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Gora Karaku
Hakone

In the picturesque foothills of Hakone National Park, Gora Karaku is an exclusive ryokan offering a serene and luxurious escape into nature, blending authentic Japanese hospitality with contemporary comfort. Ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, this enchanting retreat promises an unforgettable experience for those visiting the region.

Located in the iconic hot spring area of Gora, the ryokan boasts breathtaking views of lush forests and the majestic mountains. Gora Karaku is perfectly situated for those eager to explore the scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage of Hakone, whether you are soaking in the healing waters of the onsen, admiring the nearby Hakone Open-Air Museum, or taking a scenic boat ride across Lake Ashi.

Each of the ryokan’s rooms offers the utmost in comfort and refined elegance, with traditional tatami mats and sliding paper doors, seamlessly combined with modern amenities. The thoughtfully designed rooms evoke a sense of calm and are a true homage to the timeless art of Japanese aesthetics.

At Gora Karaku, immerse yourself in an unforgettable culinary experience. The seasonal kaiseki dining is an art form, featuring meticulously crafted dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Whether enjoyed in the intimate dining room or within the privacy of your room, each meal is a celebration of the natural bounty of Hakone, delicately presented to delight both the eyes and the palate.

The crowning jewel of Gora Karaku is its exquisite onsen (hot spring) baths. After a day of exploration, soak your cares away in the open-air baths, where the naturally therapeutic waters flow directly from the mountains, surrounded by tranquil greenery. For those seeking privacy, the ryokan also offers private onsen rooms where you can indulge in a deeply personal and relaxing bath.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat, a cultural immersion, or an outdoor adventure, Gora Karaku offers the ideal base. Explore the surrounding nature with a hike through the scenic Hakone mountains, embark on a boat ride on Lake Ashi, or indulge in the spiritual heritage of Hakone with visits to nearby shrines and temples.

At Gora Karaku, every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a truly unique experience. It's not just a place to stay; it's a place to experience the soul of Japan.

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There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.
Robert Louis Stevenson

Client Testimonials

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, 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

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