Hanaori Hakone Ashinoko, an upscale hot spring resort on the shores of Lake Ashinoko in Hakone, has been running a day-trip dinner experience called "Welcome to Hanaori Buffet" at Buffet Dining Toki Shikari. Originally launched as a limited-time offering through February 28, 2026, the program drew strong interest and is now continuing with an updated spring menu featuring seasonal ingredients.
The initiative opened the resort's dinner buffet, previously available only to overnight guests, to day visitors looking for a relaxed taste of ryokan dining. Guests from local Kanagawa communities and day-trippers from the greater Tokyo area have been among those who have embraced this new format. The spacious dining space overlooking Lake Ashinoko, the changing seasonal Japanese and Western dishes, and freshly prepared live kitchen items are all cited as highlights.
Spring Live Kitchen Highlights
"Sate" Indonesian-Style BBQ
Head chef Sato of Toki Shikari developed this dish alongside Indonesian staff, pursuing authentic regional flavors. Grilled lamb and chicken are served with a rich peanut sauce, bringing the food culture of Indonesia to the table in a globally inspired menu.
Cherry Blossom Sea Bream Poele with Spring Bean Cream Sauce
Cherry blossom sea bream is pan-seared with crispy skin and tender flesh, then paired with a gentle cream sauce brightened by the sweetness and subtle green aroma of fresh peas. The dish offers light, characteristic spring flavors, with the sea bream's refined umami harmonizing with the soft texture of spring beans.
Live Kitchen Menu (subject to daily rotation; menu items may not always be available):
- Meat: Thick-cut beef harami grill, "Sate" Indonesian-Style BBQ
- Fish: Lobster and mushroom risotto, Cherry Blossom Sea Bream Poele with Spring Bean Cream Sauce
Welcome to Hanaori Buffet — Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Start Date | Monday, March 9, 2026 |
| Reservations Open | Tuesday, March 3, 2026, from 3:00 PM |
| Session Length | 90 minutes |
| Price (tax included) | Adults: ¥9,438 (all-you-can-drink alcohol included); Elementary school students: ¥5,505; Preschool children: ¥3,932 |
| Reservations | Via the application form |
- Reservations are accepted up to 7 days prior to the visit
- Capacity is limited to 10 guests; reservations may be declined if the dining room is fully booked by hotel guests
- Cancellation fees apply from 7:00 PM three days before the visit
- Shuttle bus service is not available
New Parfait Menu at the Lobby Lounge
Two new parfait flavors have been added to the lobby lounge menu for spring:
- Hanaori Parfait — Strawberry Parfait
- Hanaori Parfait — Peach Parfait
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Available Through | Sunday, May 31, 2026 (planned) |
| Hours | 9:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Location | Lobby Lounge |
| Price | ¥1,000 each (tax included) |
The parfaits make use of seasonal fruit and are served in colorful, eye-catching presentations. Guests can enjoy them in the lobby lounge while soaking in the foot bath and taking in views of the sparkling Lake Ashinoko. Lounge seating is walk-in only; advance reservations are not accepted.
