Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora By Ihg

This hotel offers a truly memorable escape, with its signature feature being the private in-room onsen tubs that provide a serene and relaxing experience, often accompanied by the soothing sound of the river. This unique amenity makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families who appreciate the privacy, and even solo travelers looking for tranquility away from city life. The hotel is particularly well-suited for international travelers due to its highly attentive and English-speaking staff. Guests consistently praise the spacious and well-designed rooms, along with the exceptional service that contributes to a truly relaxing atmosphere. To enhance your stay, it is highly recommended to utilize the hotel's convenient shuttle services for transportation, especially to Gora and Odawara stations, and to make dinner reservations in advance due to limited nearby dining options.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the exceptional private onsen tubs available in many rooms, offering a personal and relaxing bathing experience, though some note the water is not from a natural spring. The hotel also features a public onsen that is co-ed and requires swimsuits, making it accessible for families and those with tattoos, although some guests found it more akin to a city spa. A unique and popular feature is the footbath overlooking the river, providing a tranquil spot for relaxation. For those maintaining their fitness, a well-equipped and clean fitness center is available 24 hours a day. Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi and a coffee machine, while a well-stocked mini-bar offers additional convenience. The hotel also provides ice machines and a comfortable lounge area with a bar, often hosting a happy hour.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for the cleanliness and spaciousness of its rooms, which are described as well-designed, stylish, and modern with thoughtful touches. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that contribute to a restful sleep. In-room amenities such as automatic blackout shades and a coffee maker are frequently mentioned as enhancing comfort. While many rooms offer pleasant river views, some guests note that these views can be partially obstructed by nearby buildings, construction, or parking areas. A recurring concern for some guests is the noise levels, with reports of sounds from elevators, guests in adjacent rooms, and even the rushing river, impacting the overall tranquility for a minority of visitors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant receives strong commendation for its excellent food quality and delicious offerings, particularly the dinner menu which often features wood-fired grilled dishes. Most guests find the breakfast buffet to be varied and high-quality, offering a good selection of both Japanese and Western options, though some consider it to be on the pricier side or note limited changes for longer stays. While the restaurant is highly regarded, some guests found the dinner options to be limited and occasionally expensive, leading to a perception of being a "captive audience" due to few external dining choices. The bar is also appreciated for its good cocktails and happy hour. Room service is available, though its menu becomes more limited late at night.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient for exploring the area, especially with its excellent shuttle service. This service provides easy access to Gora Station, though guests note that the direct walk to the station is steep, uphill, and can be unsafe for pedestrians. A complimentary shuttle service is also available to and from Odawara Station, making arrivals and departures smooth. While the hotel is well-situated for accessing attractions like the Open Air Museum and the Hakone Ropeway, the immediate surrounding area is described as somewhat isolated, with limited restaurants and shops. However, a 7-Eleven is conveniently located nearby. Parking is available and generally found to be convenient for guests arriving by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelming praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness, with many staff members speaking excellent English, which greatly assists international visitors. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and welcoming, often including complimentary drinks and snacks. Guests appreciate the staff's willingness to go above and beyond, assisting with luggage, providing room upgrades, and helping with external bookings or transportation arrangements. The shuttle service drivers are particularly commended for their reliability and courtesy. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests reported isolated instances of less attentive service in the restaurant or perceived unhelpfulness regarding local dining recommendations.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel offers a luxurious experience, some find it to be on the pricier side. The public onsen requires swimsuits, which deviates from traditional Japanese onsen etiquette but allows for a co-ed and family-friendly experience. Some guests have noted soundproofing issues in the rooms, occasionally hearing noise from neighboring rooms or the hallway. There have also been mentions of ongoing construction near the river, which can sometimes impact views, introduce noise, or affect air quality for certain rooms. The hotel's design incorporates elements of Hakone marquetry, adding a unique local touch to the modern aesthetic.