Odakyu Yama no Hotel (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Charm and How to Enjoy the Historic Resort Hotel on the Banks of Lake Ashi in Hakone
Odakyu Yama no Hotel, nestled on a 730-meter-high plateau on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone Town, Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a full-fledged resort hotel full of history and romance, built on the former villa site of Baron Iwasaki Koyata, the fourth head of the Mitsubishi zaibatsu. With its outstanding location overlooking Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi, expansive gardens where flowers bloom in all four seasons, high-quality hot springs, and fine cuisine, it continues to captivate many tourists and guests.
This article comprehensively covers information you should know before visiting Odakyu Yama no Hotel, from its historical background to guest rooms, restaurants, hot springs, garden highlights, access methods, and nearby tourist attractions.
History and Origins of Odakyu Yama no Hotel
The history of Odakyu Yama no Hotel dates back to “Hakone Villa,” the country estate of Baron Iwasaki Koyata, the fourth head of the Mitsubishi zaibatsu. In 1911 (Meiji 44), Baron Iwasaki became fond of this location on the shores of Lake Ashi and purchased an expansive site of approximately 45,000 tsubo.
During the villa era, a beautiful garden with azaleas and rhododendrons was cultivated and served as a place where the Iwasaki family and invited guests could enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons. After World War II, the land and buildings were transferred to Odakyu Electric Railway, and the hotel opened as “Yama no Hotel” in 1948 (Showa 23).
For over 70 years since its opening, it has served many guests from Japan and abroad as a premier resort hotel representing Hakone. Its classical exterior, reminiscent of a Western castle, conveys the remains of the Baron Iwasaki’s villa era and is known as one of Hakone’s most historic hotels.
Outstanding Location and Facility Overview
Ideal Location Overlooking Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji
The greatest charm of Odakyu Yama no Hotel lies in its location. Hakone’s representative scenic spot, Lake Ashi, spreads out directly in front of the hotel, and on clear days, the majestic Mount Fuji can be seen beyond the lake.
Located at an elevation of 730 meters, the hotel boasts particularly open views among lakeside hotels in Hakone, allowing you to enjoy spectacular scenery from guest rooms, restaurants, lobby lounges, gardens, and throughout the hotel. The beauty of Hakone’s nature—Mount Fuji bathed in morning light, Lake Ashi at dusk, and the changing expressions of the landscape across the seasons—soothes all who visit.
Basic Facility Information
- Address: 〒250-0522 80 Motohakone, Hakone Town, Ashigara Shimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone: 0460-83-6321
- Number of Rooms: 60 rooms total
- Check-in: From 15:00
- Check-out: Until 12:00
- Parking: 60 spaces (free for guests)
- Hot Spring: Lake Ashi Hot Spring (private source)
The hotel consists of a main building and an annex, with all guest rooms being Western-style. While maintaining a classical atmosphere, the facilities are designed with comfort in mind.
The Charm of Gardens Adorned with Flowers Throughout the Seasons
When discussing Odakyu Yama no Hotel, the expansive garden of approximately 15,000 tsubo (or approximately 4,500 tsubo) is essential. This garden, inherited from the Baron Iwasaki’s villa era, blooms with various flowers throughout the year and continues to fascinate visitors.
Spring: The Spectacle of Azaleas and Rhododendrons (Late April to Late May)
The stars of the garden in spring are undoubtedly azaleas and rhododendrons. The sight of 84 varieties of approximately 3,000 azalea plants and approximately 40 varieties of 300 rhododendron plants bursting into bloom simultaneously is magnificent.
In early May, a “Azalea and Rhododendron Fair” is held, where pink, red, white, and purple flowers blanket the garden in a riot of color. The sight of azaleas blooming against a backdrop of Mount Fuji is truly like a painting. During this period, the garden is open to the public, and non-guests can enjoy garden walks by paying an entrance fee (approximately 1,000 yen for adults; fees vary by season).
Summer: Fresh Greenery and Cool Lake Ashi (June to August)
From early summer through summer, the entire garden is enveloped in vibrant green. Hydrangeas and roses bloom, and you can enjoy garden walks while feeling the cool breeze of Lake Ashi. Thanks to the high elevation, summer temperatures remain relatively mild, which is one of Hakone’s charms.
Autumn: Spectacular Fall Colors (Late October to Mid-November)
Odakyu Yama no Hotel is also known as a famous autumn foliage spot. Starting in late October, the trees in the garden begin to change color, with the peak viewing period from early to mid-November. The sight of maples, Japanese maples, and enkianthus turning red and yellow against the backdrop of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji is breathtaking in its beauty.
