Luxury accommodation set amidst Hakone's picturesque and rejuvenating natural hot spring region, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Location
Gora Karaku is tucked away in Hakone’s peaceful Gora district, a mountainous village famed for its natural hot springs and scenic beauty. It offers easy access to the Gora train station, making it convenient for exploring the area, while being surrounded by lush forests perfect for gentle nature walks.
Rooms
The lodge features 70 spacious rooms across two buildings, blending elegant Japanese design with modern Western comforts. Each room is about 56 square meters with floor-to-ceiling windows framing stunning mountain and forest views. What truly makes these rooms special is the private open-air hot spring bath on every balcony, perfect for relaxing soaks surrounded by nature.
Amenities
Guests can enjoy two large communal open-air hot spring baths or reserve one of three private onsens for a more intimate experience. Dining highlights include two restaurants serving seasonal Japanese cuisine made from local ingredients. The Gora Spa Aioi offers a range of massages and body treatments, while lounges and terraces provide tranquil spots for rest. There are also shops selling local crafts and artworks, adding a cultural touch.
Activities
Nature strolls through the surrounding forests offer peaceful exploration, while the spa treatments help guests unwind completely. The lounges and terraces are ideal for soaking in the serene views and quiet atmosphere. Guests can also browse the boutique shops to discover traditional local crafts.
Sustainability
Gora Karaku uses hot spring water and geothermal energy responsibly to minimise environmental impact. The architecture incorporates natural materials like wood, stone, and tatami mats, blending seamlessly with the landscape. Energy-efficient lighting creates a magical ambiance at night, reflecting the lodge’s commitment to eco-friendly luxury.
Start planning your dream holiday to Hakone.
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When to visit Japan
Find out the best time to visit Japan with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is ideal for winter sports in Hokkaido and northern regions, with plenty of snow. Tokyo and Kyoto remain chilly but offer clear skies for sightseeing. Explore Sapporo's Snow Festival and soak in an onsen for the ultimate winter experience.
February
February is the best time for skiing and snowboarding in Nagano and Hokkaido. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major attraction, featuring stunning ice sculptures. Other areas are generally cold and dry and good for sightseeing.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in southern regions like Kyoto and Tokyo. Enjoy hanami picnics under the pink blossoms. It's a great time for hiking and outdoor adventures.
April
April is the peak of cherry blossom season. Witness Tokyo's Ueno Park and Kyoto's Maruyama Park come alive with vibrant sakura. Golden Week, late April to early May, offers festive parades and events.
May
May offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hiking. Explore Tokyo's International Food Festival and enjoy the comfortable climate for sightseeing in Kyoto.
June
June is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, lasting until mid-July. Although it's wet, explore Kyoto's temples and gardens amid light crowds. Festivals like the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo showcase Japanese traditions.
July
July continues the rainy season, but the Tanabata Star Festival brightens the skies. Hokkaido hosts the Lavender Festival with fields of purple blooms. Kyoto's Gion Matsuri features grand floats.
August
August offers festivals and fireworks. The Obon Festival celebrates ancestors with lanterns and dances. Enjoy the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo. Hokkaido's summer flower festivals are perfect for nature enthusiasts.
September
September brings comfortable weather and the iconic Kunchi Festival in Nagasaki. Explore the Sapporo Autumn Festival in Hokkaido. It's a great time for sightseeing with fewer tourists.
October
October features stunning autumn foliage in Kyoto and Nikko. Visit Tokyo's Meiji Shrine during the Meiji Jingu Festival and enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations. Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures.
November
November showcases autumn foliage, with Kyoto's temples and parks ablaze in red and orange. Yoyogi Park in Tokyo hosts the International Food Festival, and Kyushu's hot spring resorts offer relaxation.
December
December marks the onset of winter, with holiday illuminations in cities and festive lights. Explore Hokkaido's Sapporo Snow Festival with breathtaking ice sculptures. Ski resorts open for winter sports enthusiasts.
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Nia
Japan Expert