Hi all, I am in the final stages of planing for my Honeymoon in Japan 3/23 – 4/6.
For one of the nights, we will be in Hakone staying at Ryokan. We wanted a traditional, luxurious experience, as this night will essentially be the closest to the true Honeymoon night (no real sightseeing, just enjoying each other’s company).
I’ve booked the nicest room at Matsuzukaya Honten, which was very well reviewed and over 360 years old. However, as we get closer I’m getting some analysis paralysis/second thoughts.
I had not realized via the pictures that the room itself doesn’t have much of a a view, even though it is two stories and has a lovely looking outdoor private bath. I have also found out from further research about some of the most popular Ryokans on this subreddit (Yama no Chaya, Hakone Ginyu, etc.) that do not have much booking support on US websites, and are now all booked up. Our current room is also extremely expensive, at over $1000 USD for one night, for me to not be completely in love with it.
For those of you who stayed in a Ryokan in Hakone, what was the most important part of the experience for you? Views? Luxury accomodations? Food? Authenticity/History?
In particular, if any prior visitors to Matsuzukaya Honten can comment, I would greatly appreciate it.
by whiteandcrispy