Welcome to Hakone
Volcanic hot springs, cedar forests and clear views of Mount Fuji draw people to Hakone year after year. It's a place built around slowing down, soaking in an outdoor onsen and watching mist move through mountain valleys. Resorts in Hakone are known for ryokan-style experiences, where private hot spring baths and multi-course kaiseki dining are central to the stay, not extras.
How to find the best resort deal in Hakone
The same magic that powers our flight search can also help you score great deals on rooms online. Here are some hacks to find an ideal stay and save in no time.
Book in advance
Book as early as you can to increase your chances of finding the right resort at the right price. This matters even more during the busiest times of year like school holidays and major public events.
...Or bag a last-minute Hakone resort deal
It generally gets more expensive as your travel dates get closer. But in quieter periods, last-minute offers can still pop up when resorts have vacant rooms to fill.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
A little flexibility goes a long way when searching for cheap resorts in Hakone. Swap weekends for weekday stays, or travel during the low season instead of the busiest periods.
Go all-inclusive
If you plan to spend the majority of your time on site, all-inclusive resorts in Hakone are hard to beat. Drinks, meals and activities are included in the room rate, which can make it easier to manage your budget. Find out if stays like this are available for your trip.
Show discounted resorts only
Use the 'Only show hotels with discounts' filter to easily find resorts offering reduced rates or special offers. This saves you from having to dig through full-price options.
When to visit Hakone
High and low season in Hakone
Spring (late March through May) and autumn (October through November) are the most popular times to visit Hakone. Cherry blossoms in spring and colourful foliage in autumn draw large numbers of visitors, so accommodation books up fast during these periods. Securing your stay well in advance is a smart move, especially around peak bloom and fall colour weeks. Clear days in these seasons also offer the best chances of seeing Mount Fuji from across Lake Ashi.
Visiting Hakone in the winter months or during midsummer brings fewer crowds and more availability at short notice. Winter days can be cold and misty, but the open-air baths at local ryokan feel especially rewarding in that kind of weather. Summer brings lush greenery and more active outdoor options, though it also comes with humidity and the occasional typhoon. Prices tend to be more flexible outside the spring and autumn peaks.
Hakone hosts the Hakone Ekiden, a well-known long-distance relay race that takes place over two days in early January and draws large crowds along the route. Beyond that, the area's event calendar can vary from year to year. Checking the official Hakone tourism website or asking at a local visitor information centre before your trip is the most reliable way to find out what's on during your visit.
Events in Hakone
Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu: This procession recreates a feudal lord's parade along the old Tokaido highway. Participants dress in elaborate Edo-period costume, and the route passes through central Hakone. It's a rare chance to see living history played out at a genuine historic site.
Hakone Ekiden: This long-distance relay race runs between Tokyo and Hakone, drawing elite university teams from across the country. It doesn't take place solely in Hakone, but the finish line sits here, making it a major local event. Crowds line the route to watch the final stages unfold.
Hakone Open-Air Museum Events: The Hakone Open Air Museum hosts rotating exhibitions and seasonal cultural events throughout the year. You'll find sculpture installations, live performances, and family-friendly programming set against the mountain landscape. It's one of the more active cultural venues in the area.
Check local tourism boards before your trip for the latest event details.
Best family-friendly Hakone resorts
Take the family on a trip and keep costs low at Mandarin House. This 2-star resort takes the stress out of travelling with kids thanks to amenities like parking and a restaurant.
Ready to level up the family getaway? Nol Hakone Myojindai combines an upscale feel with family-friendly conveniences like a lift and room service. Guests give this Hakone resort over 4 out of 5 overall.
Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa is also worth considering. This 5-star option offers Wi-Fi in designated areas and express check-out and is highly rated for its rooms.
Best spa resorts in Hakone
Switch off with a spa getaway to nol Hakone Myojindai. This 4-star stay delivers the zen, with UV sunbeds and an indoor swimming pool for you to enjoy.
Why limit yourself to one spa day? Stretch it into a spa stay at Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa. A tennis court and a sunbathing area are among the amenities at this 5-star resort.
