In our review of this peaceful retreat in Hakone’s Gora area, we found a true gem just a stone’s throw from the local train station.
This traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan, offers a mix of room types, from classic tatami-mat rooms to fancy suites with their own outdoor hot tubs. The shared hot springs, both inside and out, are perfect for soaking away your worries. The food is top-notch Japanese fare that’ll make your taste buds dance.
While most guests rave about their stay, some found the prices a bit steep. Also, if you’re not used to sleeping on futons or sitting on the floor, you might find the traditional rooms a tad uncomfortable.
This place is ideal for travelers looking to enjoy Japanese culture and those who want to splurge on a luxurious hot spring experience.
It’s especially great for couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone needing a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Key Points
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Yutorelo-an is a traditional Japanese ryokan located in Gora, Hakone, offering a range of accommodation options including Japanese-style rooms and private outdoor hot spring baths.
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The ryokan’s indoor and outdoor onsen facilities with mineral-rich waters provide a tranquil retreat for guests to relax and rejuvenate after exploring the Hakone region.
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The ryokan’s dining experiences feature exceptional traditional Japanese cuisine, with multi-course dinners and beautifully presented Japanese set breakfasts that receive high praise from guests.
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Yutorelo-an is conveniently located, with a 2-minute walk from Nakagora Station and a free shuttle service available from Gora Station, ensuring easy accessibility.
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The ryokan has an overall guest satisfaction rating of 8.0 out of 10, with positive reviews highlighting the friendly staff, excellent facilities, cleanliness, and the authentic Japanese experience.
Overview and Location
Yutorelo-an is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, located in Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.
It’s a 2-minute walk from Nakagora Station on the Hakone Tozan Cable Car and offers a free shuttle service from Gora Station.
The ryokan has a rating of 8.0 out of 10 based on 903 guest reviews, indicating it’s a very good option for accommodations in the area.
With its convenient location and positive guest feedback, Yutorelo-an provides a comfortable and accessible stay for those exploring the Hakone region.
Accommodation Options
The ryokan offers a variety of room types to accommodate different guest preferences. Visitors can choose from Japanese-style standard rooms, luxury rooms with tatami areas, deluxe rooms with open-air baths, and twin rooms with private bathrooms. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities like flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, refrigerators, and complimentary toiletries.
| Room Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Japanese-Style Standard | Traditional Japanese decor and furnishings |
| Luxury Room with Tatami Area | Spacious room with a tatami-mat seating area |
| Deluxe Room with Open-Air Bath | Room with a private outdoor hot spring bath |
| Twin Room with Private Bathroom | Two beds and an en-suite bathroom |
| Family Room | Accommodates up to 4 guests |
Onsen and Relaxation
Beyond the thoughtfully appointed accommodations, Yutorelo-an offers guests a serene and rejuvenating onsen experience.
The ryokan boasts both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing mineral-rich waters. Guests can unwind on the terrace, soaking their feet in the thermal spring water.
After a day of exploring Hakone, the onsen facilities provide a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
With impeccable cleanliness and attention to detail, the onsen experience at Yutorelo-an is a highlight of the stay, leaving guests feeling refreshed and renewed.
Dining Experiences
Complementing the serene surroundings, Yutorelo-an offers guests a delectable dining experience that showcases the best of traditional Japanese cuisine.
Meals feature multi-course dinners that highlight seasonal produce, and guests praise the quality and presentation of the food. The Japanese set breakfasts are equally delightful, with guests often highlighting the deliciousness of both dinner and breakfast.
Key elements of the dining experience include:
- Meticulously crafted multi-course dinners featuring seasonal ingredients.
- Beautifully presented Japanese set breakfasts.
- Exceptional quality and flavor that exceed guest expectations.
- An authentic, immersive culinary journey that complements the ryokan’s tranquil ambiance.
Guest Satisfaction
Guests consistently rate Yutorelo-an highly, awarding it an impressive overall score of 8.0 out of 10 based on over 900 reviews.
