Yama No Chaya: A Traditional Ryokan Escape in Hakone with Private Onsen Suites

Hot Springs in Japan are an incredible way to experience the culture.

Nestled in the tranquil forests of Hakone, Yama No Chaya is a luxurious ryokan that blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. Known for its **private open-air onsens**, exquisite kaiseki dining, and serene atmosphere, this ryokan offers an unforgettable retreat just a short journey from Tokyo.

Staying in a ryokan is a cultural experience, offering a peaceful escape from the fast pace of modern life.

The atmosphere creates a sense of calm and relaxation that permeates through your entire body, leaving you feeling tranquil.

The Healing Power of Hakone’s Onsen

Hakone is famous for its **volcanic hot springs, rich in minerals like sulfur, sodium chloride, and bicarbonate. Soaking in these waters is believed to:

- Relieve muscle and joint pain

- Improve blood circulation

- Soothe skin conditions

- Reduce stress and fatigue

At Yama No Chaya, the onsen water flows directly from natural springs, ensuring an authentic therapeutic experience.

The grounds of the ryokan are immaculate and bring you almost to a dreamlike world.

The History of Yama No Chaya

Originally a teahouse for travelers along the Old Tokaido Road during the Edo period (1603-1868), Yama No Chaya (meaning "Mountain Teahouse") has evolved into a premier ryokan while retaining its historic charm. The lush forest setting and traditional architecture create a timeless retreat.

Luxurious Rooms with Private Open-Air Onsen (Suites)

One of the standout features of Yama No Chaya is its **suites with private open-air onsens(*rotenburo*). These exclusive rooms allow guests to enjoy a hot spring bath in complete privacy, surrounded by nature.

A horigotatsu is a type of traditional Japanese table that's low to the ground and has a recessed floor beneath it so that people can stretch out their legs. This allows diners to sit in a tatami area the same way they sit in a Western style chair.

Room Features:

Spacious Tatami Living Area – Traditional yet comfortable, with low tables and floor seating.

-Futon Beds – Prepared by staff during turndown service for a restful sleep.

- Private Outdoor Onsen – A stone or wooden bath filled with mineral-rich hot spring water, often overlooking the forest or river.

- Yukata & Toiletries – High-quality robes and Japanese bath essentials provided.

- Garden or River Views – Many rooms feature shoji (paper sliding doors) opening to serene natural scenery.

For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the premium suites offer larger baths, separate living spaces, and enhanced privacy.

Kaiseki Dining: A Feast for the Senses

Dinner at Yama No Chaya is a highlight—a meticulously crafted kaiseki meal served in your room or a private dining area. Each dish is seasonal, artfully presented, and made with local ingredients. A typical menu includes:

- Appetizers (seasonal delicacies like tofu, pickled vegetables)

- Sashimi (fresh seafood from nearby Sagami Bay)

- Grilled Dish (often fish or wagyu beef)

- Hot Pot or Simmered Dish (flavored with dashi broth)

- Rice, Miso Soup, and Dessert

Breakfast is equally impressive, featuring grilled fish, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), and miso soup—a perfect start to a day of relaxation.

How to Use the Onsen (Hot Spring Etiquette)

If you’re new to onsen bathing, follow these steps for a smooth experience:

1. Rinse Off First – Wash thoroughly at the shower station before entering the bath.

2. No Swimsuits – Onsens are enjoyed nude (gender-separated).

3. Tie Up Long Hair – Keep it from touching the water.

4. No Soap in the Bath – The onsen is for soaking only.

5. Relax Quietly – Keep conversations soft to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

For those in suites with private onsens, you can enjoy the same therapeutic waters at your leisure—no etiquette rules except for showering first!

Why Yama No Chaya Should Be on Your Hakone Itinerary

Yama No Chaya offers the perfect balance of tradition, luxury, and nature. Whether you’re soaking in a private forest-view onsen, savoring a gourmet kaiseki meal, or simply unwinding in your tatami room, this ryokan provides an authentic Japanese retreat.

For travelers seeking a romantic getaway, a wellness escape, or a deep dive into Japanese culture, Yama No Chaya is an exceptional choice.

Have you stayed at a ryokan before? Would you book a room with a private onsen? Share your thoughts below! 🌿♨️