Sawa Hotel

The hotel and neighborhood were both quiet, with little pedestrian or vehicle traffic, and the location near the train station was great. The bathroom design let water spill out from the side of the tub while showering. I asked the front desk for two or three small towels to wipe it up, but the receptionist gave me one and said extra towels would cost more. I understand he was following strict rules, but since I was cleaning up water from the bathroom’s design, I wished they’d been flexible. He was otherwise very friendly and helpful. There were no USB or charging ports nearby.

The standout is the breathtaking Mount Fuji view right in front of the hotel. The neighborhood is peaceful, with convenience stores and a drugstore within walking distance, though the train station is somewhat far. Staff were helpful and could communicate in English. Most amenities can be picked up in the lobby, where there’s also a microwave. Our clean, spacious room was a little dated, with a large cabinet and a small kitchenette for simple meals, but no stove. The bed and pillows were on the firm side.

The rooms were great, and check-in was quick. There’s a Vietnamese restaurant downstairs, and it takes about 10 minutes to walk to Kawaguchiko Station. From the road outside, the Fuji views are better than the ones from Honcho Street.

So comfortable here, and the views, especially of Mount Fuji, were stunning. Just a heads-up that breakfast isn’t included in the room price. It was so delicious, though, I’d gladly pay for it again. A great place to reset.