LXR Hotels and Resorts to Debut in Hakone, Japan’s Premier Hot Spring Destination

Hilton has announced another major luxury expansion in Japan; LXR Hotels & Resorts will debut in Hakone Gora, Kanagawa, opening in summer 2028. This marks Hilton’s first property in Hakone, one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring destinations.

Location & Setting:
- Nestled in Momijidani, famed for autumn foliage and natural hot springs.
- Just 90 minutes from Tokyo and a short walk from Koen-Kami Station.
- Surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Hakone Museum of Art.

Property Features:
- Guest rooms designed to integrate nature, mountain air, and onsen culture.
- Luxury suites with private baths and forest views.
- Dining, spa, and wellness facilities tailored to Hakone’s heritage.

Strategic Expansion:
- Adds to Hilton’s growing LXR portfolio in Japan, alongside ROKU Kyoto (opened 2021) and upcoming properties in Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Niseko.
- Reinforces Hilton’s commitment to experience-led luxury travel in high-demand destinations.

Leadership Vision:
- Hirohisa Fujimoto (Hilton VP Development, Japan & Micronesia) emphasized Hakone Gora’s natural fit for LXR’s philosophy of “sense of place.”
- Joseph Khairallah (Hilton Area VP) highlighted the retreat’s inspiration from local culture and onsen traditions.

Guest Benefits:
- The property will be part of Hilton Honors, offering members exclusive perks like flexible points redemption, digital check-in, and room selection.

Why It Matters
This move positions Hilton to compete directly with luxury rivals in Japan’s hot spring and resort market, such as Hyatt’s luxury resorts in Hakone and Marriott’s Ritz-Carlton expansions. It also reflects the rising demand for immersive, culturally rooted luxury experiences among international travelers.