Pica Chichibu

PICA is great if you want to grill, but we had very few chairs. We stayed three nights in a cabin, which was functional but spartan. Inside ours there were mattresses, a low table, and a bench, with no chairs at all. Outside we only had stools, so if you can choose, get a cabin with proper outdoor chairs. We live in Japan and have found better value elsewhere in the region. We were on half board at 14,500 Yen per person. It included a cold breakfast and an evening meat grilling setup on a level I haven't seen this side of the USA. I'd suggest it as a base and experience for couples with kids, especially Japanese speakers or people very fluent in the language. There are good entertainment options nearby. For a couple or adults only, I think better value can be found elsewhere.

Dogs are welcome. The cottage has a heater, a closed-off space for the dog, a shower and WC, a bed and towels, plus an outdoor gas stove. The kart track is close, about 7 minutes away and around 2,000 yen. Forest Adventure is nearby too, but I recommend reserving even outside holidays, since a Japanese school trip once brought more than 50 kids by bus. Chichibu beer is delicious, 720¥.

The cottages are pretty neat, and there's a lot to do here, with plenty of tennis courts, a swimming pool, and other activities.

The setting is quiet and beautiful, and the food is delicious. Staff were friendly, and the wide onsen was great. The BBQ was awesome too.