Luxury Ryokan Near Tokyo: 5 Escapes Within 2-3 Hours
Gora Kadan, Asaba, HOSHINOYA Fuji, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa and KAI Kinugawa are all 2-3 hours from Tokyo by train, but they’re very different trips. Here’s how to pick the right one.
Japan · Ryokan · Onsen
Honest guides to Japan's ryokan and onsen hotels
Who each place suits, who should skip it, and how to book it well. Researched from official sources and real guest reviews.
Where to Stay in Hakone: Yumoto, Gora, Miyanoshita or Lake?
Yumoto, Miyanoshita, Gora or Lake Ashi? Here’s how Hakone’s main ryokan areas compare on access, atmosphere and convenience, and how to choose a room and meal plan that fits your trip.
Gora Kadan Review: Is Hakone’s Imperial Ryokan Worth It?
A former imperial summer villa in Hakone’s Gora district, Gora Kadan is one of the area’s most expensive ryokan. Here’s who it suits for a first ryokan stay, which room to pick, and what to sort out before you book.
Hakone Ginyu Review: Are the Balcony Baths Worth It?
Every room at Hakone Ginyu has its own open-air bath facing the Hayakawa valley. Here’s who that’s worth the splurge for, which route to take from Tokyo, and how to book it well.