Staying in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), is one of the most authentic ways to experience Japanese hospitality and without doubt was the highlight of my trip. They are typically found near hot spring resorts, offering a combination of tranquility and Japanese cuisine. Taking the definition of a spa resort to whole new level.
Food is a major part of the experience of staying in a Ryokan. Breakfast and dinner was served as a traditional Japanese meal, with the chef preparing a set menu using fresh local ingredients. Served as a 'kaiseki' or set of dishes served on an individual tray, including a burner to cook a main dish and lots of accompaniments.
This is just a selection of the plates consumed across breakfast and dinner - with there being very little difference between what was served at each, and fish featuring heavily.
My bedroom included traditional sliding paper doors 'shoji', low tables and floor seating, and futon bed. The floor was covered in reed floor matting 'tatami', and slippers were provided to protect the delicate floor. The Kimono 'yukata' designed to be worn around the Ryokan. Set amongst hot springs, the bedroom had a naturally fed hot pool on its balcony.
Hakone Shrine on the edge of Lake Ashinoko is flanked by monumental torri gates.
The uninterrupted views of Mount Fuji from the approach road to the Owakudani Geothermal hot springs are worth enduring the traffic jams.
This spot also provides look out posts to view the intense volcanic activity at the steam vent up close makes this attraction one of the most visited places in Hakone. This natural phenomena produces a mystical atmosphere, but the strong and unrelenting sulphuric odour was a challenge to my senses. I found the ground covered with fragments of black egg shells which have turned black due to a chemical reaction with geothermal energy and volcanic gas. The tourists eat copious amounts of them, leaving a trial of evidence behind them.
Hakone in Spring contrasting the Sakura cherry blossoms near the falls, to the snow covered landscapes as I journeyed towards Lake Ashi.
....and finally here's me with my husband in Hakone
Let's catch the Bullet Train once more to see the zen gardens and famous bamboo forest in Kyoto....