Here are some of the reasons why Hotel Green Plaza Hakone is a popular choice.

Perched at an altitude of approximately 880 meters, Hotel Green Plaza Hakone offers a breathtaking vantage point from which to admire Mt. Fuji's ever-changing beauty. Whether you're soaking in the open-air hot spring, relaxing in your room, or strolling through the serene garden, you'll be treated to amazing views of Japan's iconic peak from multiple angles.

The water in Hotel Green Plaza Hakone's private hot spring comes from Sengokuhara Onsen, one of Hakone's seventeen renowned hot spring sources. The mildly alkaline water is rich in skin-nourishing minerals, earning it the nickname 'Beauty Hot Spring' for its ability to leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Indulge in a premium buffet with over fifty dishes, from authentic Japanese cuisine to Western dishes and delectable desserts. The highlight is the impressive live kitchen, where chefs prepare your meal right before you — an experience that's truly unique in Hakone! It's a feast for all the senses, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

Located just a short distance from one of Sengokuhara's top tourist attractions, the Owakudani volcanic valley, the hotel is also conveniently close to Gora and other Hakone areas. If you're up for more adventure, the famous Gotemba Premium Outlets in Shizuoka Prefecture are just a 30-minute drive away. It's the perfect base for exploring Hakone and beyond!

Now, let's explore a recommended sightseeing route in Hakone, highlighting popular spots you should visit before checking into Hotel Green Plaza Hakone and after your stay.

The Hakone Carry Service makes it easy to explore without the hassle of carrying luggage! Simply drop off your bags at the reception on the platform at Hakone-Yumoto Station, and start your sightseeing with ease.

(Note: From April 1, 2025, the luggage delivery reception times (same-day reception until 12:00 PM, online reservations until 11:30 AM) and shipping fees will be updated.)

Start your journey to Gora Station aboard the Hakone Tozan Railway, a scenic 40-minute train ride. Along the way, enjoy the natural landscapes of Hakone, and be sure to look out for the steep inclines and switchbacks, which are highlights of the route.

Your first stop from Gora Station is nearby Hakone Gora Park, Japan's first French-style formal garden, established in 1914. Here, you can enjoy a beautifully landscaped fountain pond surrounded by flowers in every season, along with a greenhouse, tea room, and craft workshops.

The Hakundo Tea Garden is a highlight of the park. In this traditional tea room, you can participate in a matcha and Japanese sweets tasting experience, and enjoy a tour of the historic tea room itself.

For lunch, I recommend stopping by Isshikido Tearoom for an afternoon tea set (3,250 yen). Enjoy a refined experience in the open and inviting space, savoring high-quality tea, carefully crafted sandwiches, and exquisite desserts. It's the perfect place to unwind!

Just a 3-minute walk from the west gate of Hakone Gora Park, you'll find the Hakone Museum of Art, the oldest museum in Hakone. The museum primarily showcases Japanese ceramics and features a unique collection of works related to the Kanto region.

The museum's Shinsenkyo Garden — great for a stroll garden combining moss gardens, bamboo groves, massive rocks, and waterfalls — along with all the buildings that make up the museum, has been designated a National Scenic Spot. It's a tranquil space where art and nature beautifully come together.

Hop aboard the Hakone Ropeway for an exhilerating aerial stroll, and head towards Owakudani, one of Sengokuhara's top tourist attractions.

Formed by volcanic activity about 3,000 years ago, Owakudani is known for its dramatic, rugged landscape, with rising steam and the distinct smell of sulfur giving it the nickname 'Hell Valley.'

A must-try local specialty is the black egg, boiled in the region's natural geothermal waters. It's believed that eating one will add seven years to your life, so be sure to give it a try!

Take the cable car from Owakudani to the neighboring Ubako Station. From there, it's just a 3-minute walk along a charming little path to Hotel Green Plaza Hakone.

For those with heavy luggage, a free shuttle bus is available for your convenience, operating from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Finally, you've arrived at the hotel! Take a moment to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink from the complimentary selection available for guests (from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM).

When checking in, make sure to carefully review the English guide provided, which includes important information about the hotel and tips on hot spring etiquette.

Now, let's take a look at the hotel's signature rooms, offering excellent views of Mt. Fuji, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.

The 'Fujimi Wayoshitsu' (Japanese-Western Fusion Room) features a unique design, with a hardwood floor in the bedroom and tatami mats by the window, blending traditional Japanese style with Western comforts. This hotel has eight rooms of this type.

The Simmons low bed offers comfort, while the tatami space invites you to relax and enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji, whether you're lounging on the sofa or sinking into a beanbag cushion with your bare feet on the mats.

The view of the red Mt. Fuji glowing in the sunset from the Fujimi Wayoshitsu is truly soothing for the soul.

The 'Asian Twin Room' (6 rooms available) comes with a private open-air hot spring bath. You can indulge in a luxurious experience, soaking in the bath while enjoying unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji, anytime you like.

