Yamanakako Pension Pause

After the hectic pace of tokyo, this was a calm, peaceful place to rest. The location was convenient even without a car, with the lake, cycling and hikes all easy to get to. Our hosts were lovely and helpful. The rooms were a bit tiny, but we were still comfortable.

It’s a bit of a walk into town, but the venue is lovely and the hosts are friendly. They used a speech translator to communicate, which worked really well. Our room had three beds and its own bathroom, toilet and shower/bath. Towels cost 100 yen to use. The wooden stairs upstairs are quite steep, so take care. We could use the quiet, clean dining area, with a fridge, microwave, cutlery, crockery, glasses and condiments.

The house is lovely, and we could see Mount Fuji from our window. Our hosts were incredibly nice and welcoming. We highly recommend staying here.

After long days cycling around beautiful Lake Yamanaka and taking in Mount Fuji, coming back to Yamanaka Pension Pause felt like coming home. Mr Kitamura and his wife, the Japanese couple who own and run the homestay, were warm and attentive and took genuine care to make us comfortable. We were visiting from Singapore for a cycling trip around Mount Fuji, and their kindness made it unforgettable. They gave us excellent tips for things to do nearby, including hidden cycling trails around the lake we wouldn’t have found ourselves, and the best times to catch sunrise over Mount Fuji. Their thoughtful advice made it feel more like staying with family than at a homestay. The traditional Japanese style and modern comforts go together well here, making for a peaceful, authentic stay. Large windows look out onto nature; some rooms face Mount Fuji or the garden. The lounge is a welcoming place to read, relax or chat with other travelers. Guests can also use their personal computer, massage chairs, piano and other musical instruments. The couple clearly put care into keeping the Japanese aesthetic while making the place comfortable. Every part of Yamanaka Pension Pause reflects their dedication to Japanese hospitality. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful, welcoming stay near the lakes.