Hakone Expands Luxury Onsen Tourism with New LXR Hotels & Resorts Retreat in Gora Near Tokyo

Written By: Abhirup Gan

Abhirup Gan

I'm Abhirup Gan, a Mass Communication graduate and digital marketing professional. Driven by a passion for storytelling, I create insightful, research-led content that explores tourism trends, destination stories, and hospitality developments with depth and clarity. Through my writing, I hope to inspire readers to discover not only where to travel, but the stories, cultures, and experiences that make every journey meaningful.

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June 5, 2026 3:29 PM

Hakone is preparing to welcome a significant addition to its luxury hospitality landscape with the announcement of Hakone Gora, LXR Hotels & Resorts, scheduled to open in summer 2028. Developed through a partnership between Hilton, THE SANKEI BUILDING CO., LTD., and HASEKO Real Estate Development, Inc., the project will mark Hilton’s first hotel in Hakone.

The development highlights growing investment in Japan’s luxury tourism and wellness sectors as travellers increasingly seek immersive experiences centred on nature, culture, and relaxation. Situated in one of the country’s most celebrated hot spring destinations, the property is expected to further elevate Hakone’s international appeal.

As Japan continues attracting high-value travellers, luxury wellness resorts remain a key driver of tourism growth.

Hakone Remains One of Japan’s Most Iconic Travel Destinations

Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone has long been one of Japan’s most popular tourism destinations.

Known for its volcanic landscapes, natural hot springs, mountain scenery, traditional ryokan culture, and views of Mount Fuji, the region attracts millions of domestic and international visitors each year. Hakone serves as a favored getaway destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from Tokyo while remaining within easy reach of the capital.

Its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, wellness experiences, and accessibility has established Hakone as one of Japan’s most important tourism markets.

The arrival of a new LXR property further strengthens this reputation.

Gora Offers a Unique Blend of Nature and Culture

The future hotel will be located in Gora, one of Hakone’s most prestigious resort districts.

Nestled among forests and mountain landscapes, Gora is renowned for its traditional hot springs, cultural attractions, and scenic surroundings. The new resort will overlook Momijidani, one of the region’s most celebrated autumn foliage destinations.

The setting is expected to offer guests year-round opportunities to experience seasonal beauty, from vibrant autumn colors and spring blossoms to winter mountain scenery and summer greenery.

Nature-based tourism continues to play a central role in Hakone’s visitor appeal.

Luxury Hospitality Meets Japan’s Onsen Tradition

The new resort is being designed as a sanctuary where guests can disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature.

The project aims to integrate Hakone’s longstanding wellness traditions with modern luxury hospitality, offering experiences centered around thermal waters, mountain landscapes, and Japanese cultural heritage. Wellness tourism remains one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel industry, with travelers increasingly seeking restorative and immersive destinations.

Hakone’s abundant natural hot springs provide an ideal foundation for this type of luxury wellness experience.

The region has successfully positioned itself as a destination where relaxation, culture, and nature converge.

Cultural Attractions Enhance Visitor Experiences

The hotel’s location places guests within walking distance of several of Hakone’s most renowned cultural landmarks.

Nearby attractions include the Hakone Open-Air Museum, one of Japan’s most visited outdoor art museums, featuring sculptures and contemporary works set against dramatic mountain scenery.

Visitors can also explore the Hakone Museum of Art, known for its traditional Japanese art collections and landscaped gardens, as well as Gora Park, a popular botanical and recreational destination.

The proximity of these attractions strengthens Hakone’s position as both a cultural and wellness destination.

Easy Access from Tokyo Supports Tourism Growth

Accessibility remains one of Hakone’s greatest advantages.

The future resort will be approximately 90 minutes by train from Tokyo, making it an attractive option for domestic and international travelers seeking short luxury escapes. Guests will also benefit from a location just a three-minute walk from Koen-Kami Station, enhancing connectivity throughout the region.

Strong transportation links continue to support Hakone’s popularity among both weekend travelers and international visitors exploring Japan.

Convenient access helps drive repeat visitation and year-round tourism demand.

LXR Hotels & Resorts Expands Presence in Japan

The project represents another important milestone for LXR Hotels & Resorts.

The luxury collection currently features approximately 40 operating and pipeline properties worldwide, each selected for its strong connection to local culture and destination identity. The brand entered Japan in 2021 with the opening of ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & Resorts and continues expanding across key tourism markets.

Additional LXR developments are planned in Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Niseko, reflecting growing confidence in Japan’s luxury travel sector.

The Hakone project further strengthens the brand’s footprint in one of Asia’s most important tourism destinations.

Luxury Tourism Continues Driving Regional Development

Japan’s luxury tourism market has experienced significant growth as international travelers increasingly seek authentic, high-end experiences rooted in local culture and nature.

Destinations such as Hakone are particularly well positioned to benefit from this trend due to their combination of wellness traditions, natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural heritage. Investments in premium accommodations help attract higher-spending travelers while supporting local tourism economies.

The development also contributes to broader efforts to diversify Japan’s tourism offerings beyond major metropolitan centers.

Regional destinations continue playing an increasingly important role in the country’s tourism strategy.

Conclusion

The future opening of Hakone Gora, LXR Hotels & Resorts represents a major addition to Japan’s luxury hospitality landscape. Combining Hakone’s renowned hot spring culture, mountain scenery, cultural attractions, and proximity to Tokyo, the resort is poised to become a significant destination for wellness travelers and luxury visitors alike.

As Hakone continues evolving as one of Asia’s premier wellness and nature destinations, the arrival of LXR Hotels & Resorts will further strengthen the region’s global appeal while enhancing its reputation for exceptional hospitality, cultural immersion, and restorative travel experiences.