Hotel Shikinoyakata Hakone Ashinoko

This hotel offers a serene escape, distinguished by its private in-room hot spring baths that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Ashi. This signature feature allows guests to enjoy a deeply relaxing and intimate experience. The hotel is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, pet owners looking for a comfortable stay with their companions, and anyone desiring a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Guests consistently praise the exceptional French cuisine, the hotel's pristine and modern facilities, and the highly attentive service from the staff. To maximize your experience, consider that the hotel is situated in a secluded area, making taxi or private transport the most convenient way to arrive, and be aware that while the food quality is superb, some guests with larger appetites might find the portion sizes modest.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests highly appreciate the luxurious private in-room hot spring baths, which are a standout feature, offering natural hot spring water and often providing stunning views, though some noted a more "balcony-like" feel in certain rooms. The hotel also features a communal hot spring bath that is consistently described as spotless and rarely crowded, even including a cold plunge for a complete wellness experience. While there is no dedicated fitness center or swimming pool, the focus on private relaxation is evident. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, though a few guests found the connection to be slow. For convenience, the property is designed with barrier-free access, featuring automatic doors and handrails to ensure ease of movement for all guests, including those using wheelchairs. Additionally, EV car charging is available, and some rooms include thoughtful touches like a CD player and umbrellas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives consistent praise for its exceptional cleanliness and the overall comfort of its accommodations. Rooms are described as tidy and well-maintained, with a noticeable absence of pet odors, which is particularly appreciated by pet owners. Guests often highlight the pleasant hinoki wood scent that permeates the rooms, contributing to a relaxing atmosphere. While many found the rooms to be spacious, a few guests felt they were a bit small. The private in-room hot spring baths are noted for being clean and providing hot, inviting water. However, some minor issues were reported, such as a few instances of uncleaned coffee cups and condensation inside the refrigerator. Guests generally found the rooms to be quiet, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep, though some wished for an additional trash can beyond the one provided near the television.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's French cuisine is a major highlight, consistently described as delicious, impressive, and of exceptional quality. Guests commend the creative approach to the dishes, often incorporating local Japanese ingredients, resulting in flavorful and well-balanced meals. Both dinner and breakfast receive high praise for their culinary excellence. However, some guests, particularly younger individuals or those with larger appetites, found the portion sizes to be somewhat modest, with no à la carte menu available for additional orders. A few isolated incidents were mentioned, including one guest reporting burnt or undercooked food, and another finding an insect in a salad, which was handled without direct apology. Despite these rare occurrences, the overall sentiment towards the food is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests enjoying the thoughtful presentation and the delicious night snack sandwich provided.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a picturesque and tranquil location nestled on a hill, offering captivating views of Lake Ashi and the surrounding mountains. Situated within a villa area, it provides a quiet and secluded environment, ideal for relaxation. While the views are generally stunning, some guests noted that it offers a partial view of the lake rather than a full panoramic vista. The hotel's secluded setting means there are no shops or restaurants within easy walking distance, requiring guests to travel to access amenities. Access to the hotel is best achieved by taxi due to the steep climb, though public bus routes are available, guests should be aware that local roads can be narrow. This peaceful, somewhat remote setting is a key part of its charm for those seeking an escape, but it necessitates planning for transportation.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their exceptional service, described as attentive, friendly, and highly helpful. Many guests highlighted the staff's willingness to go the extra mile, including assisting with special requests like room decoration for a proposal. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some guests found the use of an automated machine, even with staff assistance, felt less personal than expected for a luxury hotel. While many staff members are noted for their English proficiency, a few guests experienced minor communication gaps. Some areas for improvement were noted, such as a perceived lack of attention to detail in certain instances, like not acknowledging a food issue or not knocking before entering a room. Additionally, some guests felt that staff, particularly newer members, were less experienced with handling pets or accommodating specific family dining arrangements.

Additional Information
The hotel, having recently opened or undergone significant renovation in 2022, presents a very clean and modern aesthetic, with a strong emphasis on natural wood elements that contribute to a pleasant ambiance. It maintains a quiet, adult-oriented atmosphere, partly due to an age restriction policy, which many guests appreciate for ensuring a peaceful stay. For pet owners, the hotel is highly accommodating, providing essential dog amenities such as sheets, deodorizing bags, and crates, though some wished for a dedicated dog run or the option for pets to join them in the dining area. The hotel also features Japanese paintings throughout, adding to its refined decor. Guests often express a strong desire to return, highlighting the overall positive and memorable experience, and some have already booked stays at sister properties, indicating high satisfaction.