our stay was amazing! definitely recommend it. because it can be difficult to get there for non-Japanese speakers, I will share how we did the journey from Kyoto: Take a Shinkansen to Odawara Station. Follow the signs to the bus stop exit. Check the individual bus stops for "T" Togendai line. There might also be a service worker to help you. You will ride uphill for over an hour. Get off at stop #255 "Hakone Country Iriguchi", all stops will also be displayed in English on the bus. You need to walk 2-3 streets and the hotel has no English signage displayed. On the way back, you will be taken to the bus stop via car, that's nice. dinner and breakfast at the hotel was just perfect. we received a private dining cabin for the meals.

bathroom could be a little updated, especially bathroom storage space and a space to hang towels is missing

The property had a gorgeous view and while reasonably visited via bus stop, felt separated from the hustle and bustle of the world. An excellent escape that really lets you enjoy your surroundings in a peaceful manner. The food is truly top notch. It was a first time experience for many of these Japanese dishes but we were very impressed with both the flavor but also the incredible presentation and styling of the dishes. The staff is somehow the perfect blend of unobtrusive and always available and incredibly respectful/helpful. Mild language barriers exist but were easily worked around. Overall the stay was more than I expected, and was a highlight of my trip to Japan. If you’re on the fence about this location, I strongly recommend giving it a shot!

A shuttle is available but only to the bus stop, while perfectly reasonable, it does require you waiting for a boss outside for a bit.

Staff were extremely helpful, warm and responsive to our needs. Shuttle is provided for free but we didn't take it as we didn't understand how it worked . We only used the shuttle service on the second day, the the Country Iriguchi stop... it is a manageable 10min walk from the bus stop to the hotel . Room was large, comfortable. Futon beds were the best. Toiletries were complete - shampoo, conditioner , face wash, face lotion face cream etc... just wow! Private onsen was the main reason we booked the hotel in the first place , but now, the reason would be everything about the hotel itself. It's just superb! Thank you to ALL the staff at Hakone Hoshi no Akari.

Nil

The private onsen was amazing as we could sit, enjoy and relax whilst seeing the breathtaking view of the mountainous range of Hakone. The staff were very attentive and kind. Breakfast and dinner were excellent! Plus, I got to pick different yukata to wear each day which was very lovely.

Ryokan was a little dated. Noticeable stains in the tatami and walls. The onsen privacy screen was rusted and falling apart.

The inn was fantastic, with a more traditional feel. The views of the area were stunning, and was the perfect place to relax after a week in Tokyo. My favorite part was the personal onsen on the balcony where I got to soak away the exhaustion of walking nonstop with a wonderful view. The room was a nice size for two people; it started with a table and two chairs, then they changed it to the futons while we were at dinner. The food was incredible and definitely the highlight of the stay. They served a full course meal with several unique dishes I had never seen before. Breakfast was also served the next morning that was just as delicious as dinner. The staff were very nice and respectful, and some were English speaking so it wasn't difficult to communicate. Overall, it was a wonderful stay that served as the perfect relaxation day we needed before heading to a new city. Highly recommend if you're in Hakone and want a place to relax and unwind in a mountainous atmosphere far from the bustle of the city.

The only issue we had was getting to the property after being dropped off by the bus. The bus stop is a bit of a walk from the inn, although not difficult by any means. I do believe they have a vehicle they can come pick you up in if you let them know ahead of time when you'll be arriving, we just weren't sure and were willing to walk.

Nice room with tatami mats. The staff are all so friendly. Most staff also spoke english which was a life saver given our limited Japanese. Very exceptional customer service. They sat us in a private dining room to do our check in, where they served us tea and confectionary. Dinner and breakfast are included. Both meals were splendid! It wasnt just a meal, it was a culinary experience. Chef’s kiss. They laid out our futon for us while we were at dinner, and they left a little night snack for us the room as well. Needless to say, you will not be hungry here. Lol

It was the best hotel we stayed at in Japan, making it the highlight of our trip! We did not expect it to be so beautiful and luxurious. We paid for half board, which meant we were welcomed with a delicious dinner made up of countless beautifully plated courses. The next morning, breakfast was just as excellent. Our room was perfect, with a private hot spring bath on the balcony. We will never forget the view overlooking a lake at sunset.

We were slightly disappointed to find that the hotel's shared onsens are split by gender. Seeing we were a couple made going to the hotel onsen a bit lonely. However, we had a hot bath in our room, so we got to enjoy that together.

In a peaceful area 45 minutes on the bus from the main station on the 'T' bus. Easy to get to, then a 10 minute walk from the bus stop. The hotel has a shuttle that will drop you at the bus stop when you want to leave and explore the sights. Wifi had great reception, the onsen was nice and hot, and the meals were tasty and a lot of food. Loads of fish, tell them if you have dietary issues or allergies. Staff very friendly and helpful. You eat in your private area/room. They provide kimonos and house shoes, gives you a taste of traditional Japanese living.

The price is too high for the amenities that they offer. It's 300 plus a night and the place could do with some renovations or upgrades feeling more like a hotel rather than a ryokan. No space in the bathroom on the counter for your things.

View of mountains was beautiful. Food was amazing and changed with each day. Staff very accommodating with my allergies and created custom dinner and breakfast menus to substitute items with options I could eat. I am allergic to tofu, shrimp, squid, peanuts, and octopus so I appreciate the effort.

The view was spectacular but note that the lake is man-made and part of a golf course. The shower was on the balcony with the open air bath, which wasn't an issue except for very cold days where the wind is blowing strong.

The hotel offered a perfect mix of comfort and traditional Japanese hospitality. Our room had a breathtaking view of the valley, making every moment in the room feel special. The ryokan experience was authentic and peaceful, with kind and attentive service. A major highlight was the private onsen bath on our balcony, allowing us to relax while soaking in the beautiful landscape. The dinner was a delightful multi-course meal, rich in flavors and attention to detail, and the unique breakfast added to the overall experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy traditional Japanese hospitality in a serene and beautiful setting.

Nothing, it was perfect!