Hakone's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Secret of Hidamari Ichinoyu!
Hakone’s Hidden Gem: Hidamari Ichinoyu - Or, Why My Stress Melted Like Ice Cream in a Sauna (and yours might too!)
Okay, so I'm back from Hakone. And, folks, I think I stumbled onto something special. Forget the crowds, the tourist traps, and the same ol' picture-postcard views. This ain't your grandma's Hakone trip. We're talking about Hidamari Ichinoyu, a place that bills itself as a "hidden gem." And honestly? They ain't lying.
Let's get one thing clear: I'm a vacationer. I'm not a travel blogger, a hotel inspector, or a Michelin star snob. I'm just a regular dude who needs a break. And Hidamari Ichinoyu delivered. Big time.
First Impressions, First Rants (Because We Gotta Be Real):
Getting there? Accessibility is decent. It's not perfect, but the elevator on-site is a huge plus, and they do have facilities for disabled guests (more on this later). The exterior is classic Japanese, serene, with that whole "whisper of nature" vibe. The car park is free, which is HUGE because in Japan, parking fees can be a soul-crushing experience. And the concierge? Absolute lifesavers. Seriously, they handled everything, from booking a taxi to recommending the best ramen ever.
Now, the internet. Okay, the free Wi-Fi is in all rooms, which is standard nowadays. But let's be honest, I'm not there to work. More importantly, I had access to the Internet – specifically, I could upload all my amazing photos to Instagram as the day progressed. But, hey, there is also Internet [LAN], if you're, like, a hardcore journalist, or something.
Cleanliness and Safety – Because Nobody Wants Petri Dish Vacation:
This is where Hidamari Ichinoyu really shines, especially post-pandemic. The anti-viral cleaning game is strong. They use professional-grade sanitizing services. The daily disinfection in common areas is obvious, but not in a "bleach bomb" kind of way. More like a "everything smells fresh and clean" way. They have a hygiene certification, which puts your mind at ease. They’ve got hand sanitizer everywhere. They’ve got rooms sanitized between stays. And the staff? Staff trained in safety protocol, wearing masks, even the kitchen staff… (and I snuck a peek at the kitchen - I am so, so very sorry to the kitchen staff for my clumsy snooping!). They even use sterilizing equipment. Seriously, it's like Fort Knox for germs. Which is a good thing, as far as I'm concerned.
Getting Cozy - Rooms & Amenities (Because We Live Here Now!):
My room! Ok, this is where I turned into a puddle of happy. They have non-smoking rooms, (thank GOD), and the air conditioning worked wonders. Blackout curtains? Essential for sleeping in. Bathrobes and slippers? Hello, relaxation! A mini-bar? You betcha!
I’m not gonna lie, I was in it for the onsen experience (hot springs). And they did not disappoint. There was a sauna, a steamroom, and a pool with a view (an outdoor swimming pool to boot, though I didn’t brave it in the brisk air). I spent an entire afternoon just… simmering. Seriously. I melted. My stress, my worries… they all just dissipated. The body scrub was heavenly. The massage? OMFG. I woke up three hours later drooling but feeling like I'd been reborn. They also had a foot bath! Perfect after a day of hiking. So many different ways to relax! I'm just saying…
Food, Glorious Food (Because I Live to Eat):
The food at Hidamari Ichinoyu was, well, a highlight. They do a banging Asian breakfast. I’m not a massive fan of buffets, but the buffet in the restaurant was decent. They have an à la carte menu too. The coffee shop was a lifesaver. The restaurants offer everything from Asian cuisine to international cuisine. The bar? Excellent! Lots of local sakes and beers. The poolside bar was also a big win, and the happy hour…well, it was happy. They even offered me a bottle of water, which felt thoughtful. Oh, and the desserts in the restaurant? Don't even get me started. Chef's kiss
Services and Conveniences (Because Life's Too Short to Argue with a Dry Cleaner):
Hidamari Ichinoyu gets it. Daily housekeeping kept the room spotless. They have dry cleaning, laundry service, and ironing service, so you don't have to look like a crumpled mess. The concierge was amazing; they can help with cash withdrawal, offer a convenience store, and even have currency exchange. The little things, like essential condiments and complimentary tea / coffee maker in the room, made a difference. They can help organize meetings/banquets if you need to, (or just want a group to bond over an experience).
