Checking in to Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu

We had a kaiseki dinner first, while the staff sent our bags to the room. The property is very relaxing to stay in, with mountainside views, and a private open-air bath in each room. It was nice to see slippers positioned everywhere, including in the bathroom, on the balcony, and separate pairs for walking around the property.
The open air onsen is very tranquil and faces a waterfall. No footage of the communal onsen, of course. If you have tattoos, you will need to cover them before entering the onsen. The staff provides stick on tattoo covers. There is also a communal foot bath on the terrace, where you can bring a beverage and enjoy the view while soaking your toes.
Perhaps the only downside is the strong sulfur smell in Hakone, due to the hot springs in the area. Of course, we hold nothing against Ten-yu for the smell. The service was lovely, especially when they provided us towels when we arrived drenched from the pouring rain.

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