Hakone Beer (Gora Brewery)

Hakone Beer at the Gora Brewery is the Hakone area's own craft beer operation, producing small-batch ales and lagers using the extraordinarily pure mountain spring water that percolates through the volcanic geology of the Hakone caldera. The brewery and taproom are located in Gora — the higher-elevation terminus of the Hakone Tozan Railway and the starting point for the Hakone ropeway — placing it at the heart of one of Kanagawa's most popular mountain resort areas. Craft brewing in Hakone draws directly on the terroir concept: the mineral profile of Hakone spring water contributes a particular softness to the finished beer that brewers consider a signature advantage. The core range includes a Hakone Pale Ale (citrus-forward, medium bitterness), a yuzu wheat beer brewed with fresh Kanagawa yuzu citrus peel for a fragrant, tart character, and a dark porter suited to colder months. Seasonal releases appear alongside the core range and reflect the rhythms of the mountain year — a cherry blossom ale in spring, a lighter summer session beer, and warming autumn stouts. The taproom food menu functions as a deliberate pairing with the beers: a Swiss-style cheese fondue was chosen to complement the malt character of the richer ales, while sausage platters provide the protein to extend a session. The après-onsen atmosphere is a defining feature — many visitors stop at the brewery after an afternoon at one of Hakone's famous hot spring resorts, and the combination of a mineral soak followed by local craft beer is a Gora-specific pleasure. The taproom is closed on Tuesdays.