Hidden Gems and Quirky Finds:
Okay, this isn't just a hotel. It's an experience. The shrine on the property is a quiet, peaceful space. They have a gift/souvenir shop…full of gorgeous, unique things. The safe/security features (safe deposit boxes)…always a good thing.
Things to Do (And What I Actually Did):
Hakone is all about the scenery. But I’m lazy. Still, from Hidamari, getting around was incredibly easy. They offered airport transfer but since I was already there, I'm glad there was a car park [free of charge]. They even can organize a taxi service. If you're feeling energetic, they have bicycle parking.
For the Kids (Because, Apparently, Other People Travel with Them):
They have family-friendly options. And if you need it, they do babysitting service.
Where the Rubber Meets the Road – My Take:
Okay, so I’m rambling a bit. That’s the onsen’s fault. Seriously, it melted my brain. But here's the deal: Hidamari Ichinoyu is worth it. It’s not just a place to crash; it’s a place to unwind, to recharge, to actually enjoy Hakone. It's not perfect, but it’s real. And that’s what makes it a hidden gem.
The Imperfections:
Look, I'm not gonna lie. There are a few imperfections. The Wi-Fi in public areas can be a little spotty. The on-site restaurant can be a little busy during peak times. And I wish there were more outlets by the bed to charge all my devices. But honestly? These are minor quibbles.
Final Verdict:
Hidamari Ichinoyu gets a massive thumbs up from me.
Here's My "Book Now" Pitch (because the hotel is making me do this…and I'm happy to):
Escape the Ordinary: Uncover the Secret of Hidamari Ichinoyu!
Are you tired of the same old vacations? Do you crave a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience in Japan? Then look no further than Hidamari Ichinoyu in Hakone!
Imagine yourself:
- Soaking in a traditional onsen, melting away stress and tension.
- Indulging in delectable Asian and International cuisine, from mouthwatering breakfasts to unforgettable dinners.
- Discovering a hidden gem, far from the crowded tourist traps.
- Feeling completely safe and cared for, with unparalleled cleanliness and safety protocols.
Hidamari Ichinoyu offers all this and more!
Here's what makes Hidamari Ichinoyu your perfect escape:
- Unforgettable Onsen Experience: Relax in our unique onsen baths, including indoor and outdoor options with breathtaking views.
- Culinary Delights: Savor delicious Asian and International cuisine.
- Unmatched Cleanliness and Safety: Rest easy with our comprehensive hygiene protocols.
- Convenient Amenities: Enjoy easy access to all of Hakone's attractions, free parking, and helpful concierge services.
Don't wait, your perfect Hakone getaway is waiting!
Book your stay at Hidamari Ichinoyu NOW and receive:
- A complimentary in-room breakfast (valued at $XX)! (because I loved the breakfast).
- A special discount on spa treatments! (I highly recommend it!).
- Guaranteed early check-in (subject to availability)
Click the link below to book your unforgettable experience at Hidamari Ichinoyu!
[Link to the hotel website]
**This offer won't last forever. Escape the ordinary. Book your escape
Escape to London: Mercure Paddington's Luxury Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your sanitized, Instagram-perfect Hakone itinerary. This is reality, people. And reality, as you'll soon discover when you're wrestling with your futon at 3 AM, is messy. Let's dive into my gloriously imperfect trip to the Hidamari Ichinoyu - Old Ichinoyu Shinkan in Hakone, Japan.
