Kayoi Toji Ikyu Spa — Local services in Hakone

I went here on a Wednesday, and while the parking lot was almost full, the facility did not seem busy, and the man at the front was extremely welcoming. As an American with no Japanese language skills, I was intimidated, but the man at the front said he was very happy a foreigner was coming to the onsen and encouraged others to come as well. He was honestly one of the most helpful people I had met in Japan so far. He showed me around the wonderful facilities and encouraged me to enjoy them for as long as I wanted (a ticket is for the day, which you purchase at the machine outside before going in). Definitely...

A public onsen in Hakone. Nestled into a hillside. Absolutely traditional. They do allow tattooed people but ask to not mingle in groups… meaning no gangster meetings and parties 😎. I strongly recommend to go with a native first time to learn the customs and procedures! A very serene place. Several different pools and temperatures and an ice pool. Japan...

A paradise on earth. A simple onsen, the most “nature” I have tested, 3 baths for men. It is same for women, one smelling nice wood and others made of rocks with direct view on the forest, near small falls. There is another public bath close but it is less “mystical”. I definitely...