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Gora Kadan
Hakone

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Gora Kadan is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Luxury Ryokans and Top 10 Hotel Spas.

Gora Kadan is one of Japan’s finest ryokans, offering an unparalleled fusion of ancient Japanese aesthetics and modern luxury design. Located in the picturesque village of Gora, within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this exquisite ryokan offers the perfect balance of tradition and comfort. Formerly the summer retreat of the Kaninnomiya Imperial family, Gora Kadan has hosted some of Japan’s most esteemed guests, making it a truly prestigious destination.

An Idyllic Location Near Tokyo

Just two hours from Tokyo, Gora Kadan offers an escape to a tranquil world of beauty and serenity. Travelling to Hakone by train is a scenic journey in itself, especially in winter when the landscape is covered in a romantic blanket of snow, or during summer when vibrant flowers line the railway tracks. The peaceful surroundings of Gora make it the perfect getaway for those seeking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, nature and onsen experiences.

Onsen Culture at Its Finest

One of the highlights of staying at Gora Kadan is the opportunity to experience Japan’s famous onsen culture in the privacy of your own room. The ryokan is home to two natural hot spring wells, with mineral-rich waters believed to have remarkable health benefits, including promoting smooth skin. Guests can enjoy these therapeutic waters in private onsens, an experience that adds a touch of luxury and exclusivity to your stay. Gora Kadan’s outdoor onsen is particularly sought after, offering an intimate and sophisticated experience amidst the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Elegant Rooms & Suites with Authentic Japanese Design

Gora Kadan offers 23 beautifully designed rooms and 14 suites, each crafted with authentic Japanese style. Traditional elements like sliding paper doors, tatami floors, and deep wooden baths are complemented by modern amenities for comfort and convenience. Most rooms feature futons on tatami mats, but some are equipped with Western-style beds. Ground-floor rooms include private gardens with outdoor baths, while upper-floor rooms boast balconies with sweeping views of the Hakone forests and mountains.

Stunning Architecture & Sweeping Views

The ryokan’s public spaces feature clean-cut, minimalist design, emphasising light and space. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the common areas offer breathtaking views of the lush landscape, creating a seamless connection between indoor luxury and the natural beauty of the park. The vast, light-filled walkway leading to the spa and pool adds an additional layer of elegance to the hotel’s overall aesthetic.

Gourmet Dining: Traditional Japanese Kaiseki & Seasonal Delicacies

At Gora Kadan, dining is an experience in itself. A traditional Kaiseki dinner is served as part of your stay, consisting of multi-course dishes that highlight local Kyoto-inspired delicacies and seasonal ingredients. Whether enjoyed in the privacy of your room or suite, in the ryokan’s elegant restaurant, or al-fresco on the terrace or in the garden, the meal is a celebration of Japanese gastronomy. Your meal is served by a kimono-clad hostess, ensuring an authentic and refined dining experience.

Explore the Beauty of Hakone & Nearby Cultural Sites

With its close proximity to Tokyo, Gora Kadan is the perfect location for those looking to explore both the natural and cultural beauty of Hakone. The Hakone Open Air Museum, located nearby, is a must-see attraction, featuring outdoor sculptures by world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Henry Moore and Churyo Sato. The museum’s open-air setting offers the unique opportunity to enjoy masterpieces in the midst of nature, making it one of the most acclaimed art museums in Japan.

Why Choose Gora Kadan for Your Stay in Hakone?

Gora Kadan is more than just a luxury ryokan; it’s an immersive Japanese cultural experience. With its private onsen baths, traditional Japanese design, exquisite dining and proximity to Hakone’s cultural sites, this ryokan offers guests the opportunity to experience the best of both traditional and modern Japan. Whether you’re visiting for the relaxing hot springs, the tranquil surroundings, or the renowned art museums, Gora Kadan is the perfect destination for a luxurious escape in Hakone, Japan.

>> See more of our Ryokon Hotels here

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Client Testimonials

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand

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