A “Fall Foliage Festival” and other events may be held during the foliage season, allowing you to enjoy garden walks and autumn in Hakone to the fullest. It is recognized as one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s premier fall foliage spots, attracting many tourists.
Winter: Snowy Landscape and Silent Gardens (December to March)
Winter at Odakyu Yama no Hotel offers the chance to enjoy a magical landscape created by snow-covered gardens and Mount Fuji. Compared to other seasons, fewer visitors come, making it possible to stroll through the garden quietly and leisurely.
Superior Guest Rooms and In-Hotel Facilities
Guest Room Types and Features
Odakyu Yama no Hotel has 60 guest rooms, all Western-style. The main room types are as follows:
Standard Twin
Approximately 26-30 square meters of standard accommodation. Available with views toward Lake Ashi or the garden, allowing you to enjoy the scenery from your window.
Superior Twin
Approximately 34-40 square meters of spacious accommodation. You can spend time comfortably in a more generous space.
Deluxe Twin
Approximately 40-50 square meters of high-quality accommodation. Some rooms come with balconies, allowing you to monopolize the spectacular views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi.
Suite Room
The ultimate accommodation with separate living and sleeping areas. Recommended for special anniversaries or stays with loved ones.
All guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, television, refrigerator, safe, hair dryer, and yukata. Windows offer views of either Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, or the garden, allowing you to enjoy Hakone’s natural beauty from any room.
In-Hotel Facilities
Lobby Lounge
The classical lobby lounge features large windows with spectacular views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and seasonal cakes. It is ideal for spending time before check-in or after check-out.
Library
A quiet space with a fireplace where you can read or spend peaceful moments.
Gift Shop
Offers hotel original merchandise, Hakone specialties, and souvenirs.
Healing at Lake Ashi Hot Spring
Odakyu Yama no Hotel features hot spring facilities fed by a private source of Lake Ashi Hot Spring.
Hot Spring Qualities and Benefits
- Water Quality: Sodium/Calcium-Chloride/Sulfate Hot Spring (Hypotonic, Weakly Alkaline, High Temperature)
- Benefits: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, joint stiffness, bruising, sprains, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, coldness, post-illness recovery, fatigue recovery, health maintenance, and more
Hot Spring Facilities
Large Public Bath “Azalea Bath”
Features a spacious indoor bath and outdoor bath where you can soak while gazing at Lake Ashi and Hakone’s mountains. The outdoor bath offers views of nature changing through the seasons, and the scenery is especially spectacular during fall foliage season.
Hours of Operation: 5:30-10:00, 14:00-24:00 (subject to change by season)
*Day-use bathing is generally not available (exclusive to guests)*
The hot springs are expected to promote fatigue recovery and beautiful skin, making them ideal for soothing travel fatigue. Bathing while enjoying natural light streaming through large windows and feeling Hakone’s four seasons provides a luxurious time for both physical and mental refreshment.
Restaurants and Dining
At Odakyu Yama no Hotel, you can enjoy fine dining while admiring the natural beauty of Hakone and views of Mount Fuji.
Main Dining Room “Vel Bois”
A main dining establishment serving creative cuisine based on French cooking. Large windows frame spectacular views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, allowing you to enjoy meals in a romantic atmosphere.
Multi-course meals utilizing seasonal ingredients from Kanagawa Prefecture and the Hakone area are popular, with menus changing with the seasons. Wine pairings carefully selected by sommeliers are also recommended.
Hours of Operation:
- Breakfast: 7:00-9:30
- Lunch: 11:30-14:00 (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only in some cases)
- Dinner: 17:30-21:00 (L.O. 19:30)
Japanese Restaurant “Azalea Teahouse”
A Japanese restaurant located within the garden. You can savor kaiseki cuisine and seasonal Japanese fare while enjoying the garden’s flowers in all seasons. Private rooms are also available, making it ideal for special occasions and business entertaining.
Tea Lounge “Salon de The Rosage”
A lounge serving afternoon tea, light meals, and sweets. You can spend an elegant tea time while overlooking the garden. Especially during spring azalea season and autumn foliage season, special afternoon tea sets are offered with spectacular views.
Access and Parking Information
Access by Train and Bus
From Tokyo
- Ride the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station on the Odakyu Line to Hakone Yumoto Station (approximately 85 minutes)
- From Hakone Yumoto Station, take the Hakone Tozan Bus (toward Hakone Town) for approximately 40 minutes, get off at “Motohakone Port” bus stop, and walk approximately 15 minutes
- Or take a taxi from Hakone Yumoto Station for approximately 30 minutes
From Hakone Yumoto Station via Local Bus
Board the Hakone Tozan Bus toward “Hakone Town” or “Motohakone” and get off at “Motohakone Port.” From the bus stop to the hotel is approximately 15 minutes on foot, or a complimentary shuttle bus may be available (advance reservation may be required).