The staff receive especially high praise, earning an 8.6 rating for their friendliness and accommodation. Guests also highlight the excellent facilities, including the beautiful private onsen, and the cleanliness of the property.
The quality and presentation of the traditional Japanese meals, both dinner and breakfast, are singled out for particular commendation.
Accessibility and Shuttle
Yutorelo-an’s convenient location and shuttle service make it easily accessible for guests.
The ryokan is located just a 2-minute walk from Nakagora Station on the Hakone Tozan Cable Car. For added convenience, Yutorelo-an offers a free shuttle service from Gora Station.
This range of transportation options ensures guests can reach the ryokan with ease:
- 2-minute walk from Nakagora Station
- Free shuttle service from Gora Station
- Accessible by Hakone Tozan Cable Car
- Centrally located in the Hakone region
The ryokan’s accessibility and shuttle service allow guests to effortlessly arrive at this serene mountain retreat and begin their relaxing stay.
Policies and Restrictions
The ryokan enforces several policies and restrictions to ensure a comfortable and safe stay for all guests.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary based on accommodation type.
Children of all ages are welcome, but specific rates for those up to 12 must be confirmed at booking. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited on the property.
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas. These measures help maintain the ryokan’s traditional Japanese atmosphere and cater to the diverse needs of its clientele.
More to Explore
Beyond its comfortable accommodations and excellent dining, Yutorelo-an offers guests a wealth of opportunities to explore the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding the ryokan.
Guests can:
- Take a leisurely stroll through the serene Gora Park, just a short distance from the property.
- Hike the scenic trails of Hakone National Park, offering panoramic views of the region’s volcanic landscape.
- Ride the Hakone Ropeway for a bird’s-eye view of the Owakudani Valley and its natural hot springs.
- Discover the historic Hakone Barrier, a former checkpoint along the Tokaido road, and learn about Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
These activities, combined with the ryokan’s exceptional hospitality, make Yutorelo-an an ideal destination for a truly immersive Hakone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ryokan Offer Any Special Packages or Promotions?
The ryokan doesn’t seem to offer any special packages or promotions based on the information provided. The details focus on the standard room types, amenities, dining, and policies without mentioning any limited-time deals or discounted offers.
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times for Day Guests?
The check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and the check-out time is until 10:00 AM. These policies apply to all guests, including day visitors, as part of the standard rules of the accommodation.
Is There a Dress Code for the Indoor and Outdoor Onsens?
There’s no formal dress code, but guests are expected to wear provided yukata robes and slippers in the indoor and outdoor onsens. Visible tattoos may restrict use of the public bathing areas.
Can Guests Request Specific Room Types During Booking?
Guests can request specific room types during booking, such as Japanese-Style Standard Room, Luxury Room with Tatami Area, or Deluxe Room with Open-Air Bath. Room availability and rates may vary based on the chosen accommodation type.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using the Public Bathing Areas?
The public bathing areas at this ryokan do not have age restrictions, but guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using them. The policy applies to all guests, regardless of age.
The Sum Up
Nestled in the heart of Hakone, this enchanting ryokan offers a slice of Japanese serenity that’ll have you saying "arigato" to the travel gods. We found ourselves transported to a world of luxurious tatami mats, steaming onsens, and culinary delights that had our taste buds doing the happy dance.
The convenient location means you’re just a hop, skip, and a bullet train away from exploring the wonders of Hakone. But trust us, you might not want to leave once you’ve settled into your plush yukata and slippers.
From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were enveloped in a cocoon of comfort and culture. The staff treated us like long-lost relatives (minus the awkward questions about our love lives), and the attention to detail was nothing short of extraordinary.
If you’re looking for a place to recharge your batteries and soak up some authentic Japanese vibes, this ryokan is your ticket to tranquility. And speaking of tickets, you can snag your stay by clicking the button below. It’ll whisk you away to Booking.com, our go-to site for hassle-free reservations and competitive prices. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little slice of Japanese heaven – your future zen-filled self will thank you!