Saien - Breakfast by Buddhist Monks — Restaurant in Hakone

Marvelous !! I eat out a lot at all ranges of restaurants in the US and abroad and I have to say that this was one of the most exceptional dining experiences I’ve ever had. My mother and I were in Hakone on holiday and luckily found this gem. The incredible subtleties and attention to detail of the food at this vegan Buddhist restaurant almost brought us to tears. The monk/chef who prepared the meal is a wonderful host and a top notch chef. And the deeply relaxing Zen vibe really can’t be beat. The environment is bamboo tatami floors, clean Zen pine or cedar wood decor and instead of sitting on the floor, they even have tables and chairs to sit on. Can’t wait to go back next time I’m in Japan. Run don’t walk. Not...

I really enjoyed the whole experience thank you Hiro (Hiiro? I hope I spelt that right). I could have listened to you talk for hours, I hope one day my Japanese will be as good as your English. You made me feel really relaxed and happy.

The food was prepared with care and was delicious. I was full.

The atmosphere was incredibly relaxing and beautiful.

I had to rush off to get packed but I wished I'd stayed as the other people eating breakfast were lovely, and with Hiro we were having good conversations. I tried to come back later on with a gift but you were closed. I will book next time I come back to Japan and I will bring Scotch 🤣

Please do go for breakfast here if you are staying in Hakone, you won't...

INCREDIBLE FOOD AND EXPERIENCE! Best breakfast ever! We arent vegetarian, but the food gave us hope that if we ever were to cut out meat, that we could still thoroughly enjoy food! ☺️ When I tell you this was the most incredible authentic Japanese experience! We got engaged that morning, and came here, and it was sooooo perfect. We cannot thank you enough. So welcoming, so inviting and the attention to detail made us feel so very looked after 🩷 Thank you so much for having us! Will be our go to when we...