Top 4 Places to Eat in Hakone

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
19/08/2025
Idyllic view of a Torii gate on Lake Ashi in Hakone, Japan against a backdrop of lush mountains.
yutaka yamamoto, Pexels

Hakone's culinary scene celebrates local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors, offering a peaceful dining experience that complements its natural beauty and hot springs.

1. Hatsuhana Soba Honten

Cuisine: Traditional Soba Noodles

Nestled beside a serene river, Hatsuhana Soba Honten is an ideal spot for those seeking authentic Japanese soba. The noodles, made from high-quality buckwheat flour, are particularly known for their addition of jinenjo, a wild yam that imparts a unique texture and flavor. Opt for the Seiro Soba set to experience the cold noodles with a special dipping sauce, a refreshing choice, especially during warmer months. The atmosphere is traditional and inviting, offering a glimpse into Hakone's culinary heritage.

Price: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000

Getting There: Approximately a 5-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station.

2. Yubadon Naokichi

Cuisine: Yuba (Tofu Skin) Dishes

For a distinctive local experience, Yubadon Naokichi specializes in yuba-don, a comforting rice bowl topped with delicate tofu skin. Each bowl is cooked to order in an individual earthenware pot, presented piping hot with a rich broth. The yuba is made using fresh spring water from the Ohiradai district, contributing to its refined flavor. This restaurant provides a healthy and gently flavored culinary journey into Hakone's traditional offerings.

Price: ¥1,000 - ¥3,000

Getting There: A convenient 5-minute walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station.

3. Tamura Ginkatsu-tei Honten

Cuisine: Japanese Cuisine, Specialty Tofu Cutlet

Tamura Ginkatsu-tei Honten offers a unique take on a Japanese favorite with its signature 'Tofu Katsu-ni Gozen.' This dish features a tofu and ground meat cutlet, simmered in a savory broth within an earthenware pot. The setting, surrounded by rocks and trees, creates a tranquil dining environment. It is a popular establishment, often bustling with guests eager to try this local Gora specialty.

Price: ¥2,000 - ¥3,000

Getting There: Roughly a 2-minute walk from Gora Station.

4. Itoh Dining by NOBU

Cuisine: Japanese Steakhouse

For an upscale dining experience, Itoh Dining by NOBU presents a refined Japanese steakhouse menu. This restaurant is suited for those seeking high-quality cuts and an elegant ambiance. It provides a luxurious option within Hakone's dining landscape, perfect for a special occasion.

Price: ¥10,000+ (estimated, based on '$$$$' rating)

Getting There: Specific public transport details are not widely available, but taxis are a common way to access higher-end establishments in Hakone's spread-out areas. It is recommended to confirm location and best transport method with the restaurant directly.

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