The Plan (Said with a Nervous Giggle)
- Day 1: Arrival… and the Existential Dread of Public Transport
- Day 2: Onsen Immersion… and the Great Kimono Catastrophe
- Day 3: Hakone's Beauty… and My Ongoing Battle with Japanese Cuisine
- Day 4: Departure… and the Sweet, Sweet Relief of My Own Bed
Day 1: Arrival… and the Existential Dread of Public Transport
Okay, so I get off the Narita Express, glowing with the smug satisfaction of finally, finally understanding the ticket machines. Then, BAM, the real test begins: navigating the Hakone-bound trains.
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at Odawara Station (after a brief panic attack about accidentally getting on a bullet train heading…who knows where? Probably outer space). I’ve heard about the Hakone Ropeway, but I am already regretting everything. The sheer number of people! Why is everyone always trying to get to the same places I am? Ugh.
- 11:00 AM: The train ride itself is… well, it's scenic. Gorgeous, even. Mountains, little villages. I keep thinking I recognize a spot from an anime, then realizing every mountain and village looks the same in anime. I'm starving. I should have packed more snacks.
- 12:00 PM: Finally, finally arrive at the hotel. Hidamari Ichinoyu looks promising! A lovely traditional aesthetic. I'm instantly charmed by the worn wooden floors and the smell of… well, something earthy and clean. The lobby smells of money. Rich people money, I'd wager. The staff is impeccably polite, but I’m pretty sure they’re judging my questionable backpack strap choices.
- 1:00 PM: Check-in. The room is beautiful, with a traditional Japanese layout. Sigh. The futon situation looms, however. It's always the futon. I'll probably mess it up.
- 2:00 PM: Explore. Stroll around the area. There are little shops, cafes… and a distinct lack of anything immediately edible that appeals to my Western sensibilities. I end up purchasing a weird melon-flavored soda to soothe my rumbling stomach.
- 3:00 PM: The onsen! Oh. My. God. I’m officially mortified by the prospect of being naked in public, but this is the reason I came. I tentatively dip a toe in the water. Heavenly. I soak, I stare at the mountains, I slowly start to relax. Note to self: remember to breathe.
- 5:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. The multi-course kaiseki meal is an experience. Delicate, beautifully presented… and slightly baffling. There’s fish I'm pretty sure is still looking at me, and something that might be a pickled slug. I eat it anyway. Try something new, right? Well, I try. I don't necessarily enjoy it.
- 8:00 PM: Futon wrestling commences. It's surprisingly comfortable once I figure out how to layer all the blankets. Success! Or, well, a very, very tired version of success.
Day 2: Onsen Immersion… and the Great Kimono Catastrophe
Ah, the day I truly became an onsen veteran (sort of). And also the day I almost ruined a perfectly good kimono.
- 7:00 AM: Wake up after a surprisingly decent night's sleep! Or, well, a fitful, mostly-sleepful night's sleep. I am still terrified of futons.
- 8:00 AM: Another onsen session. I head into the outdoor bath. Wow, this is the life.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. More Japanese food! This time, I bravely tackle the fish. I’m getting better at pretending to enjoy it. Also, this is the day I learn how to use chopsticks.
- 10:00 AM The kimono thing. I'd seen them in the shop and being the idiot I am, I think: I'll give it a try. Now, I am not the most coordinated person, and wrapping the kimono turns into a comedy of errors. I manage to get it on, mostly, but I feel like a sausage bursting out of its casing.
- 11:00 AM: Head out to visit some local sights. I am now the world's most awkward tourist. But I get some pretty great shots for social media.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. Seek out a place that will serve me something familiar, like a sandwich.
- 2:00 PM: Return to the hotel and spend time soaking in the onsen again.
- 4:00 PM: Kimono drama round two. I take off the kimono. And then I realize I need to fold it up again. Disaster. The instructions are in Japanese. I fumble and sweat until I give up and bury it in my suitcase.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Back to the fish and strange pickled things. I’m sure I’m developing a taste for it. Maybe. Ish.
- 8:00 PM: Stare at my reflection. Do I actually look relaxed? Am I becoming one with the zen of the mountains? Maybe for five minutes.
