Nestled amidst the lush forests of Sengokuhara, Hakone,Hakone Retreat före / FaureThis is an adult resort where you can take a break from everyday life and return to your true self, enjoying a quiet and peaceful time. After enjoying a leisurely lunch at the on-site restaurant "WOODSIDE dining," we stopped by "café & lounge," which is open not only to hotel guests but also to the general public for café use and shopping.
As a refreshing breeze blows, the path leading to the "café & lounge" feels like a stroll through a forest. The rustling of the trees, the chirping of birds, the gentle breeze, and the scent of the forest—this is a place that allows you to surrender to nature and slowly harmonize your senses, providing a truly "adult retreat." The crisp air makes you want to take a deep breath, and the green scenery illuminated by sunlight filtering through the trees naturally soothes your mind as you walk.
Since dogs aren't allowed inside the shop, I waited with Chocolat at the entrance while my husband and I took turns going in. In front of us were trees swaying in the wind and the gentle murmur of a small waterfall. If you listen carefully, only the sound of flowing water and birdsong can be heard, making it feel as if time has slowed down. This place is enveloped in a calm and luxurious atmosphere, like a different world.
A "forest cafe" that is beautiful even in its fragrance.“
The first thing you notice when you enter the shop is the fragrant aroma of coffee wafting through the air.
They offer a wide variety of baked goods, including pound cakes, financiers, canelés, and cookies.
The display case is filled with delicate and beautiful Western-style pastries, and you can also reserve whole cakes to add a touch of elegance to birthdays and anniversaries.
We also offer sake, wine, and some light snacks.
The hotel also uses these goods, and they have a selection of other carefully chosen items, including a ginger ale specialty shop in Kudan, Tokyo, which we enjoyed at the restaurant.KohodoGinger syrup from "[brand name]" is also available for purchase.
A relaxing lounge space that blends into the forest.
The natural space, with its warm wooden accents, exudes the refined tranquility of Scandinavia, and large windows offer panoramic views of the natural beauty of Sengokuhara.
I only stopped by briefly after lunch. But even so, it's a place where, just being in nature and breathing in the quiet air, I felt my heart become surprisingly lighter.
Chocolat is outside the shop, tilting her head and giving us a long, intense stare, as if to say, "Mom, are you ready yet?" (lol) She's such a good girl♪
Each baked good is clearly made with care, and they're so beautiful that you can't help but stop and admire them. This time, I bought some baked goods that will keep well, to enjoy at home and as gifts for friends.
This lineup is perfect as a souvenir from Hakone, allowing you to enjoy the lingering memories of your trip even after returning home.
Sorry to keep you waiting, Chocolat.
Spending time in a quiet forest, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, is a healing time for adults to slowly rejuvenate their mind and body.
Take a leisurely stroll through the lush grounds with Chocolat.
The tranquil pond, like a mirror, reflects the fresh greenery of spring, and with every gust of wind, the rustling of leaves gently resonates. The only sounds are the chirping of birds and the babbling of the stream.
The warm and inviting space, which feels like one with nature, gives you the feeling of having wandered into a Nordic forest.
An essential element when discussing this place is the existence of another accommodation style, "villa 1/f (One by F)." As the name "1/f fluctuation" suggests, this area of independent villas is based on the concept of slowly harmonizing mind and body while being enveloped in the sounds of nature and the flickering of flames. Built to blend seamlessly into the forest, the villas have the appearance of a "forest villa." In the tranquility surrounded by trees, you can enjoy a private hot spring bath and spend luxurious time undisturbed by anyone. A "Dog-friendly Villa" is also available here, limited to one group per day, where you can stay with your beloved dog.
Located at the back of the villa is the restaurant "Tawaraishi," which was created by renovating "Tawaraishikaku," a prestigious Hakone inn founded in 1914 and cherished as a retreat for artists and cultural figures to create their works. Surrounded by forest, you can enjoy authentic kaiseki cuisine in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic building, while feeling the changing seasons.
Hakone Retreat offers two distinct charms: "före," a sophisticated hotel building based on Scandinavian modern design, and "villa 1/f," a villa-like retreat that blends seamlessly into the forest. Although I only visited for lunch and coffee this time, even a short stay of just a few hours provided a truly relaxing and healing experience. Next time, I would love to stay overnight and fully savor the scenery of the forest enveloped in morning mist and the quiet evenings spent around a bonfire. This special retreat in Hakone Sengokuhara left me with that feeling in mind.
Hakone Retreat före / Faure
café & lounge
Address: 1286-116 Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture 250-0631
TEL: 0460-83-9090
Opening hours: 7:00-22:00
https://www.hakone-retreat.com/
