Hakone has long been a stop off point for travellers coming in and out of Tokyo. Indeed, its hot spring have been attracting everyone from samurai to emperors for over a millennium. It’s a tradition that the Hyatt Regency continues to this day, with onsen baths – as they’re known – the perfect end to days spent exploring the region’s shrines, cruising its lakes and summiting its mountains on cable cars. In fact, the Hakone Ropeway is just a few minutes’ walk away.
However, this being Hyatt, you can expect a strong commitment to contemporary style. Dark wood accents, designer furnishings and picture windows all make nods to Japan’s fashion-forward way of thinking. That said, there’s plenty to remind you of Hakone’s thousand-year history, with guests presented with kimonos and tanzen jackets as private balconies take in the region’s famous views.
Further modern luxuries are found in the spa with mist saunas complemented by innovative massage treatments. You’ll also be treated to morning hot drinks served around a log fire – the same setting for the complimentary champagne and cocktail served each afternoon.
The same attention to detail extends to the restaurant. Ranking among Hakone’s finest dining experiences, it’s overseen by chef Yasuhiro Kanayama who brings with him over a decade of experience working in Michelin-starred, Parisian restaurants. The result is a blend of superb French fare and locally sourced ingredients, wine paired of course. It’s all set to sweeping views over the region’s mountains.