There are numerous buildings scattered throughout the forest, and före comprises three of them.
Hakone is a place where you can truly experience the magic of the forest. One standout destination is Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f, set on a spacious about 4,960 square meter property where native cypress, chestnut, and maple trees grow peacefully and proudly. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a tranquil haven where you can simply relax and enjoy the luxury of doing nothing.
The property includes före, featuring 37 rooms in four styles furnished with Scandinavian-inspired design, and villa 1/f, a modern, wood-accented villa available for exclusive rental. Located just under two hours from Tokyo, this hidden retreat has become a favorite among many returning guests from overseas seeking to refresh both mind and body.
Rooms at före include suites with open layouts that create a sense of spaciousness and ease, freeing the mind. The corner Deluxe Double rooms offer views of lush greenery from every window.
The greatest appeal of Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f lies in how its buildings are scattered throughout the forest. At the center is WOODSIDE dining, a wood-fired restaurant that also functions as the reception. Surrounding it are separate buildings for accommodations, a free space called free bird & terrace, a café and lounge, and hot springs.
After checking in and dropping off your luggage, the best thing to do is explore the grounds. As you walk past large trees offering pleasant shade and flowers you might rarely see, the further you go, the quieter it becomes, and the scent of earth and greenery grows stronger. You simply stroll along, following the rustling leaves and birdsong.
The approach to the large bath leads you gently through the forest.
Starting this summer, a special plan takes advantage of rainy days during your stay. Options include enjoying freshly baked cinnamon bread in your room or at the café lounge, joining creative workshops in collaboration with local artists, and for guests staying at villa 1/f, indulging in exclusive desserts that delight all the senses in a private hot spring.
The free space called free bird & terrace offers a library and board games, letting guests unwind and enjoy their time however they like. After check-in, a welcome service is available from 3 to 6 PM.
The café & lounge in Building C offers free coffee and tea. For those celebrating a special occasion, whole cakes can be reserved in advance.
For families planning a longer stay, villa 1/f is the perfect choice. This private rental comes with its own hot spring and kitchen, featuring a calm, minimalist design that blends modern comfort with a soothing atmosphere.
As early summer passes, refreshing breezes carrying the green of the surrounding trees flow through the bathroom. In autumn, the vibrant fall colors turn the landscape into a living work of art. During winter, the wood-burning stove adds warmth and charm, creating a cozy space where families can truly connect. By 2024, the number of villas will grow to 18, each offering its own distinct character.
The private hot spring at Villa No. 4 is bathed in fresh sunlight pouring in from two directions, creating a serene moment in your journey.
All of the photos are from villa 1/f. The first shows the living room of Villa 7, the second is Villa 12, and the third captures a scene from the rainy day plan.
To end, there is WOODSIDE dining, a wood-fired restaurant designed with expansive glass walls that bring the forest right to your table. Instead of a fixed course meal with more food than you can finish, breakfast is served buffet-style, allowing you to choose exactly what you want in the portions you prefer. Dinner follows a prix fixe format, with standout main dishes such as local chicken, Sagami beef, and fresh seafood from nearby prefectures.
After a satisfying meal, you might find yourself wanting to return to the forest. As you walk through the quiet, living landscape, a gentle lightness settles in, both in body and mind. There’s something about this place that seems to soften the boundary between the everyday and the extraordinary.
WOODSIDE dining is wrapped in glass, offering immersive views of the surrounding forest. In the open kitchen, a wood-fired grill takes center stage, where chefs finish each main dish over open flames, creating an irresistible, smoky aroma. For dessert, you can serve yourself as much or as little as you like, depending on your appetite.
Photo courtesy of: Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f
Hakone Retreat före & villa 1/f
Address: 1286-116 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
Phone: 0460-83-9090
Website: https://www.hakone-retreat.com/