Day 3: Hakone's Beauty… and My Ongoing Battle with Japanese Cuisine
Hakone is gorgeous, no question. But my stomach is still waging war against the local cuisine.
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Decide I’m going to love the fish this time. No luck.
- 9:00 AM: Explore the lake. A boat tour. It's beautiful, and the air is crisp. I get some stunning photos. If I don't get a good social media game, I don't know what I'm doing with my life.
- 11:00 AM: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The sculptures are magnificent, and I like the juxtaposition of art and nature.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. Search futilely for a burger. Settle for some noodles that are surprisingly good.
- 4:00 PM Back to the onsen. Deep in thought. Do I even want to return to my life? Probably, I think.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. I try a new dish. It's… interesting. Let's go with that. I take a sneaky trip back to my room and hide a chocolate bar in the drawer for emergency.
- 7:00 PM: Stare at the night sky. The onsen has worked. I could stay for a week.
- 9:00 PM: Read a trashy novel. Sigh.
Day 4: Departure… and the Sweet, Sweet Relief of My Own Bed
Freedom! And the promise of a Big Mac.
- 7:00 AM: Last onsen session! Snapping a few photos.
- 8:00 AM: Final breakfast. I even eat the fish! Kind of.
- 9:00 AM: Check out. Say goodbye to the staff. I am so glad they're discreet.
- 10:00 AM: The train journey back. Reflect on my transformative experience.
- 12:00 PM: Back at the station. I am no longer a tourist. I am a survivor.
- 9:00 PM: Finally, finally, HOME. The hugest hug, and then sweet, sweet sleep.
Quirky Observations and Final Thoughts
- I'm pretty sure I saw a kappa in the onsen. Or maybe it was just a very wrinkly Japanese gentleman. The mystery remains.
- The Japanese people are incredibly polite. Possibly too polite. Sometimes I just want someone to be rude.
- I still can't fold a kimono.
- The food was… an experience.
- I came to Hakone searching for serenity, and I found it. Between the futon confusion, the fish-related anxieties, and the near-disaster with the kimono, it was a wonderful, messy trip. And I wouldn’t have traded it for anything. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I'm going to go eat a pizza. And maybe plan my return trip to Japan. Eventually.
Okay, Spill! What *actually* makes Hidamari Ichinoyu in Hakone so special? Is it *really* worth the hype? And is that 'hidden gem' thing just marketing fluff?
Alright, alright, buckle up buttercups, because here's the REAL DEAL on Hidamari Ichinoyu. Look, the "hidden gem" bit is a bit loaded, right? It's not *exactly* a well-kept secret anymore, thanks to, you know, the internet. But... it still *feels* special. It's not just a fancy onsen; it's an *experience*.
It's the *details*. The way the wood smells like cedar, even *before* you get to the onsen. It's the staff, who somehow manage to be both incredibly polite *and* genuinely friendly. And honestly, it's the view. Okay, it HAS to be said. It's the view as you're slipping into that onsen and the clouds are rolling over the mountains... It's a view that, honestly, almost made me cry. (Don't judge me, I'm a sentimental person.) So, yes, in my totally biased, slightly-obsessed opinion... yes, it's worth the hype. Absolutely.
How do I even *get* to Hidamari Ichinoyu? Because I'm already picturing myself lost in the Hakone mountains...
Okay, first things first: take a deep breath. You're *probably* not going to get eaten by a bear. Hakone isn't *that* wild. Getting there actually isn't too bad, although it *can* feel like an adventure because you have to make connections. The easiest way is likely to go by train (look for the Hakone Free Pass, which is seriously worth it). Then either grab a taxi or hop on the bus - it’s about a 10-minute ride from Hakone-Yumoto Station. There is a free shuttle from the station too!
