Nestled on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi and offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Shuhoukaku Kogetsu is a remarkable ryokan Fuji retreat that blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern comforts. My recent stay at this exquisite ryokan was a memorable experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a serene getaway with unparalleled scenery and authentic cultural touches.
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Location and Ambience
Shuhoukaku Kogetsu enjoys a prime location along Lake Kawaguchi, making it an ideal ryokan near Fuji and one of the most scenic spots in the Fuji Five Lakes region. Upon arrival, the tranquil atmosphere immediately sets the tone for relaxation. The property is surrounded by lush greenery, and the view of Mount Fuji reflected in the still waters of the lake is simply magical. The ryokan’s traditional architecture, featuring wooden beams, shoji screens, and tatami mats, perfectly complements the natural beauty of its surroundings.
The ryokan’s design is thoughtful and immersive. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’re greeted by a spacious area with large windows showcasing Mount Fuji—a preview of the stunning vistas that await throughout your stay. The warm and courteous staff enhance the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that every guest feels at home.
🌿 Ryokan Fuji – Room Retreat
Shuhoukaku Kogetsu offers a range of accommodations, from traditional tatami-style rooms to more modern suites. We had 3 rooms. One of the room was thoughtfully designed with two beds, ideal for the elderly members of our group. For our room, I opted for a traditional Japanese room with a private open-air foot bath, and it was a highlight of my visit. With a foot bath at the balcony overlooking the majestic Mount Fuji, even our boys couldn’t resist soaking in the view. The room was impeccably clean and spacious, with minimalistic decor that emphasized natural materials and soft, earthy tones. The staff kindly prepared futons on the tatami floor for the boys to sleep comfortably. Yukata was provided, even for Hengboi size, allowing us to move around the hotel in traditional style and utmost comfort.
For those traveling with family or friends, the ryokan also offers larger rooms with separate sleeping and living areas, making it a versatile option for various group sizes.
🍽️ Exquisite Dining Experience
The culinary experience at Shuhoukaku Kogetsu is nothing short of extraordinary. As part of our room charge, we were treated to a sumptuous dinner – kaiseki (or japanese fine dining) menu each evening and semi-buffet breakfast each morning.
Kaiseki Dinner
With the option to dine in the comfort of our room or gather together in a private dining room, the hotel accommodated our group of 10 with gracious hospitality and impeccable service. Each meal was a culinary delight, featuring seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors. he kaiseki dinner was a feast for the senses, featuring multiple courses of beautifully presented dishes, including fresh sashimi, tempura, and grilled fish. Each bite was a testament to the chef’s skill and attention to detail.
Breakfast with Fuji View
Breakfast was also provided as part of the room charges and the view of Mt Fuji from the breakfast area was just unbeatable. Breakfast was equally impressive, offering a semi-buffet style. I highly recommend trying the traditional Japanese breakfast, which includes miso soup, grilled fish, rice, and pickled vegetables. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were perfectly balanced, providing a nourishing start to the day.
Onsen Facilities
The ryokan’s public onsen facilities are exceptional. There are both indoor and outdoor baths, each offering stunning views of Mount Fuji. The outdoor baths, in particular, are a serene escape, surrounded by rocks and foliage that create a natural ambiance. The water temperature was just right, and the mineral-rich waters left my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. No phone are allowed in the onsen so i couldn’t take any pictures.
Service
The service at Shuhoukaku Kogetsu is exemplary. The staff’s attentiveness and genuine hospitality made my stay truly special. From the warm welcome at check-in to the detailed explanations of each dish during meals, every interaction was thoughtful and professional. The staff’s ability to anticipate guests’ needs without being intrusive is a testament to their dedication to providing a world-class experience.
Language barriers were minimal, as many staff members spoke English or made an effort to communicate effectively. Additionally, they were more than happy to assist with local recommendations, transportation arrangements, and any other queries.
Activities and Surroundings
The ryokan’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Lake Kawaguchi area. During my stay, I took a leisurely stroll along the lake’s edge, explored Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and Oshino Hakka For those interested in hiking, there are several trails in the vicinity that offer panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Check out our post on activities during our time at Lake Kawaguchiko!
Back at the ryokan, guests can participate in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies or wearing traditional yukata robes provided by the hotel. These experiences added an extra layer of authenticity to my stay.
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Booking a Japan Ryokan – A Stressful Experience!
Booking a Japan ryokan was by far the most stressful part of our trip planning! Many popular ryokans often show no availability on third-party booking sites like Agoda, making it seem impossible to secure a stay. I ended up using a Japanese website, but the entire process was in Japanese, which added another layer of challenge.
If you’re struggling to book a ryokan, drop me a comment below, and I’ll share more about the website I used and the challenges I faced. Despite the booking stress, I totally recommend staying in a ryokan for an authentic experience!
Check out my ryokan tour in my Instagram video in this link! See the beautiful room, futon setup, and onsen experience.
Follow me on Instagram @hengtrails for more travel tips and behind-the-scenes moments!
Conclusion
Shuhoukaku Kogetsu is a sanctuary of tranquility and elegance, embodying the charm of a ryokan Fuji experience. Its combination of stunning natural beauty, impeccable service, and authentic Japanese hospitality makes it a standout destination for travelers seeking a memorable ryokan Fuji retreat. Whether you’re looking to unwind in an onsen, savor gourmet Japanese cuisine, or simply bask in the awe-inspiring view of Mount Fuji, this ryokan delivers on all fronts.
While the cost of staying here may be higher than other accommodations in the area, the experience is well worth the investment. Shuhoukaku Kogetsu provides not just a place to stay but an opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Japan’s rich culture and natural splendor. I left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning my next visit.
Read all out our Japan Trip in this post!
Lake Kawaguchigo Shuhoukaku Kogetsu (逆富士 秀峰閣湖月)
Address: 401-0304, 山梨県南都留郡富士河口湖町河口2312
