Japanese luxury hospitality is being enriched with a new exceptional address. The Mitsui Fudosan group, already acclaimed for its HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, will open its second establishment, HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE, on 15 December 2026. Nestled in a spectacular natural setting, this new property promises an immersive and refined experience. Reservations opened on 15 July 2026.
- Where · Kowakidani, Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture), in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Japan.
- Opening · 15 December 2026, the second hotel under the HOTEL THE MITSUI brand after Kyoto.
- 126 rooms, all featuring a private bath supplied by a natural hot spring.
- Design by Yabu Pushelberg, three restaurants and a thermal spa facing Mount Asama.
The Mitsui legacy in the heart of Hakone
The choice of Hakone is not insignificant. This iconic region of Japan is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, lakes, art museums and onsen (hot springs). The hotel is located in Kowakidani, on a historic site where the villas of the Mitsui clan, one of the country’s most influential families, once stood. A location that gives the establishment a narrative depth and a strong connection to the territory.
Located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, on an estate of nearly 14 hectares, the hotel guarantees a rare communion with nature. The Mitsui Fudosan Resort Management group, already in charge of the Halekulani Okinawa and the award-winning HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO (Forbes Travel Guide 5 stars, 3 Michelin Guide keys, ranked among the 50 best hotels in the world), aims to replicate this success and position Hakone as a new benchmark for grand luxury.
Architecture in symbiosis with nature
To design this retreat, Mitsui Fudosan called upon the world-renowned design firm Yabu Pushelberg, whose approach celebrates and embraces the environment of Hakone. The structure, built by Takenaka Corporation, respects the topography of the site and preserves parts of the primary forest. A verdant path leads to a majestic entrance topped by a large roof, opening onto a breathtaking view of Mount Asama.
The 126 rooms, all facing the landscape, feature floor-to-ceiling windows nearly six metres wide. From 48 m² Deluxe rooms to villas of over 100 m² and presidential suites of over 200 m², each space is enhanced by a private bath supplied by a natural hot spring. The villas even offer the double privilege of an indoor and an outdoor bath, for total immersion.
Hot springs and spa rituals
Beyond the private baths, the establishment focuses on well-being. Its “Thermal Spring” offers an indoor and outdoor thermal bath with a panoramic view of Mount Asama and the murmur of the Jakotsu River, creating a fluid connection between water, forest and sky. The spa has five treatment rooms, including one dedicated to couples, where rituals designed specifically for the hotel draw on the virtues of Hakone’s waters.
Three tables for a culinary journey
The culinary offering is led by executive chef Hirofumi Takahashi, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo and the Halekulani Okinawa, who oversees three addresses. Sankei, the Japanese table, explores kaiseki, sushi and teppanyaki under the guidance of chef Hiroyuki Kurosu, a Michelin-starred chef for three consecutive years, using local and seasonal ingredients.
RIVERINE, open all day, offers 96 seats in a relaxed atmosphere, with cuisine focused on sustainability and local produce, including seafood from Sagami Bay. Finally, The Bar LAMBENT combines premium Japanese whiskies and signature cocktails in a setting inspired by the old Tokaido road, with views of cherry blossoms or maples throughout the seasons.
Spaces for contemplation
Beyond the rooms and restaurants, the hotel features spaces dedicated to relaxation and culture. The “Shikian” annex, nestled in the forest, is a marvel of traditional Sukiya-zukuri style architecture, built by the prestigious Yasui Moku Komuten (responsible for work on the Katsura Imperial Villa). It hosts authentic Japanese cultural experiences, such as the tea ceremony.
A reception lounge of approximately 73 m² hosts banquets and private celebrations, complete with a garden and terrace. Outside, paths wind through the estate to a terrace by the Jakotsu River or a yoga terrace surrounded by trees. The surroundings hold other wonders, such as the Chisuji waterfall and the hiking trails of Mount Asama.
Our take
The arrival of HOTEL THE MITSUI HAKONE marks a milestone in Mitsui Fudosan’s strategy to establish itself in ultra-luxury hospitality in Japan. Building on the success of its Kyoto address, the group reaffirms a vision: to offer a deep cultural and natural immersion, rather than just accommodation. Exceptional design by Yabu Pushelberg, refined gastronomy and perfect integration into the Hakone landscape: the whole package has everything to appeal to an international clientele in search of authenticity.
Practical information
- Address: Kowakidani, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
- Opening: 15 December 2026
- Rooms: 126
- Official website: hotelthemitsui.com
