Hakone, a renowned hot spring resort town just an hour and a half from Tokyo, is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, therapeutic onsen, and rich culinary offerings. While the town boasts a wide variety of restaurants, the accessibility of these dining options can vary depending on the location of your accommodation. Given that most ryokans in Hakone offer carefully crafted multi-course kaiseki dinners, it is generally recommended to enjoy dinner at your lodging and take the time to relax and savor the experience. The main areas of activity are centered around Hakone-Yumoto Station and Gora Station, where visitors can find a concentration of dining options and explore the local food culture. Hakone’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese cuisine, with dishes often featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients that reflect the region’s natural abundance. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the serene landscapes or unwinding in an onsen, Hakone offers the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight, making it an essential destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
[Dinner Restaurants]Asahikawa-旭川 - Google マイマップ
Asahikawa-旭川
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1. Yoshiike Steak House-ステーキハウス吉池
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/wFdLdqS871Cz44kS8 - Parking MAPCODE
57 222 251*07 - Description
Yoshiike Steak House, located on the first floor of Yoshiike Hotel in Hakone Yumoto, is a hidden gem that offers a unique dining experience with its teppanyaki style. Guests are seated at the counter where a skilled chef grills your meal right before your eyes, providing an entertaining and immersive experience. The restaurant is known for its high-quality Japanese black beef, including A5 Kagoshima beef and fillet options. The meat is expertly cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The garlic rice and crispy garlic chips are popular accompaniments, and the simple, elegant presentation allows the quality of the ingredients to shine. After your meal, you can relax with a coffee in the hotel’s beautiful lobby or garden. With its excellent service, delicious food, and serene atmosphere, Yoshiike Steak House is a great spot to enjoy a special meal in Hakone.
2. Gyu-Nabe Ukon-牛なべ 右近
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EboREAZCnDBHQcws7 - Parking MAPCODE
57 191 830*22 - Description
Gyu-Nabe Ukon is an ideal spot for special occasions, offering impeccable hospitality and exceptional cuisine. During a recent visit in late March, I enjoyed a delightful lunch by the riverside, soaking in the pleasant spring breeze. The beef hotpot, served with a perfectly balanced, moderately sweet sauce, is exquisite. The restaurant’s unique riverside seating enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while overlooking the Hayakawa River. The attentive staff prepares the hotpot at your table, ensuring a memorable and relaxing meal. The ambiance is serene, with the sounds of the river adding to the tranquil atmosphere. The diverse and flavorful courses, including appetizers featuring seasonal ingredients, create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. The traditional Japanese setting, combined with the delicious food and excellent service, makes Gyu-Nabe Ukon a must-visit in Hakone.
3. Tamura Ginkatsutei Hon Ten-田むら銀かつ亭
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7Gsxiod2BG3k76sT9 - Parking MAPCODE
57 276 608*88 - Description
Tamura Ginkatsutei Hon Ten, located near Gora Station, is a popular destination, often attracting long lines. During a weekday evening visit, the wait was about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with a mix of local and international tourists. The restaurant offers spacious seating, making it comfortable for families with children. Their specialty, the tofu katsu-nabe set, includes tofu stuffed with minced meat, deep-fried, and simmered in a savory broth with egg. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a favorite among female diners. For those preferring a more traditional option, the gin-katsu bowl combines pork katsu and shrimp tempura, providing a heartier meal. The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and inviting, with courteous service enhancing the dining experience. Given its popularity, it’s recommended to visit during off-peak hours to minimize wait times.
4. Kinosuke-喜之助
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ccDNVi3ug2Q4CrA3A - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Kinosuke is a popular restaurant in Hakone-Yumoto known for its delicious grilled fish set meals. Despite the frequent lines, the efficient turnover ensures that the wait time is manageable, typically around 20-30 minutes. The Kinosuke set meal, priced at around 1,500 yen, is a favorite, featuring tender, flavorful charcoal-grilled fish such as dried horse mackerel, fried horse mackerel, and mirin-dried mackerel. The portions are generous, making it a satisfying meal that pairs well with rice. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the cozy, traditional setting. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, Kinosuke offers a memorable dining experience with its expertly grilled dishes and welcoming service.
5. DONBURI＆CAFE ZEN
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☆☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kt6nyUoLbEU1TJkG8 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
DONBURI & CAFE ZEN is a hidden gem in Hakone, located slightly away from the busy Gora Station area, making it a great find if you want to avoid the crowds. The café has a modern and stylishly renovated interior, providing a comfortable atmosphere for diners. One of their signature dishes is the Hakone Seiroku Beef Roast Beef Donburi, priced at ¥1,800 for a 120g serving. The roast beef is tender and flavorful, with a perfect balance of marbling, prepared by a French chef from a nearby hotel. The dish is enhanced with a soy-based sauce that has a subtle hint of vinegar, giving it a refreshing tang that complements the richness of the beef. The dish also includes a touch of nuts for added texture. The café operates on a pay-first system, and the meal is served promptly, making it a convenient choice for a satisfying lunch.
6. Timuny
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☆☆☆ - Google Map Link
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KkKRSScJ3ZmNmJnw7 - Parking MAPCODE
No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Timuny is a charming café located just a short walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stylish interior that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Known for its freshly brewed coffee and light meals, the café serves delightful options like a cheese sandwich with a generous salad and a roast beef sandwich featuring tender Hakone Seiroku Beef. Dessert lovers will appreciate the firm, tart cheese cake, while those seeking a more substantial meal can enjoy set meals, including a roast beef bowl. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the café’s upstairs area provides a cozy environment with a serene riverside view, though it’s part of the smoking section. Visitors often praise the exceptional service and welcoming staff, making Timuny a delightful stop in Hakone for a tranquil dining experience.