Tabelog ratingAihara Seiniku Ten (相原精肉店) is a butcher shop and takeaway counter in the Sengokuhara area of Hakone, a destination for visitors seeking high-quality meat products. The shop's star attraction is its 紋次郎 (Monjiro) roast beef, a thinly sliced wagyu that reviewers consistently describe as melting on the tongue. It's available in both marbled and leaner red meat cuts, and staff can advise on the best choice for your taste.
Beyond the famous roast beef, guests praise the freshly fried takeaway items, particularly the korokke (croquettes) and menchi katsu (minced meat cutlets). The house-made char siu, ramen soup packs, and rich prepared stews like beef cheek are also popular, allowing visitors to assemble a gourmet meal back at their hotel. Many consider the products worth a special detour to buy as a souvenir.
Some long-time visitors note that prices have increased and the variety has decreased following a renovation. A few have also experienced batch-to-batch inconsistency with the roast beef's seasoning, occasionally finding it too salty, or encountered hurried service during busy periods. However, most agree the quality justifies the cost. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥1,250–¥1,350 per 100g for the Monjiro roast beef and about ¥680 per 100g for the beef cheek stew. A typical purchase for a small meal or snack falls between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999.
- Booking: Walk-in only; reservations are not available. The shop is very popular, so expect queues. Arrive early, preferably in the morning, as popular items often sell out before the 5:00 PM closing time.
- Getting There: From JR Gotemba Station, take a Hakone Tozan bus from platform 7 to the "Sengokuhara Information Center" stop. The shop is a short walk from there.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners) and some QR code payments (PayPay) are accepted. Electronic money is not. As some older reviews mention cash-only payment, it is wise to bring cash just in case.
- Parking: A small, free car park with three spaces is available behind the shop.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Service: This is a takeaway-only establishment with no seating.
