This Summer, A Resort Where "People Connect" - A Memorable Summer Experience at Hakone Kowakien

Hakone Kowakien (Location: 1297 Ninotaira, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa; General Manager: Satoshi Shibata) will host events from Wednesday, July 1, to Monday, August 31, 2026, focused on fostering interaction between staff and guests.

In recent years, due to global uncertainties, there has been a trend of avoiding long-distance travel, leading to an increased need for safe, near-home experiences that satisfy the mind. To meet these needs, Hakone Kowakien proposes a new resort experience that goes beyond sightseeing and accommodation, providing memorable time through "human interaction."

This summer, to allow guests visiting Hakone to feel the breeze and culture of Okinawa, Hakone Kowakien will host an "Okinawa Fair," inspired by its connection with Kanucha Resort, a leading resort in Okinawa.

During the fair, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun will host stage events and craft activities. Buffet restaurants within Hakone Hotel Kowakien and Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu will serve representative Okinawan cuisine, allowing guests to enjoy a tropical mood while surrounded by the nature of Hakone.

At the newly opened "365-Day Festival Square" on the 3rd floor of Yunessun, daily events will be held, including festival games like target practice and ring toss. Daily stage events will feature performances of Okinawan culture, such as Eisa drumming, as well as various content including drumming, dance, and musical performances by staff.

By sharing the same space, guests and staff will naturally smile and converse, creating a sense of unity. A daily bingo tournament with luxury prizes will also be held, ensuring that the time spent at Hakone Kowakien is filled with the excitement and bustle of a festival.

During the period, the child-friendly "Okami Experience" program, popular last year, will return. Children can experience hospitality etiquette, greetings, and kimono-dressing techniques taught by the proprietress of Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, touching on the unique culture of traditional Japanese inn hospitality. In the "Aegean Sea" swimsuit area of Yunessun, the highly popular "Bozappy's Cool-Down Mission" will be held, where the resort mascot character "Hakoneko Bozappy" will bring an active and cool time to visiting guests.

To allow guests to enjoy their stay even more, Hakone Hotel Kowakien, Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, and Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan will offer discounted lodging plans for consecutive stays of two nights or more.

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun "Hakone Kowakien 365-Day Festival Square" Booths such as target practice, a giant Gacha-pon, and ring toss will be permanently set up at the "365-Day Festival Square." Stage performances and raffles will be held daily from 4:00 PM, with chances to win original Hakone Kowakien merchandise. Location: 3rd floor, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun (Facility admission is free) Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM Festival fees: From 500 yen per activity (tax included)

Details on Hakone Kowakien Yunessun "Bozappy's Cool-Down Mission" Following last year's success, the "Bozappy's Cool-Down Mission!" will be held again. The official mascot, "Hakoneko Bozappy," will spray water to upbeat music. This year, it will be upgraded with content featuring Okinawa. *Admission to the Yunessun (swimsuit area) is required. Adults (Junior High and up): From 2,500 yen (tax included); Children (3 and up): From 1,400 yen (tax included). *For August 8 (Sat) through August 16 (Sun), a "timed-entry ticket" may be required in addition to the admission ticket.