images courtesy of Gora Kadan
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Soak in your private onsen in serene surroundings just outside Tokyo
An Adults-Only Luxury Getaway at Castle Hot Springs, Arizona
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Hakone, Japan, away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Gora Kadan, part of the Relais & Châteaux association, immerses visitors with Japanese hospitality and out-this-world luxury. This take on the traditional ryokan, the quintessential Japanese inn known for more than just lodging—think tranquil landscapes, hot springs (onsen)and kaiseki dining—invites guests to take on a cultural experience steeped in history (seriously, these spa-inns have been around for centuries) with impeccable service you didn’t know you needed. Soak in mineral-rich onsen, indulge in seasonally inspired, multicourse kaiseki dining and find serenity not only in the natural beauty of your surroundings, but the personalized, detail-oriented service, a hallmark of ryokan, but taken to the next level here. Whoever you visit Gora Kadan with, make sure they can keep up with slowing down, because relaxation is first and foremost.
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Who should you bring?
Hakone is known for its natural hot springs, and Gora Kadan brings them right to your own backyard (literally), with a private onsen in most of the rooms. This makes it truly ideal for a romantic or adults-only getaway. Could you bring a family? You could...Gora Kadan’s rooms are certainly spacious enough and tatami mats and futons can be an exciting experience for kids, but considering that the overall atmosphere is centered around serenity, we think a stay at Gora Kadan is best experienced without the little ones.
What’s the food like?
The food is a major part of the ryokan experience, and it’s prepared to perfection at Gora Kadan. Our kaiseki dinner was served in-room by a personal room attendant. The seasonal menu included grilled fish, steak, nigiri, sashimi, soups and rice dishes. Breakfast choices span traditional Japanese to Western options (for example, eggs and croissants are on the menu if you don’t want to get on board with fish and rice in the morning), and every plate we tasted was delicious.
*This menu item is not available in all rooms but only in select ones
Did you get a good night’s sleep?
While the traditional futon beds may not be the main draw (for adults, at least), the spacious rooms and overall, minimalist ambiance create a supremely restful experience. Our stay in the Kakou room, included a private onsen, which made up for any tossing and turning on the futons.
What amenities are available?
whirlpools, in addition to a range of treatment options available). Gym buffs will enjoy the 24/7 fitness enter, as well as the many wellness activities on offer such as hiking along the bluff, cycling classes outside, meditation, beach yoga and more. Speaking of the beach, the Monarch Bay Beach Club is exclusively available to members and guests and has everything you need to surf the waves, paddle board, SUP and more. Or hey, if you’d just like to kick back on a beach chair with a glass of wine, then that’s cool too.
Gora Kadan offers a spa, a small fitness center, a pool, and separate communal hot springs for men and women. But there’s another amenity you can’t really put a price tag on: the natural surroundings. The design of the ryokan within its setting creates a certain harmony and unforgettable experience—a pillar of the Relais & Châteaux ethos.
How was the service?
The service was exceptional, with an attentive and accommodating staff. The personal room attendant added a luxurious touch, ensuring all our needs were met seamlessly.
What was your favorite part?
The stunning design of Gora Kadan, coupled with the natural surroundings, made us feel deeply connected to Japan. The private hot spring bath in the room was undoubtedly the highlight, offering a serene and indulgent escape. Spending the afternoon and evening soaking in the hot spring was a highlight.
Know before you go:
Gora Kadan is a convenient day-trip from Tokyo, accessible via the bullet train to Odawara followed by a short, 20-minute drive. While in Hakone, don't miss dining at Itoh Dining (Teppanyaki) and visiting the Open Air Museum. And of course, bring a bathing suit.
book it
Accommodation options:
Futons, traditional Japanese rooms with private hot spring baths, and more
Price:
63,000 yen (inclusive of consumption tax, service charge, and hot spring tax), based
on double occupancy, per person.
Location:
Hakone, Japan
Property:
Gora Kadan
Basics
Details
Top-notch: The service was beyond what you’d expect from a five-star hotel. From the around-the-clock concierge that can help you book those hard-to-get reservations and private tours to 24-hour laundry/drycleaning and in-room dining, the Four Seasons is known ‘round the world for their attention to detail. Expect twice-daily housekeeping, free water in-room and nightly turndown service (complete with slippers and a mat to wipe your feet placed next to the bed).
How was the service?
Top-notch: The service was beyond what you’d expect from a five-star hotel. From the around-the-clock concierge that can help you book those hard-to-get reservations and private tours to 24-hour laundry/drycleaning and in-room dining, the Four Seasons is known ‘round the world for their attention to detail. Expect twice-daily housekeeping, free water in-room and nightly turndown service (complete with slippers and a mat to wipe your feet placed next to the bed).
What’s the food like?
Gora Kadan:
A Japanese Ryokan That Takes Luxury to the Next Level