Travel Around Hakone
The Hakone Free Pass provides discounts on round-trip Odakyu Line fares and unlimited travel on Hakone area transportation, offering great value.
Access by Car
From Tokyo
Approximately 30 minutes from “Gotemba IC” on the Tomei Expressway, or approximately 60 minutes from “Atsugi IC” via the Odawara-Atsugi Road
From Nagoya and Osaka
Approximately 30 minutes from “Gotemba IC” on the Tomei Expressway
Parking
There is complimentary parking for hotel guests on the hotel grounds (approximately 60 spaces). If full, follow the attendant’s guidance. For garden viewing only, you will need to use paid parking.
Expected Congestion Times
Congestion is expected during Golden Week, summer vacation, fall foliage season (early to mid-November), and year-end/new year holidays. Weekend and holiday afternoons and evenings are particularly busy with check-ins, so early arrival is recommended. The azalea viewing season (early to mid-May) also sees crowded gardens.
When using public transportation, buses from Hakone Yumoto Station often become full during foliage season and holidays, so plan your travel with ample time.
Nearby Tourist Attractions and How to Enjoy Them
Many of Hakone’s representative tourist attractions are located near Odakyu Yama no Hotel.
Hakone Shrine and Kuzu Ryuu Shrine
About 20 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by car from the hotel, Hakone Shrine is known as one of the Kanto region’s premier power spots. The vermilion torii gate “Peace Torii” standing in Lake Ashi is an iconic symbol of Hakone and a popular photo spot.
Hakone Pirate Ship
Lake Ashi cruises depart from Motohakone Port on the Hakone Pirate Ship. The views of Mount Fuji and Hakone’s mountains from the lake are extraordinary. The ship operates to Momosuke Port and Hakone Town Port, making it a convenient way to reach other attractions.
Hakone Checkpoint Ruins
A historical attraction featuring a reconstruction of the Edo-period Hakone Checkpoint. Period buildings and exhibits showcase what travel was like during the Edo era.
Hakone Gardens Aquarium
An aquarium located on the shores of Lake Ashi, the highest-elevation aquarium in Japan. Features freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and shows featuring Baikal seals.
Owakudani
A representative Hakone tourist attraction. Famous for its spectacular landscape with volcanic steam rising from geothermal activity and its signature black eggs. About 20 minutes by car from the hotel.
Hot Spring Facilities Within a 10km Radius of Odakyu Yama no Hotel
Many day-use hot spring facilities are available in the area around Odakyu Yama no Hotel.
Scenic Day-Use Hot Spring Ryugu-den Honkan
A day-use hot spring facility on the shores of Lake Ashi with a spectacular outdoor bath facing Mount Fuji. About 10 minutes by car from the hotel. With steam baths, sleeping baths, and more diverse bathing options, you can fully enjoy hot springs even for a day visit.
Hakone Yuno Hana Prince Hotel
A resort hotel in the Sengokuhara area that also offers day-use bathing. Features white, milky sulfur hot springs characteristic of Hakone. About 15 minutes by car from the hotel.
Hakone Koyugien Tenyu
A luxury hot spring inn in the Koyugiya area. Accommodation is the main focus, but day-use plans are also available. Features outdoor baths where you can feel Hakone’s nature. About 20 minutes by car from the hotel.
Hotel Green Plaza Hakone
A resort hotel in the Sengokuhara area. The large public bath offers panoramic views of Hakone’s mountains, and day-use bathing plans are available. About 15 minutes by car from the hotel.
Merveille Hakone Gora
A hot spring hotel in the Gora area. Day-use bathing and day-use plans allow you to enjoy hot springs casually. About 25 minutes by car from the hotel.
White Bath Inn Yamada-ya
An old established inn in the Yumoto area. Offers day-use bathing and lunch plans, allowing you to enjoy historic hot springs. About 30 minutes by car from the hotel.
Fujiya Hotel Former Imperial Villa Kikkakazo
An annex of the Fujiya Hotel in the Miyanoshita area. Utilizing a former imperial villa, you can feel the history and elegance. About 20 minutes by car from the hotel.
Hakone Tabi no Yado Kaihomoto
A hot spring inn in the Yumoto area. With a homey atmosphere, it welcomes day-use bathing. About 30 minutes by car from the hotel.
