Lakeside luxury resort on the shores of Lake Ashi with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Features Western and Japanese rooms, multiple restaurants, and outdoor hot spring baths.
The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko is a lakeside luxury resort perched on the southern shore of Lake Ashi in Moto-Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. Positioned at the foot of the Hakone mountains, the resort commands sweeping panoramic views across the calm volcanic lake toward the iconic summit of Mount Fuji on clear days — a spectacle that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts year-round.
The property, operated by Prince Hotels, blends contemporary Japanese hospitality with a relaxed resort atmosphere. The main building and annex house a mix of Western-style rooms and Japanese tatami-style accommodations, many of which feature private terraces or large windows oriented toward the lake. Architecture favors clean, modernist lines designed to complement rather than compete with the surrounding natural scenery.
Dining at the resort centers on the main restaurant, which serves a buffet-style spread of Japanese and international cuisine for breakfast and dinner, using locally sourced Hakone ingredients. A separate lounge bar overlooks the lake and is ideal for evening drinks at sunset.
The resort's outdoor natural hot spring (onsen) bath is one of its signature highlights. Fed by Hakone's geothermal waters, the open-air bath allows guests to soak while gazing out over Lake Ashi, with the silhouette of Mount Fuji visible in the distance on fine days. Indoor onsen facilities are also available alongside a fitness room.
The hotel operates its own pier providing direct access to Lake Ashi boat tours, including the iconic sightseeing ships that cross the lake toward Hakone-machi. The Hakone Ropeway cable car and Owakudani volcanic valley are reachable within a short drive or transit journey, making the resort a practical base for the full Hakone loop itinerary.
Service is attentive and professional, with a bilingual concierge desk offering assistance with regional activity bookings and transportation. The property is family-friendly and welcomes guests traveling with children, who can enjoy the lake grounds and outdoor spaces. Free parking is available for guests arriving by car. The property is accessible from Hakone-Yumoto Station via bus or taxi.
Best experienced in autumn when the surrounding mountains turn amber and crimson, or during early spring cherry blossom season, the resort's lakefront setting provides a different character with each seasonal change.
Amenities
- Onsen (hot spring)
- Lake-view rooms
- Multiple restaurants
- Bar
- Free parking
- Concierge
- Boat dock access
Location
144 Moto-Hakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa 250-0522
35.2010, 139.0340 View on map
Highlights
- Lake Ashi waterfront
- Mt. Fuji views
- Outdoor onsen
- Private lake pier
Tips for visiting
- Book lakeside-facing rooms at least 2–3 months in advance, particularly for spring cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage (mid-October to mid-November).
- The outdoor onsen bath is most rewarding at dawn when morning mist rises from Lake Ashi and foot traffic is minimal.
- Use the resort's pier to board Lake Ashi sightseeing ships directly — this skips the busier queue at the Moto-Hakone public port.
- Mount Fuji visibility depends entirely on weather; ask the front desk about the morning forecast before planning sunrise viewing.
- A Hakone Free Pass (available at Odakyu stations in Tokyo) covers most regional transport including the sightseeing ships and ropeway at significantly lower cost than individual tickets.
Accessibility
The resort grounds include some sloped and uneven lakeside paths. The main building lobby and restaurant are wheelchair accessible, and select rooms are available for guests with limited mobility. Advance contact with the hotel is recommended to confirm room and facility suitability.
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Frequently asked questions
Are Mount Fuji views guaranteed from the hotel?
Mount Fuji is visible only when conditions are clear. Views are most reliable in winter (December through February) and on calm mornings after rainfall. The hotel front desk can advise on daily visibility.
Does the hotel have direct access to Lake Ashi?
Yes. The property has its own pier on Lake Ashi, from which guests can board the Hakone sightseeing ships that cross the lake to Hakone-machi and Hakone-en.
Is the onsen open to day visitors?
The onsen facilities are primarily reserved for hotel guests. Visitors should check directly with the property regarding day-use availability, as policies may vary seasonally.
How far is the hotel from Tokyo?
The hotel is approximately 90 minutes from central Tokyo by Odakyu Romance Car to Hakone-Yumoto, plus a further bus or taxi transfer of around 30 minutes to the Moto-Hakone area.
What transport is available from the hotel to other Hakone attractions?
Buses and taxis connect to Hakone-Yumoto Station, the Hakone Ropeway, and other major sites within the national park area. The hotel concierge can assist with route planning.