Shirayunoyado Yamadaya Hakone Gora

We got the main room in the pictures for our family and were quite happy about the space. It wasn’t obvious where to stock our things as the drawers stored the linens and yukata, but lots of room to pit it aside. The food spread was great ,but after a few days, we were happy to have other meals since the food is similar (fish done in many ways!) and we aren’t used to meals like these. The kids had lots of fun. Their baby chairs make funny (and annoying) noises, which of course they played with constantly. Loved using the onsen. Nice and relaxing. On one of our days, the ropeway was closed and it poured, which makes travelling a bit tricker even just to grab food. We were aware of the reviews and treated this place like an older rustic cabin-style place, and had a great time. We enjoyed the outdoor onsen the most, less humidity to bear.

The location with great views across to the mountains and convenience for the Hakone Ropeway. The authentic Japanese living and eating experience.

If you're looking for what a traditional antique ryokan is, look no further. This place is definitely old, but with that age comes character. If you want a more modern stay you're going to need to look elsewhere. What it lacks because of age it makes up for in the incredibly friendly staff and delicious food. The woman who attended us for our meals was super nice and set everything up beautifully. She did not speak much English but sincerely made an effort to communicate with us. We didn't know what we were eating, but honestly didn't need to. It was all so delicious! My husband and I also took advantage of a private onsen. The bathroom itself was relatively small but that bath was GLORIOUS! After waking roughly 10 miles every day for half a week prior, it was so refreshing to soak. The water was hot and milky in color and left our skin feeling so smooth. This ryokan is also 2 or so minutes from the ropeway and end line of the cable car. If you get a chance, I highly recommend getting there by the Tozan train then cable car as the views are beautiful. I recommend this ryokan if an older building isn't off-putting, as I really do think that the rest of the experience far outweighs the age of the building and the fact that things clearly need repair in areas.

We were looking for a more traditional experience in a mountain area. Hakone seemed like a good choice for that, conveniently located close to Tokyo. The staff's attention and quality of service is amazing! We arrived under a cold rain. From the moment you enter the hotel, we felt warmly welcomed. We were greeted by someone at the door and asked to leave your shoes there and wear comfortable slippers. A nice, mild incense smell floated in the air. The front desk greeted is, as well as a groom boy who took our luggage and a woman who led us to our room and offered us some tea. Shortly after dinner the same woman served dinner in our room. What an amazing experience! The table was set in our room with so much care and attention to details. It was amazing to watch her at work, a ceremony that made us feel special. The meal was scrumptious and different on our second night. Everything looked and tasted great. Shortly after dinner, the 2 boys who took care of our luggage sat up the futons for the night. Again, we watched them proceed with care and precision as they were setting us up for the night. The hot baths on the 3rd floor are nice, I had them for myself on our first night and bathing in that hot, steamy milky water in open air, listening to and watching the pouring rain from this terrace felt very relaxing. It's even better on the 4th floor, with a nice mountain view. They rotate women and men's hour between the 3rd and 4th floor. We didn't hear any of the other guests voices or noise during our 2 nights stay. The price is reasonable considering that dinner and breakfast are included. You'll pay easily 2000+JPY per person for meals in this area. Here, it's included and in the comfort of your hotel room. We were not fond of fish for breakfast, and the front desk kindly offered bacon and eggs instead. I wish I had asked the 2 boys and the woman their names, to thank them more personally through my review.

The staff were very welcoming and helpful throughout our stay. We liked our room with a great view of the mountains. The meals, served in our room were beautifully presented and delicious. The location is perfect for getting to the key sights of Hakone. Perfect if you enjoy visiting a very traditional ryokan.