I had a great one night stay here.
The staff are very welcoming and clearly enjoy working there and interacting with guests.
The room is exactly as described, and it was very dark at night too.
The walls are very thin and sound travels easily especially from the room below, so it’s better to think of it as a dorm rather than a completely separate room.
I couldn’t join the Irori dinner as I arrived too late, but it was starting just as I was arriving, and it looked like a cosy experience connecting with other travellers.
The hostel had a sociable, but relaxed, vibe.
The kitchen was very well equipped too.
The location was quite easy to get to, a bus ride from Hakone station and walkable from Gora station.
I’d be happy to stay again if I’m back in Hakone.