Matsuzakaya Honten

Matsuzakaya Honten is a quiet resort that has been welcoming guests for over 360 years. Established at the foot of one of Hakone's mountains, Matsuzakaya Honten draws its onsen water from Ashinoyu Onsen, one of the seven distinct onsen of Hakone. The approximately 4000-square-meter grounds retain their Edo period (1603–1868) atmosphere, like how the ryokan was depicted in Utagawa Hiroshige’s ukiyo-e woodblock prints. In addition to artists, the ryokan has also attracted other famous historical figures including politicians and writers. Matsuzakaya Honten received the Gold prize in the OMOTENASHI Selection 2022. This award was given by a selection committee of foreigners from about 15 countries living in Japan (hosted by the OMOTENASHI NIPPON Executive Committee), who recognized the ryokan as “a ryokan full of unique Japanese charms that we would like to share with the world.”

Both now and in the past, guests have come for both the onsen and the hospitality that only an experienced establishment like this can provide. Ashinoyu Onsen is rich in a combination of sulfur, sulfate, and bicarbonates, which is said to be effective in promoting blood circulation, retaining skin’s natural moisture, and helping with skin diseases, thereby giving this onsen a reputation for being good for the skin. The abundant water flows at a rate of 200 liters per minute, and because there are no additives in the water, guests can enjoy 100% pure, free-flowing onsen water in the large communal onsen, in the guest room onsen, or in one of five open-air onsen which can be privately booked. Although the large communal onsen are not available for guests with tattoos, guests can relax with their loved ones in the private open-air onsen, soaking in Hakone’s famous onsen. With Matsuzakaya Honten’s all-inclusive system, overnight guests of the ryokan already have these private sessions included in their stay along with other perks such as complimentary alcoholic beverages.

The cuisine also reflects the long history of the ryokan. Inspired by old lodging for travelers, called "shukuba," the “Shukuba Kaiseki” multicourse dinner is a style of cuisine with a touch of nostalgia. For breakfast, they offer dishes such as grilled fish, tofu, and nutritious tororo-imo, which are gentle on the body and appropriate for the morning of departure to replenish your vitality.

Besides its onsen and cuisine, Matsuzakaya Honten provides many other ways to have a fulfilling stay. There are several lounges with different atmospheres in the building, including a lounge facing the entrance where you can enjoy free drinks, a space in the back with jazz music playing and a garden view perfect for reading a book on the sofa, etc.

A variety of experiences to make your stay in Japan memorable are also offered, such as wearing Yukata (casual kimono) or Samurai armor, or participating in tea ceremony, calligraphy, and more. *These experiences are called "Ryocance" and are listed on the website, so please check it out.

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