Booking Reservations and Discount Plan Information
Reservations at Odakyu Yama no Hotel can be made through the official website or major accommodation booking sites.
Main Booking Sites
- Official Website: Often offers the best deals with exclusive plans and member benefits
- Jalan.net: Save points and use coupons for economical reservations
- Rakuten Travel: Earn and use Rakuten points
- Ikyu.com: A site specializing in luxury accommodations with exclusive plans
- Yukoyuko: A hot spring inn specialist booking site
- HIS: Package tour combinations available
Tips for Affordable Stays
- Early Booking Discounts: Many plans offer discounts for reservations 60 or 90 days in advance
- Weekday Plans: Weekday rates are typically lower than weekend/holiday rates
- Multi-Night Plans: Discounts available for stays of 2 or more nights
- Special Occasion Plans: Exclusive plans for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special days with perks
- Off-Season: June and December through February are relatively less crowded with more affordable rates
Pricing Guidelines
Accommodation prices vary significantly by season, room type, and plan, but approximate ranges for 2 guests in 1 room (per person) are as follows:
- Standard Plan (Weekday): 18,000 yen to 30,000 yen
- Standard Plan (Holiday Eve): 25,000 yen to 40,000 yen
- High Season (Golden Week, Fall Foliage, Year-End/New Year): 35,000 yen to 60,000 yen and up
*Prices fluctuate by season and booking status. Please check the latest information on each booking site or the hotel’s official website.*
Accessibility and Barrier-Free Information
Odakyu Yama no Hotel is committed to barrier-free accommodations so all guests can enjoy their stay comfortably.
Main Accessibility Features
- Wheelchair Accessible: Ramps are installed at entrances and major facilities for wheelchair navigation
- Elevator: Available for in-hotel transportation
- Barrier-Free Rooms: Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available (advance reservation required)
- Rental Equipment: Wheelchair rental available (limited availability, advance reservation required)
For detailed accessibility information or special accommodations, please contact the hotel directly at the time of booking.
Model Plans for Spending Time at Odakyu Yama no Hotel
1-Night, 2-Day Plan (Spring, Azalea Season)
Day 1
- 12:00 Arrive at Hakone Yumoto Station, bus to Motohakone Port
- 13:30 Visit Hakone Shrine
- 15:00 Check-in, garden walk (azalea viewing)
- 17:00 Hot spring bath
- 18:00 Dinner (French cuisine course)
- 20:00 Relax in lounge
Day 2
- 7:00 Breakfast
- 8:00 Morning garden walk
- 10:00 Hot spring bath
- 12:00 Check-out
- 13:00 Lake Ashi cruise on Pirate Ship
- 15:00 Visit Owakudani
- 17:00 Depart from Hakone Yumoto Station
1-Night, 2-Day Plan (Autumn, Fall Foliage Season)
Day 1
- 11:00 Arrive at Hakone Yumoto Station
- 12:00 Lunch in Gora area
- 14:00 Hakone Museum of Art fall foliage viewing
- 15:00 Check-in, garden walk (foliage viewing)
- 17:00 Hot spring bath
- 18:00 Dinner (Japanese kaiseki)
- 20:00 Evening walk around Lake Ashi
Day 2
- 6:00 Early morning garden walk (sunrise and Mount Fuji)
- 7:30 Breakfast
- 9:00 Hot spring bath
- 11:00 Check-out
- 12:00 Visit Hakone Checkpoint Ruins
- 14:00 Shopping at Hakone Yumoto
- 15:00 Depart
Conclusion: Experience a Special Hakone Stay at Odakyu Yama no Hotel
Odakyu Yama no Hotel is a full-fledged resort hotel full of history and romance located on the shores of Lake Ashi in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture. Its prestigious location on the former estate of the Mitsubishi Iwasaki family, spectacular views overlooking Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi, expansive gardens where flowers bloom in all four seasons, and high-quality hot springs and cuisine provide visitors with exceptional moments.
Spring azaleas and rhododendrons and autumn foliage are particularly spectacular, making it one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s premier flower and fall foliage destinations, attracting many tourists. Excellent access to nearby attractions such as Hakone Shrine, the Hakone Pirate Ship, and Owakudani also makes it an ideal base for Hakone sightseeing.
Recommended for anniversaries and special trips, as well as times when you want to escape daily life and spend leisurely hours, Odakyu Yama no Hotel is worth considering for your Hakone visit. The spectacular views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, flowers throughout the seasons, and superior hospitality will surely create unforgettable memories.
Please check the official website or call for the latest information on hours of operation, rates, and events. Garden peak times and crowd levels vary by season and time, so we recommend confirming information before your visit.