(Note: The water in the open-air bath is not from the hot spring.)

The room features an exotic, resort-inspired decor that evokes a tropical getaway, along with a double-sized Simmons mattress, offering a plush, sophisticated escape for a truly exceptional stay.

The 'Fujimi Washitsu' room offers a traditional Japanese hotel experience with tatami mat flooring. The room is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring minimal furnishings and services.

Guests are responsible for laying out their own futon, which helps keep the price more affordable. It's an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji and the charm of a traditional Japanese room without breaking the bank.

Each room is equipped with a yukata (a traditional Japanese robe) and an obi (sash), along with a haori (jacket). If the provided size of the yukata doesn't fit, you can choose from sizes S to XL, or even children's sizes, available at the front desk.

Also, enjoy the complimentary 'ocha-uke' (snacks served with tea), which includes traditional Japanese sweets that pair perfectly with green tea.

At the hotel's signature open-air hot spring bath, you can enjoy both the beauty of Sengokuhara Onsen, known for its skin-enhancing properties, and breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji — a truly luxurious and soothing experience.

The indoor hot spring bath is perfect for warming up during the chilly mornings and evenings. It's a cozy retreat, and the facility also includes a dry sauna for added relaxation.

The large women's public bath is equipped with a full range of skincare products, including toner, lotion, as well as hair treatments and hair growth products. For the men, the men's public bath provides specially designed men's facial lotion for a complete grooming experience.

The large live kitchen at Hotel Green Plaza Hakone offers an impressive selection of ingredients, making it one of the best in Hakone for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Hotel Green Plaza Hakone's signature 'Premium Buffet' offers over 50 dishes, ranging from Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine to delicious desserts. You can savor high-quality dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of the region's produce.

A highlight of the buffet is the large live kitchen, which tantalizes all the senses. Here, you can enjoy freshly prepared sushi, tempura, roast beef, teppanyaki, pasta, pizza, seasonal hot pots, and even homemade apple pie and freshly made mont blanc.

At the breakfast buffet, featuring over 30 dishes, you can enjoy a variety of options from authentic Japanese breakfast items to bread, sausages, and scrambled eggs. A standout favorite is the chef's special fluffy French toast, as well as the popular dashi chazuke — a comforting rice dish with warm dashi broth.

(Note: If you have any food allergies or special dietary needs, please feel free to consult with the staff.)

The 'Hakone Romance Garden,' located in the hotel's courtyard, is an impressive garden designed by British garden designer Mark Chapman. It's a popular spot for memorable photos, with vibrant flowerbeds and Mt. Fuji as a beautiful backdrop.

The nightly 'Moonlit Illumination' event creates a magical atmosphere, as Mt. Fuji is bathed in the colors of the golden hour and complemented by the enchanting lights.

Here, we'll introduce the best ways to enjoy Sengokuhara with the hotel as your base.

The Kinataro Rock Observation Deck offers an easy and enjoyable nature walk. It's just a 30-minute walk from the hotel or Ubako Station on the ropeway. Enjoying a cup of coffee while taking in the sweeping views of Mt. Hakone and Lake Ashi is truly a memorable experience.

A bit further from the hotel, the Sengokuhara Scenic Walking Trail is a charming route that takes you through tranquil countryside paths. Along the way, you'll pass by picturesque cobblestone paths, grassy tunnels, and mysterious spring-fed ponds. The round-trip takes about 90 to 120 minutes, and on your return, you can also visit the beautiful Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields.

For those seeking fantstic views, the 'Kojiri Pass to Kurodake Hiking Course' is also highly recommended. This 150-minute course takes you from the Hakone Visitor Center (a little farther from the hotel) to the Lake Ashi Viewpoint Park, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi, as well as a deeper exploration of Hakone's history with water gates and cobblestone paths.

At the Hakone Visitor Center, you can learn about the history of Hakone and its natural environment, and you can also pick up English hiking maps — perfect for getting some tips for your walk.

Finally, here are four popular souvenirs recommended by the Hotel Green Plaza Hakone gift shop, 'Apricot.'

First, there are mugs featuring a Mt. Fuji design (left: 1,250 yen, right: 1,000 yen). Also popular are Mt. Fuji-shaped sake cups (1,000 yen) and beauty products such as horse oil and face masks (400 yen each) with Mt. Fuji-themed packaging, which make great little gifts.
Additionally, yukatas (traditional Japanese robes) are quite popular, with a variety of designs available. You can also purchase a hotel-branded yukata for 5,000 yen.

Step away from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, the beautiful nature of Sengokuhara, rejuvenating hot springs, and exquisite cuisine. Hotel Green Plaza Hakone offers a perfect escape to fully enjoy your stay in Japan with unforgettable experiences. Next time you visit Hakone, why not extend your trip to Sengokuhara?

(Note: This information is based on an article written in March 2025. For the latest updates, please refer to the hotel website.)