future. Slightly old taps/ sinks but that's part of the charm! Thank you to the wonderful lady hosts!

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“The best hotel experience I've ever had”

My stay at Hanagokoro was wonderful. The modernist decor in the communal areas created a great ambience, the rooms were very nice, the staff were extremely attentive, and the food was the best I've had in Japan. The biggest highlight, however, was the private onsen (baths). These are accessed vi… more

My stay at Hanagokoro was wonderful. The modernist decor in the communal areas created a great ambience, the rooms were very nice, the staff were extremely attentive, and the food was the best I've had in Japan. The biggest highlight, however, was the private onsen (baths). These are accessed via a communal hallway, however each bath is completely private (in a wooden hut-style structure). The baths are beautifully decorated (lots of wood, and low level warm lighting). We also chose to get a massage in our room. This was also fantastic. The massage is received fully clothed - wearing the yukatas (casual kimono) that the guests are expected to wear at all times around the hotel. I really recommend this place. However, this place is not for those who like total anonymity - this is a 'ryokan' style hotel, where the level of service is very high and attentive.

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“Strong advantages- some disadvantages”

Mixed bag here- but the strong was so strong that I just couldnt go less than Very Good. Let's start with the weaknesses: The decor is 1960's though everything is absolutely immaculate There are only 8 rooms, so if you're looking for an ambiance, let alone a vibe- forget it- there is none BUT it's… more

Mixed bag here- but the strong was so strong that I just couldnt go less than Very Good. Let's start with the weaknesses: The decor is 1960's though everything is absolutely immaculate There are only 8 rooms, so if you're looking for an ambiance, let alone a vibe- forget it- there is none BUT it's peaceful. The private baths are not 'in room' and require you to go down to another part of the Ryokan While the rooms are very traditional Ryokan style, the overall architecture pulls you back into the 60's....which is particular. Wifi only in the lobby- free, but lobby only was not ideal. The owner is in her 70's and though we just loved her total commitment to making us happy, there were many moments where she just monopolized our meal and hijacked all the discussion as she was busy explaining each dish in our Kaiseiki meals- we simply could never get the flow our conversation going as she just kept interrupting!! This is due to the fact that we were the age of her kids/grandkids AND that several of us didnt speak Japanese (though one did)- she was just being affectionate and motherly. However, at $800USD a night, no matter what the reason, I expect to be left in peace to enjoy my meals. I can ask if I REALLY want to know what is every last dish- but again, what am I to do? Be unpleasant to this super nice lady? This really left a bit of a mark on our stay unfortunately. Now the advantages: Wonderful views of the area from the restaurant OUTSTANDING Kaiseiki meals- really world class quality...such inventiveness and creativity blended with aesthetics was striking- all of us where floored. Wonderful private Onsen for each room with lovely different tubs in every private cabana- plus a 'sauna' room with a warm stone bed. Windows open wide into the valley and you really can take your bath in peace....just great. Peaceful and discreet ambiance- almost like a modern day monastery. Lovely color co-ordinated Yukata for him and her just added to the overal esthetic. Though 60's the architecture lends itself well to the multi level/discreet ambiance we found so relaxing. It cannot be overstated how charming everyone was at this Ryokan- really lovely people. Would recommend and for the meals & private onsen WARMLY recommend.

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