Focus On… Gora Koran, a Ryokan in Hakone

By Angela Fairhurst

Aryokan is a type of traditional Japanese inn that originated in the Edo period (1603-1868), when these places served travelers along Japan’s highways.

Staying at a Japanese ryokan is a uniquely Japanese experience that should not be missed by any traveler, and the Gora Kadan two hours southwest of Tokyo within Fuji-Hakone-Izu is no exception.

The Gora Koran was a former holiday retreat for the imperial family and the setting works in perfect harmony with the natural surroundings. They’ve managed to blend comfort and luxuries such as open-air baths,Yukatas (cotton kimonos)and traditional gardens, tatami mats and futons all mixed with modern design elements in a minimalistic way, making the Gora Kadan a mouth-watering pick.

Leaving the noise of the city, and settling into the quiet, this is about total relaxation where guests can put on their Yukata, walk out to their private garden and personal soaking tub while taking in a breath taking view of Mount Fuji.

Gora Kadan has 37 spacious guest rooms. Choose between an open-air stone bath in the garden or terrace with a steam sauna with a shower booth or an indoor wooden bath with shower.

Gora Kadan has a swimming pool, a spa, a beauty salon and two mineral rich wells, where the hot spring water flows and feeds the open-air baths for a skin conditioning healthy soak in the communal onsens (hot springs). It is highly recommended to have a massage after a long onsen soak.

The food at Gora Kadan is presented with characteristic Japanese artistry as well. The kaiseki meal is a traditional style of Japanese cuisine served as a series of small dishes that feature regional specialties and seasonal delicacies like the first bamboo shoots of the season.

Pamper yourself in sheer luxury, Japanese style.