KUON Hakone Gora

The building, Rooms, and all shared areas are stylish and spotless. The services and meals are excellent.There is nothing around the Hotel, so I was able to relax quietly in the in-room Onsen.

KUON’s concept is “a place where people in their 20s and 30s can feel a little more grown-up than yesterday.”This time, we’re sharing our impressions from the perspective of guests in our 50s and above, including tips for an even more comfortable stay.[An Outstanding Experience]1) The food is exceptional! Above all, we were truly impressed by the chef’s cuisine. Each dish—unlike anything you’ll find at other hotels—was so beautifully presented that it made us gasp “Wow!” The combinations of ingredients were fresh and creative, and everything was delicious. A full 11-course menu (including two desserts) comes with a pairing: one drink for every two dishes, totaling about 5–6 drinks (non-alcoholic options available).2) You can travel light With amenities provided—including a Dyson hair dryer—as well as loungewear, tabi socks, and slippers, we were able to relax comfortably without bringing much.3) All-inclusive Drinks in the in-Room refrigerator are free, with a wide selection including alcohol. We also enjoyed yuzu tea served at night in the lounge, along with nuts and chocolate.4) Enjoy flowing Onsen water in your Room Being able to enjoy natural Onsen water flowing directly into the bath anytime you like is a major highlight. Even in a Standard Room, opening the window creates a semi-open-air bath experience—and it was great that you can close the window if insects are an issue.[Tips for an Even More Comfortable Stay]1) Getting to the Hotel The Hotel is located slightly away from tourist areas, up a narrow and steep road without sidewalks. If you have concerns about walking or if the weather is bad, taking a taxi from the station is recommended.2) Bath setup There are no handrails by the bath area and the stool is on the smaller side, so older guests may want to take extra care.3) Seating for meals The dining area offers both table seating and counter seating with high chairs. If you’d like to dine at ease or if you’re older, requesting “table seating” in advance will give peace of mind.4) For light eaters The pairings are excellent but add up to quite a bit of liquid. If you don’t eat much or prefer fewer drinks, it helps to share your preferences regarding drink quantity ahead of time.[Helpful items to bring]- Coffee (recommended if you’re particular about it)- Post-bath loungewear (there are no bathrobes; having your own makes things more comfortable)- Earplugs (recommended if noise bothers you)[Summary]This was a highly satisfying stay that made us want to return for its relaxed pace and outstanding cuisine. A truly one-of-a-kind Hotel we’d love to visit again in another season.