Hakone, JapanNinotaira
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Cantilevered onsen inn
Cantilevered onsen inn
The modern inn cascades down the Kowakudani hillside, extending its open-air hot spring baths out toward the caldera ridge.
What it’s good at
Notable
An infinity onsen overlooking the caldera ridge, and private ceramic balcony baths.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Though not strictly a ryokan — at 150 rooms it’s several times larger than a traditional country inn — Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu offers many of the same attractions: rural seclusion, perfectly framed natural vistas, onsen hot spring baths.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a short walk away, and the Okada Museum of Art sits just next door.
The rooms
Every room opens onto a balcony with an open-air hot spring bath made of Shigaraki ceramic.
The onsen
Ukigumo's infinity bath overlooks the caldera ridge, and Kurumazawa sits among maple trees facing a natural waterfall.
Restaurant
Dining Hakone
Open showcase kitchens prepare seasonal sashimi and charcoal-grilled dishes for morning and evening buffets.
At the table
The lounge pours Japanese spirits and cocktails beside tall windows looking onto the ravine garden.
Hakone
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.