Hakone Airu

We stayed at Hakone Airu for one night as we were exploring Hakone. We were looking for a ryoken experience with a private onsen, excellent service, and a great view. I would highly recommend Hakone Airu. Location: it's 10-15 minutes away from the train stations which makes it very accessible. As other reviewers have mentioned, the hotel is on top of a very steep hill. We knew this ahead of time and only brought backpacks. I would say that lugging a suitcase to the hotel would be very tough. There are shuttle buses available for 100jpy, which I would recommend for those who aren't inclined to walk up the hill. Rooms: We got a room on the fourth floor and it exceeded our expectations. The room space was very large and seat up as a sitting area when we arrived. There was a separate area for the toilets vs shower vs sinks. The powder area and showet had lots of additional items for you to use. The balcony and onsen was fabulous! The onsen was very hot (similar to a Western hot tub) and incredibly relaxing. In traditional ryokens, you would expect to be sleeping on a thin mat on the floor. While we were away at dinner, the staff came by to set up the bed. The mattresses were thick and comfy while the blankets were fluffy and warm. We had a great night's sleep (especially after soaking in the onsen again). The rooms all over a lushious view of greenery on a mountain. Food: The food was a unique experience in the sense that it's very different from restaurants. You are served meals in a private eating area and the staff bring you each of the courses. They serve many small dishes that allow you to try various flavours and ingredients, ranging from sashimi, grilled beef, soups, and fruit. There are two selections for breakfast, either Western or Japanese. We went with Japanese and again, lots of small dishes to try out. From both meals, we were extremely full and happy! Other comments: Like someone else mentioned, we didn't see a Japanese employee during our entire stay. I personally think that the experience was a mix between traditional Japanese and Bali luxury (theme of the hotel) so it didn't bother me. We specifically wanted a private onsen and a comfy night's rest, and we got everything and more.

Disappointed had read so much about the place. I didn’t really find the staff accommodating or helpful. Maybe it was the language barrier. The onsen was lovely but found the rest was very much like a youth hostel. Being shown plastic cards with rules and instructions was beyond weird. Charges for glasses, it just seemed very much run like a youth hostel. As the most expensive place on our trip I’m just disappointed. I read responses by management where other people complained and think maybe they should take on board what people are saying. I will def be back to gorgeous Hakone but would look for alternative lodgings.