root hakone — Restaurant in Hakone

I really liked this traditional esque accomodation, from the new wood flooring, new furnished kitchen, old style really cool wooden bar. The atmosphere is second to none unbeatable especially at this price point. I don't drink, but the bar had a ludicrous selection, the bartender was clearly knowledgeable (The owner), and service was very friendly. The only negative I found is the room, that's it., and for me, my sleep is all that matters. However, with just a few tweaks to their system, this could easily bump up to four stars. It really would not take much because they have everything else amazing. They also give you an incredibly detailed map of the area showing everything which was incredible to see. I've slept on futons before, but this one was very thin, on top of that, instead of sleeping on tatami mats, you're sleeping on hardwood, which was never made for sleep on. I think an easy way to solve this would be to offer an additional complimentary futon to make up for the lack of tatami. If you're a back sleeper or like a hard bed, then this one is for you. My second issue is that you only get one outlet, like one plug for your devices, again this could easily be fixed with offering a power bar for your guests. Not an issue for me because I'm prepared on top of bringing a towel which I think they charge for 🤔. My last complaint is the noise, all the rooms have a one foot gap on ALL sides so you can hear EVERYTHING. Typically it's only one side. My neighbor snored like a bear, and 2/4 of them left like they were running from a nuke. It doesn't help that the building is loud, the door is squeaky, the locks are noisy, and the light outside the room automatically turns on. I've been to a hostel before where everything was specially made to be quiet, door, floor, and windows.

Edit: Owner responded that he's fixing my main two concerns (Bed and power strip, idc too much about the towel), updated...

Really enjoyed my stay at Root Hakone. I reached a little late (around 7:30-8pm) and the walk to the hostel was a little dark (roads on Hakone aren't that well-lit at night due to it being a forested area). So recommend to reach earlier if you're not that comfortable with walking in the dark alone!

The accommodations were comfortable, single futon bed with lockable room doors, separated by a divider. Was initially expecting just a cubbie with a curtain so this was a pleasant surprise. There's also a direct bus nearby to Togendai Station if you're keen to take the sightseeing cruise and ropeway.

The drinks made by the staff were also wonderful, enjoyed a cassis soda, cassis oolong and fuzzy navel at a great price. The management also gave a guide of nearby recommended places to travellers too (had the best coffee at Amaze Coffee, recommendation of the staff)! Overall would come back to stay again if I'm ever back in Hakone.

A downside is perhaps the lack of availability of food options at night and no near konbini so be sure to grab some supplies at the station prior to...

We had an incredible experience at this bar in Hakone! We asked the staff for recommendations, and they suggested a Japanese whisky and a Japanese gin—both absolutely delightful. The two young men working there were exceptionally friendly and made us feel welcome from the start. Not only did we chat about our travel, but when they noticed us eyeing the selection of gin bottles, they even brought a few over for us to see up close. It’s these thoughtful details that made the evening memorable.

The drinks were top-notch, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. As we talked, we also learned they run a hostel next door—definitely a spot we’ve marked down for our next trip to Hakone!

A heartfelt thanks to one of the guys who kindly offered to drive us back to our hotel, as it was already dark. Truly a kind gesture that left a lasting impression. If you ever find yourselves in Barcelona, “mi casa es tu casa.”

Kanpai and “Sant Hilari”!...