Banyan Tree Hakone Ashinoko Opening Plan
The world-renowned luxury hotel brand Banyan Tree from Singapore is entering Japan’s Hakone–Ashinoko region.
Initially, the IR materials from Wealth Management, Inc. (November 9, 2021) indicated a planned opening around 2026. However, the latest official information now lists the opening as scheduled for 2028 (as noted on the WORLD BRANDS COLLECTION Hotels & Resorts “Luxury” page).
Furthermore, the acquisition of the building confirmation certificate and the transfer of trust beneficiary rights signify progress in the project’s restructuring. As of October 12, 2025, the 2028 opening is regarded as the most likely schedule.
Three Key Highlights
1. Hot Springs × Spa × Well-being
The “Banyan Tree Hakone Ashinoko” is planned as a hot spring resort hotel (according to Wealth Management, Inc. IR materials dated November 9, 2021).
Banyan Tree Group operates over 140 spa facilities worldwide and has upheld the philosophy of “hospitality in harmony with well-being.”
The brand’s official concept, “Naturally luxurious and ecologically sensitive hospitality,” emphasizes relaxation and rejuvenation rooted in the beauty of nature. Guests can expect a deeply restorative stay that harmonizes with Hakone’s famed hot springs.
2. Harmony with Nature
This project is designed as a nature-conscious development along Lake Ashinoko.
According to Wealth Management, Inc.’s IR updates, the building confirmation certificate has already been obtained, and the transfer of trust beneficiary rights to the related SPC in 2025 further demonstrates a solid, compliance-based approach.
Banyan Tree Group itself has long championed sustainable tourism that values environmental preservation and local culture. The Hakone project’s architectural concept—blending with the natural landscape and traditional aesthetics—embodies the brand’s sustainability ethos.
3. A Global Brand Choosing Hakone
Headquartered in Singapore, Banyan Tree Group operates more than 90 hotels and resorts, 140 spas, and 20 residences worldwide.
Highly acclaimed by global travel publications such as Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, the brand consistently selects locations where nature and culture coexist.
Following Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto (opened July 26, 2024), Hakone will become the group’s second directly managed Japanese property—a new symbol of luxury and well-being overlooking Mount Fuji and Lake Ashinoko.
▲ Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto (Opened July 26, 2024)
Surroundings
Cultural & Historical Attractions
- Hakone Shrine (Peace Torii Gate) – Famous for its red torii floating on Lake Ashinoko, with a view of Mt. Fuji.
- Kuzuryu Shrine – A popular site for blessings and matchmaking.
- Hakone Checkpoint Museum – A faithful reconstruction of Edo-period travel checkpoints.
- Old Tokaido Stone Pavement – A preserved historical trail offering a nostalgic walk through time.
- Art Museums (Pola / Okada / Open-Air Museum) – Unique art experiences where nature meets culture.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Lake Ashinoko – Cruise, kayak, or SUP while enjoying panoramic views.
- Mount Fuji View – The famous “upside-down Fuji” reflection on the lake.
- Owakudani – Volcanic valley with hot springs and the iconic “black eggs.”
- Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field – Stunning golden grass waves in autumn.
- Hiking Trails – Scenic routes around the outer rim mountains and cedar-lined paths.
- Hakone Ropeway – A breathtaking aerial view of Lake Ashinoko and the volcanic landscape.
Access
The exact location of Banyan Tree Hakone Ashinoko has not yet been disclosed.
The following outlines approximate access to the Lake Ashinoko area:
- Approx. 30 minutes by car from Odakyu Line “Hakone-Yumoto Station.”
- Accessible by bus or car from JR “Odawara Station.”
- About 30–40 minutes by car from “Gotemba IC” (Tomei Expressway) or “Hakone Exit” (Odawara-Atsugi Road).
- Approx. 2 hours by car from Haneda Airport, 3.5 hours from Narita Airport.
Facility Overview
| Brand / Operator | Banyan Tree Group |
|---|---|
| Location | Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture (Ashinoko area) |
| Number of Rooms | Approx. 60–80 rooms (per Wealth Management, Inc. IR data dated March 29, 2022) |
| Site Area | Approx. 10,000 tsubo |
| Developer | Wealth Management, Inc. |
| Planned Opening | 2028 |
References:
- Notice on New Hotel Development at Lake Ashinoko (Nov 9, 2021)
- Hotel Management Agreement with Banyan Tree Japan LLC (Mar 29, 2022)
- Notice on Transfer of Trust Beneficiary Rights (Feb 2025)
- IR Progress Page (Construction & Approvals)
- Banyan Tree Group – Our Brand Story
- Banyan Tree Group – Our Brands
- Luxury Hotels – Banyan Tree Hakone Ashinoko
- Hakone Tourism Association Official Site
- Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto (Opened July 26, 2024)
