JAPAN 4. Hakone - A Spa Break!

After a wonderful trip to Tokyo, I have been invited to go to Hakone, which is about 45 minutes from Tokyo (by Bullet Train) towards Yokahama.

Max tells me, Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-i's National Park. It's famous for hot springs, outdoor activities, natural beauty and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji. Because we went on a Monday it was pretty relaxing but Hakone is one of the most popular destinations among Tokyo residents looking for a break. It's also famous because the Onosaka's present a magic convention there every April and they decided to check out some of the new venues that the city has to offer.

Ton took us by Bullet Train and Satoshi and his mum followed with their car. After settling into my WONDERFUL and beautiful room we did a little drive around the city to see some of the other hotels that the conference may take place. It looks as though most hotels have spas and that the buildings are situated in a valley so you have many levels for the hotel...and the spa/hot spring outdoor baths are quite far down. It is stunning because the leaves are turning and we have had a fabulously sunny day.

Since Mama-san has a cast on at the moment, I'm on my own to experience the hot springs. It's actually a very relaxing and soothing experience. And again, being a Monday, I practically had the place to myself!

Dinner was then presented in a private room for all of us and my goodness the traditional meal was OUTSTANDING! It just kept coming! The presentation was absolutely stunning and the dishes kept outdoing themselves! We sat cross-legged and enjoyed supper wearing our yukata (robes). What a phenomenal experience.

I slept very well!

I woke up around 6 AM and went down for another bath and sat in the massage chairs. What a treat! I then wandered over to the dining area/lobby and saw that the Onosakas were sitting and they waved me over for a traditional Japanese Breakfast. WONDERFUL. Sashimi, soup, egg pudding, rice, miso, beans, tofu and mushroom soup and more fish! I loved it.

Back onto the Bullet train but just Ton and me. The others were going back by car to Tokyo and Ton was taking me directly to the shuttle station to catch my plane.

Wow. What a whirlwind and wonderful trip. I had SUCH a great time and ate WAY too much and hope to go back VERY soon!

That's all for now!

Hope everyone has a WONDERFUL holiday season!