Imagine waking up to misty mountains, soaking in a steaming onsen while surrounded by nature, and ending the day with a traditional Japanese dinner. Hakone offers this kind of slow, scenic escape just a short journey from Tokyo, making it a favorite destination for travelers who want to experience a quieter side of Japan.

But finding where to stay in Hakone is an important part of planning the trip. The area is spread across several distinct neighborhoods, from hot spring towns and lakeside resorts to mountain villages surrounded by forests. Your choice of accommodation can shape the entire experience, especially if an onsen, Mount Fuji views, or easy transportation is high on your list.

Read more: Best Time to Visit Japan: A Season-by-Season Guide

Hakone consists of several areas connected by trains, buses, cable cars, and sightseeing routes. Here are seven areas to consider when choosing your accommodation.

Hakone-Yumoto is one of the most convenient places to stay, particularly for first-time visitors. As the gateway to Hakone, the area has plenty of restaurants, souvenir shops, cafés, and traditional ryokan.

Its location near Hakone-Yumoto Station also makes it convenient for travelers arriving from Tokyo. Choose this area if you want easy transportation combined with the classic atmosphere of a Japanese hot spring town.

Gora sits higher in the mountains and is surrounded by lush scenery. The area is well known for its ryokan, onsen, and proximity to attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Gora is a great choice for travelers who want a peaceful mountain retreat without being completely removed from sightseeing. You can also use the Hakone Tozan Railway and cable car to explore other parts of Hakone.

Sengokuhara is ideal for travelers who enjoy art, nature, and a quieter atmosphere. The area is famous for its expansive pampas grass fields, which become particularly beautiful during autumn.

Several museums and attractions are located nearby, making it a good base for a culture-focused Hakone itinerary.

For spectacular scenery, consider staying around Lake Ashi. The lake is one of Hakone's most recognizable landscapes, with opportunities to enjoy sightseeing cruises and views of the surrounding mountains. On clear days, you may also catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

Motohakone sits along the shores of Lake Ashi and is close to several iconic Hakone attractions. The famous Hakone Shrine, including its torii gate standing in the lake, is located nearby. This area works well for travelers who want to combine nature, photography, and cultural sightseeing.

Miyanoshita is a historic hot spring area with a charming atmosphere and a long connection to Hakone's tourism culture. The neighborhood features traditional architecture, small shops, cafés, and scenic mountain surroundings.

Kowakudani is another excellent option for travelers seeking an onsen-focused getaway. Surrounded by mountains and greenery, the area provides access to attractions such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum and traditional hot spring accommodations.

Read more: 7 Hotels with Beautiful Views in Japan That Will Take Your Breath Away

With so many scenic areas to choose from, deciding on accommodation can feel overwhelming. Use these five considerations to find the right base for your trip.

A major reason to visit Hakone is its hot springs. If relaxing in a private or traditional onsen is important to you, consider booking a ryokan or hotel with onsen facilities.

Hakone's attractions are spread across the mountains. Staying near a train station or bus stop can make your sightseeing days much easier, especially if you plan to visit multiple areas.

Want mountain views? Consider Gora or Kowakudani. Prefer the lake? Look around Lake Ashi and Motohakone. For a classic hot spring town atmosphere, Hakone-Yumoto is a strong choice.

Traditional ryokan stays often include Japanese meals, sometimes served in your room or a dedicated dining area. If you want this experience, check whether breakfast and dinner are included before booking.

If you're only staying for one night, a convenient location such as Hakone-Yumoto may save you valuable travel time. For a two-night or longer stay, a more secluded resort can make the accommodation itself part of the experience.

Hakone is particularly famous for its ryokan, where accommodation can be an experience in itself. Here are seven properties to consider when planning your stay.

Best for: Modern onsen stays

Hakone Yutowa combines contemporary accommodation with traditional Japanese hot spring experiences. Located in the Gora area, it is a convenient option for travelers who want to explore Hakone while having a comfortable place to relax afterward.

Best for: Traditional Japanese experiences

Hakone Kowakudani Onsen Ryokan Ryuguden is one of the most memorable ways to experience Hakone. Traditional rooms, Japanese hospitality, and onsen facilities create a slower and more immersive holiday atmosphere.

Best for: Hakone-Yumoto visitors

Located around Hakone-Yumoto, Hakone Pax Yoshino is a convenient choice for travelers who want to combine traditional ryokan accommodation with easy access to the area's restaurants, shops, and transportation.

Best for: Couples and private relaxation

For travelers looking for a more intimate stay, Hakone Nanasei offers a peaceful environment where you can focus on relaxing and enjoying the Japanese hot spring experience.

Best for: Nature and golf lovers

Located in Sengokuhara, Hakone Sengokuhara Prince Hotel is surrounded by Hakone's mountain scenery and provides a comfortable base for exploring the area's museums and natural attractions.

Best for: Lake Ashi scenery

Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori a good option for travelers who want to stay close to Lake Ashi. The surrounding scenery and onsen facilities create a relaxing atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.

Hakone is more than a quick escape from Tokyo. It is a destination where you can slow down, breathe in the mountain air, soak in warm onsen waters, admire Lake Ashi, and experience Japanese hospitality at a traditional ryokan.

Make your journey easier by planning your trip with Traveloka. Browse hotels in Hakone to find a stay that fits your preferred atmosphere and budget. You can also book flights to Japan, arrange airport transportation, and explore attraction tickets to make the most of your Japanese adventure.

From your first train ride into the mountains to your final relaxing soak in an onsen, plan your Hakone getaway with Traveloka and enjoy a memorable escape in Japan.