Onsenjuku Matsuzakaya Honten: Experience A Timeless Luxury

Matsuzakaya Honten is a traditional onsen ryokan founded in 1662 in Ashinoyu, a hot spring district of Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. Its 21 guest rooms are spread across five buildings, and every bath is filled from the inn’s own spring, which flows at about 200 liters per minute with no added water or heating. Higashi Ashinoyu bus stop is a 3-minute walk from the inn and 25 to 30 minutes by bus from Hakone Yumoto Station.

Welcome to the historical site

Established in 1662, this traditional ryokan has welcomed countless visitors, including notable figures like Kido Takayoshi and Saigo Takamori during the Meiji era. Today, it continues to attract guests from all walks of life, including members of the Imperial Family, making it a cherished part of Japan’s rich heritage.

Wi-fi	Available
Dining	Traditional Japanese cuisine for dinner/breakfast
Shuttle Service	None
Room Service	None
Check-in/out	3:00 PM ~ 7:00 PM / By 11:00 AM
Dietary Considerations	For vegetarian options or arrangement regarding allergy, please inform the staff at least 3 days in advance.

Unparalleled Hot Springs

At the heart of Matsuzakaya Honten is its own natural hot spring source, boasting a remarkable flow of 200 liters per minute. The onsen features a rare combination of three types of mineral-rich waters: sulfur, sulfate, and bicarbonate springs, known for their skin-nourishing properties. Unlike many other facilities, Matsuzakaya Honten offers its guests the luxury of pure, unaltered hot spring water with no added water or heating.

The onsen water begins as a vibrant emerald green, transforming in response to the weather and temperature, a testament to its unique mineral content. This remarkable feature creates an inviting and rejuvenating bathing experience in every onsen tub throughout the ryokan.

A Bounty of Natural Benefits

The three types of springs found at Matsuzakaya Honten are celebrated for their beneficial qualities:

• Sulfur Spring: Known for its ability to cleanse the skin and promote circulation and metabolism.
• Sulfate Spring: Offers hydration and skin elasticity, while helping with conditions like arteriosclerosis and skin irritations.
• Bicarbonate Spring: Acts like a natural soap, promoting smooth, beautiful skin and potentially aiding in the treatment of skin ailments.

With a mild alkaline composition, the waters are gentle on the skin, allowing for a comfortable bathing experience.

Unique Accommodations

Matsuzakaya Honten features five distinct buildings, each with its own character, set across a sprawling 4,000 tsubo (approximately 13,000 square meters) of lush grounds. The ryokan offers 21 guest rooms, each providing a view of the expansive gardens, which change with the seasons, from the vibrant blossoms of spring to the serene snow in winter.

Seasonal Culinary Delights

Dining at Matsuzakaya Honten is a journey through the flavors of Japan. The “Shukuba Kaiseki” menu reflects the traditions of the Edo period, featuring seasonal dishes inspired by the historical meals served to travelers. The menu evolves with the eight seasonal markers, ensuring a fresh and delightful experience.

For breakfast, guests can enjoy the “Traveler’s Breakfast,” designed to nourish and energize, perfect for those setting out for a day of exploration. This simple yet flavorful meal draws from the culinary traditions of travelers from ages past.

Conclusion

Matsuzakaya Honten is not just a place to stay; it’s a place to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of Hakone. With its stunning views, exceptional onsen, and exquisite dining, your experience here will be both relaxing and enriching. Discover the charm of this historic ryokan and make unforgettable memories during your visit to Japan.

ACCESS

By Car: Approximately 90 minutes from central Tokyo.

By Public Transport:

From Hakone Yumoto Station: Board the Hakone Tozan Bus heading to either Hakone Machi Port or Moto Hakone Port.

Get off at Higashi Ashinoyu: The stop is approximately 25 minutes from the station.

Walk to your destination: After disembarking, it’s a short 3-minute walk from the Higashi Ashinoyu bus stop to the inn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Matsuzakaya Honten from Tokyo by train?

Matsuzakaya Honten is reached from Tokyo by train to Hakone Yumoto Station and then a bus. The Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku takes about 80 to 90 minutes and all seats are reserved. From Hakone Yumoto, the bus bound for Hakone Machi Port or Moto Hakone Port reaches Higashi Ashinoyu in 25 to 30 minutes, and the inn is a 3-minute walk from the stop.

Does Matsuzakaya Honten have private onsen baths?

Matsuzakaya Honten has five private open-air baths, opened in April 2019 and filled with free-flowing water from the inn’s own spring. Staying guests reserve a 60-minute session at the front desk after check-in, for 5,500 yen per room including tax. Many guest rooms also have their own open-air or indoor onsen bath, while rooms in the Kakumeikan building have shower booths.

Can you use the onsen at Matsuzakaya Honten without staying overnight?

Matsuzakaya Honten accepts day visitors in its private open-air baths only, not in the large public baths. One room costs 17,600 yen for 1 or 2 people and covers 120 minutes: 60 minutes in the bath and 60 minutes in the lounge with free drinks. Day use runs from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with last admission at 6:00 PM, and is booked by phone.

Can Matsuzakaya Honten prepare vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meals?

Matsuzakaya Honten accommodates vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian diets when guests give notice at least three days before the stay. The inn states that it cannot provide gluten-free meals, because its miso and soy sauce may contain gluten and wheat. The inn does not guarantee that allergens are fully removed from any dish.