Royal Hotel Kawaguchiko

On a cool spring evening, I stayed at Royal Hotel Kawaguchiko and found it a comfortable base for exploring the Fuji Five Lakes. The surroundings feel quiet and open, and Lake Kawaguchi is about a 10-15 minute walk away, handy for an early view or an evening stroll. My mountain facing room was clean, spacious by Japanese standards, and simply furnished. Even with some clouds, the morning view was a highlight. The soft, supportive bed and cozy bedding made it easy to rest after a day out, and there was room to unpack. The bathing area was welcome after walking around the lakes or climbing to viewpoints like Chureito Pagoda. Breakfast offered both Japanese and Western choices, including fruit, eggs, sausages, rice, miso soup, and grilled fish. It wasn't gourmet, but it was tasty and varied enough to start the day. Buses and taxis are right outside, with convenience stores and small cafes nearby. The staff were friendly and helpful without hovering, and shared advice about buses, Mount Fuji viewing times, and nearby dinner options. For a relaxed, comfortable stay close to the sights and scenery, it worked well for me.

I was impressed by the kaiseki-style dinner and breakfast, and there's an onsen at the hotel as well. Its position by Lake Kawaguchi is convenient, with a bus stop close by. For a view of Mount Fuji, you can look from the garden across from the hotel or walk over the bridge to the lake. I'd definitely recommend eating dinner here for an authentic Japanese experience.

I can't say why this hotel gets so much hate. My wife and I had a great stay, and I loved having my first ryokan and onsen experience here. The room was clean and nice, with a very comfortable bed. I had no trouble using the onsen with tattoos. The hotel sits by the lake and close to the spots where we wanted to take pictures of Mount Fuji. The price felt fair, and I'd happily return.

This onsen costs a bit much for a simpler facility attached to a hotel. You enter through a smaller side entrance with a sliding window door. There's a shower area, a generally warm indoor pool, and an outdoor stone pool. What looked like a broken cold pool had been turned into a basic seating area. A decent souvenir shop is a plus. I'd visit the onsen again, though I'd probably book a stay at the hotel itself, too.