Kuretake-inn Premium Fujinomiya

The best parts for me were the public baths and the evening happy hour. There are two large tubs, around 3m x 4m each, one indoors and one outside, and they’re a relaxing way to unwind after a long workday or a day out. From 18:30-20:00 you can get one beer or other alcoholic drink, or choose soft drinks like Jinger Ale, juice, and sparkling water from 18:30-21:00. The breakfast buffet has plenty to choose from: vegetables and salad, sausage, eggs, fish, shumai, natto, rice, curry, and miso soup. Rooms are a little larger than nearby business hotels, with a fairly wide bed and bathtub even in the single rooms. The staff were generally kind and polite, except for one tall, skinny young man who seemed to hate his job. It’s a good place to stay if you’re in Fujinomiya for work or a personal trip.

The location is handy, right by JR and a bus stop, with Aeon Mall nearby. They have an onsen, laundry, breakfast, and evening alcohol service, plus things to borrow like chargers and adapters. Staff changed the bathrobe and towels daily. Breakfast was tasty with lots of choices, including spaghetti and Japanese dishes, and there were beer and other alcoholic drinks in the evening. I hope I can come back to rest here soon.

The breakfast was great, and the older people serving it seemed genuinely happy doing their jobs. Reception, though, was on the rude side. The pillows were incredibly flat, and they had no extras to offer, which is absurd for a hotel. They gave me a spare blanket and told me to make do with those very thin pillows.

I don’t usually leave reviews, but this hotel made a strong impression. The online photos looked a little dated, so I wasn’t sure about booking. In the end, the ideal location and affordable price won me over, and I’m glad I tried it. You’re right in front of the train station, with plenty of restaurants, izakayas, and a mall within walking distance. The hotel also has three parking lots, at a reasonable 600 yen per day. After time outdoors at Mt. Fuji, we really enjoyed winding down in the on-site onsen. Breakfast combines American and Japanese styles, and the Japanese dishes especially tasted like home cooking. Our room was very clean, and the staff were lovely and always ready to do extra to help. I had an excellent stay and would recommend it.