Much of this trip was to recreate alot of the things we did 13 years ago when the majority of the group came together for a trip to Japan. Heading to Hakone Yumoto, we transfer at Odawara. A few people train watching from an upper level
The resort area comes into view with onsen resorts large and small. the one we stayed at is pretty big
I dont recall an overpass from the station but one chalk it up to progress
We reverved the japanese/western style room. This accommodation has beds and tatami mates. This one has 3 beds while the other room had 2
Off to one side is a tv viewing area that gets converted with futons. TV, for most of our stay in Tokyo, we did not have access to a TV. So having one in the room was a plus for me
We opted for the japanese dinner option with our booking. French and Italian were also available. We dined at 6pm while staff layed out the futons and bedding
The view from the blcony back towards the train station
The bend from which the trains comes and go. This place has private onsens that can be reserved if you are too shy to attend the public bath. Being as warm as it has been, I couldnt see myself sweltering in a hot bath. Though, I am in the minority
The kaiseki menu for the evening. A selection of local foods prepared in a variety of ways
The appetizer course. The sweetfish was a bit bitter due to miso or innards? The berry in jelly was sweet, beare the pit. The asparagus tofu was a surprise. I like asparagus but never had it in this form
The tilefish was pleasent. Dont believe Ive had it before
Cant say anything about the sushi course. It was given to someone who could enjoy it more than myself
A grilled vegetable dish with a bit of pork. Very likeable
The simmered dish wasnt bad, it was hard for me to get around the textures of the included items
There were some standout flavors in the fried dish. The tofu was outstanding with a crunchy exterior but silky smooth interior. The corn held up well to being deep fried
The fried rice and second soup rounded out the savory portion of the meal. I was getting pretty full before then as some of the younger attendants were not too keen on what was put in front of them
I loved the fruits that came with the finale to the meal. I dont remember much of the meal from 13 years ago but my dinner mates recalled a better quality of meal than what was presented today.
