Fukuzumiro dates back to the 23rd year of the Meiji Era, specifically, 1890. It was established in Hakone Tonosawa Spa, which itself has an interesting history, believed to have been discovered by a Buddhist priest in the early 17th century. Only 20 years after Fukuzumiro was built, it was destroyed by a devastating flood in 1910. Instead of being disheartened over his loss, the ryokan's owner acquired a new hotel, Sensin-rou Tamano-yu, in just three months. He renamed the new hotel Fukuzumiro to refuel his dream. The ryokan's cultural significance was soon recognized, with it being registered as a cultural property of Japan and chosen as one of the "20 Selections of Japan's 20th Century Heritage" by the Japan Icomos National Committee.

Design and Architecture

The ryokan hotel's architecture has been meticulously preserved with the help of architects such as Mr. Kiyoshi Yasui. The architectural style followed here is called Sukiya architecture, which is inspired by the Sumiya style in Kyoto and the Hogon-in style in Saga. The Sukiya style involves the generous use of bamboo, with types such as rare soot bamboo, wrinkled bamboo, precious square bamboos of Tamba, cloud crest bamboo, black bamboo, broken bamboo, and matakes throughout the property. The garden boasts smooth and flat Nebukawa stones. You'll also find structures made of Kamidai cedar and Kitayama cedar from Kyoto. Another interesting aspect of the ryokan's architecture is the bat carvings here and there, which are supposed to bring good luck. As for the rooms, each uniquely decorated room has traditional Japanese features such as tatami mats, shoji screens, and fusuma doors.

Savor delicious seasonal treats at Fukuzumiro in basic or special kaiseki course style. The seasonal kaiseki meals usually include appetizers, sashimi, soup, fried food, simmered food, and bowls. Don't forget to try the seasonal fresh fish sashimi to get lost in rich flavors. Japanese drinks such as sake are also available to pair with your dinner. You can enjoy them at Bar Kikyo while engaging in a karaoke session. Meals will be served in your room, which is ideal if you're feeling lazy. You can settle at the low wooden tables and zabuton (sitting cushions) in your room to enjoy your meal.

Fukuzawa Yukichi - A Japanese samurai and entrepreneur who founded the Institute for the Study of Infectious Diseases.
Jirō Osaragi - A Japanese writer of historical texts and historical fiction whose real name was Kiyohiko Nojiri.
Ton Satomi - A Japanese writer of autobiographical works and short stories, whose real name was Hideo Yamanouchi.
Hojo Hideji - A Japanese writer and playwright famous for mainstream works about everyday life, whose real name was Iino Hideji.
Fumiko Hayashi - A female Japanese writer who wrote novels and stories about women with autobiographical themes.
Hagoromo Takeshima - A Japanese writer and lyricist who wrote waka poetry and also served as a literature scholar.
Hirafuku Hyakusui - A Japanese painter who created works in a blend of the nihonga and rinpa style of painting.
Kawai Gyokudo - A Japanese painter whose real name was Kawai Yoshisaburō and was known for his monochrome and polychrome works of nature.
Meikaku Kusakabe - A Japanese calligraphist who studied classical Chinese calligraphy and was instrumental in the development of calligraphy in Japan.
Tsumasaburō Bandō - A Japanese actor whose real name was Denkichi Tamura and was famous for his sword fighting roles in jidaigeki silent films.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Fukuzumiro is the ideal base for exploring Japanese culture, be it inside the property or in the local area. On the property, you'll have access to a Japanese garden where you can stroll by blooming plants and lush greenery. The onsens are also enticing, offering warm and alkaline natural spring water to soothe your senses. The water temperature is around 62.9°C (145.22°F) and its PH level is 8.9. Choose from a wooden bath called Ohmaru-buro, a rock bath called Iwa-buro, or a family bath. There are separate usage times for men and women, 7 pm to 9:30 am for the former and 3 pm to 7 pm for the latter. You can also book a session in the private onsen. If you wish to explore the area and learn more about the local culture, visit Amida-ji Temple or Homma Yoseki Museum.

Other Celebrations

The ryokan has banquet halls and a stage where you can host a private event such as a hobby party, birthday, or anniversary. One of the halls has even been featured in Odakyu’s commercials.