Two nights at Kinnotake Tonosawa ended up being one of the highlights of our Japan trip.

Hakone provides a completely different experience. Instead of neon lights, train stations, and busy streets, we found ourselves surrounded by forest, soaking in a private onsen, enjoying kaiseki style meals, and listening to nothing but birds and flowing water.
For travelers looking for a luxury ryokan near Tokyo with a private onsen and modern design, Kinnotake Tonosawa delivers an experience that feels both authentic and contemporary.

Quick Facts
Location: Hakone, Japan
Brand: Independent Luxury Ryokan
Stayed: May 2026
Room: Private Onsen Suite
Rates: $700–900/night - Better rates if booked several months in advance, includes breakfast and dinner
Best For: Couples and relaxation
Land Pour Explore Rating: 9/10

Arrival and First Impressions

One of the first things that stood out was the calm atmosphere. Check-in felt more like arriving at a private retreat than a hotel.
The attention to detail began immediately, from the presentation of the room to the traditional robes and amenities waiting inside.

The Suite
​Unlike many traditional ryokans, Kinnotake combines Japanese elements with modern design.

The room featured:
Tatami seating area
Contemporary furnishings
Floor to ceiling windows
Private outdoor bathing area
Spacious dressing and vanity area The minimalist design creates a sense of calm that perfectly matches the surrounding forest.

Private Onsen

This is the reason to stay here.
Every suite includes a private outdoor onsen overlooking the surrounding forest. Being able to soak whenever you want, without reservations or shared facilities is what makes the experience special.
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The setting feels incredibly secluded. The combination of concrete architecture, wood decking, and lush greenery creates a space that feels both modern and natural.

• Complete privacy

• Forest setting

• Large soaking tub

• Available 24 hours

• Perfect after a day exploring Hakone

This was easily one of our favorite hotel features in Japan.

Traditional Touches

One thing Kinnotake does particularly well is blending luxury with traditional Japanese hospitality.
The provided yukata, robes, towels, and bathing accessories make the experience feel immersive without feeling staged.

Bathing Facilities
​Before entering the onsen, guests use the separate shower area.
The setup follows traditional Japanese bathing customs while maintaining the comfort expected from a luxury property.

Food and Dining

Meals are an important part of the ryokan experience, and Kinnotake takes a highly regional approach.
Unlike many luxury hotels, dinner here feels like part of the destination rather than simply a hotel restaurant.​
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Many ingredients are sourced from nearby Hakone, Odawara, and the surrounding Kanagawa region.

Breakfast & Bar
You had the option of Japanese or Western photos shows both
Also the restaurant had a separate bar that oepened after dinner

Breakfast was beautifully presented and included:

• Grilled horse mackerel

• Seasonal vegetables

• Handmade tofu

• Rice and miso soup

• Tamagoyaki

• Local pickles

• Fresh fruit and yogurt

The quality was excellent and the meal felt far more substantial than a typical hotel breakfast.
Local IngredientsThe menu highlighted:

• Odawara plums

• Izu wasabi

• Local tofu producers

• Regional rice selections

This attention to local sourcing helped make the meal feel uniquely tied to Hakone rather than interchangeable with other luxury hotels.

In-Room Amenities

The room also included complimentary beverages ranging from local juices to wine and beer.
It's a small touch, but one that reinforces the feeling of staying somewhere special rather than simply booking a hotel room.

Location

Kinnotake Tonosawa is located near Hakone-Yumoto, making it accessible from Tokyo while still feeling secluded.
Approximate travel times:

• Tokyo to Odawara: 35 minutes by Shinkansen

• Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto: 15 minutes

• Hakone-Yumoto to  Kinnotake: 5 minute taxi ride

For travelers visiting Tokyo, it is an easy luxury escape without requiring a domestic flight.

Would We Stay Again?

Absolutely.
Kinnotake Tonosawa offers something very different from Japan's luxury city hotels. While we loved properties like the Conrad Osaka and Park Hyatt Kyoto, this stay felt more immersive and memorable.
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Pros
​Private outdoor onsen in every room
Beautiful forest setting
Excellent Japanese breakfast
Modern interpretation of a traditional ryokan
Easy access from Tokyo

Cons
Not ideal for travelers seeking nightlife or extensive resort facilities
Premium pricing compared to standard Hakone hotels
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Who Should Stay Here?
Stay here if:
You want a private onsen
You're visiting Tokyo and want a luxury escape
You enjoy traditional Japanese breakfasts
You prefer nature over nightlife

Skip if:
You want a resort with many facilities - alternative is the Hyatt Regency Hakone - see full review
You want nightlife and bars
​You're looking for a budget Hakone stay 

Final Rating

Kinnotake Tonosawa 9/10

If you're looking for a luxury ryokan experience near Tokyo with a private onsen, Kinnotake Tonosawa deserves a place near the top of your list.
It was one of the most relaxing and memorable stays of our entire Japan trip.

Hyatt Regency Hakone