My best advice? Check Google Maps *before* you leave. And don't be afraid to ask for help! The locals are generally super friendly, even if you butcher the Japanese language (which, trust me, I do on a regular basis). Just point and gesture, and you'll probably be okay. And, okay, I *did* get the bus route wrong on my first trip there... and ended up a bit disoriented in the woods. It was a disaster at first, but it all worked out! Just, you know, plan ahead - unlike me! *facepalm*
What's the deal with the different types of rooms available? Are the ones with private onsens worth the extra cash? Because, budgeting...
Alright, the room situation. Okay, first things first: yes, budgeting is crucial. I GET IT. I live on instant ramen when I'm not traveling. Hidamari Ichinoyu offers a variety of room types, from more basic (but still lovely!) Japanese-style rooms to those with private onsens.
My *personal* opinion? If you can swing it, the private onsen is *absolutely* worth it. Seriously. Think about it: No awkward small talk, no worrying about etiquette, just you, the view, and glorious hot water. It's pure bliss. Is it expensive? Yes. Is it a splurge? Yes. Would I do it again in a heartbeat? DOUBLE YES. I remember sitting in mine one evening, with the wind howling outside, and I think I actually achieved inner peace. For, like, an hour. But still! Even if you're traveling solo, it offers a level of privacy and relaxation that is truly unmatched.
If the private onsen is out of reach, don't despair! The public onsens are fantastic, too, just remember the very important basics like the towel rules...
The food! Tell me about the food! Is it all just raw fish and seaweed? (Because, you know, picky eater…)
Oh, the food. This is where Hidamari Ichinoyu truly shines. Okay, yes, there *is* raw fish. And seaweed. But it's *good* raw fish and seaweed! The meals are typically multi-course kaiseki dinners – which I know can sound intimidating, but trust me, it's an experience in itself. Think beautifully presented small dishes showcasing seasonal ingredients.
And for the picky eaters? Don't worry! There's usually a good variety to choose from, with options that you probably will find more appealing, maybe even daring! I mean, I'm not going to lie, some things are definitely out there (sea urchin... *shudders*), but trust me, you'll find things you love. Plus, the presentation is an art form. Honestly, I took *so many* pictures of the food, and I *never* post food pics. It was that pretty. And delicious! (Mostly...okay, I skipped the sea urchin.) The breakfast buffet is also amazing, with a mix of Japanese and Western options. Be adventurous, try new things! Even if it's just the miso soup. (Which is glorious here, by the way.)
What about the onsen etiquette? I'm terrified of making a fool of myself. And do they have tattoos? (Because, yes, that is a real concern.)
Onsen etiquette... okay, this is where the anxiety kicks in, right? Don't worry. It's not as scary as it seems. The basics: You gotta wash *before* you get in the onsen. Shower thoroughly! Don't go swimming. No loud talking. Don't stare. (Well, maybe sneak a peek at the beautiful view, but don't make it obvious.)
Towels. Small towel for modesty, big towel to dry off. Don't put your big towel in the onsen! The staff are super understanding and helpful so they could guide you too! And tattoos? This is the tricky one. Historically, tattoos have been associated with organized crime in Japan. Policy is evolving. At Hidamari Ichinoyu, they are generally *okay* with tattoos, as long as they're not too large or offensive. However, it's always a good idea to check in advance or bring a small bandage to cover it up, just in case. Better safe than sorry! I saw a couple of people with small tattoos when I was there, but it's always best to check. It doesn't hurt to be respectful of the culture and the rules!
Okay, I'm sold! (Maybe). What's the best time to go to Hidamari Ichinoyu? And are there any drawbacks I should be aware of?
Alright, you're almost there! The best time to go... that depends on what you want. Autumn is glorious for the fall foliage, but it's also peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices. Spring is beautiful for cherry blossoms. Winter is magical (especially with snow!), but it can be cold. My personal favourite? Shoulder season (spring or fall). The weather is generally pleasant, the crowds are slightly thinner, and you get the best of both worlds.
Drawbacks? Well, yes, there are always drawbacks. It's not a budget option, let's be honest.5 Star Stay Find
