Minshuku Hougetsu

The view of Mt. Fuji was beautiful, and the staff were friendly and offered us basic amenities. The location is alright for tourists, though there’s no convenience store nearby, and the other shops and restaurants mostly shut around 1700. I knew this was an inexpensive hostel, not a resort, but it still needs proper cleaning. It was very dirty and needed a lot of repairs. If the larger things aren't cleaned, I can't be sure it was disinfected for viruses, and I’d worry about roaches in the hotter summer months. Next time I’m in the area, I’ll stay in Fujiyoshida. It has many nice hostels and feels much livelier after 1700.

The Fuji views through the windows were outstanding, and the lake is right across the road. For the money, it's the best view at lake Kawaguchi. The place is a little run down, but our room had everything the three of us needed: tatami mat floors, futon beds, a low dining table, fridge and microwave. The bathrooms were very clean and just down the hall. The owners were friendly and helpful. There’s a communal battling area on the first floor, and traditional robes are provided. We’d absolutely stay again. Just be aware there’s no elevator, so getting to our third-floor room could be hard for anyone with mobility issues.

The owner was very kind. I needed to catch an early train to another city on a rainy morning, but no taxi was available, so the owner drove me to the station. I really appreciated that. The room was very cheap compared with other places nearby, and getting around was convenient. The futon, a traditional Japanese bed, was cozy and comfortable. The room itself was quite old. The men's toilet smelled of urine. In winter, the room was very cold even with every window closed. There was a heater, but it was an old model and filled the room with a kerosene smell when switched on.

The Japanese-style place is reasonably priced for the Fuji view compared with other hotels in the area. There’s no A/C, though, and curfew is after 11 PM.